CBD (cannabidiol)

What is CBD and where does it come from?

CBD, otherwise known as cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in cannabis plants. CBD is a safe, non-addictive substance and is one of the plant-based cannabinoids, known as phytocannabinoids, that make cannabis unique and give the plant its therapeutic properties. Unlike THC, CBD does not induce the “high” feeling, as CBD and THC act differently within the brain and body.

How does CBD work?

There are two main cannabinoid (CB) receptors in body, CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors work in the brain and central nervous system, with some activity in peripheral tissues. CB2 receptors work in the periphery on cells with immune function and in the gastrointestinal tract. The truth is that CBD does not act directly on the CB receptors. Instead, CBD works by mimicking and augmenting the effects of endogenous cannabinoids that make up the endogenous endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in regulating a broad range of physiological processes that affect our everyday lives – mood, energy, immune activity, blood pressure, bone density, glucose metabolism, stress, hunger, pain, and intestinal fortitude.

What can CBD be used for?

Non-FDA approved indications for which CBD may provide therapeutic benefit:

  • Alzheimer’s Disease

  • Anxiety

  • Cancer

  • Cardiovascular disease

  • Crohn’s disease and Inflammatory Bowl

  • Depression

  • Diabetic complications (neuropathy)

  • Huntington’s disease

  • Inflammation

  • Insomnia

  • Multiple Sclerosis

  • Nausea

  • Parkinson’s Disease

  • Psychosis

  • PTSD

  • Stress

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Wellness

FDA approved indications for which CBD provides therapeutic benefit:

  • Seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) or Dravet syndrome

Is CBD illegal?

Hemp-derived CBD oil products are not illegal, do not require a prescription, and can be bought over-the-counter. Industrial hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species that is grown specifically for the industrial uses of its derived products. It has low concentrations of THC (less than 0.3% THC) and high concentrations of CBD. It is important to note that not all products contain the same consistency and quality from plant to product and the FDA does not regulate the safety and purity of hemp-derived CBD oil products. It is important to find exceptional quality hemp-derived CBD oil products, like the products available at Olive Tree Compounding Pharmacy.

Dosage forms available at Olive Tree (oral, sublingual, topical)

  • Gummies

  • Creams

  • Tinctures

Any side effects?

CBD is generally well-tolerated with a good safety profile. Reported adverse effects may be a result of drug-drug interactions between CBD and current therapeutic regimen. Feel free to ask our Pharmacists about whether the addition of CBD to your daily regimen will be beneficial to your overall wellness and health.

Common side effects:

  • Nausea/vomiting

  • Fatigue

  • Irritability