What is CBD, Anyway? Part 1

In this two part blog series, we'll explore and provide answers to frequently asked questions about CBD. Continue reading for part one and stay tuned for part two coming next week.

How well do you know cannabidiol (CBD)? In our quest to create the most effective CBD products for adult consumption, we also want to be transparent in our work. Below, we’ve compiled 12 commonly asked questions about CBD, along with our answers. You’ll learn more about this fascinating extract and its many potential applications. When you’re done, visit our shop to check out our products, including our brand-new tincture featuring CBG.

Let’s Begin with the Basics: What is CBD?

Q: What is CBD?

A: CBD is a chemical compound, one of over 100 found in the versatile hemp plant. CBD is derived from all parts of the plant, but the majority of the extract comes from the flowers and leaves. CBD is a cannabinoid and thus fits into receptors of the human endocannabinoid system (ECS.) This is an essential regulatory system affecting our appetite, memory, sleep patterns, and much more. Think of ECS as an internal set of locks, and CBD as one of the keys.

Q: What are the potential benefits of CBD?

A: CBD can support the body and mind in many ways. It shows great potential in aiding sore muscle recovery, for example, and maintaining health and overall wellness. One of the marvels of CBD is its wide-ranging approach to everyday stresses for millions of its users. We encourage our customers to utilize our body cream for external skin and muscle-related applications, and our tincture, drinks, mints, and gum for internal restoration purposes.

Q: Where does Cativa CBD get its CBD?

A: CBD quality control is incredibly important to us. Our formulations include pure CBD isolate and broad-spectrum CBD (distillate) free from the inclusion of any impurities — and without any THC. Our products were crafted in partnership with scientists at Princeton University with a focus on improved bioavailability. If you have any questions regarding our CBD sourcing, please contact us.

Q: What is the difference between CBD and THC?

A: The differences between CBD and THC are significant. While both are natural compounds and their chemical structures are nearly identical, CBD is not psychoactive in the same manner. It will not make you “high” or produce the same euphoric sensations created by using THC. CBD and THC also affect the endocannabinoid system differently—namely, the way in which they bind to particular receptors.

Q: What is the difference between CBD and hemp?

A: Hemp is a variety of the C. sativa plant, often used to make things like clothing, rope, and various foodstuffs. Hemp seed oil comes from the seeds of the plant, and contains little to no CBD.

Manufacturers source their CBD from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant. This is an important distinction to make because many products on the market now are manufactured using hemp seed oil and not CBD. Our tinctures, cream, drinks, etc. are all made with legal, pharmaceutically extracted CBD isolate and broad-spectrum CBD extract containing no THC.

Ready to learn more about CBD, important details on legality and safety, and advice for dosage and individual use? Part 2 is coming soon. In the meantime, read more on our blog.