4 Most Common Myths About CBD
We all know things can get lost in translation — especially when discussing the complicated topic of cannabis today! One cannabinoid, in particular, has a long list of rumors:
You’ve probably seen those three letters popping up on billboards, in grocery stores, on the back of pill bottles, and all over the US. Most people are aware that CBD comes from cannabis, but beyond that, it’s remained somewhat of a mystery! As with any puzzle, myths have sprung up surrounding CBD, and over time those myths have spread far and wide, leading to a lot of misinformation regarding CBD, cannabis, and the wellness industry.
This article will examine a few of the most common CBD myths you might have encountered and give you the real answers to your CBD questions.
Myth 1: CBD Gets You High
You’ve probably seen or heard versions of this argument everywhere in the last few years. Due to its close proximity to marijuana, many people often assume that CBD can get you high, while in reality, CBD is doing the exact opposite! While it’s true that CBD comes from the cannabis plant, it’s a lot more complicated than that.
In cannabis, there are active chemical compounds called cannabinoids. In total, there are about 113 different types of cannabinoids discovered so far, but you’ve likely only heard about 2 of them. These two cannabinoids, of course, are CBD and THC.
THC vs. CBD
In our bodies, we have a system (accurately named the endocannabinoid system) that interacts with these cannabinoids. The system is made primarily of two cannabinoid receptors; the CB1 receptor and the CB2 receptor.
When we interact with THC, the THC binds to these receptors, which creates the traditional psychoactive and intoxicating effects of weed. CBD, on the other hand, blocks our cannabinoid receptors. By blocking our receptors, CBD helps counteract the effects of THC, reduces the psychoactive effects, and provides a calming effect on your body.
Quite simply, CBD cannot get you high, regardless of the CBD dosage! So, the next time someone asks, “can CBD get you high?” You’ll know what to tell them.
Myth 2: CBD is illegal
The idea that CBD is illegal is another common myth resulting from its association with marijuana. While the federal laws surrounding marijuana are gradually being lifted on a state-by-state basis, CBD oil is legal in all 50 states. In fact, all CBD products are legal across the country, as long as they stick to the regulations put in place by the 2018 Farm Bill!
While this bill did several things for the cannabis industry, perhaps its most important contribution was distinguishing hemp plants from marijuana plants, helping to make CBD entirely legal. Hemp plants, as defined by this bill, contain no more than 0.3% THC, while marijuana plants have a higher dosage of the active compound. Hemp and marijuana may be in the same plant family, but now, they are no longer considered the same plant.
However, it is important to remember that state laws may still affect how you can consume or possess CBD. In some states like North Carolina, and Rhode Island, specific registrations and regulations may apply, so make sure you do your research just in case.
Myth 3: All CBD is the same
As you delve further into the world of CBD, you’ll see the various types of products, oils, and balms that are making CBD famous. You might be tempted to think that all of these products function in the same way, but you’d be wrong! In general, there are three types of CBD products, and there are some critical differences between them.
Firstly, there is CBD isolate. CBD isolate products use only CBD and none of the other active chemicals in cannabis. Isolates may be a bit cheaper in the long run, but they are often the least effective compared to other CBD products.
Next, there is broad spectrum CBD. This type of CBD includes all the other cannabinoids found in cannabis, with one notable exception; THC. By removing the THC but leaving all the other chemicals alone, broad spectrum CBD products begin to maximize the desired effects of CBD, thanks to something called the Entourage Effect.
The Entourage Effect is a phenomenon discovered in 1988, wherein scientists found that CBD was vastly more effective when combined with the other chemicals and cannabinoids from hemp.
The final type of CBD also utilizes the Entourage Effect and is arguably the most effective of the three. Full spectrum CBD products use all the cannabinoids from hemp, including THC. The key here is that the percentage of THC is generally very low, so there are no psychoactive side effects associated with full spectrum products! Instead, you just get the maximum benefits of CBD.
Of course, like all chemicals, medicines, and supplements, CBD’s effectiveness is different for everyone. You may need lower or higher doses, depending on your body weight, and it may take some time to figure out the right product for you. If you’re just starting your CBD journey, start small and gradually increase to the high doses to discover what works for you.
Myth 4: CBD is Addictive
Our final myth debunking has to do with addiction, another major concern for people that are new to the world of cannabis. Because marijuana has been on the list of controlled substances for a while, most people believe that hemp, cannabis, or marijuana in any form is addictive!
While that can be the case for recreational marijuana users, there is no evidence that CBD itself is addictive. In a study done by the World Health Organization, they discovered that CBD has no history or evidence of abuse or dependence. In some cases, it can actually help people break their dependence on other drugs!
Break the CBD Cycle!
Now that you know a bit more about CBD, you can help break the cycle of CBD stigma! CBD is legal in almost every form now, and when more people can shed light on its uses and benefits, it can begin to help a wider audience!
Here at Winged, we know the power of CBD firsthand, leading to our line of CBD wellness products! From sleep assistance and relaxation to happiness and pain relief, CBD can have a profound impact on you life, so try it today!