Pain is…a huge pain! Anyone who’s experienced it knows that pain can drain the joy out of living and make daily activities difficult to impossible.

And, repeatedly reported in study after study, upwards of 50% of people — maybe as high as almost 60% of Americans — live with some level of pain on most or all days.(1, 2)

Clearly, we need viable solutions to help manage or mitigate pain so we can reclaim our quality of life. Should CBD be on the roster of pain management options?

Let’s see…

A Primer in Pain

Pain is the broad term used to describe sensations of discomfort. Your brain and body may register pain as something’s wrong — like you’re hurt or ill. You can have pain anywhere you have receptors and nerves to convey or interpret pain signals.(3, 4)

Pain is a shifty little beast. It can present itself as a steady phenomenon, piercing, throbbing, searing, pinching, prickling, stabbing, burning, and so on. You can feel sore and achy or like you’ve been chucked into a baling machine.

And, pain also has a range of intensity and duration — meaning it can be anything from an intermittent pesky nuisance to totally debilitating and persistent.

Kinds & Causes of Pain

It can be helpful to categorize the different types of pain. Doing so can facilitate describing it, getting treatment, and understanding its impact on your body.

While there are other ways to group pain types, these four buckets are commonly used:(5)

Duration

Pain can be either acute or chronic.

  1. Acute pain comes on quickly and only lasts for a relatively short while (less than six months). There’s a direct cause — like a cut, burn, injury, surgery, etc. — and the pain severity lessens over time as the root condition heals.
  2. Chronic pain is the kind that’s ongoing or long-term. Sometimes this breed of pain persists even after its underlying condition has healed; sometimes there’s no identified root cause.

Classifications

Pain is often labeled as nociceptive or neuropathic.

  1. Nociceptive pain is due to tissue damage. Accidents, inflammation, illnesses, and medical treatments are some common sources of tissue damage that lead to pain.
  2. Neuropathic pain is nerve pain related to damage or dysfunction of the nervous system. This type of pain often seems to pop up, not linked to anything specific like getting hurt at the gym. Diabetes can triggers neuropathy.(6)

The “duration” and “classification” tags aren’t mutually exclusive. So, a person could have acute neuropathic pain, chronic nociceptive pain, etc.

Conventional Medicine Approach

Modern medicine has many approaches to alleviating pain. The exact techniques and treatments depend on your health needs, though.

Some go-to therapies include:(7)

Nowadays, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) methods may be part of your care plan. (And sometimes CAM modalities — which can be gentler on the mind and body — are used as an adjunct therapy or in place of medications or surgery.) Yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, acupuncture, and counseling are examples of CAM pain management tactics.(8)

CBD for Chronic Pain & Occasional Aches

This is a good segue to discussing CBD for pain relief (as CBD would probably be deemed a CAM option).

According to a 2022 survey by Forbes, 60% of American adults use CBD for its purported ability to quell pain.(9)

Should You Take CBD for Pain? Science vs Marketing

Listen to the marketers, and you’ll get a resounding “Yes” screamed in your face. Science takes a more measured stance. The common-sense answer probably is somewhere in the middle and very dependent on your personal situation.

Regulatory Clearance

So far, the FDA has only approved pharmaceutical CBD as an adjunct therapy for the treatment of a few special and rare seizure disorders. As such, in the United States, CBD alone isn’t approved for the treatment of pain.

A combination medication (that contains both THC and CBD in a 1:1 ratio) was approved by Health Canada. Canada allows this prescription drug for certain types of pain — specifically central neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis and cancer pain that doesn’t respond to opioids.(10

A Dose of Reality

While everyone likes to dwell on the advantage of CBD for pain, it’s not without risk. "CBD can interact with other important medications like blood thinners, heart medications, and immunosuppressants… Also, more information needs to be gathered about its safety for the elderly, children, those who are immunocompromised, and pregnant and breastfeeding women."(11

Looking at the Positives

CBD could be a powerful weapon in your pain-fighting arsenal. There are many upsides to CBD:

Let’s dig into that last “pain point” a little deeper. Armed with info, you can make a better decision — with the aid of your doctor — as to whether or not CBD has a place among your pain management weaponry.

Does CBD Work Well for Pain?

What does the science say about how effective CBD is at snuffing out aches and pains? Research indicates that CBD is effective at pain management for:(11,12)

As always, more studies and high-quality human trials are still needed. Every shred of new data could help to further bolster these initial findings and gain insights into long-term effectiveness and safety outcomes associated with CBD for pain.

How Does CBD Oil Take Away Pain?

All in, CBD can help neutralize pain by:(12)

How’s CBD do this?

Pain, the ECS & CBD

Earlier, we scratched at the biology of pain. As you may recall, pain is the result of messages passing between receptors and nerves and being interpreted by the brain and body.

Your endocannabinoid system (ECS) extends throughout your head, torso, limbs, and organs. Its receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids are present in your central and peripheral nervous systems. The components of your ECS are thought to play a key role in the mechanics and management of pain.

When CBD is introduced to your body, it collaborates with your ECS to disrupt pain signals. Its interaction with the receptors is what leads to the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-emetic, and antioxidant effects CBD is reputed for. 

CBD also partners with the ECS to help address underlying issues — such as inflammation, bone health, or metabolic factors — as well as secondary problems that arise from having pain. This is where CBD’s ability to soothe stress and anxiety comes in. And we all know too well the vicious cycle physical, mental, and emotional pain can go in.

How to Use CBD to Help Manage Pain

Each person’s system and symptoms are unique. So, you may have to experiment a bit to find the CBD product(s) and routine that works for you

Here are some guiding principles to keep in mind, though:

And, a word to the wise. Remember that many CBD products on the market are not yet regulated. While the FDA’s been reticent to evaluate CBD’s health benefits, it has found (through testing) that many products contain different levels of cannabinoids (CBD included) than were claimed by the manufacturers. So, only consider products with lab tests (COAs) that confirm the CBD product’s content. 

Got Pain? CBD for Pain Management May Help!

Pain takes many shapes, as does CBD. Perhaps that’s why they may be a good pair.

Existing research in animal studies suggests that CBD can be an effective component of a pain management plan. And anecdotal wisdom validates its effectiveness in many people.

CBD can work with your body to undermine pain causes, triggers, and exacerbators that result from injury, illness, etc. More high-quality scientific studies on humans are needed to understand the long-term effects of CBD for pain and why many people have beneficial CBD experiences while others don’t.

If you’re interested in giving CBD for your pain a go, we suggest you first check in with your healthcare provider. Assuming it’s okay, opt for premium CBD oil products that come with a COA and match your needs and preferences.

FAQs Buzzin’ Through the Hive

Is CBD a painkiller?

CBD has been reported in animal studies and by humans to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, both of which can ease pain.

How does CBD oil take away the pain?

Cannabidiol collaborates with your body’s endocannabinoid system to disrupt pain signals and to help address underlying issues such as inflammation.(12)

What amount of CBD helps with pain?

Can’t say exactly. Each person’s symptoms and biology are different. And different CBD formulations and dosing regimens yield different results. You may have to experiment a bit to find the CBD product(s) and routine that works for you.

References

  1. Yong, RJ, et al. (2021). Prevalence of chronic pain among adults in the United States. Pain.
  2. Upham, B. (2021). More Than Half of Americans Live With Pain According to Report. Everyday Health.
  3. (2018). Pain and how you sense it. MyDr.com.au.
  4. (2022). The Good, the Bad and the Strange of Physical Pain. Pfizer.
  5. Santos-Longhurst, A. (2018). Types of Pain: How to Recognize and Talk About Them. Healthline.
  6. (2021). Peripheral Neuropathy. Johns Hopkins Medicine.
  7. (2021). Pain Management: Painkillers, Chronic Pain, Pain Relief, Nerve Pain. Cleveland Clinic.
  8. (2022). 10 ways to reduce pain. NHS.
  9. Shafik Boyaji, MD. (2020). CBD for chronic pain: The science doesn’t match the marketing. Harvard Health.
  10. Silva, L. (2022). How To Use CBD To Help Manage Pain. Forbes.
  11. Cherney, K. (2017). Using CBD Oil for Pain Management: Does It Work? Healthline.
  12. Lutz, J. (2020). The Empowered Pain Patient’s Guide to CBD. Practical Pain Management.

