CBD Guide

What is CBD? The Mama explains all about Cannabidiol

In the space of just a few years, cannabidiol has become a veritable social phenomenon, becoming an integral part of the daily lives of millions of people around the world. Renowned for its potential benefits, cannabidiol comes in many forms, which you'll find in our Mama Kana boutique. In this article, I'll explain what CBD is: this coveted molecule!

Cannabidiol, a truly natural molecule

Better known by its abbreviation CBD, cannabidiol is a molecule naturally present in hemp. If you're not familiar with hemp, it's simply the other name given to the cannabis plant! Cannabidiol is classified as a cannabinoid. However, CBD is not a psychotropic and is therefore not considered a drug, unlike THC.

Mama Kana is definitely the best CBD shop. It also guarantees family prices and fair remuneration for its producers.

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cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are molecules capable of interacting with receptors of the endocannabinoid system. These receptors are present in the human body and in other mammals. They are found in most of the body's cells. At present, there are around a hundred cannabinoids naturally present in the cannabis plant, but a word of clarification is in order: contrary to popular belief, cannabinoids are not restricted to hemp.

In fact, there are three types of cannabinoid: the plant cannabinoids found in hemp, the endogenous cannabinoids secreted by certain animal species, and the synthetic cannabinoids created in the laboratory.

For my part, I'm only interested in plant cannabinoids, particularly those with no psychoactive effects: CBD, but also CBN, CBG and CBC. THC is also considered a cannabinoid, but has psychoactive effects that automatically classify it as a narcotic...

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CBD is
naturally
present in
hemp

As you now know, CBD is a molecule naturally present in hemp. Naturally, I'd like to tell you more about this plant. Hemp is an annual plant, which means that its life cycle lasts no more than a year. Hemp has certainly been cultivated since Neolithic times.

This plant has many uses, including cosmetics, medicines, textiles, food, construction, fuels, composite materials and paper.

Of course, hemp has often been used for recreational purposes, not least because of the psychoactive effects of THC. In common parlance, hemp is generally referred to as the industrial plant and cannabis (its scientific name) as the psychoactive form. The democratization of CBD and environmental awareness are two new factors that explain the growing popularity of hemp in our society.

Don't confuse CBD hemp with cannabis

There are several reasons why you might want to buy CBD:

  • You suffer from chronic pain;
  • You suffer from stress, anxiety or insomnia;
  • You are a former cannabis smoker and would like to find a legal, non-psychotropic substitute that makes withdrawal less painful.

Whatever your reason for wanting to proceed with CBD purchases, why not try Mama Kana CBD flowers?

N.B.: Mama Kana is not a doctor and can in no way boast of the possible medical virtues of its CBD flowers, which are not medicines and cannot be substituted for them.

The main differences between CBD and THC

CBD and THC are two cannabinoids naturally present in hemp. In fact, they are the two predominant molecules in the plant's final composition. Better known by its abbreviation THC, tetrahydrocannabinol is renowned for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, but also and above all for its psychoactive effects. This is why this cannabinoid has been classified as a narcotic since 1971 by the WHO. CBD shares some similarities with THC, notably in its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. On the other hand, this cannabinoid is not a psychotropic and is therefore not considered a drug. In fact, CBD is thought to reduce the side effects of THC. It is also thought to have neuroprotective and anxiolytic properties. For some years now, cannabidiol products have been authorized for sale in many countries around the world.

Everything you need to know about CBD products

Before testing the best CBD products, it's a good idea to learn more about this molecule. In particular, I'd like to mention the different ways cannabidiol is extracted, as well as its entourage effect and bioavailability. An informed consumer is worth two!

Mama Kana CBD flowers have been carefully dried. Neither too dry nor too wet, they crumble easily and can be easily consumed by infusing them in a fatty substance, for example.

The 3 different types of cannabidiol extraction

Cannabidiol can be extracted in a variety of ways. Depending on the extraction process chosen, CBD products differ in their molecular composition. To begin with, a Full Spectrum product contains all the cannabinoids present in hemp, including THC. However, THC levels must not exceed the legal threshold.

In the case of a Broad Spectrum product, most cannabinoids are present, but a few have been removed during the process. Generally speaking, it's THC that's removed from Broad Spectrum CBD products.

