Separating Fact from Fiction About CBD
CBD—short for cannabidiol—has been making waves in wellness conversations, and for good reason. But despite its growing popularity, misconceptions still swirl around this powerful plant compound. Does it get you high? Is it safe? What’s the difference between CBD and THC? We’re going on a (short) galactic exploration into what CBD really is (and isn’t), how it’s made, and how it fits into the body’s natural systems.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are natural compounds found in cannabis plants (both hemp and marijuana). These active, superstar molecules influence the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which maintains balance and regulates vital functions like mood, sleep, appetite, and immune response. Yes, we all have a set system in our bodies just for cannabinoids!
While over 100 cannabinoids have been identified, CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the most well-known. They are the stars of the show in our bodies and the world. Think of cannabinoids as the best friends for specific bodily functions, each with its unique effect.
What Is CBD?
CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis plants – primarily the hemp plant. CBD also exists in marijuana plants but at very low levels. Almost all CBD products use CBD from hemp, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill that made CBD from hemp federally legal.
CBD isn’t psychoactive like THC, making it a safe and approachable option for everyday wellness. CBD used in NOVA’s Breakthrough is derived from organic hemp and it does not contain any THC.
CBD interacts with both systems of receptors within our ECS: CB1 and CB2. Instead of binding tightly, it acts as a supportive guide to the functions of these receptors (and enzymes within those), influencing our bodies’ natural well-being and balance.
CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference?
CBD
- Does not get you high
- From hemp plants
- Minimal CBD is present in marijuana plants
THC
- Does get you high
- From marijuana plants
- Minimal THC is present in hemp plants but can be removed during the processing and refinement of CBD oils and isolates.
Think of CBD and THC as two distinct characters at a party:
- CBD is the chill, supportive friend who keeps everything running smoothly. CBD is the designated driver. It doesn’t bind tightly to receptors in your body but encourages balance and harmony. No drama, just support.
- THCis the life of the party, bursting in with a lot of energy. It binds tightly to receptors, particularly in the brain (CB1 receptors), creating noticeable psychoactive effects (like feeling “high”).
Both CBD and THC are cannabinoids that interact with your ECS, but their effects couldn’t be more different. While THC binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, CBD influences CB1 and CB2 receptors, offering wellness benefits without altering perception.
How CBD Works
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is like your body’s command center for maintaining balance, and CBD is its supportive co-pilot. The ECS consists of three main components:
- Endocannabinoids: Molecules your body naturally produces to regulate various processes.
- Cannabinoid Receptors: CB1 receptors (found mostly in the brain) and CB2 receptors (found in the immune system and other peripheral tissues).
- Enzymes: Responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids after they’ve done their job.
CBD interacts with this system by enhancing the ECS’s natural functions. It helps the body maintain homeostasis, its optimal balance point. It’s like giving the ECS a supportive nudge to do what it already does best.
How is CBD Extracted?
Extracting CBD is both an art and a science. It’s typically done using one of three methods: ethanol extraction, CO2 extraction, or lipid extraction. At NOVA, we take it a step further with a proprietary cryogenic extraction method. This technique preserves the valuable cannabinoids while removing unwanted elements, ensuring a pure and safe final product.
The resulting CBD oil – crude oil – can be left as-is or refined into different forms:
- Full Spectrum: Contains all major and minor cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC (<0.3%) and other compounds (terpenes and flavonoids).
- Broad Spectrum: Includes most cannabinoids and other compounds (terpenes and flavonoids) but removes detectable THC.
- Isolate: Pure CBD, stripped of other minor cannabinoids.
NOVA’s broad-spectrum CBD captures the best of the plant, offering the benefits of multiple cannabinoids and plant compounds without the THC.
CBD is more than a wellness trend; it’s a natural ally for balance and harmony in your body. With NOVA’s Breakthrough, you’re not just getting premium broad-spectrum CBD—you’re getting a scientifically crafted product designed to support your mind and body. Ready to explore how CBD can transform your wellness journey? Shop our award-winning, NSF-certified Breakthrough drink mix!