CBD and the Human Body
CBD is a phytocannabinoid that affects the human endocannabinoid system (ECS), one of the body’s twelve major organ systems. The ECS plays an important role in the body by promoting homeostasis – the ability of the body or a cell to seek and maintain a condition of equilibrium or stability within its internal environment when dealing with external changes.
As a phytocannabinoid, CBD activates cannabinoid receptors of the ECS. Cannabinoid receptors sit on the surface of cells and monitor conditions outside the cell. The receptors transmit information about changing conditions to the inside of the cells, initiating the appropriate cellular response.
CBD vs. THC
CBD and its genetic sibling, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the superstar phytocannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp. In fact, they are almost exact twins. CBD and THC have the exact same chemical makeup: 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. Only the arrangement of a single atom differentiates the two compounds and the affect each has on the body – CBD not producing a psychoactive effect, while THC produces a psychoactive effect. The molecular difference is highlighted below.
FDA Approved vs. Purported Medical Benefits of CBD
Like any other biological system, the ECS can malfunction. In these cases, instead of being beneficial, the ECS may contribute to progression of diseases. Understanding the ECS, the function of phytocannabinoids, and the system’s search for cellular homeostasis across bodily systems, explain why cannabis based treatments using CBD are effective in treating a wide variety of ailments and diseases.
The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has approved only one CBD based product for human consumption - Epidiolex, which contains a purified form of CBD for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).
The reported, though non-FDA approved medical benefits of CBD are many and include: Epilepsy, Multiple sclerosis, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s, Acne, Dyskinesia, Psoriasis, Mad Cow Disease, Depression, Migraine headaches, Insomnia, Bacterial Infections, Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Nausea, Anxiety, Crohn’s, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Abuse/Withdrawal/Opioids, and Osteoporosis.
Gordon & Rees, Your 50 State Partner®
Due to our training, each Cannabis, Hemp and CBD attorney at Gordon & Rees thrives at delivering sound and clear advice when faced with multiple federal, state and local questions affecting you and your CBD businesses. Our attorneys serve as Your 50 State Partner® helping you transport your CBD products to market, evaluating and minimizing the risks of seizeure, as well as helping you grow, market, and sell your products. We also counsel on proper labeling, disclaimers, warnings, and other aspects of risk avoidance. Should a dispute arise, we have seasoned attorneys ready to assist.
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