Have you ever wondered about CBD? It is another type of cannabis which has benefits that differ from THC. This article will explain what to expect from your CBD experience. It may be different for everyone, as everyone handles the effects differently. If you are seeking a less-intense experience from cannabis and still hoping to experience the benefits of pain reduction and mood lifting, CBD may be an option for you.This article is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease.

Most people have heard of THC, but fewer have heard of CBD. While they are both produced by the cannabis plant, they are not one and the same. CBD stands for Cannabidiol (as opposed to THC which stands for Tetrahydrocannabinol.) CBD is similar to THC in that they are both cannabinoids, which are just two of at least 100 similar compounds produced by the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids according to the Alcohol and Drug foundation (1) are: “every chemical substance, regardless of structure or origin, that joins the cannabinoid receptors of the body and brain and that have similar effects to those produced by the Cannabis Sativa plant.” Though the article doesn’t mention indica, the indica strain also produces cannabinoids.

There are more than just two, also. According to Leafly.ca (2) there are over 100 different cannabinoids. As more research is done on this topic and more genetics are refined in the cannabis growing world, we will see other cannabinoids rise to the forefront. CBD is currently one of the most well-known cannabinoids, and is second to THC in terms of availability.

CBD is available in many different forms, there are CBD dominant flowers, strains, concentrates, edibles, as well as countless other forms such as capsules and tinctures. The most effective way to enjoy CBD is sublingually, so smoking it or enjoying a CBD lollipop are two of the fastest-acting methods of consumption. There are other forms which are not as fast-acting but still reliably effective, such as cookies and tinctures, which take varying amounts of time to take effect, depending on the strength of the formula, concentration, as well as your own metabolism and tolerance to the effects.

CBD is a less potent form of cannabis. The difference between THC and CBD is that CBD produces a completely different experience. CBD contains a different psychoactive component of THC, and therefore does not produce a ‘high.’ According to Harvard medical school (3): “While CBD is a component of marijuana (one of hundreds), by itself it does not cause a “high.”” CBD, does not seem to cause any of the typical effects associated with smoking pot. Your eyes won’t get red, you won’t feel drowsy or fatigued, you won’t experience the cerebral euphoria of THC. THC-highs feel giddy, euphoric, and can be intense; CBD is a mellower, relaxing feeling, where you don’t feel paranoid or “buzzy.” This makes CBD perfect for those seeking to remain active while they medicate or those who find the reaction they get from THC is too strong. For a very mild medium, that still produces positive relaxing effects, CBD is a great option.

CBD seems to have other health benefits as well, according to WebMD.com (4): “cannabidiol seems to prevent the breakdown of a chemical in the brain that affects pain, mood, and mental function. Preventing the breakdown of this chemical and increasing its levels in the blood seems to reduce psychotic symptoms associated with conditions such as schizophrenia. Cannabidiol might also block some of the psychoactive effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Also, cannabidiol seems to reduce pain and anxiety.”

So a strain high in THC and CBD will have less of the effects of THC and more of CBD’s relaxing, calming effects. The CBD tends to cancel out the THC, so if you are seeking a THC-induced euphoria, select a strain with low or no CBD. If you’re looking to remain active while you medicate, or simply looking for a less intense form of cannabis, choose a CBD dominant strain for a mellow and relaxing experience.

Some people also use CBD for their animals. There are animal products which provide CBD (usually in the form of oil drops,) to your ailing pet. For animals with joint issues, aging pets with chronic pain, and animals that have difficulty moving, CBD drops can provide some relief, much like a natural pain-killer. Before you choose your pets next meds, be sure to have a conversation with your veterinarian. Be sure to not exceed the recommended dosage of any product.

Whether you are treating yourself or your animals, CBD will keep you both relaxed and happy. According to Leafly.ca (5) “The recent ElleVet and Cornell study showed that once the right dosage is determined for your pet, cannabidiol can improve pain due to arthritis.” The calming effect of CBD is also an excellent way to de-stress, providing you with relief from overactive thoughts and social anxiety. If your pet is high-strung or stressed out, a CBD medication may be an option. We all go through stressful situations, moving, life-changes, and seasonal disorders can place a heavy burden on some. When it all seems like too much, CBD can calm a racing mind and an anxious soul. If you are seeking relaxation specifically, CBD is the clear choice.

Despite having a different psychoactive component, CBD still provides enough of an experience for consumers to feel the medicinal benefits. There’s no wonder so many people are currently choosing CBD-forward products. CBD is an ideal choice for those who are seeking the restorative powers of a relaxing medication. If you have chronic muscle pain or difficulty with anxiety, a CBD strain or concentrate may be the right choice for you. If you don’t smoke, there are edible options available as well as tinctures and oils for your own cooking use. If you’re not sure how CBD may affect you, have a conversation with a medical professional.

If you’re thinking about choosing a CBD product, consider the fact that it will likely not bring the same psychoactive experience of a THC product. Your CBD experience will be more of a relaxing, mellow experience which will calm you down and provide a sense of balance and ease. There will be no disorienting effects like couch-lock or euphoria, instead you will feel a general wellness and overall sense of well being. If you’re feeling depressed or experiencing muscle soreness, a CBD strain provides the perfect balance of relaxation and function, so you can still get up and do your daily activities.

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