CBD vs. THC

People have been asking me "Do you make products (and then they whisper) with CBD"? There are a lot of misconceptions about it so I thought I should set the record straight. What is CBD exactly? These three letters are short for Cannabidiol, which is a component found within the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD is not to be confused with THC, Tetrahydrocannabinol. CBD and THC are both cannabinoids, both found in the Cannabis sativa plant; however, they react completely different within the body. We actually have our very own endocannabinoid system within our bodies! Who knew? Apparently a lot of people have known since the early 1990’s when scientists from the National Institute of Mental Health in Maryland discovered the system while researching the effects of the Cannabis sativa plant.Cannabinoids act as chemical messengers that interact with cannabinoid receptors. Receptors (message receivers) are located in the brain, nervous system, tissues and peripheral organs. This system helps regulate mood, memory, appetite, immune system functions and pain management. There are 2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system (CB1 and CB2). CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and spinal cord and mediate psychoactivity. For example, receptors found in the brains amygdala play a role in memory and emotional processing. CB2 receptors regulate immune responses and tend to be in the peripheral nervous system. When CB2 receptors are activated, they can reduce inflammation, which plays a major role in disease and other chronic conditions.CBD works by inhibiting an enzyme (FAAH) that is responsible for the breakdown of a neurotransmitter called anandamide, or the bliss molecule. This molecule is short lived but has many talents. Not only does it aid with movement control, appetite, pain and higher thought processes, it can also slow the proliferation of cancer cells. In a nutshell, CBD extends the life of this molecule, which in turn keeps us happier and healthier. A full spectrum CBD oil contains less than 1% of THC and it displays none of the psychotropic side effects associated with it. In a study done by the Department of Clinical, Toxicological and Food Sciences, studies suggest that CBD is non-toxic and does not induce changes on food intake, as well as physiological factors such as heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature. Collected data also suggests that CBD does not alter psychomotor or psychological functions. It was also interesting to note that studies showed high doses of CBD (up to 1500mg per day) are well tolerated in humans.Mindful Mixtures has decided to add CBD to our two top selling products, CHARLEY GEL and ACHE. CBD works synergistically with essential oils by increasing therapeutic properties. Studies on topical applications show effective reduction in inflammation and pain. These two products, which have been designed to help with pain, swelling, arthritis and muscle spasms will now have the additional benefits of CBD. We are excited to share these new products with you and we hope you enjoy them as much as we do!Take good care,Jody