Hey there, baby boomer! We are glad you decided to research CBD and how it could benefit you. We know CBD is all the hype and we wanted to break it down for you. So what’s all this fuss about CBD? What is it? Is it legal? And how can it help me, specifically? We will talk about what CBD is, it’s legal status and what it can do for you. 

     Let’s discuss what cannabinoids are. Cannabinoids are compounds found in the cannabis plant. Cannabis is a plant species including the hemp plant (where most CBD is currently extracted from) and the ever so “infamous,” mairjuana plant (contains higher levels of THC). These are two of the most popular cannabinoids but there are over 100 others including CBG, CBN and CBC. It’s likely we all know that THC is associated with “getting high” but what may not be known is that CBD does not get you high...I repeat CBD does not get you high. 

     CBD can be extracted from both the hemp and marijuana plants but the hemp plant is known to have higher levels of CBD. (Ergo Hemp Co.’s products are all derived from hemp plants!) Within our bodies, we have a system known as the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS helps regulate and encourages homeostasis – any process or reaction that our body utilizes to actively maintain a constant internal environment. Within the ECS, you will find cannabinoid receptors including CB1 or CB2. Our body even produces its own cannabinoids! 

     CBD indirectly influences our CB1 or CB2 receptors which are found throughout the body in the central nervous system, immune system, and even in our skin! So, when CBD interacts with receptors, it helps to regulate important bodily functions.

     Studies show CBD can provide relief for a range of conditions, including depression, chronic pain, PTSD, arthritis, epilepsy, MS, diabetes, and more. CBD has also shown neuroprotective and neurogenic effects meaning it can help reduce damage to the brain and nervous system while encouraging the growth of new neurons. With tons of research being conducted, the potential benefits could increase! 

 

     So is CBD legal? The short answer, yes! CBD is legal throughout the US so long as there is less than 0.3% THC. CBD with THC is known as full spectrum. CBD without any THC is known as broad spectrum. Ergo Hemp Co.’s products are broad spectrum so there are no worries about consuming any THC! If you are nervous about this, check out these two blogs to put your mind at ease: 

1.  https://ergohempco.com/blogs/news/breaking-the-stigma
2. https://ergohempco.com/blogs/news/will-cbd-show-up-on-a-drug-test

     Why should I use CBD? As we get older, our bodies have typically experienced more wear and tear. This wear and tear can come with chronic pain, inflammation, arthritis, etc. leading to trouble sleeping. CBD can help with all of these things!

     Studies show that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties (shutting down inflammation and reducing chronic pain), decreases blood sugar, decreases appetite, lowers abdominal obesity, and facilitates a good night’s sleep. As an analgesic, CBD also helps alleviate pain. 

     Inflammation is part of the body’s immune response. It is the body’s way of signaling the immune system to repair tissue and defend itself against bacteria and viruses. Research suggests that CBD acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. Our body even produces endocannabinoids when immune cells are activated (Immune cells are activated when bacteria/viruses enter the body, or an injury occurs). Studies also show that CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can manipulate endocannabinoids helping to reduce inflammation.    

     Stress & anxiety: In today’s ever changing and uncertain world, stress and anxiety are at an all time high. As a society, people are always looking for the next big thing. Cue the societal pressures! We need to focus more on being present and in the moment. CBD may boost signaling through serotonin receptors. What does this mean? SSRIs block reabsorption of serotonin in the brain. This helps the brain cells transmit more serotonin signals reducing anxiety and boosting your mood in some cases. In an animal study, researchers found that CBD may affect serotonin levels faster than SSRIs. Serotonin is known as the “feel good” chemical contributing to well-being and happiness. CBD may boost the availability of serotonin reducing our anxiety and depression!       

     While CBD can help with many conditions and ailments, it's important to note that healthy people can still benefit from CBD. (Check out this blog: https://ergohempco.com/blogs/news/6-ways-cbd-can-benefit-healthy-people.) A healthy diet, exercise, a good night’s rest, a positive attitude and CBD can only help you take your health & wellness to the next level! 

     Cannabis has been used for thousands of years as a medicine (check out this blog: https://ergohempco.com/blogs/news/the-history-of-cannabis-as-a-medicine). With all the benefits and no side effects like pharmaceuticals, see for yourself how CBD can help you! Plants still seem to be better chemists than humans...

Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources:

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabinoid#Phytocannabinoids
2. https://blog.barleans.com/what-baby-boomers-need-to-know-about-cbd
3. https://ergohempco.com/blogs/news/hemp-cbd
4. https://ergohempco.com/blogs/news/6-ways-cbd-can-benefit-healthy-people