You go out of your way to eat healthy foods and consume supplements to foster well-being. Presumably, you want to get some mileage out of those things — why else bear the cost or put forth the effort?

Well, there’s actually a measure of how much effect you’re getting from those substances. It’s called bioavailability.

In this post, we’ll explain:

Get ready to absorb critical info!

What is Bioavailability: The Basics

Bioavailability is the degree to which a substance — like a drug, supplement, or nutrient —reaches the bloodstream after being introduced into the body (e.g., by ingesting or inhaling). Often expressed as a percentage, bioavailability indicates how much of a substance is actually absorbed into and used by your system and the rate at which it does so.

The Different Types of Bioavailability

There are three types of bioavailability:(1)

Bioaccessibility & Bioavailability

You can predict a substance’s bioavailability by assessing its bioaccessibility.(2) Bioaccessibility is defined as the total amount of a substance that enters the body and that is available for potential absorption.

The greater the bioaccessibility, the greater your prospects for better bioavailability. It’s like you’re working with a bigger pool of material.

So, to illustrate, if you consume 25 mg of a substance but only 20 mg actually assimilates into your body — that substance is only 80% bioaccessible. (The remaining bit — 5 mg — is inaccessible for one reason or another.) This means that even if this substance were 100% bioavailable, you’d only be able to get 20 mg of the active substance from that original 25 mg.

Calculating Bioavailability

Figuring out bioavailability requires doing some simple math. You can convey bioavailability as a percentage or a proportion.

For example, let's say you're taking a drug that’s 60% bioavailable. That means that 60% of the drug will actually make its way into your bloodstream and start doing its job. The remaining 40% will likely be eliminated by your body before it has time to do any good.

Bioavailability can also be expressed as a ratio of the dose taken. So, if you take a 100mg dose of a supplement, 60 mg will make it into your bloodstream (60/100), while 40 mg will not (40/100).

Bioavailability Influencers

Bioavailability can be affected by a variety of factors.(1,3,4) This includes a number of personal attributes like your:

Lifestyle choices can also impact bioavailability. These are things like:

Last, but not least, there are plenty of physiochemical properties that can influence bioavailability, such as:

Anything that runs through the gastrointestinal system — like CBD edibles and supplement capsules — will have less bioavailability than if it went directly into the bloodstream. This is because the substance is processed and affected by the liver before circulating through your body.

Why is Bioavailability Important?

Knowing a substance's level of bioavailability can give you an idea of its likely magnitude of biological activity. Bioactivity refers to how effective a substance is at doing what it's supposed to do: helping your body function properly.

This measure can help you understand how well a given drug, supplement, or nutrient is working and whether it's worth taking again. A more bioavailable substance will be faster-acting and/or yield more effect per dose than a less bioavailable substance. In fact, a low-bioavailability substance may barely make it into your system at all!

For instance, if your aim is to get 10 mg of a drug into your bloodstream, it could be better to take 20 mg of a 50% bioavailable drug than 100 mg of a 10% bioavailable drug.

To be clear, this is a call that needs to be made based on the situation at hand. But, the point is that there may be other options on the table that you should consider. Ones that could be much more likely to work effectively and safely for you.

Maria Calabrese, Founder of Green Bee Life, trying a HOLISTIK Wellness CBD & Collagen drink mix. The mix is water-soluble for greater bioavailability.

CBD & Bioavailability

Let's narrow our focus a bit now and look at bioavailability as it relates to CBD.

When CBD is consumed, it enters your body either directly into the bloodstream or via the digestive system (and then into your bloodstream from there). The bioavailability of CBD plays a role in how quickly and to what extent your body is able to process and utilize the cannabidiol.

So, what can you expect from a CBD oil product with greater bioavailability?

While all cannabinoids interact with endocannabinoid system receptors in the body, CBD has been shown to have particularly strong interactions with CB1 receptors. This means that — the more bioavailable the CBD is (5) the more it can influence its effectiveness at providing relief from conditions like chronic pain and other desired outcomes.

CBD bioavailability can also affect whether or not you experience side effects from taking CBD oil products.(6)

The Bioavailability of CBD

It’s impossible to nail down an “average bioavailability” of CBD. So, let’s see what some of the scientific literature is reporting.

Here are some numbers to mull over for different formulations and methods of administration:(8,9,10,11)

Injected CBD has a bioavailability of almost 100%. However, intravenous CBD is only done in medical settings by qualified professionals as it can be dangerous to consume CBD intravenously. In animal studies, this method of administration sometimes caused sudden high levels of CBD in the bloodstream, which can result in dangerously low blood pressure.(12)

* To clarify, this is not saying topicals are or aren’t effective. It’s simply indicating that the CBD from topicals doesn’t leach into the bloodstream much. Which is just how topical CBD is supposed to work.

Maximizing the Bioavailability of Your CBD Oil Products

CBD is available in various formulations — gummies, tinctures, softgels, etc. — and can be taken in several ways — ingested, intranasally, topically, etc.

As we’ve shown, the bioavailability of CBD is strongly influenced by the form, concentration, and consumption method. Each preparation and administration protocol translates into different levels of bioavailability. And, therefore, the necessity to adjust the strength and dosage of the product you take as well.

The Most Bioavailable CBD Is...

It’s important to choose a delivery system that will allow for optimal absorption and avoid any resistance from the body. For example, using sublingual CBD oil drops allows for quick and easy absorption into the bloodstream.

Which leads us to the most bioavailable forms of CBD oil. Inhaled CBD is reportedly the most bioavailable. However, there are health risks associated with smoking and vaping. If you’re concerned about lung health, sublingual or intranasal varieties of CBD — like CBD tinctures — are probably going to be your go-tos. These formulations are designed to enter directly into the bloodstream.

Improving the Bioavailability of Your CBD

There are other tips and tricks to making your CBD more bioavailable. You can try:(13)

Absorb This: Bioavailability’s a Good Thing, Especially for Your CBD

Bioavailability refers to how absorbable a substance is. Absorbability impacts how quickly and fully that substance can enter your body and be effective.

Generally speaking, greater bioavailability is desirable when it comes to nutrition, plant medicine, or any other instance in which you’re trying to derive benefit from that substance.

FAQs Buzzin’ Through the Hive

What is bioavailability?

Bioavailability is the proportion of a substance — like CBD — that’s introduced to your body that your body is able to absorb and utilize.

How do you increase CBD absorption?

Start by taking high-quality full-spectrum CBD or broad-spectrum CBD that has plenty of terpenes and flavonoids in it, ideally sublingually or intranasally. Consume your CBD with food, especially those that contain healthy fats and complementary compounds like pepper and turmeric.

What is the bioavailability of CBD?

It depends on the formulation and method of administration. On the high end of the spectrum are inhaled and sublingual CBD; topical and ingested CBD are on the lower end.

References

  1. Choudhary, A. (2022). Bioavailability of Drugs. Pharmaguideline.
  2. Galanakis, C. (2017). What is the Difference Between Bioavailability Bioaccessibility and Bioactivity of Food Components? SciTech Connect. Elsevier.
  3. (2022). Bioavailability. Wikipedia.
  4. Choudhary, A. (2022). What factors affect the bioavailability of drugs? Pharmaguideline.
  5. Vučković, S, et al. (2018). Cannabinoids and Pain: New Insights From Old Molecules. Frontiers in Pharmacology.
  6. Huestis, MA, et al. (2019). Cannabidiol Adverse Effects and Toxicity. Current Neuropharmacology.
  7. Millar, SA, et al. (2020). Towards Better Delivery of Cannabidiol (CBD). Pharmaceuticals.
  8. Millar, SA, et al. (2018). A Systematic Review on the Pharmacokinetics of Cannabidiol in Humans. Frontiers in Pharmacology.
  9. Huestis, Marilyn A. (2007). Human Cannabinoid Pharmacokinetics. Chemistry & Biodiversity.
  10. Paudel, K, et al. (2022). Cannabidiol bioavailability after nasal and transdermal application: effect of permeation enhancers. Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy.
  11. Sultan, SR, et al. (2017). A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Haemodynamic Effects of Cannabidiol. Frontiers in Pharmacology.
  12. (2021). 7 foods to elevate the effects of CBD supplements. The Guardian.
  13. Conte, R, et al. (2017). Recent Advances in Nanoparticle-Mediated Delivery of Anti-Inflammatory Phytocompounds. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
  14. McCabe, K. (2019). Using liposomes to safely deliver CBD and other Pharmaceuticals. Microfluidics.

