What’s the deal with CBD oil? Should you be incorporating CBD into your into your life?
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the many compounds found in the cannabis plant.
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of the most renowned compounds found in cannabis due to it being the most active. It is the ingredient that causes that ‘mind altering’ high feeling which cannabis is renowned for.
CBD (cannabidiol) however, is not psychoactive which means that it does not change the state of mind of the user. It does, on the other hand, cause significant changes in the body hence the claims of it having both medical and physical benefits.
So, what is CBD and how can it benefit you and your health?
Any given moment of any given day we are exposed to an unimaginable amount of viruses, bacteria and germs. Most of which would ultimately kill us, if it wasn’t for our built in immune system which helps to keep these nasties at bay.
CBD helps to support the immune responses work in the most efficient way possible. CBD helps allocate our immune systems duties, it can help both overactive and underactive immune systems to work more efficiently.
Throughout our bodies we have a system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system has receptors throughout our brain, organs, and nervous system. The endocannabinoid system also helps our body regulate it’s immune system by helping it return to homeostasis (basically helping our organs live their best life!)
So how exactly does this wonder ingredient work it’s magic?
The endocannabinoids system has three components: receptors, enzymes and endocannabinoids which function regardless of CBD use.
While experts are currently trying to fully understand the ECS so far, we know that it plays a role in regulating various functions and processes which include sleep, memory, appetite, mood, memory, reproduction, and fertility.
There are currently two main cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2 that belong to the endocannabinoid system. This refers to the signalling in the human body that regulates some of the signalling processes in our bodies such as metabolism, pain sensation, immune function, to name a few.
It is not currently understood how CBD interacts with the ECS, but studies suggest that it is unlike THC, which is believed to work by binding CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain. As CBD is absorbed by the body it prevents endocannabinoids from being broken down, therefore allowing them to have more of an effect on your body.
Although CBD has little effect on the CB1 and B2 receptors, it can however, modulate several non – cannabinoid receptors which control the effect of certain elements within our body. This ultimately benefits some of our brain processes which can impact things like pain-sensation, mood, memory, and appetite.
So, with public curiosity rising and CBD sales soaring we predict that CBD could be the answer that we have been searching for.
]]>A recent report by Grand View Research. has shown that the CBD (cannabidiol) infused beverage market is set to explode and reach $2.8 billion by 2025.
The report looked at both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages using either THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or CBD (cannabidiol). It said “by component the market is segmented into cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol. The demand of THC infused beverages is majorly driven by rising product demand from adult consumers for recreational purposes . Rising demand for the therapeutic effect of the component, along with euphoria it provides is expected to bode well for the growth of the segment in the forthcoming years.”
It also went on to say “CBD infused cannabis drinks have registered the fastest growth in prior years, also the demand is expected to witness a surge over the forecasted period owing to the non- psychoactive properties in CBD.
CBD does not have an especially strong taste, users often describe the taste as having an earthy grassy flavour, whilst some describe it as nutty. On the whole CBD users find the taste of CBD to be pleasant.
As the CBD movement continues to grow many manufacturers can tailor these flavours. Some oils can be completely tasteless and cannot be detected in food at all. Hence the ever-growing popularity of CBD edibles.
CBD is now legal in most European countries once it meets certain requirements, providing it contains more no more than 0.2% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Also, the variety of CBD products continues to grow with a vast array of products on offer ranging from CBD Infused chocolate to CBD gummy bears.
CBD products are now more available and more diverse than ever before, as a natural alternative for a diverse range of ailments, ranging from anxiety to epilepsy, CBD is becoming the preferred remedy over prescription drugs.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a type of cannabinoid that is derived cannabis, it typically contains no more than 0.3% of THC tetrahydrocannabinol, which is another cannabinoid also derived from the plant.
CBD (cannabidiol) has exploded in recent years. According the Cannabis Trades Association UK, the number of people buying CBD in the UK doubled in 2018 and 2019, whilst in the US internet searches for CBD products have eclipsed searches for meditation by 338%, vaccination by 63% which only magnifies the popularity of CBD.
So, what does the future hold for CBD? Well market experts can see no sign of the trend slowing down and expect sales to skyrocket in the next few years. Our advice is watch this space .
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Up until December 2019 both smoking and cultivating cannabis was illegal in Italy. However, in a ground-breaking and controversial move, the Italian court of Cassation called upon by the Supreme Court has overturned that ruling. This now means that in small amounts it is now legal to grow cannabis for personal use.
The farming and selling of marijuana were deemed illegal under legislation dating back to the 1990’s. However, inconsistent court decisions have proved contradictory in some cases since those laws were passed, therefore creating some uncertainty around them.
This comes after several cases were overruled or thrown out of court due to the controversy surrounding such laws.
