Hemp 101

cbd 101

What is CBD?

CBD is short for Cannabidiol.
CBD is one of many natural compounds found within both Cannabis and Hemp. There are over 113 different cannabinoids, but most people only know two of them – THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD.

Why is CBD so beneficial for the body?
The human body naturally produces cannabinoids, through the endocannabinoid system. This system is comprised of two different types of cell receptors (CB1 and CB2) that are found within our digestive tract, central nervous system, and immune system. These cell receptors are activated by cannabinoids, and they regulate basic functions in our body, like moods, appetite, pain, and sleep. So when we supplement our body with extra CBD, we naturally experience the benefits derived from an optimally functioning endocannabinoid system. This is the source  CBD benefits such as pain relief, enhanced mood, better sleep and support for neurological disorders.

What is the difference between Hemp vs Marijuana?
Hemp and Marijuana are both derived from the same plant – Cannabis sativa. The main difference between the two plants is that Marijuana is commonly bred to contain both THC and CBD elements. While Hemp is bred to naturally not contain THC. THC free hemp plants are commonly referred to as industrial grade hemp. They must contain only up to 0.3% THC to legally be considered industrial grade hemp.

Does CBD get you high?
No.

CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid.
THC is psychoactive cannabinoid.

While CBD and THC have almost the exact same chemical composition and molecular structure, there is one profound difference: CBD combats the psychoactive effects commonly experienced in THC. CBD also has a naturally stronger ability to relieve pain, inflammation, stress and neurological disorders.

Foods and products made from “Industry Grade Hemp”,  including hemp oil, hemp extract and CBD will not get you high. All of SoCo’s products will not get you high. Our Hemp Extract is made purely from industrial hemp, specifically a unique Hemp Strain that our Israeli lab partners have developed for the past 5 years.

What is a full spectrum CBD?
There are different methods of CBD extraction from Hemp plants. Some CBD products use isolate methods, which derives 100% pure CBD, which means all other naturally occurring compounds are stripped away. Full spectrum CBD extracts (a.k.s broad spectrum) contain 80 – 90% CBD, with the remaining 10 – 20% of the extract contains the plants naturally occurring terpenes and phytocannabinoids (i.e. the full spectrum, not just the CBD).

Why do people favor full spectrum CBD oils?
It is believed that the extra 10 – 20% of naturally occurring compounds in full spectrum oils aid in the bioavailability so that the body’s ability to absorb and digest the CBD is superior. 

What is the Bliss Molecule in CBD? How does hemp oil help people to uplift their mood?
As mentioned, CBD is a naturally occurring substance in the human body that helps regulate our base functions. One of the main reasons it works is because it slows down the breakdown of an endocannabinoid called Anandamide, otherwise known as the “bliss molecule”.   The bliss molecule is like the body’s natural anti-depressant, so when you slow down the breakdown, you are more likely to sustain a better mood. Meaning, by taking high-quality full spectrum CBD, you’re less likely to experience mood swings, anxiety, and depression. You’re also better equipped to manage stress and confronting situations.

cbd oil formula
Skeletal formula of anandamide. Via: Fvasconcellos | Wikimedia | Public Domain.

How did Anandamide (The Bliss Molecule) get its name?
Anandamide (The Bliss Molecule) comes from the Sanskrit word ananda, which translates to “joy, bliss, or happiness” in English. 

Want to discover more about the bliss molecule and other benefits? Check out our article on the benefits of Hemp Extract oil.