In recent years, the decriminalization of cannabis and its products has led to an increased demand for commercially available marijuana.
Though cannabis is still illegal under federal laws, medical or recreational use of weed is legally controlled within almost all the states. The users can purchase limited quantities of the herb from any authorized store. For recreational weed, the users can purchase a few ounces of marijuana. Whereas, for medical-grade cannabis, one needs to produce a valid prescription.
CBD or THC?
When it comes to cannabis and the chemicals found in the plant, two compounds ring the bell loudest- THC and CBD. Both of these compounds come under a common group of molecules, known as cannabinoids.
While THC is the compound responsible for the high-effects caused due to consuming weed, CBD causes a more of an uplifting and relaxing effect. These cannabinoids have been studied to relieve patients suffering from chronic diseases.
Having said that, it is CBD and not THC that has more medicinal benefits, whereas the latter is used for recreational purposes. Some of the common disorders cured with the help of CBD include insomnia, arthritis, body pains, sore muscles, and in some cases, help cancer patients survive the chemo, as well.
By now, it is obvious that CBD is more valuable than THC. With precise genetic alterations, seeds are commercially cultivated to germinate high CBD flowers. And as per the state laws, no marijuana product is allowed to contain more than 0.3% THC.
CBD affects micro bio-controllers for the optimal functioning of body systems.
About almost three decades ago, in the early 1990s, when a group of researchers was studying the effects of THC, they found a set of receptors that were activated in the brain. Later on, it was discovered that these receptors are present all across the body. The system of receptors was named as “Endocannabinoid System”.
What Is the Endocannabinoid System?
In total, there are 11 systems in the human body, that keep your body working properly. But, with the discovery of a twelfth fundamental system- the Endocannabinoid System, a new era of health and wellness studies begun.
The Endocannabinoid System is believed to assist every other system to perform its functions properly. The system consists of mainly three components- the receptors, the enzymes, and endocannabinoids.
Endocannabinoids are similar to cannabinoids found in marijuana. They are produced naturally in the body in the required amounts and bind with the receptors to trigger a specific hormone or enzyme.
When it comes to the mode of administration, different modes work differently. Let’s dive right into it.
Modes of Consumption
Depending upon the medium of diffusion, CBD can be consumed in many ways. These modes of consumption are broadly divided into three categories.
1. Through Digestive Tract
The first and foremost mode of administrating CBD into the body is through the digestive system. These are further divided into two types.
Sublingual Tinctures
An alcohol-based solution of CBD, known as CBD tincture, is placed right below the tongue. Since the tissues under tongue have minute blood capillaries, the extracts are diffused directly into the blood, without entering the digestive tract.
This method offers a much quicker response that lasts long. Since the medicine does not have to pass through the complete digestive system, most of the CBD is preserved and absorbed by the tissues.
Edibles
CBD can also be administered through edibles. Many renowned brands and reputed dispensaries offer their own line of edibles containing a precisely controlled concentration of CBD. It is needless to explain what edibles are, but in the light of marijuana, the edibles are eatable items containing CBD or other cannabis extracts, which can be ingested orally.
Some of the most commonly available edibles in the market include CBD gummies, chocolates, and cookies. On the other hand, you can cook your own range of edibles at home using CBD oil. All you need to ensure is that you mix a properly measured amount of concentrates to avoid any side-effects.
2. Through Dermal Barriers
Another mode of administering CBD into the body is through a dermal application. Yes, you can simply apply CBD extracts prepared in a specific composition on your skin. Then again, these applications can further be broadly categorized as follows:
Topical Creams
Topical creams are great for relieving arthritis and muscular pains. CBD oils are available mixed with skin-friendly creams and ointments. This method allows for a long-lasting effect of the medicine and is mostly used when a disease is to be treated externally.
Having said that, it is important to understand your skin type before you use any topical cream. You can either consult your dermatologist to ensure that you use the right cream for your skin type, or you can try before you use and measure the effects.
Transdermal Patches
A relatively young technology, transdermal patches, are adhesives that contain a layer of CBD oil. These can be directly applied to the affected area. The basic principle behind transdermal patches is the phenomenon that these extracts can penetrate through the dermal barrier and treat the sick cells directly.
There are over hundreds of CBD patches available in the market. All you need to do is make sure that the one you choose offers a long-lasting effect.
3. Through the Respiratory System
This is, in fact, one of the most commonly exploited modes of administration.
Smoking
Usually, the dried herbs and flowers are crushed to be rolled into a thin paper. Burning the ground leaves of marijuana and inhaling the smoke generated allows for the diffusion of CBD directly into the blood through the lungs.
This method, though offers a rapid relief, the effects are short-lived as a major portion of the concentrates is lost due to burning.
Vaping
A smarter and more effective alternative to smoking is vaping. The CBD extracts and concentrates are heated with the help of a heating element. Once the concentrates reach the desired temperature, they generate dense clouds of vapors.
The vapors are inhaled, similar to smoking a cigarette. The only difference is there’s no smoke and therefore zero-tar.
All of these methods of consuming marijuana are just half the story. You need to know which one works best for you. And having consulted with your medical representative, you can better assess the right mode of consuming marijuana.