In the plant kingdom we see evidence of those plants which have both beneficial components as well as toxic. Good examples of this are that of Belladonna, which is known as deadly nightshade and foxglove which is where we get digitalis. Both are dose dependent before becoming toxic.
Dr Turska created a formula of toxic herbs which, when used in extremely small doses were used successfully for breast tumors. Obtaining some of those herbs today has become extremely difficult, and storing the tinctures safely is something that can be challenging.
The endocannabinoids found in the hemp flower, and not the seed, have properties which have effects on every organ of the body. In fact we create these endocannabinoids in our bodies when properly nourished. Unfortunately, many today are not properly nourished.
Unfortunately, only 13% of schools have been teaching on these endocannabinoids, so usually ignorance is the source of fear when it comes to using these beneficial medicines.
Endocannabinoids up-regulate compounds known as anandamides in the body. These have a short half life, so they don’t stick around long. They’re correlated with oxytocin which decreases anxiety and pain. When used properly, there’s been reduction in opioid use by 76.6%, anxiety by 71.8%, and depression meds by 37%.
Short term use for those on opioids gave 94% improved quality of life with reduced pain and improved sleep scores. Those suffering fibromyalgia only saw 5% which didn’t improve. This is 6 to 7 times more helpful than any other treatment used.
Because THC affects the frontal lobe of the brain, it can be especially harmful in adolescents. Full spectrum CBD will have very low levels of THC, and is most effective in very low doses. This would not be recommended for anyone who’s livelihood could be jeopardized by drug testing like those with CDL (commercial driver’s licenses) and have to pass federal drug testing. There’s such small amounts of the THC as to not create the social problems associated with marijuana.
Broad spectrum CBD has no THC, and still is very beneficial but must be used in larger quantities. This would be appropriate for those who are overly sensitive to the THC but still need effective relief from pain. Here is where it’s important to be able to see the certificate of analysis.
Lastly are the isolates of CBD. Because of the lack of co-factors, dosage has to be quite high in order to get any kind of benefit. Because of un-regulation of CBD products, there are many poor quality products on the market today. This is where I have to rely on suppliers who are consistent in what’s offered. The FDA shows that 91% of CBD on the market doesn’t match the label claim.
Hemp requires lots of water to grow properly. Like any other plant, soil, air, water, and sun have a huge influence in what nutrients are contained in the end product. Now that Standard Process has begun to provide hemp oil, I can depend on their research department to insure the best quality product from farm to patient.
When beginning use of these medicines it’s important to keep in mind that everyone is different and will respond differently. Always start low and work up. If adding more makes things worse, back off, you’ve exceeded your peak dose. Usually, sublingual absorption gives you the best bang for the buck.
CBD interacts with the cytochrome P-450 detoxification pathway. Because of this, less is best. Understand that this is a liver pathway, and if there’s compromise in liver function, this could work against you. It’s metabolized in the liver. If there’s compromise there, consider the benefit of doing a good liver detoxification first.
Research has been looking at the neuro-protective nature of CBD in dementia. Since it helps pain and assists with repair of neurons, It’s looking promising. There’s been no human trials on breast feeding but small amounts are found in breast milk, which would suggest avoidance of full spectrum.