The Supreme Court of Cassation, (corte suprema di cassadione), is the highest court of appeal in Italy. The courts purpose is to ensure the correct application of law in inferior and appeal courts. The supreme court can reject or confirm a sentence or ruling from a lower court.
The court has in some part given some clarification around the laws of the cultivation of marijuana, ruling that “growing small amounts of cannabis domestically for the exclusive use of the grower”, is no longer an offence in the country.
This comes as a welcome ruling for Matteo Mantero, a senator from the co-ruling 5-star movement. Mr. Mantero, who has long been an advocate for the legalisation of the trade, said of the ruling “the court has opened the way. Now it is up to us”.
Mr. Mantero presented an amendment to the 2020 budget, calling for the legalisation and regulation of domestic cannabis use, but it was deemed inadmissible by the senate speaker from Silvio Berlusconi’s conservative party.
The logic behind this new decision is yet to be made clear, and a thorough more extensive ruling may not be released to the public for weeks or even months.
It remains unclear if the Supreme Court’s ruling distinguished between cannabis plants that are referred to as hemp or as marijuana.
The hemp plant is mostly associated CBD (cannabidiol) oil, and typically has less than 0.3% of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). This is the chemical that makes users feel high and promotes the feeling of being high. It can also produce feeling of psychosis in users.
Italy now joins the ever-growing number of European countries that have pushed to legalize cannabis, such as Luxembourg, Malta, Germany and Switzerland.
Hopefully, this will now pave the way for other countries to follow suit.
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After studying over 400 strains of cannabis, they have determined that at least a dozen have shown the potential to stop Coronavirus from infecting its host.
The study focused on Covid-19 finding a host whilst in the lungs,intestinal tract and mouth. The studies show how extracts high in CBD interacted with the receptors Coronavirus uses to attack cells.
A lead researcher in the study, Mr. Igor Kovalchuk, has said that several the strains proved effective, and in some instances managed to reduce the virus receptors, hence reducing the likelihood of an individual contracting Coronavirus.
The promising study shows that in some examples, the effective strains have managed to reduce the virus receptors, therefore significantly reduces the chances of the virus moving on to a host.
Dr. Kovalchuck, says that in several cases these receptors were reduced by as much as 73%, therefore the chance of becoming infected is much lower.
He went on to say that of course before it can be precisely understood weather it is CBD, THC or a combination of these compounds that is causing the reduction in these receptors, there would need to be extensive research which would focus on how CBD strains work.
Dr. Kovalchuck says, ”the extract of our most successful and novel high CBD C sativa lines, pending further investigation, may become a useful and safe addition to the treatment of Covid-19”. As an adjunct therapy he said, “given the current dire and rapidly evolving epidemiological situation, every possible therapeutic opportunity must be considered”.
If the trail proves to be successful Dr. Kovalchuck says that the aim is for strains of CBD are to be used as mouthwash, inhalants or possible gel capsules. His team are actively pursuing partnership to conduct clinical trials.
CBD (cannabidiol) which is one of over 100 chemical compounds from the cannabis sativa plant. It is mostly used for epilepsy, and the treatment of anxiety, but has also shown promising results for the treatments of many other illnesses. It also offers a whole host of other benefits.
CBD has anti-inflammatory properties and can be taken frequently in high dosages, without the risk of the user feeling ‘high’.
There is now no denying the medicinal value of CBD and THC. After a landmark decision in November 2018, doctors in the UK are now allowed to prescribe cannabis under extremely limited circumstances.
Coronavirus cases currently stand at 5,057,286, increasing daily. There is currently no treatment or vaccine available.
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At the height of The Coronavirus Pandemic, an estimated 1.7 billion people were put under ‘lockdown’ restrictions. This accumulates to around 25% of the global population, as governments took extreme measures to protect their citizens.
These ‘lockdown’ restrictions changed our daily life dramatically, as our routines were severely impacted. People were advised to stay at home unless it was for completely essential purposes, such as shopping, work or medical reasons.
As the global pandemic took hold it brought with it a whole host of new experiences, including working from home, home schooling and indoor exercising. As this new way of life becomes the new normal, people have been looking towards a diverse range of coping mechanisms.
Whether that be a daily meditation session, an online yoga class, or a challenging exercise routine.
However, more and more people have turned to CBD (cannabidiol) as a way of helping with the overwhelming uncertainty and anxiety, that this new way of life has brought upon us.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive chemical derived from cannabis that does not typically contain more than 0.3% of THC, this is the chemical that makes people feel ‘high’. Therefore, it is the perfect antidote for those who have been struggling of late.
For some people dealing with conditions such as anxiety, CBD is fast becoming the holy grail. Studies have shown that CBD can help reduce anxiety and could also help with a whole host of conditions such as PTSD, depression, OCD and epilepsy to name a few.
