The following is not up for debate. It’s science! We all have a self-regulatory system in our bodies called the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and that system is responsible for homeostasis, or balance, between all bodily functions like pain, sleep, mood, appetite, immunity and recovery. Researchers believe that the major cause of many ailments, particularly those related to the immune system and inflammation, could be a disorder called clinical endocannabinoid deficiency syndrome.

So how do we feed this critical system within our bodies? With plant-based cannabinoids found in hemp. Hemp and marijuana are different varieties of Cannabis Sativa, a flowering herb indigenous to many parts of the world. Marijuana is cultivated for high levels of THC, while hemp is cultivated mainly for its fiber, and has trace levels of THC and comparatively higher levels of CBD and other cannabinoids that will not make you high. 

Hemp has been grown and cultivated worldwide for thousands of years for industrial and medical purposes, making useful items like rope, clothing, sails, paper, fuel, building materials and thousands of other products.

As laws are changing, millions of people around the world are now experiencing all the health benefits associated with consuming cannabinoids found in hemp, like CBD, CBG and CBN.

Even though it seems like cannabidiol (CBD) is something new, it has been used by humans since the dawn of civilization. CBD is a natural constituent of cannabis, a plant that has been utilized for centuries as medicine. CBD itself was first identified in the 1930s and 1940s, and its specific chemical structure was not documented until 1963. The research didn’t end there; many scientists now consider CBD to be the single most important cannabinoid ever discovered.

Let’s talk about some newer cannabinoids that are making headlines that many people are not yet aware of. 

Cannabigerol (CBG) has been called the “Rolls Royce of cannabis”, the “stem cell cannabinoid” and even the “mother of all cannabinoids”. CBG products are rare because it’s a compound that’s challenging to extract from the plant.

CBG has a direct “lock-and-key” effect upon cannabinoid receptors, particularly CB1 receptors. It appears that CBG’s influence on the endocannabinoid system enhances the expression of serotonin, the “feel good hormone”. So those that experience “blue moods”, stress or anxiety may experience a benefit. CBG is also non-intoxicating, meaning it can be used as an everyday supplement without having to worry about any unwanted psychoactive effects.

Now let’s talk about sleep. We know how important a good night’s rest is to overall health and well-being. CBN (cannabinol) elicits its natural effects by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. It has a naturally sedative effect that can help promote better sleeping cycles without having you wake feeling groggy. CBN’s natural sleep-promoting properties combine beautifully with CBD, as the two cannabinoids interact differently with cells’ cannabinoid receptors to naturally encourage better, more rejuvenated sleep. CBN has also been shown to help regulate the immune system and works to relieve the pain and inflammation caused by many conditions.

How do we know what products to choose? There is so much on the market now. Quality and quantity matters, which is why it is recommended to consult with someone who is knowledgeable about this industry. Where is the product grown? Is it certified organic? Are certificates of analysis readily available and is the product tested by independent labs? How much CBD or other cannabinoids like CBG or CBN is actually in the product and what is the price per milligram?

Not all products in this category are created equal. You may also need to experiment with how much CBD/CBG/CBN daily is necessary for your particular situation to get optimal results.

The cannabis industry is booming for good reason. Hemp derived products such as CBD, CBG and CBN are nature’s superfood and are good for you and for the planet.

Valerie Aloisio is founder of Hemp Lifestyle and a pioneer at bringing education and information about the endocannabinoid system and cannabinoid products to medical and healthcare professionals and the public in the U.S. and abroad. She is available for complimentary consultation, educational sessions and speaking engagements. Connect at 203-521-2396, [email protected] or HempLifestyle.net. See ad, page 4.

Hemp Lifestyle - NA, Fairfield, CT

Valerie Aloisio is founder of Hemp Lifestyle and a pioneer at bringing education and information about the endocannabinoid system and cannabinoid products to medical and healthcare profes... Read More »