Even if you have a high-level concept of what CBD is — it’s always smart to know more. After all, you’re putting this little wunderkind into and onto your body.

Having a solid foundation in the numerous aspects of CBD can help you:

We have a lot to cover, so let’s get into it already!

What's all the buzz about CBD oil? 520,635 views (USA Today, August 16, 2019) CBD, or cannabidiol is being hailed for workout recovery, improved sleep an increased sense of come and for alleviating a range of mental and physical disorders. While the Farm Bill legalized the cultivation of hemp, the FDA has not yet evaluated its benefits. A quick overview on what you need to now about CBD.

So, What Is CBD Exactly?

CBD stands for cannabidiol. Cannabidiol is one of over 140 cannabinoids that are native to the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids are a special type of plant compounds found in cannabis; they interact with your endocannabinoid system to effect all sorts of mental and physical responses in your body.

CBD vs THC

To fully grasp CBD, you need to know something about THC, too. THC is another cannabinoid. You probably have at least a shadowy awareness of THC — it’s in the media enough and been part of pop culture and folk medicine for ages.

But, have you filled your knowledge banks with how THC and CBD compare and contrast?

In case not, here’s a very simplified answer.

Types of CBD

CBD’s usually derived from hemp but can be sourced from marijuana. This is because hemp CBD with no more than 0.3% THC is federally legal and because hemp is bred to have high CBD and low THC levels.(1)

Different strains of cannabis have their own proprietary chemical make-up. But, at the molecular level, all CBD is the same.(2)

CBD is a single cannabinoid, though. When it’s extracted from hemp or marijuana, other substances accompany it. In other words, CBD extract isn’t 100% pure CBD when it’s first produced.

This opens the door for possibilities, which can be a good thing for you as a consumer.

Full-Spectrum CBD vs Broad-Spectrum CBD vs Isolate CBD

Here are the three types of CBD that you’ll encounter in the marketplace:

Which Type of CBD Is Best?

Each kind has its pros and cons.

Full- and broad-spectrum CBD increase the chances you’ll experience an entourage effect. The entourage effect is the synergistic response your body may have to the CBD due to the combination of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant substances. Plus, each terpene, flavonoid, vitamin, mineral, and so on in the CBD oil has its own potential benefits. However, because they contain at least a trace quantity of THC, users may get a mild euphoric sensation, fail a drug test, be in violation of local regulations, etc.

As a lone compound, CBD isolate won’t produce an entourage effect. Additionally, it’s a highly-processed product. On the upside, though, many people love that there’s zero THC and no chance of the THC baggage.

No one type is right for everybody or all the time. We’ll come back to this in the How To Use CBD Oil section below.

CBD Oil Formulations & Methods of Administration

As you can easily tell, CBD oil is versatile. Producers are able to create every stripe of CBD-infused product. Not to mention you can craft your own CBD goods with a handy bottle of CBD drops.

Available Kinds of CBD Products

CBD oil is usually diluted in a carrier oil or base when made into the many available CBD products. While not an exhaustive list, here are some common preparations of CBD:

Ways to Take CBD

Depending upon the formulation you select, you can consume your CBD product:

Each type of product and method of consumption has its merits. For example, let’s compare pills to drops: Softgels might take longer to kick in but their effects may be smoother and longer lasting. Conversely, CBD oil tinctures taken sublingually are faster acting but their effects can be more intense and shorter lived.

How CBD Works in Your Body

Your body wants to achieve and stay in homeostasis. Homeostasis is the state your body’s in when it’s in balance and all systems and functions are working optimally. CBD aims to facilitate your body in its quest for homeostasis.

Everyone has an endocannabinoid system (ECS). When CBD is introduced into your body (through the bloodstream, digestive tract, or skin), it engages with the ECS, which spurs various systemic responses. As most people are looking to CBD for a wellness win, the hope is that the reaction is helpful — i.e., the body’s reaction is the person’s desired outcome.

CBD doesn’t work with the ECS like THC does. This is another reason you get different results from the two cannabinoids. Instead of binding with the CB1 or CB2 receptors like THC, it’s thought that CBD changes the way that the endocannabinoids interact with the receptors.(2)

The ECS is a complicated and fascinating thing. We recommend reading our explainer post What is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)? [Guide for Beginners] for greater detail if you’re not deeply familiar with the endocannabinoid system.

CBD’s Uses & Potential Benefits

The list is lengthy — it seems like CBD might be able to promote wellness in countless ways. Here are just some of the things folks commonly use CBD for:

Furthermore, there’s a ton of research (more every day!) showing evidence that CBD might be an effective part of a care plan to address:(3,4)

CBD exhibits so much promise that it’s expected that the body of research will continue to grow. As we learn more, we’ll develop a better idea of CBD’s capabilities and effectiveness.

How To Use CBD Oil

CBD use is a personal matter. It’s not a shapeless, stretchy sweatshirt that’ll fit anyone and everyone.

How you choose to consume CBD oil is tied to your individual needs and preferences. With that in mind, here are some tips and suggestions:

Is CBD Safe?

In order to answer this question, we have to break it down. (But, remember — each person and product is different, so no one answer holds true in all scenarios.)

First, Hemp

Let’s open with hemp — because most CBD sold is sourced from this subspecies and many CBD products use hemp seed oil as a carrier. Hemp is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It’s also a very nutritious plant.(5)

Second, CBD Oil

Back to CBD specifically. Broadly speaking, for healthy adults, CBD should be safe. Things to know:(6,7,8)

Speaking of side effects, common ones may include:(4,6,9)

CBD is also contraindicated for certain medical conditions and may interact with some medications. It’s also not recommended for those who are pregnant or nursing or for children (under 18 years old). It’s always a smart idea to check in with your healthcare team prior to starting CBD, just to make sure it’s okay for you to give it a try.

Experts agree that, while more research is needed on the effects of long-term and high-dose CBD use, occurrences of adverse reactions is low and that CBD tends to have fewer side effects compared to many everyday drugs.(10)

So, as with anything, there are potential risks or downsides associated with taking CBD. But the chances of having an adverse reaction are probably small and the possible upsides are great. You’ll have to do the cost-benefit analysis for yourself to see what makes sense for you.

Third, Everything Else

This miscellaneous category encompasses other ingredients as well as unintended contaminants. Each item on that ingredients list carries its own safety profile. And poorly-sourced ingredients may have harmful chemicals, heavy metals, and other toxins in them. It’s something to be aware of.

Source Matters

Shoddy inputs make for shoddy outputs. You can’t make a silk purse from a sow’s ear.

The fewer, more natural the ingredients in your CBD oil products, the likelier they’ll be safer. So, opt for products that:

Is CBD Legal?

Thanks to the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bills, restrictions on hemp and its byproducts (like CBD) have relaxed or disappeared entirely.

CBD & the Law

The 2018 enactment defined hemp-derived CBD with a max of 0.3% THC by weight as industrial hemp (frequently just called hemp for short). This distinguished it from marijuana and enabled hemp and its downstream products to be removed from the list of Schedule I drug.

No longer classified as a controlled substance, hemp and CBD are legal at the national level. As such, it’s perfectly okay for businesses to market, sell, and send CBD products to consumers — so long as they’re within the federally-established limits.

But, the federal laws are high-level and broad. They leave a lot up to the states to flesh out.

Because of this, what’s legal and what’s not can vary at the local level. And — trust us — it varies a great deal and is evolving constantly. So, it’s critical to periodically check the CBD laws in your area to see what you’re allowed to buy, own, and use.

CBD & the FDA

Now, it’s important to note that — except for Epidiolex — CBD is currently not an FDA-approved drug. It’s also not considered a dietary supplement.

