Cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD, has been taking the market by storm for its wide range of uses and increasingly recognized health benefits.
In fact, the growing body of evidence supporting the health benefits and even industrial uses of CBD served as the main argument for the legalization of hemp and cannabis farming in the United States for the 2018 Farm Bill. With CBD becoming such a popular product found in creams, cooking, oils, capsules, vape juices, and much more, it’s time to understand what CBD is, and how it can affect your body.
Hemp CBD vs. Cannabis CBD
While hemp is a form of cannabis, you may see the two separated when looking at forms of CBD on the market.
Hemp CBD is exactly how it sounds — CBD that’s extracted from hemp plants that were grown specifically for CBD.
If you’re buying CBD off the internet, a standard store shelf, or in a state that doesn’t recognize legalized marijuana, you can expect that all of your CBD products will come from hemp.
Cannabis CBD on the other hand is extracted from standard cannabis plants, which are referred to as marijuana plants, that may or may not also be packed with THC.
There are 2 common forms of cannabis CBD, including extracted CBD alone (isolate), and full-range CBD, which will have a mix of all other cannabinoids and chemicals found within cannabis.
CBD vs. CBDA
When purchasing any form of CBD, it’s important to understand your expected use and what you’re buying.
The cannabis plant, while growing, produces cannabidiolic acid, otherwise known as CBDA. Depending on what you’re using the plant for, you may want CBDA, which is known for blocking the COX-2 enzyme associated with swelling after an injury — this can relieve inflammation and associated pain.
If the effects of CBD are your goal, the cannabis will need to go through a process known as decarboxylation, but only if the end-use will be used under 240 degrees Fahrenheit.
Standard decarboxylation heats the cannabis for an extended period of time, around one hour, and allows the acids to break down. This is ideal for lotions, tinctures, and other forms of CBD which aren’t heated during use.
So, why not always decarb?
During the heating and drying process, trichomes (the small crystalized hairs seen around the plant) can be damaged. Trichomes are responsible for carrying a large portion of your cannabinoids, which can be damaged by heat, light, oxygen, and much more during the drying process.
Damage to your trichomes results in a less potent outcome.