In our previous blog post we addressed some of your informed questions about CBD. There is an enormous body of information when it comes to CBD, which is why we have split these posts into two parts. Welcome to part two.
Terpenes
The expression “terpene” is often used when describing cannabis, but what is a terpene? A terpene is a biologically active fragrant oil that contributes to a plant’s flavoring and fragrance. Terpenes also play an important role as cellular messengers and provide a plant with natural protection from environmental stresses.
Terpenes are found not only in cannabis but in a wide variety of plants. Different terpenes when combined offer support to one-another in promoting therapeutic effects.
Flavonoid
Another word used frequently when discussing cannabis is flavonoid. There are over 5000 naturally occurring flavonoids recorded in various plants. Flavonoids serve important functions for plants including: Pigmentation, UV filtration, antioxidant qualities, cell cycle inhibitors and chemical messengers (to name but a few).
Flavonoids are relevant in the conversation about CBD because the cannabis plant offers 20 flavonoid compounds which may further contribute to the therapeutic effect of cannabis.
The Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is found in every mammal and was first discovered in the early 1990s. The purpose of the body’s endocannabinoid system is the maintenance of a stable internal environment despite fluctuations in the external environment.
In order to understand how the ECS accomplishes homeostasis and how CBD engages with the ECS to promote well-being, we have to dive deep into the body at the cellular level. At that level, things get complicated. That is a blog post on its own.
Full Spectrum, Whole Flower and Isolate and the Entourage Effect
As we mentioned in the previous post, CBD can be extracted and formulated in various ways. There is a lot of debate regarding what is referred to as the entourage effect which basically states that the above mentioned compounds found in cannabis work better together than in isolation. The concept of the entourage effect is on the table for discussion because research is revealing that isolated CBD possesses anti-psychotic, anti-seizure, anti inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties. We liken the difference between the entourage effect and isolated CBD to an orange and a vitamin C pill, respectively. In truth, both have their place. That being said, at Cordial Organics we have developed our formulations from the perspective of whole plant therapy.
Has this information prompted additional questions? Please feel free to leave them in the comment section.
