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Educational / Brochure Information
1. Endocannabinoid System
- The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex system that regulates many biological processes within the body The ECS is primarily comprised of CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found throughout the brain, organs, glands, skin, and immune cells. They are responsible for maintaining a natural homeostasis (a stable internal environment) throughout the body. The cannabis plant produces compounds called cannabinoids, which interact with these receptors in different ways to boost homeostasis and offer a variety of effects for users. THC primarily binds to CB1 receptors, which are mainly found in the brain and central nervous system. This is why users often report feelings of relaxation and/or inebriation. CBD primarily binds to CB2 receptors, which are mainly found through organs and immune cells. This is why many users report overall body relaxation without any inebriation. Although THC and CBD are the most popular, there are well over 80 unique cannabinoids in the cannabis plant that interact with these receptors in different ways.
2. Minor Cannabinoids Explained
- CBD - CBD or Cannabidiol primarily interacts with CB2 receptors, which are mainly found through organs and immune cells. This is why many users report strong anti-inflammatory properties, overall relaxation, and relief without any intoxication. CBD can be a good tool to keep on hand with users that experience anxiety with THC products as it can mitigate the intoxicating side effects.
- CBG - CBG or Cannabigerol is the mother of all cannabinoids, meaning that all further cannabinoids CBD,THC, etc., originate from this cannabinoid. CBG like CBD is non-intoxicating and stimulates CB2 receptors, although CBG offers slightly more uplifting properties. CBG has numerous health benefits like: reducing intraocular pressure (this makes it an option to manage symptoms of Glaucoma), reducing inflammation, and it has been observed to reduce colon inflammation and production of nitric acid in mice (promoting better gut health).
- CBN - CBN or Cannabinol is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid mostly known for being used as a sleep aid because of its sedative effect. Aside from this it also has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotectant, and appetite stimulating effects.
- CBC - CBC or Cannabichromene is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that actually doesn't bind to any receptors, but rather increases the effects of other cannabinoids, specifically THC and CBD. CBC on its own can inhibit cancer cell growth, promote bone growth, relieve stress, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. This makes CBC a great tool for Arthritis, Depression, Osteoporosis, Muscular Dystrophy, and many other conditions.
- THCv - THCv or Tetrahydrocannabivarin is very similar to THC in molecular structure and because they both share psychoactive effects. Although, THCv differs by being an appetite suppressant, having natural energetic properties, and slightly more anxiety reducing. It can also be useful for users with Type 2 Diabetes as it can regulate blood sugar control, and insulin production. Some studies suggest THCv can reduce convulsions and seizures in epileptic users, as well as, helping treat Parkinson's patients by delaying the disease's progression.
3. Isolate / Broad / Full Spectrum
- Isolate - refers to products containing only cannabidiol (CBD), there are no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or plant materials. These products contain no THC, have no psychotropic effects, and are drug-test friendly!
- Broad - refers to products containing all hemp-derived cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant materials except THC. These products have no psychotropic effects, but do have a small chance of causing a false positive on drug-tests for users!
- Full – refers to products containing all hemp-derived cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant materials including <.03% of THC. Although these products are not drug-test friendly, they have little to no psychotropic effects and tend to be the most effective for users!
- Entourage Effect - refers to multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds working together to produce synergistic effects for the user that could not be reached by using only one compound. This is the reason why full spectrum products tend to provide the most effect compared to isolated and broad-spectrum options.
4. What's the difference between THCA, Delta 9 THC, and Delta 8 THC?
- Delta 8 THC – a psychotropic cannabinoid found in cannabis. It is estimated to be 25-30% less potent than normal THC (Delta 9). Although effects vary among individuals, users often report a relaxing and a full-body experience.
- Delta 9 THC – a psychotropic cannabinoid found in cannabis. It is the most common type of THC that most people are referring to when speaking about hemp, medical, and recreational cannabis products. Although effects vary among individuals, users often report a euphoric experience with well rounded relief.
- THCA - a non-psychotropic cannabinoid found in raw, live cannabis plants. This is the form that THC naturally grows as until it is heated, vaped, or combusted. Once heated, THCA naturally converts to the psychoactive version of THC!
5. Delivery Methods
- Sublingual – this refers to oils and liquids administered under the tongue and held for at least 1-2 minutes before swallowing. Cannabinoids enter directly into the bloodstream through capillaries under the tongue and effects can start to be felt in as little as 15 minutes. The effects can last upwards of 6-8 hours, depending on consistency and metabolism. Sublingual options are great for those that want quick and long-lasting relief!
- Edible - this refers to any food, drink, or capsule ingested through the stomach. Cannabinoids must pass through the liver before entering the bloodstream, and effects can be felt within 1-2 hours after ingestion. The effects usually last 6-8 hours but can vary depending on consistency and individual metabolism. Edible options are great for on the go, before bed, or those that prefer not to vape or smoke!
- Vape/Smokeable - this refers to any flower, cartridge/disposable, or concentrate that is heated or combusted to release plant compounds. The effects can be felt within 5-15 minutes and last about 2-6 hours, depending on consistency and metabolism. Vaping refers to heating the product up just enough to release cannabinoids into a vapor, while smoking refers to burning the product through combustion to release cannabinoids into a smoke. These options are great for those that need immediate delivery or have dietary restrictions!
- Topical - this refers to any cream, lotion, or gel that is applied directly to the skin rather than ingested. The effects can usually be felt within 15-30 minutes and last up to 4-6 hours. CB2 receptors are found throughout all skin cells, which is why topicals have become increasingly popular. These options are great for those that need product in an isolated area or need to pass a drug-screening test, as they don’t absorb into the bloodstream!
6. What are “functional mushroom” drinks?
- Functional mushrooms are natural adaptogens that can help the body resist and adapt to emotional and physical stress. Each mushroom species has unique, potent nutritional properties that can be used to protect and enhance the body and mind. Incorporating these forms of fungi into your diet is a great way to keep a clear and sharp mind while fortifying your body's defenses! We have teamed up with Odyssey Elixir to bring you top of the line tea, coffee, and sparkling water infused with the following functional mushrooms:
- Lion’s Mane - high iron levels that keep the mind sharp and help boost mental clarity.
- Cordyceps – highly known for its energy boosting properties that invigorate the mind and body! These options are great for early mornings or midday fatigue.
- Reishi – best known for helping calm the body and mind, as well as offering a great mood boost!
- Turkey Tail – packed with numerous antioxidants, they help support cell longevity!
(Please visit www.OdysseyElixir.com for more information!)