What is CBD? A Guide for the Curious

At Upstate Elevator Supply Company, we understand there is an enormous amount of information circulating around CBD (cannabidiol) oil (also known as hemp oil, but not to be confused with hemp seed oil) and its benefits. It’s a lot to sort through! Whether you are curious about CBD, interested in learning about holistic ways to support a sense of calm and focus* your hectic life, or simply want to know what all the fuss is about, here’s a rundown of the info you need to start your journey. Don’t worry, we promise to keep it simple.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound that is found in the flower of the cannabis plant. It is one of over a hundred active compounds, or cannabinoids, found exclusively in this plant, and is known for its therapeutic properties. 

Where Does CBD Come From?

CBD oil is derived from industrial hemp, a strain of the Cannabis sativa plant. Humans have been cultivating this hearty, aromatic herb for millennia because of its robust fiber, stalks, and seeds, yet only recently has it reached rockstar status in popular culture. While it has most commonly been farmed for use in fiber and textile production, this ancient plant has powerful health properties as well. 

Will CBD Make You High? 

Let’s clear the air on one of the biggest misconceptions about CBD oil. The strain of hemp is that CBD is derived from is non-psychoactive, which means it doesn’t make you high. It is cultivated to produce high levels of CBD and low THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the component that induces the classic marijuana “high”. 

Is CBD Oil Legal?

After decades of prohibition, the 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the Controlled Substance Act and legalized the production of this long-maligned plant. In October 2019, the USDA issued its interim final rule establishing the USDA Domestic Hemp Production Program. States and Indian tribes may not prohibit the interstate commerce of hemp that contains less than 0.3% THC. To sum up, CBD won’t make you feel stoned and it’s legal to consume. So, how does it work?

Our Endocannabinoid System – Where the Magic Happens

Our bodies are hardwired with a complex biological network of natural compounds called endocannabinoids and receptors that is called the endocannabinoid system. Our bodies have evolved the endocannabinoid system over many millennia, and we’ve been experimenting with cannabis-based remedies for at least the past 10,000 years. CBD and other cannabinoids that are derived from the cannabis plant are very close in structure to the endocannabinoids our body manufactures. 

When our endocannabinoid system operates at its optimum, or in homeostasis, our bodily functions exist in a state of harmony.

CBD + Our Endocannabinoid System = A Match Made in Heaven

When plant-derived CBD oil is introduced to our endocannabinoid system, sparks fly! CBD is just one of many botanical compounds – including other cannabinoids, terpenes, and even tiny amounts of THC – that work synergistically and interact beautifully with the human endocannabinoid system. When you ingest them, they have a range of effects on your body and mind. A natural antidote to the woes of modern life, CBD raises our state of mind, uplifts our consciousness, and can help improve mood.

The Importance of Quality

Cannabinoid-based products are still in early stages, and we believe the possibilities they present for health and well-being are immense and untapped. As you venture deeper into the world of CBD products, being aware of the quality and potency on offer is a top priority. Upstate Elevator Supply Co provides detailed potency profiles and certificates of authenticity for each of our CBD products, so you know exactly what you’re getting every time. Our premium Full Spectrum CBD products are tested for heavy metal and toxins, and our CBD oil is derived from premium organic industrial hemp that is sustainably cultivated and farmed in Vermont.

We invite you to read more about our process or do a further deep dive on CBD and its benefits from CBDThinker.