From the Farm Bill to the Endocannabinoid System

Legalization: The 2018 Farm Bill removed many legal barriers surrounding hemp-derived CBD, making it accessible to the US mainstream public. This legality has encouraged more people to explore and try CBD products. 

Increased Awareness: More people became aware of CBD’s potential health benefits as it became legal and hit the mainstream markets. Media coverage such as social media and podcasts, word of mouth, and online discussions continue to bring awareness. 

Health and Wellness Trends: CBD aligns with the growing interest in natural and holistic health and wellness practices. Many individuals seek alternative solutions for managing common health issues, such as anxiety, pain, and sleep disorders, leading them to explore alternative solutions to chemical or synthetic based medications that could lead to unwanted side effects. 

Research and Education: Scientific research on CBD has expanded in the US since 2018, providing more evidence of CBD’s potential benefits. This research has contributed to a better understanding of how CBD works and its safety profile. Israel has a more in-depth understanding of CBD and its benefits as they have studied it for decades.  

https://www.labroots.com/trending/cannabis-sciences/8456/endocannabinoid-system-discovered 

Product Variety: Not your Father’s Flower that was smoked, the market for CBD products has diversified significantly. Consumers can now choose from a plethora of options, including oils, capsules, gummies, topicals, and even beverages, providing a variety of options to fit into anyone’s lifestyle. 

Celebrity Endorsement: Celebrities, sports organizations such as the UFC, MLB and NCAA, NFL, IOC, all have athletes that have openly discussed their use of CBD, which has further propelled its popularity and reduced preconceived notions. 

Consumer Testimonials: Individuals who have benefited from CBD’s positive benefits have influenced others to try it, creating a snowball effect in its popularity as people see the benefits their peers are experiencing and want the same relief. 

Regulation and Quality Control: As the industry comes out of the infancy stage and into the toddler stage, there has been a push for more rigorous regulation and quality control. Manufactures and retailers want to improve the safety and consistency of CBD products, building trust among consumers. 

Expansion of Retail Availability: CBD products are everywhere from mainstream outlets like Sephora’s grocery stores, department stores, convince stores and a multitude of specialized CBD stores making them more accessible to a broader audience. 

Global Acceptance: CBD’s popularity has extended beyond the United States, with the US legalizing it’s use, many countries jumped on board by legalizing or decriminalizing its use, contributing to its global recognition.  Canada, Australia, Croatia, Chez Republic, Finland, Germany, Greece, Israel, Italy, Netherlands, Porland, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdome are just some of the countries embracing the positive health aspects of CBD. 

CBD, short for cannabidiol, interacts with the human body through the Endocannabinoid System. The ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM is a complex network of receptors in the human body, made up of enzymes, and endocannabinoids (natural compounds produced by the body) (yes, our bodies produce cannabinoids) that plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes to maintain balance or homeostasis. 

One of the biggest questions consumers have about CBD is, “how does CBD interact with the human body.” Why don’t’ we examine together?  

Receptor Interaction: CBD interacts with two types of receptors (think of them as partners) in the ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM: CB1 receptors, found in the brain and central nervous system, and CB2 receptors, located in the immune system and peripheral tissues. Unlike THC, CBD does not directly bind to these receptors but influences them indirectly. Which is why most people’s bodies (like brushing our teeth) require CBD daily to maintain its holistic effects. 

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569 

Modulation of Receptor Activity: CBD modulates the activity of the CB1 & CB2 receptors, acting as a regulator. It can enhance or inhibit the binding of other compounds, including endocannabinoids like anandamide, a fatty acid neurotransmitter and the first endocannabinoid to be discovered. This modulation can have various effects on the body, depending on the specific receptor and location. 

Neurotransmitter Regulation: CBD can affect the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. For example, it may increase the availability of serotonin, which plays a role in regulating our moods and well-being. 

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are associated with various health conditions. Many have experienced a decrease in pain and fatigue associated with inflammation.  

Pain Perception: CBD may influence the perception of pain by interacting with receptors involved in pain signaling. This can potentially lead to pain relief or a reduction in pain sensitivity. 

Anxiety and Stress Reduction: CBD has been studied for its potential to reduce anxiety and stress. It may affect the way the brain responds to stressors and help individuals feel calmer and more relaxed.  

Sleep Regulation: It has been reported that many use CBD to help improve the quality of sleep patterns by addressing factors like anxiety and pain that can interfere with sleep.  

Immune System Support: CBD’s interaction with CB2 receptors in the immune system suggests it may have immunomodulatory effects, potentially supporting the body’s immune responses. 

Appetite and Digestion: While research is ongoing, some evidence suggests that CBD influences appetite and digestive processes, which could be helpful in certain medical conditions.  

https://cbdclinicals.com/cbd-for-digestion/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772823/ 

It is important to note that the effects of CBD can vary from person to person and depend on factors such as dosage, individual biochemistry, and the specific condition being addressed. Additionally, CBD is well-tolerated, but it can interact with certain medications, so it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications. 

As we conclude Part 1 of our comprehensive CBD exploration, we’ve journeyed through the world of CBD, starting with the 2018 Farm Bill and its rise to in the holistic world of health and wellness. This introductory segment lays the foundation for a captivating journey through the realm of Cannabidiol (CBD). 

But here’s the exciting news – this is just the beginning! Our seven-part blog series has so much more to offer. In the upcoming installments, we’ll look deep into the intricate world of CBD. From understanding how CBD interacts with the remarkable Endocannabinoid System in the human body to exploring its wide range of health effects, metabolism, administration methods, dosage considerations, and the complex legal and regulatory landscape surrounding CBD – we’re on a mission to empower your journey with relevant knowledge. 

Do not miss the wealth of insights, trends, and expert tips that our blog series has to offer. Sign up at https://honacbd.com/blog/ and join a community of natural wellness enthusiasts. Stay tuned for Part 2 Unlocking the Mysteries of the Endocannabinoid System and unlock the secrets of CBD’s holistic potential. Subscribe today and elevate your journey to a healthier, more informed you!