This means that it’s prohibited to market CBD as a dietary supplements or make specific health claims.(11)

Nascar Professional Drag Racer Leah Pruett makes a Berry CBD smoothie with cbdMD Broad Spectrum CBD on GBL TV
Leah Pruett, professional Nascar drag racer, stays focused and on track with cbdMD Berry Broad Spectrum CBD Tincture in this quick and easy CBD smoothie recipe.

Shopping for CBD Products

To get the good stuff, you need to shop like a pro. We’re not going to blow smoke and tell you that making sure you’ve found high-quality CBD products is effortless.

You will need to do your due diligence and it does take a bit of up-front work. The nice thing is that once you lock in on the sellers, brands, and products that work for you — buying your CBD is easier the next time around.

Here are some things to keep in mind as you conduct your research and “window shopping.”

Hallmarks of High-Quality CBD Products

Where to Buy CBD

Your options for getting CBD depend on where your are and what kind of CBD oil product you’re angling for. That said, CBD goods are readily available via internet shops and marketplaces and brick-and-mortars.

Legalities

Because hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC is federally legal, it’s okay for retailers to ship it to any state in the US. So, online mail-order may be a viable option.

However — there’s always a big but, right? — laws and regulations vary at more local jurisdictional levels. This means that, even though the interstate commerce aspect of your CBD purchase is fine for the seller, it may not be legal for you to actually buy, possess, or use CBD where you live. You have to check the current laws in your area to see what’s permitted.

Shopping Experience

Look for shops that have a decent selection, high-quality products, plenty of product info available, and knowledgeable staff. Review the store’s policies and services to see if they jibe with your needs.

Some people prefer shopping at local venues. This lets them build a more personal rapport with the retailer and handle products prior to purchasing.

But, often the value and convenience of online shopping for CBD is unbeatable.

CBD, Decoded

CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis. It’s known for its potential to help support many mental and physical health and wellness concerns — like pain, stress, and sleep disturbances.

As long as it has no more than 0.3% THC, hemp-derived CBD is federally legal. More-local-level laws vary so it’s important to periodically check what’s permitted in your area.

When you’re ready to buy CBD — which you can do online or in person — choose only high-quality products that are suited to your needs and preferences. Shop with trustworthy retailers.

It may take some time and trial and error to find the CBD products that work best for you. Keeping a log can help you home in on the most effective regimen.

FAQs Buzzin’ Through the Hive

What is CBD?

CBD is short for cannabidiol. Cannabidiol is a cannabinoid (naturally-occurring plant compound) in cannabis. CBD may help support mental and physical wellness — everything from lifting mood to improving sleep to easing pain.

CBD oil is concentrated cannabidiol that’s produced by extracting the CBD from the cannabis plant. There are three types of CBD oil — full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate, each with varying presence of other cannabinoids and plant substances.

What is CBD oil good for?

A whole lot! While each person is unique — and will have a personalized experience with CBD — and each product has its own merits, CBD yields many potential wellness wins. Research is showing that CBD is anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety, among other things. As such, people use CBD oil products for a slew of concerns — like managing stress, relieving aches and pains, elevating skincare, facilitating better sleep, and so much more.

Is CBD oil legal?

The 2018 Farm Bill federally-legalized hemp-derived CBD that has 0.3% THC or less by weight. However, laws and regulations at the state, municipal, and tribal level vary. Given this — and that the rules are ever-changing — you should check what’s permitted in your area prior to purchasing any cannabis products.

References

  1. (2018). What is CBD? CBD Oil Definition, Uses, & More. cbdMD.
  2. (2020). What is CBD? How is it different from THC? Shop Canopy.
  3. Johnson, J. (2020). Everything you need to know about CBD oil. Medical News Today.
  4. Kubala, J. (2021). 6 Health Benefits of CBD Oil — and a Look at Side Effects. Healthline Media.
  5. (2019). Three GRAS Notices for Hemp Seed-Derived Ingredients for Food. U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
  6. Grinspoon, P. (2018). Cannabidiol (CBD)- what we know and what we don’t. Harvard Health.
  7. Machado Bergamaschi, M, et al. (2011). Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol, a Cannabis sativa Constituent. Current Drug Safety.
  8. Bauer, B. (2020). CBD: Safe and effective? Mayo Clinic.
  9. (2018). CANNABIDIOL (CBD): Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. WebMD.
  10. Huestis, MA, et al. (2019). Cannabidiol Adverse Effects and Toxicity. Current Neuropharmacology.
  11. (2020). Ibarra, J. CBD Marketing Claims Guide: Do’s and Don’ts. ACS Lab Cannabis.

Cannabis is an elaborate plant. It’s full of hundreds of compounds that include cannabinoids, nutrients, and more.

In this comprehensive guide, will give you:

Prepare to be enlightened!

The Science of Cannabinoids - Dr. David Bearman, pain medicine physician and certified cannabinoid medicine specialist gives a quick overview of cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system (ECS). He serves as the Executive Vice President of the American Academy of Cannabinoid Medicine. Cannabis Medicine: A Guide to the Practice of Cannabinoid Medicine offers an overview of cannabis, cannabinoids, and ECS for both health care professionals and discerning cannabis consumers.

Cannabinoids 101

Cannabis — including marijuana and hemp — may be simple and green on the outside. But inside, they’re complex and practically bursting with a wealth of hard-working goodness. One type of heavy hitter contained in cannabis is the cannabinoid.

What Are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are bioactive plant compounds, aka phytocompounds, that naturally occur in cannabis. Of the over 600 known phytocompounds in cannabis, at least 140 are cannabinoids.(1) The most in/famous cannabinoids are probably THC and CBD (Maybe you’ve heard of them?), though others are quickly gaining traction.

All species and subspecies of cannabis have cannabinoids. However, each type of cannabis has its own unique collection of cannabinoids. For example, marijuana and hemp each feature many cannabinoids, but in different proportions.

In plants, cannabinoids protect the organism from harmful UV rays, drying out, invasive insects, etc.

Once introduced to our bodies, cannabinoids interact with our endocannabinoid system as neurotransmitters. (Neurotransmitters are chemical-encoded messages that get relayed by a receiver.) In this capacity, they signal to your brain and body to respond in certain ways.

Again, each cannabinoid brings its distinct offering of possible effects to the party. Overall, though, it’s believed that the protective behavior cannabinoids have on their plant is somewhat ported over to those who consume them. Put a pin in this — we’ll come back to it momentarily after we showcase a few individual cannabinoids.

Types of Cannabinoids

There are three different types of cannabinoids, two nature-made and one man-made.

Phytocannabinoids (aka Plant Cannabinoids)

These are cannabinoids that are made right in the cannabis plant. When you see the word “cannabinoid,” it’s usually referring to phytocannabinoids. From here on out (after this section defining each kind of cannabinoid) we’re going to focus on phytocannabinoids, which we’ll refer to as just cannabinoids.

Phytocannabinoids are only found in cannabis. But, recent research has discovered that quite a few other plants exhibit cannabinoid-like effects due to the compounds they contain.(2) This includes common items like chocolate, turmeric, echinacea, broccoli, black pepper, clove, and more. These plants either engage directly with the body like cannabinoids or mediate the effects of cannabinoids.

Endocannabinoids (aka Endogenous Cannabinoid)

These are cannabinoids your body makes on demand. Because endocannabinoids are churned out on an as-needed basis, researchers don’t really have a clue what a “typical” level of them is.(3)

As of now, we know of two endocannabinoids:

Synthetic Cannabinoids (aka Man-Made Cannabinoids)

Mama Earth hasn’t cornered the market on cranking out cannabinoids. Human ingenuity has made it possible for super smart people in lab coats to synthesize and produce artificial cannabinoids.

Man-made cannabinoids are designer replicas of phytocannabinoids. However, when created in a lab or manufacturing facility, only the “desirable” properties are kept. This approach is intended to preserve the beneficial traits (and their effects) while stripping out “undesirable” qualities.

Synthetic cannabinoids are used in a variety of products.

Cannabinoid Uses & Effects

Are you wondering how cannabinoids do what they do and exactly how they work? That’s a natural direction for your brain to go!

All types of cannabinoids operate in a similar fashion. Once you’ve consumed them, they work with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to yield all sorts of results.

