We know that understanding the ins and outs of hemp-based wellness can be overwhelming. There’s a lot of information out there — not all of it completely clear or true — and the science behind this medicinal plant can seem foreign. But I don’t want a lack of quality information to be the barrier between you and a path toward restored well-being.
I’ve seen firsthand the power of hemp and its unique abilities to restore my body’s balance AKA homeostasis. The more you know about hemp, the more power you have to implement it into your daily routine in a meaningful, effective way. Below, I break down the most commonly asked questions about hemp — from how it affects the mind and body to legality, how much to take, and more.
So allow me to reintroduce you to the most misunderstood plant on Earth, the cannabis plant!
Hemp is a plant from the cannabis species that contains no more than 0.3% THC. Compliance with this law ensures that legally grown hemp products do not contain enough THC to have psychotropic properties. Psychotropics meaning, this property is what delivers a “high”
Cannabis is the species under which all hemp and marijuana exist. There are three subspecies of cannabis: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica and Cannabis ruderalis; Cannabis sativa L (which is hemp).
WHAT IS A CANNABINOID?
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds that balance and activate the endocannabinoid system and can have a positive effect on the function of every major system in our bodies. Some examples of cannabinoids found in thecannabis plant include CBD, CBG, CBN and THC. Each one works on different receptors in the body, targeting specific functions.
CBD is one of many cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. CBD is a naturally occurring chemical compound with properties that can aid in anxiousness, nausea and pain.
Getting started with CBD and hemp requires a little time and experimentation. To avoid overwhelm, start with these steps:
- Consider your budget and how much you want to invest. CBD costs range according to strength and delivery method (ingestible, powder, topical cream, oil, extract, etc.).
- When choosing a strength (in milligrams) for consumable CBD, think about your body’s unique tolerance level to other medications and substances. If you have a low tolerance level, start with less than the suggested amount and work your way up. If you experience unfavorable side effects, halve your amount.
- Take inventory of how you feel after ingesting CBD or hemp. Be mindful of subtle changes in the mind or body.
- Be sure to select a quality CBD/hemp product, preferably organic, from a verified source that utilizes third-party testing.
Hemp is a term used to classify a variety of cannabis that contains 0.3% or less THC content by dry weight, whereas marijuana is a term used to classify varieties of cannabis containing more than 0.3% THC by dry weight. The defining characteristic between hemp and marijuana is federally defined by the chemical composition contained within each plant, or how much THC (the psychoactive cannabinoid) the plant contains. Both hemp and marijuana can produce CBD, the non-intoxicating cannabis compound; however, THC, which is found in much higher quantities in the marijuana plant, can have psychotropic effects
Yes, CBD or cannabinoids derived from hemp which contains no more than 0.3% THC dry weight are not regulated as a controlled substance and are federally legal according to the 2018 Farm Bill.
Any product containing trace amounts of THC, that you take orally, could potentially show up on a urinalysis or blood screen. Topicals cannot trigger a drug test if used as directed.
For the most accurate answer, seek information about what type of test you’ll be taking. If you’re subject to drug testing, you may want to consult with the testing facility and your employer before using CBD products. Green Compass cannot guarantee the outcome of drug tests.
The ECS is a cellular receptor system within all humans and animals (with a spine) and is central to homeostasis — a process by which biological systems maintain stability. The ECS predates the appearance of the cannabis plant by several million years and is probably one of the most important discoveries in our time. There is not a single function in our body that is not somehow influenced or modulated by the endocannabinoid system.
Imagine a system like a switchboard functioning in and across all physiologic processes and organs. This “switchboard” acts and reacts to internal and external stimuli to control, correct and manage overall health. This is a careful balancing act that helps the body achieve homeostasis. Studies show the dysfunction of the ECS is directly linked to most disorders and diseases.
Fun fact: The body’s ECS also produces natural “endocannabinoids” (similar to the cannabinoids extracted from the hemp plant), which bind to ECS receptors and aid in homeostasis. We like to think of using Green Compass products as helping to supplement the natural ECS.
CBD affects everyone differently based on body chemistry. Common benefits you can expect include:
- Pain management and performance recovery from daily activity or exercise
- Relief from daily life stressors
- Help in maintaining a sense of calm and focus
- Healthy regulation of appetite
- Supported sleep cycle
- Overall body homeostasis
WHAT ARE TERPENES?
Found in all plants, terpenes are compounds responsible for aroma and flavor that also have therapeutic and medicinal qualities. Approximately 50,000 have been identified in nature and about 150 terpenes have been identified in Cannabis alone. Terpenes have a range of benefits and wellness properties—some are antibacterial, some antiviral and others can be energizing or have sedative-like properties.
Known for their health benefits, flavonoids are a group of compounds that naturally occur in fruits, vegetables and other plants, like hemp. They’re incredibly rich in antioxidants and can help protect the body from everyday toxins and stressors
It’s important to understand that the right amount of CBD is different for each person and there are many factors to consider, not just weight and height. For many, less is more. We’ve heard that many of our customers benefit most from lowering their usage amount. Maintaining proper balance so you don’t overstimulate your cannabinoid receptors is key. Take time to learn how your body responds, track it and adjust along the way.
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