CBD, or cannabidiol, is a molecule extracted from hemp. CBD is legal in France and most other European countries, provided it contains little or no THC, the psychoactive substance in cannabis.

CBD is used in many cosmetic products for its moisturising, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and sebum-regulating properties. CBD can be taken as an oil, placed under the tongue or added to food.

Cannabidiol (CBD), a much less psychoactive substance than THC with no established risk of dependence, is thought to be of interest in the treatment of certain forms of epilepsy, anxiety, inflammation and immune deficiency, mood disorders and even schizophrenia.

It has now been proven that cannabidiol acts directly or indirectly on many of the body's receptors.

CBD, stress and anxiety

CBD does not bind directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors, but can modulate their activity by indirectly influencing their signalling pathways. This interaction helps to regulate various physiological processes, including stress response and mood.

• FAAH inhibition: CBD has been shown to inhibit the enzyme FAAH, which is responsible for breaking down anandamide. By inhibiting FAAH, CBD can increase the levels of anandamide in the body, thus improving the overall functioning of the SEC.
• GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, is a brain neurotransmitter responsible for reducing neuronal excitability. It acts as an inhibitor in the brain. It helps to reduce neuronal activity and is responsible for calming the nervous system, relaxation and reducing anxiety. When GABA binds to its receptors in the brain, it reduces the excitation of neurons, resulting in lower levels of anxiety and stress.

Studies have shown that CBD can indirectly enhance GABA signalling by increasing the availability of GABA in the brain. CBD inhibits the activity of an enzyme called GABA transaminase, which is responsible for the breakdown of GABA. By inhibiting this enzyme, CBD increases levels of GABA in the brain, reinforcing its inhibitory effects and helping to reduce anxiety and stress.

CBD and mood

CBD also interacts with other non-cannabinoid receptors, such as serotonin receptors (5-HT1A) and transient receptors for vanilloid potential type 1 (TRPV1). These interactions may contribute to CBD's potential therapeutic effects, including stress relief, anxiety and mood enhancement.

To find out more, read our article on the links between CBD and stress HERE

Reducing Cannabis Consumption

Unlike THC, CBD is not addictive. A study carried out on 1,500 people showed that 11% of them used CBD to reduce their cannabis consumption, with success in more than half of cases.CBD acts on different receptors to THC, which could help to reduce cannabis use without causing dependence.

Inflammation

Numerous studies attribute undeniable efficacy to CBD as an anti-inflammatory on several levels:

• By blocking the migration of macrophages (digestion of foreign particles and pathogens).
• By regulating the activation of lymphocytes (recognition and destruction of foreign cells).
• By inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory substances.
• By promoting the release of other anti-inflammatory substances called "cytokines".

CBD improves skin condition

A growing number of studies place CBD and other phytocannabinoids as key ingredients for skin problems. According to the European Commission and their database of cosmetic ingredients (CosIng), CBD lists no fewer than 4 conclusive effects:

• Anti-seborrhoea: Helps control sebum production.
• Moisturiser: Keeps the skin in good condition.
• Protective: Helps prevent the harmful effects of external factors on the skin.
• Antioxidant: Inhibits reactions promoted by oxygen, preventing oxidation and rancidity.

The dosage of CBD depends on a number of factors, such as weight, sensitivity, method of consumption, the desired effect and the concentration of the product.

In general, it is advisable to start with low doses and gradually increase until the optimal dosage is found. Like any new food, this ingredient is subject to "novel food" regulation. This legislation imposes recommending a maximum dose of 50 mg per day. Above this dosage, it is recommended to consult with your doctor. There are dosage calculators available to determine the appropriate quantities and concentrations for your needs.

CBG or cannabigerol

CBG, or cannabigerol, is a type of cannabinoid obtained from the cannabis plant. It is described as the 'mother molecule' of all cannabinoids. Indeed, these are derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), an acidic form of CBG. In the cannabis plant, CBG is available in smaller quantities than other cannabinoids.

This substance is not psychoactive and could potentially have neuroprotective, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and immune system stimulating effects.

Like any other cannabinoid, CBG interacts with the endocannabinoid system in various ways.

CBD may interact with certain medications. If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women. CBD oil is not intended for medical use and should not be used to screen for, diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate, prevent, manage or monitor any disease. CBD oil and dietary supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

CBD is considered safe and well tolerated by most users. Cannabidiol is non-toxic, which means that there is no danger in the event of over-consumption. Cannabidiol in overdose tends to inhibit its action, but it is possible to experience some side effects: diarrhoea, drowsiness, dry mouth, lower blood pressure, dizziness and fatigue. Very often, the side effects of CBD are of little concern to those who use it. This is either because the benefits of CBD outweigh the undesirable effects, or because CBD replaces a conventional treatment with even more serious side effects.

• Pregnant and breast-feeding women
• Personal history of psychotic disorders
• Severe heart failure.

In addition, CBD may interact with certain narrow therapeutic target drugs. It is therefore advisable to consult a healthcare professional before taking CBD.

Store at room temperature, out of sight and reach of children, in a dry place protected from UV rays and light.
Avoid severe thermal shock.

There are different forms of CBD. CBD can be consumed in the form of oil, to be placed under the tongue or added to food. It can also be smoked in the form of e-liquid, for use with an electronic cigarette. It can also be drunk as an herbal tea, infused in hot water. Finally, it can be applied to the skin in the form of a cream, balm or gel, to treat skin problems or local pain. However, sublingual use of CBD is often recommended for several reasons:

• Rapid absorption: When CBD is taken sublingually, it is absorbed directly through the blood vessels under the tongue.
• High bioavailability: The sublingual route results in higher bioavailability of CBD, meaning that more CBD is available for the body to use.

To take CBD sublingually, simply place a few drops of CBD under the tongue and hold for a while before swallowing.

However, it's important to note that the appropriate dose of CBD can vary depending on the individual and the desired effect. It is therefore recommended to start with a low dose and adjust according to your body's response.

CBD is available from a wide range of outlets, including specialist shops, pharmacies, parapharmacies and online shops. However, you need to be careful about the quality and legality of the product, as many CBD products are of poor quality or contain too much THC. You need to check the product's origin, composition, concentration and analyses, and choose a reputable seller who complies with the regulations in force.

Terpenes are the plant's aromatic compounds

They help protect it against predators and infectious agents.
They have potential therapeutic properties. They are found, just like phytocannabinoids, in the trichomes of the flower, but also in the leaves.
For the record, not all terpenes are specific to hemp and can be found in many plants.

Here are a few examples of the most well-known terpenes that we can find in hemp.

Myrcene

A major component of hemp, it may have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-fungal, antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. It may also have sedative and relaxing effects.

Limonene

The second most common terpene, it is believed to act as an antioxidant, anxiolytic, antibacterial, antifungal, and antidepressant substance.
Found in citrus fruits (lemon scent). In alternative medicine, it reduces heartburn and gastric reflux.

Pinene

Bronchodilator, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antibacterial.

Linalool

Also present in mint, lavender and basil. Used as an anxiolytic and calming agent.

There are dozens of terpenes in hemp. The presence of these terpenes contributes to what is called the entourage effect and is a guarantee of product quality.