What is CBD?

WHAT IS

CBD

CBD stands for Cannabidiol.

CBD is a potent compound, it’s just one of over 120 active Phytocannabinoids ‘plant based Cannabinoid compounds’ found in the Cannabis plant species. Cannabis Hemp refers to low THC ‘the more psychoactive compound’ varieties of the Cannabis plant. CBD has been widely researched in isolation and detail compared to its other Phytocannabinoid allies, there is a big future of research for Cannabis ahead.

Did you know there are Cannabinoid receptors all over the human body! Cannabinoids, such as CBD, play a crucial role in regulating our physiology and mood.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD is most effectively administered to the body as an oil, as its bioavailability is at its maximum. CBD Oil is the most direct way to absorb all the goodness the hemp plant has to offer. In other forms, you may not absorb the CBD as well. We have been consuming this plant in this way for a long time, and our bodies know how to work with it in this way. From your Endocannabinoid System, benefits are distributed across both the immune and central nervous system.

How does CBD work?

All humans and animals have an Endocannabinoid system. The ECS plays a crucial role in regulating our mood, appetite, digestion, memory, sensitivity to pain, hormones, motivation, sleep, and much more. The ECS nurtures homeostasis, the biological term for balance in the body. It connects functions across major bodily systems like a switchboard. Most significantly. The central nervous system. The immune system. And the gut.

Phytocannabionoids like CBD are able to interact with our body’s natural systems because their makeups and behaviours mimic Endocannabinoids, which are Cannabinoids that are synthesized on demand by our own bodies. Phytocannabinoids have been found to inhibit the breakdown of Endocannabinoids and prolong Endocannabinoid action.

Like all Cannabinoids, Cannabidiol (CBD) interacts with Cannabinoid receptors in your brain and body. Specifically, it interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors form part of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) found in the brain.

The ECS was only discovered in 1992 and is proving to be one of the most vital bodily systems! This is why scientific research is still breaking new ground. Hemp and its Cannabinoids are nothing new. In fact, we have been using hemp since ancient times, read about the history of hemp here.

So, scientific studies are catching up to fully understand the health benefits of hemp, Cannabinoids and CBD. There are now so many peer-reviewed research papers on CBD, it is considered as a safe compound to be widely consumed, hence why we are hearing so much about this one compound alone. The rest we are yet to hear more about, and that’s what is truly exciting for those working with this plant. We are discovering new ground. Fortunately, practitioners and doctors who have read these papers are now beginning to advise on CBD products. As awareness grows, as does accessibility. The future of this incredible plant, for the people, shines green on the horizon.

What can I use CBD for?

As herbalists, we are not permitted to give any medical advice regarding the use of Cannabidiol (CBD), please read the information provided for each product in our online CBD shop.

There is a wealth of information available online, we recommend focusing on peer-reviewed scientific studies, like this one here which has analysed 112 peer-reviewed studies on CBD benefits, harms and unknowns (scroll down to the section called ‘Scientific Research on CBD’). It is an American resource, so some advice is outside of UK law regarding THC levels. Reviewing the research should give you a better idea of what has been proven and what is still in trial or anecdotal evidence.

You will also be able to find more information on our hempformation pages!

There are a few particular conditions that CBD is known to help with. This is because of how CBD interacts and works with your Endocannabinoid System. Also, Project CBD is a great website to search different conditions, linked to studies to help you find the right dose for you.

Call or email us to ask more questions and ensure that you have the best start on your journey with CBD products.

Full Spectrum. Broad Spectrum. Or Isolate?

CBD products fall under one of three classifications. Isolate. Broad Spectrum. And full spectrum. They refer to the amount of cannabinoid diversity in the product.

There are 500+ known chemical compounds in the hemp plant. Including 140 different cannabinoids. And they all interact! This delicate, complex profile cannot be recreated in a LAB. Nor can the synergetic boost offered by it, known as the entourage effect.

The entourage effect is the amplified result of the unique relationship between ALL the compound’s hemp has to offer in conjunction with the human endocannabinoid system. This effect cannot be achieved by just one of these isolated components. Therefore, the entourage effect does NOT occur in isolated CBD products (known as CBD isolate). So the closer to nature the product remains, the more potent the benefits. Studies suggest full spectrum oil is up to 5 times stronger than isolate!

The organic balance of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in hemp is scientifically proven to create a teamwork effect that significantly boosts and modulates the therapeutic efficacy of cannabinoids in the body. See our endocannabinoid system page to learn more about how our bodies interact across the board with hemp.

Full spectrum cold pressed CBD Oil is the only oil that can claim to provide ALL the health benefits of hemp because it preserves in extraction all the compounds at the same levels they appear at in the original plant.

However, broad-spectrum is a term used liberally to cover a huge range of CBD products of various qualities. So look closely at what you buy. This is because broad-spectrum may legally describe any CBD oil with anything from just a small handful of cannabinoids, to almost full spectrum-grade cannabinoid diversity.

The quality of the cannabinoid profile (and therefore availability of the entourage effect) depends on the brands you choose to buy. Always check the LAB compound profiles of products when shopping. If a supplier does not openly offer this information, switch suppliers.