The last type of cannabidiol extraction, the isolate is, as its name suggests, a product containing a single cannabinoid. This type of product is logically characterized by a high CBD concentration.

How can we encourage the entourage effect?

The entourage effect refers to the interaction between all the molecules naturally present in hemp. Although no clinical studies have validated this hypothesis, it is believed that cannabinoids are more effective when combined with each other and with other plant compounds.

To take a concrete example, CBD is said to reduce the undesirable side effects of THC. For a long time, the entourage effect was thought to relate solely to the interaction between cannabinoids. Today, terpenes, flavonoids and other natural hemp compounds are also considered to play a role in the effects experienced.

To promote the entourage effect, it is therefore preferable to consume full-spectrum products. While isolates guarantee a high concentration of cannabidiol, this purest form prevents interaction with other molecules. In reality, it all depends on what you're looking for as a consumer: either a product with a very high CBD content, or a synergy between all the plant's natural compounds!

Also consider the bioavailability of CBD products

Bioavailability is the rate at which a substance's active ingredients diffuse into the bloodstream. It also refers to the rate at which these active ingredients are absorbed by the body. As far as CBD is concerned, this cannabinoid is now available in many different forms. Depending on the type of product, bioavailability is likely to vary.

Indeed, there are many ways to consume CBD, including in a single product. Some modes of consumption allow optimal absorption of cannabidiol's active ingredients, while others accomplish this task only partially.

There are also routes of administration whose effects are much more rapid. It's important to remember that bioavailability also depends on your own sensitivity to cannabidiol.

My guide to using CBD flowers properly

CBD flowers are actively sought-after by users. This type of product is often all-natural, and features aromas as varied as they are delicious. Mama Kana is proud to offer the best possible choice of CBD flowers, with the most popular varieties available. CBD flowers can be consumed in a variety of ways.

While inhalation remains the most widespread method of consumption, other practices will enable you to take full advantage of this type of product. You can find all my advice in this guide dedicated to CBD flowers!

My guide to using CBD oils correctly

Like CBD flowers, CBD oils are among the most popular products among consumers. It has to be said that this type of product guarantees optimal absorption of CBD's active ingredients into the body, provided that sublingual administration is preferred.

Depending on the oil you wish to order, the CBD content may vary, as may the problem targeted by its use. To help you choose and use your CBD oils, don't hesitate to follow my advice in this guide!

My guide to everything you need to know about CBD resins

A manufactured product derived from hemp, CBD hashish is characterized by powerful aromas, a pleasant texture and a wide variety of consumption methods. This product is becoming increasingly popular, especially at Mama Kana, where you can choose between the best varieties of CBD resins. Nevertheless, it's worth finding out more about this type of product.

As with flowers, for example, you don't have to inhale your resin extracts. Once again, I've decided to give you plenty of advice on how to learn all about CBD resins in this guide!

Find out more about all our hemp and cannabidiol products

I've just introduced you to the types of products that are certainly the most popular in the cannabidiol field: flowers, oils and resins. However, CBD also comes in other forms. Among the new types of products that are quite widespread, we now find e-liquids, infusions, candies, crystals, capsules, food, cosmetic creams, sprays and even food for your pets!

You can therefore consume cannabidiol in the way that best suits your needs.

How do you choose your CBD products?

There are several things you can do to choose the right CBD products for you. First and foremost, you need to think about how you want to consume cannabidiol. This should include bioavailability, route of administration, type of product and target problem.

Don't hesitate to choose products from organic or natural farming, so as not to come into contact with toxic elements (fertilizers, pesticides, GMOs, etc.). Next, make sure you comply with current THC standards.

In fact, every CBD product must have a THC content of 0.3% or less, and must have been tested by an independent laboratory. Ideally, you should be able to consult a certificate of analysis. I'd also advise you to take a good look at each product's data sheet before making your choice. This will enable you to find out more about the composition of the products, particularly in terms of their olfactory, aesthetic and gustatory properties!

How do you use all your CBD products?

Each type of CBD product has its own dosage. So you need to find out how you can use it. All you need to do is carefully consult the product data sheet available online. You should also take into account your own sensitivity to cannabidiol. If you're just discovering the world of cannabidiol, it's best to start gently and gradually increase doses as you feel the need.