Bear in mind, though, that each specific cannabinoid may produce its own distinct outcomes. Plus, any other plant compounds — terpenes, flavonoids, minerals, vitamins, etc. — that are tagging along in the cannabis may alter, amplify, or add effects.

For an in-depth intro to the ECS, be sure to read What is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)? [Guide for Beginners] next.

Chemical formulas of natural cannabinoids.

Cannabinoid Precursors

Cannabis doesn’t start out with stockpiles of cannabinoids. Through a process called biosynthesis, the plants produce these chemical compounds. It’s like the plant has a little internal factory.

But, like a full-scale, real-life manufacturing plant, cannabis’ factories need raw inputs to transform into finished outputs (cannabinoids). These ingredients feeding into the production line are called precursors.

In the case of cannabinoids, the precursors are acids.(8,9) The following are the prime-time cannabinoid acids:

Cannabis makes THCA, CBDA, and CBCA from CBGA.(10) Sometimes these precursor substances are lumped in with cannabinoids. And you will see products that feature these cannabinoid-creating acids.

Five Major Cannabinoids

How sources define “major” is fairly subjective. This quartet represents the most prevalent, popular, researched, discussed, and/or commercialized cannabinoids. Let’s take a closer look at each.

1 - Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

A cannabinoid of many names, this one goes by: tetrahydrocannabinol, THC, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, delta-9, D9, Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, Δ-9-thc, Δ9. These are just the official chemical names — if you read our post What is Cannabis? Demystifying Hemp & Marijuana Once & For All, you’d know there are plenty more unofficial aliases.

Likely most reputed for its psychoactivity — ability to get you high — sound research and oodles of anecdotal observations suggest that it may also help with:

This is the most abundant cannabinoid in most marijuana strains.

2 - Cannabidiol (CBD)

Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is well known for its ability to help people relax and deal with stress. It's also being investigated for its therapeutic potential for a host of health and wellness concerns, such as:

Currently, Epidiolex is the only FDA-approved CBD-based prescription drug. It’s reserved for only the most intractable cases of a few seizure disorders.

This is the most prevalent cannabinoid in most hemp varieties.

3 - Delta-8-THC (D8)

D8 occurs in nature, but in such small quantities that it’s not commercially viable. So, for use in delta-8 products, it’s usually made in a lab. Delta-8-THC can be created from CBD or THC; because CBD is federally legal, D8 is frequently derived from CBD.

The main selling point of D8 is that it is also psychoactive, yet offers a mellow high, gentler than that of THC. Delta-8 enthusiasts also report that this cannabinoid doesn’t come with THC’s side effects — like paranoia or anxiety.

4 - Cannabinol (CBN)

This cannabinoid has a slight psychoactive kick, probably because it’s derived from THC. CBN is most abundant in the older, harvested cannabis flowers.
CBN shows promise as an:

If you haven’t noticed this cannabinoid sneaking into cannabis products yet, you will.

5 - Cannabigerol (CBG)

The majority of this cannabinoid is converted into THC or CBD during the development of the cannabis plant. Still, the trace amounts of it that remain have been anecdotally associated with:

This cannabinoid, too, is quickly finding its place in cannabis products.

The Main Minor Cannabinoids

You can do the math: 140 total cannabinoids less the major 5 = 136 others we haven't covered yet. We don’t have the room — and suspect you don’t have the time, interest, or mental bandwidth for — a run-through of 130+ minor cannabinoids. If you are interested in learning more, focus on the most popular, commercialized, and understood cream of the crop:

Cannabinoids, Explained

Cannabinoids are plant compounds found in cannabis. There are over 140 known — each with unique features and potential effects. Wellness enthusiasts and advocates seek out different cannabinoids in an effort to support their mental and physical health. Available cannabis products may contain multiple cannabinoids.

FAQs Buzzin’ Through the Hive

What are cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are naturally-occurring compounds found in cannabis plants. There are over 140 known cannabinoids, each with its own distinct properties and potential effects. Each variety of cannabis has a unique cannabinoid profile.

What is THC?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a major cannabinoid. It’s the most abundant cannabinoid in most marijuana strains. The most noted characteristic of THC is probably that it is a psychoactive compound, meaning it can make you high.

What is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol), another major cannabinoid, is the main cannabinoid in hemp. It’s touted for its calming effects. Studies also suggest it may also be an effective anti-inflammatory and pain reliever.

References

  1. Grinspoon, P. (2021). Beyond CBD: Here come the other cannabinoids, but where’s the evidence? Harvard Health.
  2. Gertsch, J, et al. (2010). Phytocannabinoids beyond the Cannabis plant - do they exist? British Journal of Pharmacology.
  3. Raypole, C. (2019, May 17). A Simple Guide to the Endocannabinoid System. Healthline; Healthline Media.
  4. Scherma, M, et al. (2018). Brain activity of anandamide: a rewarding bliss? Acta Pharmacologica Sinica.
  5. Bird, E. (2020). Body’s natural cannabinoid may erase traumatic memories. Medical News Today.
  6. (2013). Annandamine Molecule - The bliss molecule. World of Molecules.
  7. Baggelaar, MP, et al. (2018). 2-Arachidonoylglycerol: A signaling lipid with manifold actions in the brain. Progress in Lipid Research.
  8. Gülck, T, et al. (2020). Phytocannabinoids: Origins and Biosynthesis. Trends in Plant Science.
  9. Tahir, MN, et al. (2021). The biosynthesis of the cannabinoids. Journal of Cannabis Research.
  10. (2022). Cannabinoids: Beyond THC and CBD. Encore-Labs.

We’re sure you have at least some awareness of THC as it’s the thing that gives marijuana its notable zing. Still, though, if you’re intent on being a confident and savvy cannabis user — learning more about this compund will serve you well. Especially since you’re introducing this cannabinoid into your body.

A well-grounded understanding of THC can help ensure you’re:

That’s a lot of THC territory to cover, so let’s get this show on the road!

Doctors Break Down the Differences Between CBD and THC - 35,765 views Oct, 30, 2019 Medical doctor, Dr. Elaine Chin and naturopathic doctor Dr. Elizabeth Goldspink open up the medical conversations surrounding hemp and marijuana on this episode of Cityline, the longest running daytime show for women in North America, with Host Tracy Moore.

What Is THC Anyway?

THC is shorthand for tetrahydrocannabinol. Tetrahydrocannabinol is just one of 140+ cannabinoids in cannabis. Cannabinoids, are a special kind of phytocompound found in cannabis plants, engage with your endocannabinoid system to instigate numerous mental and physical responses in your body.

THC vs CBD

For a better understanding of THC, you have to know a little about CBD (cannabidiol). CBD is another much-discussed cannabinoid — partly because it’s awesome, partly because it’s legal and easy to get your hands on.

Here’s a quick summary of key ways THC and CBD compare.

Both have great potential to support and improve health and wellness in many ways. These cannabinoids have been used recreationally and medicinally for hundreds of generations. (Archaeological proof shows that hemp and marijuana plants — two varieties of cannabis — have been intentionally bred and farmed for more than 10,000 years.)

The main — or most notable — difference between these cannabinoids is that THC’s a mind-altering substance, whereas CBD isn’t. THC is reputed for its psychoactive effect, aka “high.” Some people experience anxiety or paranoia, too. CBD doesn’t contain any chemical attributes that can cause a psychoactive response so it can’t intoxicate you. CBD’s claim to fame is its ability to soothe and destress.

THC in CBD Oil

Getting your THC from marijuana is an option. But many folks get their THC spike in the CBD oil products they use. So, we have to talk about THC in CBD oil products.

CBD comes in three types — two of which contain at least trace amounts of THC. If you’re interested in THC, it’s handy to know one from the other.

Types of CBD: Full-Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum & Isolate

Keeping it simple, here’s a high-level overview of the different CBD extract types:

  1. Full-spectrum CBD has CBD, THC, other cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and additional phytochemicals from the source plant. THC content may surpass the federally-permitted 0.3%.
  2. Broad-spectrum CBD is full-spectrum CBD minus the THC. Minute levels of THC may remain, but will be under the 0.3% threshold.
  3. CBD isolate has everything but the cannabidiol stripped out. No THC whatsoever.

