What Does CBD Stand For? Let’s Explore the Alphabet!

What does CBD stand for? These three letters are everywhere right now. They’ll pop up on products marketed for everything from migraine headaches to acne. In fact, CBD has become a go-to solution for many hoping to naturally address a variety of conditions. But what is this enigmatic phytocompound? Where does it come from? And what connection does it have to the notorious marijuana plant? We’ll tell you soon…but you have to keep reading!

What Does CBD Stand For? — Cannabidiol — ka·nuh·buh·dai·uhl

Scientifically, CBD is known as cannabidiol. We source it from hemp plants to create legal CBD. But it’s only one of hundreds of sophisticated chemical compounds produced in the Cannabis sativa plant. These compounds are called cannabinoids. And they’ve taken center stage on the supplement market because of their fascinating capacity to effect the human body.

Still, cannabinoids are relatively new to us humans. Scientists only recently re-discovered cannabinoids, and their potential uses for medical purposes. But we’ve actually used hemp products for centuries. Which is why today’s research only builds on years of hemp history. Here’s why CBD’s made an impact from its very beginnings!

1. A Time-Honored Herbal Medication

Long before it was a controlled substance, cannabis was a staple on the ancient medical scene. Alongside opium poppies and ephedra, cannabis is one of the oldest medicinal plants in human pharmacology. Plus, ancient populations valued cannabis plants for their nutritious seeds, top-quality fibers and many other uses.

2. Cannabinoids and Biochemistry

While early human medicine valued cannabis, they didn’t know exactly why it worked. That discovery would come later, in the 20th century, when Dr. Raphael Mechoulum identified cannabidiol CBD. And, with his discovery, revolutionized the way medical science understands the human body.

Now, he started researching cannabis to find out why it had such a profound effect on so many of our physiological functions. When CBD was discovered, and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) shortly thereafter, they also found something incredible: a neuronal signaling system we’d never heard of before! Called the endocannabinoid system, (ECS)  functions as a regulator in your body. And it affects almost every aspect of how humans and many animals interact with our environments.

How does that happen? Well, your ECS uses an array of chemicals to control your essential regulatory processes. Today, we call these chemicals “endo-cannabinoids” (inner-cannabinoids.) And that’s because they’re produced within the body. But they’re strikingly similar to the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.

As a result, CBD (and many other cannabinoids) can mimic many endocannabinoid functions. In that way, they can  help regulate some ECS processes. For example, CBD modulates how the ECS interacts with serotonin, adenosine and capsaicin receptors. So taking CBD may relieve pain and inflammation. Or it could protect the delicate structures of your brain.

Clearly, CBD has a major history in medicine. But, thanks to new information, this cannabinoid may one day alter  medical science. Already, we think it may help people with fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis. But more research is necessary.

What does CBD not stand for? Psychoactive Effects!

Another important discovery CBD fact is that it’s not psychoactive. Unlike THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid responsible for Cheech and Chong movies, CBD does not have mind-altering effects. Instead, it seems to stabilize  the ECS. As a matter of fact, CBD has been known to tamp down a THC high.

While THC is an important cannabinoid (and may provide greater pain relief)  it comes with drawbacks. Psychoactive compounds are not suitable for all occasions. Plus, they can impair your perception. But here’s the good news: with full-spectrum CBD, you can enjoy a product with trace amounts of THC. Yet getting high won’t be a concern.

Where Does CBD Come From? — Trichomes and CBD

The iconic leaf and bountiful buds get most of our attention when we talk about the benefits of cannabis. But the real magic takes place in the trichomes. These are tiny hair-like stalks that cover the buds. And they produce that sticky, signature cannabis resin.

Basically, cannabis bud effects and benefits depend on the quality of its trichomes. In a hemp plant, these trichomes are selected for high-CBD, low-THC content. In a marijuana plant, we reverse that blend.

Is this Product Legal?

CBD is legal according to the U.S. government. But cannabis laws range in severity across state and county lines. For this reason, you need to research CBD legality  in your location before you start shopping for product. Still, on a federal level, there are some clear guidelines you should follow to stay on the right side of the law.

Basically, you need to source your CBD from hemp, not marijuana.  You’ll know you’ve got a hemp-extract product is the THC content is below 0.3%. In that case, your CBD is clear to use under federal law.

Where to Purchase CBD Hemp Oils?

Cleared to buy CBD, but not sure where to shop? Check out the most common CBD product providers. Plus what you should know about shopping from each one.

The Online Market

Buying CBD online has never been easier. When you look for CBD online, you’ll enjoy the greatest variety of products. And have the highest chance of finding your best form of CBD.

Buying online also comes offers the greatest convenience. You can discretely get the products you want, delivered straight to your door!  Plus, you can do all your research, and should be able to verify the quality of your purchased product. Because reputable manufacturers should give you access to the CBD lab analysis and a full product ingredients list.

The CBD Dispensary

Many states certify cannabis dispensaries. They may not be that easy to find. But , if you do, you’ll be greeted by knowledgeable personnel who can guide you towards the best product for your needs. If you have any doubts about the laws pertaining to cannabis use in your local area, shopping at a dispensary will help.

One other advantage to shopping at a dispensary? You’ll get the chance to see your physical product. In turn, this can give you a better understanding of what kind of product you’re purchasing.

Other Physical Locations

Finally, you can find CBD products in alternative health markets. In some cases, this could be the way to get unique products, like CBD for cats or dogs. Just do your research, and make sure the product you purchase is reputable and legal.

Final Notes: What Does CBD Stand For and CBD Products

Now you know what does CBD stand for. Plus, you have some suggestions for getting the best product for your needs. Remember, it’s always important to research any supplement you purchase, and to talk to your doctor before starting a new health supplement. (Even if it’s a plant-based extract like hemp. Because CBD may still interact with your other medications. Especially ones that contain a grapefruit warning on the label.)

Finally, keep this in mind. Rather than offering a quick fix, CBD stands for an all-natural way of addressing your overall wellbeing. And, like any new health initiative, you won’t see overnight results. Instead, expect to see your best results after giving this plan some time. And by committing yourself to a general mode of healthier living.