CBD oil is the product that has made the biggest impact on the market following an explosion in demand since the Coronavirus outbreak began. Forbes have reported sales at an all time high and are this is only expected to increase further.
However, the sales boom does not exclusive to CBD oi,l with a wide range of CBD and hemp products now being brought to the forefront, sales of other CBD products have also sky-rocketed.
CBD flowers are one product that have also benefited from the latest sales boom, with the smokable flowers providing many of the benefits of CBD oil. Users describe the benefits from smoking CBD flowers as feeling more comfortable and relaxed, which can be especially beneficial for those with high anxiety levels.
Then there is the market for CBD edibles which include anything from brownies to lollipops. This market has also seen a spectacular increase in sales during COVID-19, this is another area where we can expect to see an increasing demand.
As consumers become increasingly aware of the wide range of negative effects that are associated with prescription drugs, CBD is becoming the new go-to product for patients with a wide range of medical conditions, the CDB market is likely to continue to proliferate.
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Pancreatic cancer is the fourth major cause of all cancer deaths, and is expected to rise to become the second major cause by 2030. Survival rates have barely changed in the last 40 years, with current survival rate for advanced patients averaging five years.
Could CBD give a glimmer of hope for these patients?
A Study from Queen Mary University, London, has found that mice undergoing chemotherapy therapy for the disease survived almost three times longer if they were also receiving cannabis extract, Cannabidiol (CBD), consecutively.
Ten mice were given CBD, whilst eight were given the chemotherapy drug Gemcitabine, seven more were given both of the drugs and nine were given a placebo.
Mice given CBD alone lived just over 25 days. The mice given Gemcitabine lived 28 days. Whilst mice given the placebo drug averaged around 19 days.
However, when the two drugs were combined the effects proved to be quite a dramatic improvement, with the survival time increasing to almost 53 days.
With Cannabidiol already being approved for use in clinics, medics are hopeful that they can quickly go on to test this theory in human medical trials, with the hope that they can soon make the move for cannabidiol to be used in cancer clinics almost immediately.
Cannabidiol is extracted from the hemp plant, and is legal in most countries around the world due to it's low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). This means that users experience none of the side effects normally associated with THC which can include increased heart rate, dizziness, and paranoia.
So far the study has only been tested on mice, but with such positive results researchers have recommended further studies be carried out with the objective being clinical translation]]>A ‘Millennial’, (also referred to as generation Y), is a phrase used to describe a person who reached adulthood in the early 21st century, and covers the generation of people born between 1980-2000.
So, it comes as no surprise that Millennials will be at the forefront of any growing trends, products and ideas.
One such trend that is growing at an astronomical rate among Millennials is the CBD (cannabidiol) market. Which is why Millennials are the largest demographic shopping for CBD flowers and CBD oil.
According to market research 50% of Millennials in the UK would choose CBD products over prescription medication, with the majority choosing smokable CBD flowers as their preferred product.
Although there is no specific reason for why CBD flowers are so popular amongst this age group, (as it is with all age groups), there are definitely a few reasons we can think of that would explain the increasingly high demand for them.
Firstly, CBD flowers when smoked are extremely relaxing but in a different way than regular cannabis is. Whilst regular cannabis will make you feel high, (stoned), the CBD flower has a more soothing effect. This will chill you out with none of the psychoactive effects of regular cannabis, than can be a downfall. Therefore, you still relax and unwind whilst keeping a clear head and staying alert.
Another great selling point for CBD flowers is the fact that they are legal to purchase and smoke in most countries. This is thanks to the low amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the ingredient that gets you high.
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As of last month, (April 2020), Lebanon has become the first Arab country to legalise farming for medicinal cannabis (CBD).
The new CBD industry will come as a welcomed boost for the countries struggling economy as it faces a financial crisis.
Though CBD flowers and CBD products were previously illegal, it has long been farmed in the fertile and pastoral Bekka Valley. This has resulted in the country being the third largest supplier of cannabis resin and hashish after Morocco and Afghanistan.
This new law will regulate the existing cultivation efforts, and in turn will ensure that any recreational misuse will remain illegal.
This legislation hopes to build a multi-billion-dollar industry as they aim to capitalize on the growing popularity of CBD (cannabidiol) products, with the hope of diversifying and expanding into the pharmaceutical market.
Legislators have of course faced some resistance against the decision of the legalization of CBD but have remained defiant saying that it was “driven by economic motives - nothing else”.
Alain Aoun, Senior MP in The Free Patriotic Movement says, “We have moral and social reservations, but today there is need to help the economy by any means”.
In light of this ground-breaking news we anticipate other countries will soon recognize the value and benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) and will follow suit.
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