What’s the Deal with CBD?

Have you ever tried CBD? One of the most asked questions I get in the office relates to CBD: what it is, what it does, and how it compares to medical marijuana. Other questions include what types of CBD products to buy, and what’s the difference between CBD types?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the major constituents (cannabinoids) derived from the marijuana plant. CBD does not have the potential to make someone “high” and can be purchased over the counter or online in all 50 states. There are over 140 different phytocannabinoids and more than 500 other constituents found in cannabis, including THC, terpenoids and flavonoids. CBD has many potential benefits including:

• Potent anti-inflammatory effects

• Pain reliever

• Antibacterial properties

• Inhibits cancer cell growth

• Anti-nausea and vomiting

• Helps boost immune response

• Lowers anxiety

• Improves sleep

• Vasorelaxant (good for your arteries)

• Good for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis

Cannabidiol (CBD) is derived from the Cannabis sativa plant and is cultivated in 2 distinct varieties: industrial hemp which contains < 1% THC, and medical cannabis grade hemp which may contain between 3-15% THC by dry weight volume. CBD purchased over the counter or online is derived from industrial hemp varieties and has little potential for causing any mind- or mood-altering effects because of the absence of THC. These products may be taken orally or applied topically.

Medical marijuana grade CBD is cultivated with a significantly higher THC content. THC is associated with pain relief and suppresses muscle spasms. The combination of THC and CBD provides for a synergistic benefit; beyond which is seen by CBD alone, whether taken orally or topically, though when applied topically does not cause systemic side- effects. Medical marijuana grade CBD is only available through designated medical marijuana dispensaries, by a certifying cannabis physician.

Over the counter CBD products are NOT regulated at either the State or Federal level. There is no standard for dosage, strength, or consistency. However, I help my patients choose the best products during their office visits. There are several reputable manufacturers that carry products grown in the US. One main way to make sure your CBD product is legitimate is to check that your product has a Certificate of Analysis, or COA. This means it has gone through third party analysis to ensure purity and content.

In comparison, medical cannabis derived CBD is highly regulated by the state. Through the office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU), the state provides guidelines and quality control in terms of the growing, cultivation, processing, distribution and selling of medical marijuana. Products are tested to ensure purity and content. Dosing depends on the product formulation and route: oral, sublingual, inhalant, smokable flower, concentrates and topicals. General recommendations for first time use of a medical marijuana product are to start with lower doses, “start low, and go slow”.   

For more science based answers to your CBD or Cannabis questions, be sure to schedule an in person appointment with me at 145 Hilden Road, Suite 120 in Ponte Vedra, FL.