Definition of CBD: what is cannabidiol?

When talking about hemp, THC is too frequently confused with CBD. However, the latter differs from the former in its health benefits and medical use. Cannabidiol is of great interest to consumers seeking relief from pain, anxiety, inflammation, and other symptoms. Definition of CBD, differences with THC, functioning, benefits: we’ll explain what CBD is and the effects this natural active ingredient has on the human body!

Definition of CBD

CBD is an abbreviation for cannabidiol. It is a natural compound which belongs to the cannabinoid family. Like its cousin THC, it is an active substance found in the hemp plant (cannabis sativa), which contains a total of almost 500 cannabinoids. But unlike THC (TetraHydroCannabinol), CBD has no narcotic effect and, therefore, does not cause physical dependence. Depending on the crossbreeding, hemp plants may contain different amounts of THC and CBD. Therefore, the definition of CBD can be summarised as follows: it is an active ingredient derived from cannabis, which is 100% natural, and has beneficial effects on the body. The medical benefits of hemp are attracting more and more attention from doctors, and an increasing amount of research is being conducted on this subject.

What is hemp?

Hemp (botanical name Cannabis sativa) was one of the first plants to be cultivated by humans, as early as the Neolithic period. It can be used to make textiles, ropes or paper, environmentally-friendly materials for housing, and edible oils and flours. Today, it is back in the spotlight and is receiving renewed attention due to CBD’s effects on psychoactivity and well-being. The pharmacological and physiological properties of hemp are directly related to cannabinoids and terpenes, volatile natural substances that contribute to the characteristic smell of the plant.

What is the difference between CBD and THC?

THC is the most widely known cannabis compound due to its psychotropic effect. In fact, it is THC that causes that high after marijuana use: it affects the brain, changes perceptions and moods, and alters behaviour. In contrast, CBD is not considered a narcotic and is not addictive. The THC content does not exceed 0.3% in CBD products legally sold and consumed in France. Therefore, you can enjoy all the benefits of CBD without losing self-control: this is why the definition of CBD can be summarised as "medical cannabis".

Further information on CBD’s history and therapeutic breakthroughs

The discovery of CBD

The domestication of the Cannabis Sativa hemp plant started in China. For thousands of years, it has been recognised for its beneficial effects on the body and has been used to make fabrics. For many years, the composition and definition of CBD remained unknown as cannabinoids were only discovered in the early 20th century. Since then, research has focused mainly on THC and CBD. CBD was first extracted in the 1940s by a group of researchers in Illinois who succeeded in isolating the compound. At the time, it was still thought to be toxic. It was in the 1960s that studies on the composition of cannabinoids demonstrated the benefits of CBD in certain diseases. Therefore, pharmacology is beginning to take an interest in CBD for treatments and medicines. Nausea, pain, anxiety, degenerative diseases: CBD is said to relieve the symptoms of many diseases.

The first steps towards medical cannabis

It was then that American states decided to legalise cannabis (with both CBD and THC) for therapeutic purposes. For example, it is found in Sativex, a drug for multiple sclerosis which contains the same dosage of THC and CBD. Combining these compounds does not cause dependency in patients and allows neuropathic pain to be treated. With the increase in research and studies, cannabis regulations have changed in recent years: France authorised the marketing of CBD (under certain conditions) and Luxembourg became the first European country to legalise cannabis.

How does cannabidiol work?

Now that we have seen the definition of CBD and learnt about its history, exactly what effect does it have on the human body? This compound acts as a catalyst: it optimises the body’s natural response to pain, anxiety, and distress. CBD does not suppress or prevent pain, but it does act on the nervous system to lessen its impact. Consumers feel more comfortable and can go about their daily life. CBD is even more effective because it enhances natural defences. Cannabinoids affect our bodies because the human body has suitable receptors and produces a THC-like compound itself (in lower concentrations). These are the "CB1 and CB2 receptors", which are located in the peripheral organs and in cells connected to the immune system. CBD compounds bind to these two receptors and its medicinal properties become enhanced.

What are its benefits?

By definition, CBD is known for its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. Unlike chemical compounds, it is a perfectly natural product. It is recommended, for example, for combating stress, sleep disorders, or joint pain. Although more research is needed, the WHO itself has stated that CBD is safe and has good potential in treating anxiety, sleep disorders, inflammation, diabetes, and many physical and mental illnesses. Cannabidiol is also known to play a major role in relieving neuropathic pain, which normally requires paracetamol or morphine. Some research has gone even further and shown that CBD inhibits the growth of cancer cells.

Legal framework for CBD

In France, the use of THC remains prohibited in all forms. CBD consumption is legal in France, provided that the products meet certain criteria. French regulations authorise the marketing of certain varieties of hemp without narcotic properties subject to the following criteria:

• the hemp plant used must be on the list of authorised varieties;
• only the seeds and fibres of the hemp plant can be used, use of the flowers is prohibited;
• the product must have a THC content less than 0.3% (a small margin is allowed as it can be difficult to completely separate THC and CBD).

Therefore, consuming CBD is perfectly legal in France. Whether in the form ofoils, in capsules, or infusions, you can enjoy the benefits of CBD thanks to its lipid solubility. This process disrupts nerve cell signals responsible for pain or stress.

Understanding the labels on CBD products

At online shops or in physical stores, it can be difficult to understand the information regarding the many products and labels. Some say "cannabis light", others show cannabis leaves, while some cosmetics look quite traditional. It is important to know that the presence of the word “CBD” means that the oil, cream, or e-liquid contains cannabidiol. However, there are usually no details regarding the full composition of the product and its components. At The CBD Farm, you can be sure of the quality of the hemp plants used: we guarantee you the best quality CBD with compounds derived from organic farming and extracted according to compliant procedures.