Depending on the type of product you're interested in, CBD can be consumed in a variety of ways: by inhalation, infusion, vaporization, sublingually, in cooking, applied to the skin, and so on. It is important to respect the conditions of use indicated on the prescription or product sheet.

While CBD is not harmful to health, excessive consumption can be accompanied by some mild side effects.

CBD is a molecule much studied for its potential benefits

Cannabidiol was first discovered and isolated in 1940 by American chemist Roger Adams. It is the second most studied cannabinoid, just behind THC. In the space of half a century, cannabidiol has indeed been the subject of numerous scientific studies worldwide. In particular, researchers have attempted to assess the potential benefits of CBD on the body.

Over the years, various studies have uncovered some of the molecule's natural properties. However, there's still a long way to go before we know everything there is to know about CBD, for example by increasing the number of scientific studies carried out on human subjects.

The supposed virtues of CBD according to scientists

Based on the various studies carried out on the subject, CBD seems to be able to play a beneficial role on the body. Indeed, cannabidiol has been credited with numerous virtues. In particular, CBD is said to have anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, analgesic and neuroprotective properties.

This cannabinoid interacts directly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. These receptors are present in most cells of the human body, enabling absorption of CBD's active ingredients.

Based on this initial observation, CBD is used to address a wide range of issues. For example, it is said to be an effective solution for relieving chronic pain in muscles, bones and joints. Cannabidiol is also used to combat stress, anxiety, skin problems, sleep disorders and loss of appetite.

Beware, however, of some reported side effects

While CBD is not harmful to health, excessive consumption can cause some undesirable side effects: dry mouth, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, etc. These cases appear to be quite rare. However, such cases appear to be fairly rare.

To avoid experiencing such discomforts, you should obviously consume CBD in moderation, taking into account your own sensitivity.

But the WHO confirms that CBD is not harmful to health

In November 2017, the World Health Organization (WHO) took a closer look at cannabidiol, requesting a report from its Expert Committee on Drug Dependence. The experts' conclusion was clear: CBD has no abuse potential and is not harmful to health.

The Committee went even further, highlighting the potential therapeutic effects of cannabidiol. Logically, this WHO position has greatly contributed to the democratization of CBD-based products in North America and Europe.

CBD legislation: can you buy CBD with peace of mind?

While the sale of CBD has been democratized in America since 2018, it is nevertheless surrounded by a certain amount of legal vagueness. In 2020, the French government attempted to ban the marketing of CBD, but came up against a decision by the Court of Justice of the European Union.

The following year, the French government again tried to pass this ban through its decree issued in December 2021. This time, the Paris Court of Appeal overturned the decree.

A law is expected to be enacted in the coming months to definitively define the place of CBD in France. In the meantime, you can legally buy CBD as long as the THC content does not exceed 0.3% per product.

Discover Mama Kana's CBD products

In this article, I'm delighted to have introduced you to cannabidiol. I hope it has helped you learn more about this cannabinoid and whet your curiosity a little more!

Since the creation of my boutique in 2018, my goal has been to guarantee an optimal experience for all my customers.

To achieve this, I choose my partner producers with the greatest care, so as to offer you only 100% natural products. While quality always rhymes with quantity at Mama, this doesn't stop me from offering extremely attractive prices and prompt deliveries. Now there's a place for you in the Mama Kana family!

FAQ - La Mama answers your frequently asked questions

What does CBD mean?

CBD stands for cannabidiol, a molecule naturally present in hemp. This molecule is part of the list of cannabinoids found in hemp.

What are the potential health effects of CBD?

Cannabidiol is said to have many virtues. CBD is said to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic, analgesic and neuroprotective properties. As a result, this molecule is said to be effective against stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, loss of appetite and skin problems. It is also a possible alternative for soothing certain chronic muscular, bone and joint pains.

Can anyone take CBD?

CBD is accessible to almost everyone. Its use is not recommended for pregnant women or children. If you wish to use CBD for therapeutic purposes, and are already undergoing treatment, it's best to talk to your doctor. For the rest of us, CBD consumption is perfectly feasible!

Can you get hooked on CBD?

According to the WHO report published in November 2017, CBD shows no signs of abuse and is not harmful to health. This molecule therefore carries no risk of addiction.

Is CBD a drug?

Unlike THC, CBD is not a psychotropic drug. This cannabinoid is therefore not considered a drug, which explains its legalization in America and most European countries.