Each type has its strengths and weaknesses. No one type is right for everybody or all the time.

Full- and broad-spectrum CBD up your odds of getting an entourage effect, the synergistic response your body may have due to the cocktail of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant compounds. But, that trace quantity of THC may spark a small euphoric sensation, positive drug test, etc.

Isolate offers none of THC’s potential but also has none of its possible drawbacks.

THC Formulations & Methods of Administration

Producers create a never-ending portfolio of THC-inclusive products. If that’s not enough, you can DIY your own with full- or broad-spectrum CBD drops or THC tinctures.

THC-Containing Products Galore

There’s no shortage of products containing THC. You have marijuana-derived as well as hemp CBD products — like the ones below — to satisfy and delight you.

Ways to Take THC

How you consume your THC depends on the product you chose. There are preparations that can be:

Each formulation and consumption method has its virtues. For example: Softgels are slower acting but longer lasting whereas sublingual CBD oil tinctures are faster acting but shorter lived.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) molecule illustration on marijuana plant.

How THC Works in Your Body

Your body strives towards homeostasis, a state of optimal balance when all systems and functions are in peak working order. Cannabinoids — through your endocannabinoid system (ECS) — contribute to homeostasis.(1,2)

Almost all animals have an ECS, a complex system of receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes. This network helps control or regulate many bodily systems and functions, from sleep to metabolism and mood to pain management.

THC binds with both the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS, in a way mimics how endocannabinoids bond with the receptors. It’s thought that source of THC’s powerful effects are twofold:

  1. These receptors are mostly in the brain.
  2. THC latches onto both kinds of receptors.

This is a tour de force that ideally produces the beneficial wellness outcomes THC users are pursuing.

Uses & Potential Benefits of THC

THC has been in the natural care kit for thousands of years, used for everything from easing labor pains to coping with cancer to addressing constipation. Today, THC is used to help with conditions like:(2,3,4)

Cannabis and cannabinoids are so full of promise that you can expect a steady flow of new research to continue. As the medical and scientific communities reveal more about THC’s capabilities and efficacy, it’s likely that therapies (and laws and cultural norms) will evolve and advance.

Tips for How To Use THC

How you use THC-containing products is up to you. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. And your needs and preferences may evolve over time.

Bearing that in mind, here are some suggestions to get you started:

Is THC Safe?

There’s no one, simple answer to this question. So, let’s tease it apart a bit.
First, though, remember that each person unique and every product is different. No single answer can encapsulate all scenarios, so what’s laid out below is generalized.

The Cannabis Plant

Safety starts with the base. For THC products in the US, this generally means marijuana or hemp from the cannabis sativa species.

Much of the THC in circulation is contained in CBD oil products. Many of these items use hemp seed oil as a carrier. According to the FDA, hemp is both very nutritious and Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).(5)

Marijuana (the plant) hasn’t been evaluated as a food like hemp has been. So, what we’re left to examine for safety cues are scientific data, historical records, and anecdotal reports from users. But, most sources equate marijuana to THC (and vice versa) — so we’ll pick up the THC safety question in the next section.

Of course, almost everyone agrees that more research is needed to conclusively say the various cultivars of cannabis are safe.

THC Itself

Let’s talk specifically about THC, the cannabinoid.
The existing (and ever-growing!) body of knowledge indicates that marijuana:

  1. Should be relatively safe when consumed responsibly by healthy adults
  2. Probably has fewer side effects than alcohol and many pharmaceutical drugs(6,7)

Risks of THC

On the topic of side effects, common ones may include: (3,8,9,10)

Potential Short-Term Side Effects

These typically go away pretty soon after stopping THC use.

Possible Long-Term Side Effects

THC use is associated with negative health conditions and outcomes such as:

THC can also interfere with some medications and supplements and may be a bad idea for those with certain medical conditions. People who’re pregnant or nursing or children (under 18 years old) should stay away from THC unless approved by a qualified physician. The takeaway here — consult with your doctor to make sure it’s okay for you to give THC a shot.

Legalized THC products are likely safer than street marijuana. This is because legal marijuana is subject to stringent lab testing, which will ensure there are harmful toxins (e.g., pesticides) laced in.

As with anything, there’s a chance of adverse reactions associated with using THC. You’ll need to weigh the pros vs the cons to see which way the scale tips for you.

The Other Stuff In There

Your THC-infused goods aren’t 100% THC — there are other ingredients and maybe unintended contaminants. Each ingredient features its own safety profile. Dubiously-sourced ingredients can have unhealthful chemicals, heavy metals, etc. in them. Point being, you must pay attention to more than just the THC when considering how safe a product is.

Origin Matters

You know the concept of garbage in, garbage out? It holds true for cannabis products in a big way.

Generally speaking, products with fewer and more natural ingredients tend to be safer. So, look for products that:

Is THC Legal?

Marijuana is currently illegal at the federal level. It’s classified as a Schedule I drug and is tightly regulated as a controlled substance.

There’s a bill in Congress right now (April 2022) that seeks to legalize marijuana at the national level. If popular sentiment is any indicator — most Americans are in favor of legalizing marijuana to some degree — the legislation will go through. This is definitely something to keep your eyes on!

Meanwhile, many states permit some form of medical and/or recreational marijuana use. And each election cycle sees new states adding themselves to the ranks of MJ-friendly jurisdictions.

THC in CBD oil has been federally legal since 2018, thanks to that year’s Farm Bill. This law says that hemp-derived CBD is lawful so long as it has no more than 0.3% THC by weight.

THC & the FDA

The only FDA-approved form of THC is dronabinol (aka Marinol and Syndros). This drug is made with a synthesized (artificial) THC that retains all the “good” stuff and none of the “undesirable” properties of nature made THC. This med is given to cancer or AIDS patients, primarily to ease nausea and improve appetite.(10)

The Drug Test Question

This is bound to come up sooner or later. You can fail a drug test if the detectable amount of THC in your body exceeds the upper parameter of the drug screening you’re doing.

It’s impossible to say how long THC hangs out in your body. It hinges on multiple factors: frequency of use, amount taken, formulation, your metabolism, etc. Smoked or vaped THC exits the system faster than THC you scarfed down in a magic brownie.

The kind of drug test being administered is also key. For example, THC is only detectable via blood tests for about a week, but a hair sample can hold evidence of THC for three months.(4)

Overall, THC may be detectable for 1 to 90 days.

Shopping for THC Products

Savvy shoppers are rewarded with better products and deals. It takes a little practice, but once you get the hang of doing your research — rounding up the best of the best will be a breeze.

Here are some helpful pointers to guide your explorations:

Signs of High-Caliber THC Products

Where to Buy THC

Your options for purchasing THC-infused products depends on where you are and what kind of product you’re after.

Full spectrum CBD goods derived from hemp are readily available online, in many brick-and-mortar health stores, vitamin shops, spas, natural grocers, specialty boutiques, and dispensaries, and even at some farmers markets.

Marijuana-derived THC and high-THC (i.e., THC content exceeds 0.3%) items can only be purchased in person at regulated dispensaries.

Legalities

Hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC can be shipped nationwide because it was made a-okay by the 2018 Farm Bill. This makes online shopping a terrific option.

But, local laws and regulations vary. This means that, even though sellers are cleared for interstate commerce, it may not be legal for you to have or consume CBD in your area. It’s always recommended to double check the laws where you live to see what’s allowed.

The same goes for other kinds of THC products. Each state seems to have a unique allowance for recreational and medical marijuana and high-THC CBD products (including ones derived from hemp).

Shopping Experience

Opt for stores that offer a broad selection of high-quality products, accessible and sufficient product info, and well-informed staff. Check out the store’s services and policies to see if it meets your needs.

Shopping locally is a great way to establish a personal connection with the retailer, handle products before buying, and support a community business. And, like we said, this is your only choice for some THC products.

If you’re after federally-legal THC-containing CBD products, though, don’t discount the unbeatable value and convenience of shopping online.

THC, Explained

THC is one of the many cannabinoids in cannabis. You can find THC in both marijuana and hemp products.

