August 8th is National CBD Day, and while CBD has become one of the most talked about compounds in wellness, there’s still a lot of confusion about what it actually is, what it does, and how it’s different from THC. We are here to break it down into simpler terms.
What Is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, it is non-intoxicating, meaning it does not produce the “high” feeling that most people associate with cannabis.
Because CBD does not produce the intoxicating effect, it has become widely recognized and used across wellness, sleep, and recovery products.
How CBD Works in Your Body
Our bodies have a built-in system of cannabinoid receptors that THC and CBD can bond to, called the Endocannabinoid System. At the center of this system are two main types of receptors, CB1 and CB2.
CB1 receptors are concentrated in the brain and central nervous system. They influence mood, memory, pain perception, and appetite. These are also the receptors that THC binds to directly, which is what produces the psychoactive effect and intoxicating feeling in the brain. CB2 receptors are found primarily in the immune system and peripheral tissues throughout the body, playing a key role in managing inflammation and immune response.
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t activate CB1 or CB2 receptors directly. Instead, it works more like a modulator between the systems. One of the ways researchers believe that CBD does this, is by inhibiting an enzyme called FAAH, which is responsible for breaking down anandamide – the bliss molecule. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid, a cannabinoid your body makes naturally that helps regulate mood and calm. By slowing or inhibiting that breakdown, CBD allows anandamide to stay active in your system longer, which can support mood regulation, reduce stress, and promote a sense of calmness.
What CBD May Help With:
Of course, research into CBD is ongoing, but current evidence and widespread usage points to several areas where it may provide relief.
- Stress and anxiety – by supporting the body’s natural calming mechanisms.
- Sleep – by promoting relaxation and reducing the mental activity that interferes with rest.
- Inflammation and pain – particularly through its interaction with CB2 receptors in the immune system.
- Recovery – supporting the body after physical exertion or a long day.
Our CBD Day Picks From KANHA:
CBD works great on its own, but it also works exceptionally well alongside THC and other cannabinoids. KANHA’s ratio gummies are formulated with both THC and CBD, to provide the benefits of CBD alongside a smaller dose of THC for a more balanced experience.
Watermelon – 20:1 CBD:THC, made with a high ratio of CBD to THC, delivering a relaxed, clear-headed experience with minimal intoxicating effect. Perfect for those who want the functional benefits of CBD without feeling impaired.
Peach – 4:1 CBD:THC, is still CBD-dominant, but with a more noticeable presence of THC. The 4:1 ratio delivers a calmer, more grounded experience than a traditional THC gummy, making it a good balance of both cannabinoids.
Both CBD products are available at dispensaries across California. Find one near you with our store locator, or order straight to your door with eaze.com!