Our organic broad-spectrum CBD oil contains a wide variety of cannabinoids (alongside CBD) such as CBDA, CBG, CBDVA, and CBC. Plus the presence of beneficial terpenes and flavonoids. In fact, it only narrowly misses out on being credited as a full-spectrum product due to new legal regulations.

Check out our third party LAB reports here. Here you can find a breakdown of exactly what is in our cold-pressed full-spectrum CBD oil and our broad-spectrum organic CBD oil here at Hempen.

Why is Cold Pressed CBD Oil expensive? For manufacturers looking to maximize commercial, cold-pressing hemp is not the most efficient way to turn a profit on the plant. The relatively gentle process leaves some CBD in the plant matter. So, although it produces the highest quality raw oil, producers of cold-pressed CBD oil are still few and far between.

Cold-pressed CBD oil is the most authentically raw CBD oil. It is a traditional and ancient craft and process of extraction. Alcohol and CO2 extraction may also produce full spectrum CBD, but at a less complex quality compared to the premium raw appeal of cold-pressed. Hence, why our lovingly made organic oil is so unique.

Do both Hemp and Cannabis contain CBD?

Cannabis is the plant species. All Cannabis plants contain the two main compounds CBD and THC. Hemp is the variety or strain of Cannabis that is typically low in THC. They are referred to as married compounds. This is because they naturally appear together and work synergistically, becoming stronger, activating one another. Do hemp and Cannabis contain CBD? Yes, because one is a branch of the other.

At Hempen, we produce hemp products, but we also throw in the name Cannabis sometimes too! Sorry if it’s confusing! Hemp plants, a variety of the Cannabis plant, produces Cannabinoids, one of which is Cannabidiol (CBD). All these names are intrinsically linked in their interaction, function, and origin.

The word Cannabis is an umbrella term. It identifies a plant species. Not individual strains, of which there are thousands. Cannabis can also be used to describe strains with stronger cannabinoid potencies. Whether used medicinally, recreationally, or industrially, it’s all Cannabis.

Hemp is often called ‘industrial hemp’ as hemp is often referred to as an industrial crop. Hemp strains are more robust and often used for many uses. Its typical lower levels of THC require less need for strict government legislation, too. In this way, more hemp could be freely grown to meet the demand of all its uses. Though, we wish this wasn’t the only avenue, as the Cannabis plant is historically misunderstood and packed full of potential.

Is CBD legal?

CBD is perfectly legal in the UK, with no known side effects, and it is not addictive. The World Health Organisation believes that products with less than 0.2% THC are safe and should be de-scheduled from controlled substance lists across the world. Every batch of CBD we produce is lab tested to make sure we’re always meeting government regulations.

Is CBD safe?

CBD is safe to use. If you take prescription medication, check with your practitioner or GP before taking CBD products.

Will it get me high? Does it have THC in it?

Hemp products won’t get you high, instead they will help you feel relaxed. Due to tight regulations, all our products contain less than 0.01% THC, that’s just trace amounts. THC stands for the compound that is more psychoactive, which naturally occurs in the Cannabis plant species along with CBD. All of our products are made using hemp strains that are typically low in THC. So there are certainly no high effects from CBD products, as they are just so low in THC.

How much CBD is a dose?

The most common advice, from people all around the world, not just us…is to start slowly. It does not matter which strength of dropper you start with, however it does depend on the strength of each drop and how many drops you have each day. For the first few days, start with 10mg of CBD and then increase from there as you require. Research suggests particular strengths and doses for certain conditions are best. Read more in our page ‘How much CBD should I take and how often?’

An average wellbeing dose is 10mg of CBD oil per day.

This is the same advice for healing herbs in general, bring new ingredients into your diet slowly so that your body has time to adjust and work in harmony. This allows for time to allow your body to feel something out and to become comfortable with it, before you start higher doses.

What are carrier oils?

Cannabinoids are extracted from the green material parts of the hemp) plant using a variety of methods. This extract is a thick paste. It contains many powerful cannabinoids. But is too strong to administer on its own. The extract is subsequently mixed with a carrier oil.

Carrier oils make it easy to take a precise dose amount one drop at a time. Read about Microdosing and Dosage here.

CBD extract must be married to a fat in order to be absorbed by the body. UK grown hemp seed oil is our chosen carrier oil for both our organic CBD oil and our cold-pressed CBD oil. Rich in omega 3, 6, and 9, hemp seed oil is an excellent source of healthy fats. Studies show, taking even just a little bit of fat together with CBD, has been proven to improve bioavailability.

Hemp seed oil is a premium CBD carrier. A unique benefit of using hemp seed oil is the natural synergetic boost CBD receives through the entourage effect. Put simply, the entourage effect is the amplified result of the unique relationship between ALL the compounds hemp has to offer as they naturally occur in the original plant. Nature apparently does know best.

Do you use CO2 Extraction or Alcohol Extraction?