While mainly known for its ability to cause a high, THC has many potential uses in maintaining and boosting wellness. It may help with pain, eye health, sleep troubles, low appetite, and more.

Hemp-derived CBD with no more than 0.3% THC is federally legal. Marijuana-sourced THC and all high-THC products are still illegal at the federal level. Local laws vary and are in flux, so it’s necessary to periodically check what’s allowed in your area.

You can buy CBD products with limited THC online or [often] in person. Marijuana THC and high-THC items can only be purchased in person where approved. Regardless, only shop with trustworthy retailers and get high-quality products that fit your needs and preferences.

FAQs Buzzin’ Through the Hive

What is THC?

THC is short for tetrahydrocannabinol. Tetrahydrocannabinol is a cannabinoid (naturally-occurring plant substance) in cannabis — both marijuana (higher concentrations) and hemp (lower concentrations).

What does THC do?

As a psychoactive compound, THC can get you high. But, it may also help you achieve a host of positive wellness outcomes — like ease pain, reduce nausea, facilitate sleep, and lessen muscle spasms. Some people experience downsides to THC (e.g., anxiety or paranoia). Ultimately, what THC does for you may differ from the result others experience.

Is THC legal?

Yes and no. 0.3% or less THC that accompanies hemp-derived CBD is federally legal; local jurisdictions have their own assortment of laws on how much THC is permitted in CBD oil products. THC in the form of marijuana-based products is currently illegal at the federal level (though as of April 2022 there is legislation in Congress that would change this!). Again, each state has its own medical and recreational marijuana rules. Laws are fluid — so your best bet is to check the legalities of THC in your area before purchasing.

References

  1. Raypole, C. (2019). A Simple Guide to the Endocannabinoid System. Healthline.
  2. DiLonardo, MJ. (2019). CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference? WebMD.
  3. Holland, K. (2020). CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference? Healthline.
  4. Tabackman, L, et al. (2021). What is THC? Benefits, risks, side effects. Insider.
  5. (2019). Three GRAS Notices for Hemp Seed-Derived Ingredients for Food. U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
  6. Rae, A. (20214). How Is Marijuana Safer and Healthier Than Alcohol? GoodRx.
  7. (2018). Prescription Drugs vs. Cannabis: Recent Studies. WayofLeaf.
  8. (2021). Marijuana Effects | Short Term, Long Term & Side Effects. American Addiction Centers.
  9. Tabackman, L, et al. (2021). Marijuana effects: The short-term and long-term effects of weed. Insider.
  10. (2022). H.R.3617 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act. Congress.gov.
  11. Van Green, T. (2021). Americans overwhelmingly say marijuana should be legal for recreational or medical use. Pew Research Center.
  12. (2022). What We Know About Marijuana. CDC.

When you hear the word entourage, your mind might veer towards that cable TV show from the 2000s.

That’s not what we’re talking about that here, today. We’re going on a deep dive into all things entourage effect. This is a phenomenon that’s special to some forms of cannabis.

The entourage effect can be incredibly helpful, so it’s a good thing to fully understand basics like:

What Is the Entourage Effect?

The entourage effect is synergy. It’s what happens when the sum is greater than the total of its parts.

In terms of cannabis, it’s the bonus you may get from consuming a product with a comprehensive profile of cannabinoids and other plant compounds.

Cannabis Compounds Are Key

There are several hundred known chemical substances in cannabis. At least 140 of them are cannabinoids. The balance are terpenes, flavonoids, vitamins, minerals, etc.

Each phytocompound — be it a cannabinoid like CBD or THC or some other constituent — features its own unique therapeutic and nutritional profile. Each component packs its particular menu of wellness-boosting potential.

You might think, “Wow! Those plant compounds are awesome!” And they just may be. But, they may have even more impact bundled than as separate entities.

Researchers found that, when consumed together, the various cannabis molecules conspire. As a group, they exhibit significantly more activity. Even inactive constituents can be coaxed into motion.(1)

The Entourage Effect Influence

Interestingly, the entourage effect doesn’t necessarily mean that the results of your cannabis are increased (though they certainly may be). The entourage effect can:

  1. Amplify or enhance the effects of your cannabis. This is the multiplier effect that naturally comes to mind. For example, instead of just taking the edge off, you might feel super relaxed.
  2. Extend or expand the effects of your cannabis. This is when you reap additional desirable results. For example, instead of just lulling you into a state of calm, you might also be able to sleep better.
  3. Moderate the effects of your cannabis. This is a show of cannabis’s many compounds balancing each other out in pursuit of homeostasis. For example, CBD’s properties may counteract some of the side effects (like anxiety or paranoia) that are common to THC.(2)
  4. Alter the effects of your cannabis. This one’s a bit of a wildcard or miscellany. It’s simply to acknowledge that sometimes when you combine substances (like different cannabinoids), the resulting concoction may have some attributes and effects that neither of the primary inputs had. We see examples of this everyday — like mustard or egg emulsifying your vinaigrette or slipping a Mentos into a soda erupting into a shower of foam.

Is the Entourage Effect Real? What the Science Says

Currently, the entourage effect is technically a working theory. Consumers, clinicians, and researchers alike were seeing evidence of some X factor when cannabinoids were jointly taken with other cannabinoids and plant compounds. Enter the entourage effect, a means of encapsulating and explaining what was going on.

Much of the data indicates that it’s mostly the coupling of cannabinoids and terpenes that yields the entourage effect. Flavonoids are also helpful and likely play a supporting role.

Several studies and research reviews express that the case for there being an entourage effect is strong and backed by some data.(1) However, because marijuana is still a Schedule I drug, studying the entourage effect is difficult. Access to THC-rich forms of cannabis is tightly restricted — making it nearly impossible to run high-quality, large-scale clinical trials that truly investigate the range of cannabinoids.

Experts agree that more research is needed and are hopeful that will happen in coming years.

Entourage Effect Benefits

This is where the rubber meets the road. The entourage effect sounds great — but what’s important is how it could help you, in meaningful ways, in real life, right now.

Health & Wellness Perks

Among other things, the entourage effect may help with:(2,3)

With personalized medicine coming down the pike, cannabis researchers and breeders are busy researching the characteristics of individual strains of cannabis. They’re leveraging tons of data to determine which genetic markers, chemical combos, etc. yield specific results.

The goal here is to create customized varieties of cannabis — with equally bespoke entourage effects — to address the health concerns of any given patient or consumer.(4) In the future, you might be able to tailor your cannabis to (potentially) get the precise entourage effect and outcomes you’re after.

Improving Cannabis Use

The entourage effect can also influence your cannabis experience. It can help:

Now that you know what it is and why it can be a good thing, you probably want to enjoy the entourage effect yourself. We don’t blame you!

Product Choice Counts

Probably the main element of the equation is the product you’re using. The entourage effect requires an ensemble of phytocompounds — cannabinoids, terpenes, and so on.

If you’re taking a CBD isolate product, you’re getting a solitary cannabinoid. There’s nothing else there for the cannabidiol to synergize with.

So, what sorts of cannabis products should you be stocking up on if you want to bring on the entourage effect? Opt for:

There’s a reason you often see these multi-cannabinoid products being touted. These lines of products have more than one cannabinoid, plus all the goodness of the cannabis’s terpenoids, flavonoids, and other nutrients. The makings of an entourage effect are all in there!

Bioavailability Matters, Too

Bioavailability of the cannabis compounds can impact the presence, nature, and magnitude of the entourage effect.

Bioavailability simply refers to how easily and efficiently your body can absorb, assimilate, and utilize a substance. Something with better bioavailability can be introduced into your system more quickly, will likely be faster-acting, and may facilitate an entourage effect.

And because your body’s able to use the substance more readily, you can use less. More bang for your hard-earned buck! Bioavailability lets you wring more value out of your cannabis products.

You can boost bioavailability of your cannabis by selecting products that are:

Not Feeling It?

There’s also a chance that you won’t experience the entourage effect.

Outcomes of cannabis consumption can be highly personalized. So many factors — the type of cannabis used, the regimen you follow, your metabolism, etc. — play a role.(5)

But, if you aren’t noticing an entourage effect now — tinkering with one or more variables might flip that switch for you. It often takes time, patience, and experimentation to find the cannabis regime that works best for your needs and preferences.

