CBD: the gateway cannabinoid?

Image by Ben Mills (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

When people think about cannabis often the first thing that comes to mind is 'getting high.' However medicinal cannabis is not at all about getting high. Medicinal cannabis is about treating debilitating symptoms with plant medicine ... and you don't need to get high in order for cannabis medicine to work. 

Cannabis, like all plant medicine, is made up of many different types of molecules, including one group of molecules called 'cannabinoids.' 

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one cannabinoid found in abundance in many cannabis strains. But unlike the psychoactive-inducing cannabinoid THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) CBD won't get you high. In fact one of the more useful properties of CBD is its ability to mute down uncomfortable properties of THC such as anxiety and paranoia.

Cannabis strains that are CBD rich with minimal THC (under 2%) are the perfect gateway cannabinoid for people who want to utilize cannabis medicine without the high, especially for those who are THC sensitive or THC naive. 

CBD is one of the best ways I know of to combat social anxiety. I've seen people go from being unable to hold eye contact before they start using CBD, to talking and joking with strangers after just a few days of taking an optimal CBD dosage! The theory on how this works is that CBD supplements the body's own cannabinoid production, while helping to prolong the action of our internally produced 'feel-good' neurotransmitters. Its not magic ... but for some people it feels rather miraculous!

CBD is also remarkably beneficial for bringing down inflammation in the body. Inflammation can be responsible for health conditions such as painful joints, IBS, menstrual cramps, and migraines. The optimal amount of CBD taken consistently over several weeks provides profound results and helps people live more comfortable lives. 

Modern testing methods allow us to know exactly how much CBD and THC are in a specific strain. This ensures that you can choose a CBD rich strain without the fear that uncomfortable THC effects will hijack your day. 

To learn more about how to use Cannabis as Medicine consider attending one my talks and workshops. I am also available for consultations to help you put together a personalized plan on how cannabis and other plant medicines can help you live a more comfortable life.