There was a time when this question was asked a lot as they became trendy ways of explaining how CBD oils were created, and so people set off in competition trying to prove their method was the best. As a producer, we need to choose the best methods of getting that fresh hemp harvest bottled up for you. This is part of our craft and what creates a great and potent CBD oil.

Alcohol Extraction is a traditional method which maintains the original whole chemical plant profile of precious Cannabinoids, Flavonoids and Terpenes. This extraction also uses more plants, as we like to see it, as plants are the basis of alcohol.

CBD can also be extracted using the newer CO2 Extraction, this method uses more intensive machinery to create an extract or concentrated paste that’s considered to be a little lighter with less of the greener more plant like matter called Chlorophyll.

Both are great methods of extraction, each bring incredible compound profiles. We often use both, depending on the extract we are considering at the time. We also create the more ancient craft of Cold Pressing CBD Oil. You can shop for our CBD range here.

Can I see your lab report?

We test our products with an independent third party laboratory to guarantee results and ensure our product quality. Since 2015, we set out to create the best standards in the industry. We test for purity, content and strength of CBD as well as other valuable Cannabinoids. Each batch is independently tested, providing laboratory reports which you can view on each product pages and also request via email to check your specific batch. For more information, see here.

Can I give CBD to my pet?

We are unable to make any medical claims. Currently, the Veterinary Medicines Director in the UK considers veterinary products containing CBD to be medicine. Marketing any product for animals requires authorisation, which no CBD products in the UK have yet acquired. Currently, we are only at the early stages of scientific research on using cannabis products for pets. The American Veterinary Medical Association shares the research developing around CBD for pets here.

We recommend doing your own research, and also speak to your veterinary practitioner for medical advice for your pet – they may know of the benefits with CBD. All mammals have an Endocannabinoid System, which would suggest it works similarly to us. We would love to hear your personal experiences! Email us at shop@hempen.co.uk

Can I take it when pregnant?

We advise for you to do your own research as like with many subjects with modern medicine and women, more studies are required to gain a full picture. For many years we have said it’s your choice, and to do your own research on this, however recently more studies are showing results. CBD seems to offer therapeutic benefits without the harmful side effects, where many are seeking a solution. CBD is linked to offering help with Nausea, Stress and Anxiety, which happen regularly with pregnancy.

Will CBD cause me to fail a drug test?

CBD is legal in the UK, our products are third party lab tested to ensure purity. Each product consistently contains the correct low level of THC legally permitted. Depending on the company you work for and what their policy is, we often advise checking that our products are OK for your work, they are legal and safe to use. It’s best to ask your employer, show them our website or product and seek advice that way. We hope you can still try our products! You can request lab reports here.

Why is CBD oil in so many products?

Hemp is very versatile, in low strengths people are consuming cannabis extracts as a way to boost overall wellbeing. As part of a healthy diet. Whilst others are taking large amounts in the hope of answering a particular issue. This creates different types of hemp products. As studies continual to take place on CBD, more people are realising the benefits it possesses. Therefore, many companies add CBD to their product ranges. We advise you to always check the amount of CBD in a product before taking it, therefore we always add the CBD mg on our products, so you know how much you are taking. Don’t be fooled with a token amount, as it’s become popular ingredient.

What is Medical Cannabis?

Despite overwhelming support, medical cannabis is very rarely being prescribed through the NHS. Those who have access have to really campaign and fight for it. However, over 6,000 people are now prescribed medical cannabis through private health practices, meaning those who can afford it go first. We believe it didnt have to be this way, and yet potent medical cannabis is still set to be years away from reaching the NHS and the wider public. That’s why we strive to produce the best oil for health, as a not for profit, organically. And, we campaign for hemp to be a solution for all, we want a world where the benefits of hemp can be felt by all walks of life. Positioning hemp in these types of funnels, controls the hemp plant and removes access for many of the people that really need it.

What is the difference between Hemp, Cannabis and Marijuana?

We prefer not to use the term Marijuana as it was a popular propaganda term in the USA, unfortunately it has history as a derogative term. This discussion plays a controversial role in modern Cannabis culture, as we need to understand what happened to Cannabis in the past, so that history doesn’t repeat itself again. Marijuana etymology was popularised by Harry J. Anslinger in the 1930s, during his campaigns ‘against the drug’, which demonised the plant heavily. The words Hemp and Cannabis were erased, this is one of the most crucial moments where this plant has been vilified to serve invested interests, and for no other reason. As hemp began to be mechanised, other industries wanted it banned. These are some of the most destructive industries today.

1846 in the ‘Famacopea Mexicana’ Cannabis was spelt ‘mariguana’. In the USA, the spelling Marijuana was promoted via the newspapers so that it would be associated with a foreign sounding name, negatively linked to the Latino & Mexican Community. Wood and pulp companies feared the new regenerative plant would put them out of business, and also that these communities were incredibly good at protecting their land and trees. So this racist campaign served their interests. The name María Juana ‘Mary Jane’ was often pictured as an easy Mexican woman who smokes and was shamed to warn other white woman to not interact with that community.

Marijuana was codified into law and became part of common American English with the passing of the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937.