Rounding Up the Entourage Effect

The entourage effect is when cannabis compounds — like cannabinoids and terpenes — behave synergistically to enhance results. The belief is that compounds work better as an ensemble rather than a bunch of solo acts.

To experience the entourage effect, choose cannabis products with an array of phytocompounds. Using ones that are natural and nanotized for better bioavailability may also help you realize the entourage effect.

Still, though, not everyone feels the entourage effect every time with every cannabis product. It may take time and experimentation to find what works for you.

FAQs Buzzin’ Through the Hive

What is the entourage effect?

The entourage effect occurs when you experience extra or different — better — effects from your cannabis due to the mix of individual cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant compounds. It’s a desirable synergistic phenomenon in which the “whole” is greater than the sum of the “parts.”

How do you get the entourage effect?

You need to use full- or broad-spectrum CBD products, or other cannabis products that feature multiple cannabinoids and other phytocompounds. Note, though, that some people may not experience the entourage effect no matter what they do or what cannabis products they consume.

What are the benefits of the entourage effect?

The entourage effect is favorable because it can increase or expand the positive wellness results from using cannabis. It can also instigate wholly different responses in your body than any single cannabis substance can on its own. Lastly, the entourage effect can modulate the impact of certain cannabinoids — e.g., CBD may mellow THC’s intoxicating effects.

References

  1. Russo, E. B. (2019). The Case for the Entourage Effect and Conventional Breeding of Clinical Cannabis: No “Strain,” No Gain. Frontiers in Plant Science, 9.
  2. Chander, R. (2019). The Entourage Effect: How CBD and THC Work Together. Healthline.
  3. Ferber, SG, et al. (2020). The “Entourage Effect”: Terpenes Coupled with Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. Current Neuropharmacology.
  4. Chen, A. (2017). Some of the Parts: Is Marijuana’s “Entourage Effect” Scientifically Valid? Scientific American.
  5. Simon, M. (2018). The Entourage Effect: How THC and Other Weed Compounds Mix. WIRED.

A good night’s sleep isn’t always an easy thing to come by. And as we age, getting high quality sleep can become even more difficult — especially for women. For some women, this means tossing and turning all night and yawning all day, which can have a serious impact on daily functioning and enjoyment of life. This has left some wondering whether options like cannabis might help improve sleep quality.

While researchers are still investigating the extent to which cannabis and its components, like CBD or THC, can be used to help improve sleep, anecdotal reports from patients, and some research does point in a hopeful direction, suggesting that cannabis can make a notable difference when it comes to getting sleep.

Curious about using cannabis for your own sleep? Read on to learn all about the science behind using cannabis for sleep, and how it might benefit women over 50.

Sleep Issues For Women Over 50

Sleeplessness is a problem that can impact anyone, but it is an especially prominent issue for women over 50. Studies show that sleep issues escalate during perimenopause, the time leading up to menopause, with more than half of these women getting less than 7 hours of sleep at night. And unfortunately, these symptoms continue to linger after menopause is complete. Nearly 36% of postmenopausal women say they have trouble sleeping through the night. Postmenopausal women are also more likely to report difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep and feeling well rested than your average person.

So, why do women have so many more sleep issues at this time of life? Well, there are a few main reasons. For one thing, hormonal shifts can have a big impact on sleep — leading to insomnia for some women. These changes can also lead to other symptoms that can disrupt sleep.

Women at this age are also more likely to suffer from conditions like sleep apnea, fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression, or restless leg syndrome, all of which can really interfere with sleep. To add to this, conditions like heart failure, lung disease and psychiatric disorders increase with age, and the medications used to treat these conditions can also lead to insomnia.

The result is that women over 50 are at serious increased risk of not getting enough sleep. And sleep is simply too important to miss out on on a regular basis. But luckily, cannabis may be able to help!

How Cannabis Can Impact Sleep

The sleep issues that women over 50 face are real! But many women report that cannabis can help ease these problems and provide more restful nights. So how does cannabis pull off this insomnia defying feat? While scientists are still studying cannabis’ impact on sleep, and say that more research is needed to truly understand it, they do have some theories about why cannabis might help.

Cannabis interacts with the human body primarily through a system known as the endocannabinoid system. This key system in the human body is tasked with keeping many of our bodily functions in balance, or homeostasis. From pain, to hunger, to inflammation, to mood, to memory, this system influences, stimulates and maintains balance for some of the most important aspects of our physical life. And one important function that is regulated by the endocannabinoid system is sleep.

This system is made up of many receptors in the body, such as CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are activated by natural chemicals in the body called endocannabinoids. When the endocannabinoids stimulate the receptors, it triggers the system's many different effects. But interestingly, the cannabinoids in the cannabis plant are also able to stimulate these receptors. So when someone takes cannabis, they are able to activate the endocannabinoid system and its many functions.

With sleep, we know that activating CB1 receptors usually induces sleep. To add to this, it can also cause changes in the stability and length of non-rapid eye movement sleep, which is very important in getting quality rest. So, researchers believe that cannabis’ ability to stimulate CB1 is primarily responsible for its impact on sleep. To learn what that impact is, we will have to look at the clinical research on humans using cannabis for sleep.

The Research On Using Cannabis For Sleep

Cannabis has a long history as a sleep aid. In fact, it’s been used for its sedative qualities since ancient times. But in modern times, people also report sleep inducing properties from this age-old remedy. One survey of 1,000 recreational cannabis users found that cannabis was being used as a sleep aid by 74% of them, and 84% of those using it this way reported that it was helping them get better sleep. 83% also said that with cannabis, they were able to reduce or stop taking other sleep aids.

When it comes to clinical research on cannabis and sleep, the science isn’t quite where researchers would like it to be. We don’t have particularly high quality data yet, still, there is some research that suggests cannabis can help with sleep.

For example, one study looked at the impact THC had on sleep. The scientists studied healthy insomniacs over six weeks, and found that those using THC took significantly less time to fall asleep. They also found that participants given THC woke up less during the night.

Still, some research suggests that cannabis’ impact on sleep might vary based on factors like the dose or strain. One study found that lower doses of cannabis decreased the time it took to fall asleep, but higher doses actually increased it — suggesting that more isn’t always better when it comes to using cannabis for sleep.

Another study found that cannabis strain may play a role in how cannabis affects our sleep. This study looked at preferences between different varieties of cannabis, for those using cannabis for sleep. They found that those using cannabis to prevent nightmares usually preferred sativa strains of cannabis. On the other hand, those who were trying to use cannabis to fall asleep more quickly prefered strains that were high in CBD. So it is highly possible that different types of cannabis — with different chemical profiles — may be suited to different sleep applications. And some strains may not be very helpful at all.

review of previous sleep studies on cannabis also found that CBD might be helpful for REM sleep behaviour disorder — a condition where people physically act out their dreams, and that it could prevent excessive daytime sleepiness.

Unfortunately, not all the research suggests benefits for sleep. One survey found that cannabis users were more likely to have sleep disturbances than those who didn’t use cannabis. Still, it’s not clear in this study if the cannabis was causing the sleep disturbances, or the sleep disturbances were motivating the cannabis use.

Still, despite this, reviews on cannabis and sleep are generally optimistic about cannabis as a sleep aid. The National Academy of Sciences meta-review on cannabis from 2017, for example, found moderate evidence that cannabis could help with short-term sleep outcomes for patients with conditions like fibromyalgia, sleep apnea, chronic pain, or multiple sclerosis. Another 2017 review, from the University of Pennsylvania, concurred with this conclusion, and also found that cannabis may help reduce or prevent the nightmares associated with PTSD.

Most researchers on cannabis and sleep warn that more research — particularly double-blind clinical trials — is needed to come to strong conclusions about cannabis’ impact on sleep. Still the evidence that we have is hopeful that cannabis can help. For those who are curious about whether it will help them, there is only one way to find out. Talk to your doctor, and try it out for yourself.

Green Bee Life
*FDA Disclaimer: These statements and products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.

Copyright © 2024 Green Bee Life | Green Bee LLC, is a subsidiary of Green Life Media, Inc., a full service creative agency and production company.

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