Using Cannabinoids for Wellbeing and Health

In the last few years, cannabinoids have become 'big news' in the world of nutrition and supplementation. Cannabinoids are found in the hemp or cannabis plant. There are more than 100 varieties, and researchers are just beginning to understand what each one does.
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The two most commonly known cannabinoids are CBD and THC. THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid found in marijuana which produces the 'high' that is so popular with recreational users. CBD is found in both hemp and marijuana, and it is not psychoactive, but it does have a wide range of positive effects. It is being investigated for its potential as an anti-convulsant, and anti-inflammatory, for example.

Other Useful Cannabinoids

While CBD is the cannabinoid that has had the most study, and that is most popular as a supplement, there are others that are now getting more attention and study too. CBG and CBN are both considered to have a lot of potential.

All classes of cannabinoid are derived from CBD (Cannabigerol) type compounds, and the main differences are in the carboxylic acids. There are differences in the extraction process which matter as well. Full-spectrum cannabinoids are considered superior because when the oil is made the terpenes and other components that are associated with the cannabinoid are left in. With isolate or broad spectrum oils, the extraction process strips out the other compounds. At the moment, we still do not understand what every terpene does, but researchers are confident that they work together to augment the beneficial effects of the cannabinoids.

Using Cannabinoids for Wellbeing

Cannabinoids can be used orally, inhaled, or applied topically. Many people are wary of vaping or smoking because of concerns about what damage they could do to their lungs through inhaling various substances. While vaping is likely less harmful than smoking other substances such as tobacco, there are other ways of taking cannabinoids that are also effective and that are often a better choice.

CBD oil is widely available, and CBN is becoming increasingly popular too. Oil can be taken sublingually or mixed into edibles. There are gummies and candies that are treated with CBD which make for easy dosing too. The oil itself can be quite unpleasant tasting, so adding it to other flavored edibles could be a good idea.

CBD gels and sprays are also available, and this kind of topical application can be handy for sports injuries, joint soreness and other aches and pains. Topical CBD is easy to use, and is designed to be absorbed directly into the skin, target the areas where your pain is at its worst.

Are Cannabinoids Safe?

Cannabinoids are generally considered to be very safe. They are not addictive and there are no known records of people overdosing on them. This means that they are a good choice for people who have chronic pain for which they have a diagnosis. Using cannabinoids as an alternative to proper medical treatment is not a good idea, but for many people who have a clear diagnosis and who are looking to avoid traditional pharmaceuticals, cannabinoids may be a suitable alternative.