Welcome to the Daily Dose where we embark on an exciting journey through the world of CBD, exploring a fascinating revelation that has captivated scientists and enthusiasts alike. While CBD (cannabidiol) has long been associated with cannabis and its therapeutic properties, recent groundbreaking research has shed light on an extraordinary revelation: CBD is not an exclusive gift of the cannabis plant.
Surprisingly, this non-intoxicating compound has been found in a diverse array of other botanical sources, opening up a new frontier of possibilities and potential benefits that extend beyond what we ever imagined. Join us as we delve into the unexpected botanical realms that harbor this intriguing cannabinoid, unveiling the potential impact it may have on our well-being and understanding of the natural world.
CBD: What is it and Where is it Found?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound known as a cannabinoid. It belongs to a family of compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD is one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in cannabis, second only to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Unlike THC, CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects commonly associated with marijuana, making it non-intoxicating.
Typically, CBD is found in higher concentrations in hemp, a specific variety of Cannabis sativa that has been cultivated for various industrial purposes. Hemp is characterized by its low THC content and high CBD content.
THC Levels in CBD
CBD products derived from hemp typically contain only trace amounts of THC, usually less than 0.3%. This minimal THC content is a legal requirement in many countries, including the United States, for hemp-derived CBD products to be considered legal and non-intoxicating. The small amount of THC in these products is not enough to produce any psychoactive effects or cause a "high."
On the other hand, CBD products derived from marijuana, which is another variety of the Cannabis sativa plant, can contain higher levels of THC. In states or countries where marijuana is legal for recreational or medicinal use, CBD products made from marijuana may have varying levels of THC, and their use might be subject to different regulations.
It's essential to check the product's label and verify its source to determine the CBD and THC content accurately.
Recent Study: CBD Found in Brazilian Plant
Researchers from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) have discovered CBD in the native Brazilian plant, Trema micrantha. While finding cannabinoids in plants other than cannabis is not a new idea, it is the properties of the CBD found in the Brazilian plant that makes this particular discovery significant. Chemical analysis of Trema micrantha showed no trace of THC compounds, setting it apart from the cannabis sativa plant where CBD is typically found.
What is Trema micrantha?
Trema micrantha, commonly known as the Florida trema, belongs to the Cannabaceae family and is a fascinating flowering plant. As a fast-growing deciduous tree, it can soar up to 10 meters tall, flourishing not only in Brazil, its native habitat, but also in various tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
This hardy and adaptable tree has earned a reputation as a common weed in urban landscapes due to its ability to thrive in nearly any soil condition. However, its significance extends far beyond its classification as a weed.
In its natural environment, Trema micrantha plays a vital ecological role, offering fruits that serve as a valuable food source for numerous bird species. Furthermore, the tree contributes to seed dispersal and fosters biodiversity. With its rapid growth and dense foliage, it becomes a shelter for wildlife, while its extensive root system aids in preventing soil erosion.
In urban settings, Trema micrantha finds a purpose in landscaping, not only for its appealing appearance but also for its capacity to enhance air quality by absorbing pollutants. This multifaceted plant showcases the importance of understanding and appreciating the ecological contributions of seemingly ordinary flora, encouraging us to reconsider its classification as a mere weed and recognize its true value within our ecosystems.
Implications of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro Study
The results of the study from researchers at the UFRJ could have large implications for the CBD industry as a whole, especially in regions and countries where THC is completely outlawed. Currently all CBD grown is full spectrum flower, this means even if the THC concentration is extremely low there is still THC in the buds produced by the plant. While the THC can be removed by extraction and isolation, there is currently no CBD flower being grown that is completely absent of THC. The existence of THC, along with the limits on THC imposed by most countries, between 0.3-0.2%, makes creating legal CBD products a challenge for businesses and restricts access for those who benefit from these products.
The discovery of CBD in Trema micrantha could open new doors for developing products free of THC that are known to meet legal requirements for CBD products and eliminates the need for governments to approve large scale cannabis grow operations. By removing the barriers to set up a growing operation the Brazilian plant could be a pathway to large scale CBD production.
More research is needed to determine if Trema micrantha produces CBD that has the same activity as cannabidiol extracted from the Cannabis sativa plant. To determine this a team of chemists, biologists, geneticists, and botanists are collaborating to find the best ways to analyze the CBD in Trema micrantha and extract it. According to the main research coordinator, Rodrigo Soares Moura Neto, the team has obtained a 500,000 real ($104,000 USD) grant from the Brazilian government to fund more research that will take approximately 5 years to complete.
CBD Minus The THC
In conclusion, the exploration of CBD beyond its traditional associations with cannabis has unveiled a captivating world of possibilities. The discovery of CBD in plants other than Cannabis sativa, the development of THC-free CBD products, and the ongoing research into its diverse applications signal a transformative era for the CBD industry. With a wider market acceptance and a more significant potential for innovation, THC-free CBD presents a promising avenue for reaching a broader audience and creating products that cater to specific needs and preferences.
As we venture into this new frontier, it is essential to maintain a delicate balance between scientific progress, consumer trust, and environmental responsibility. Embracing the knowledge gained from this emerging landscape, we can harness the full potential of CBD to enhance well-being, drive sustainable practices, and revolutionize the way we approach health and wellness in the modern world. The journey has only just begun, and as science and technology continue to unravel the mysteries of CBD, we eagerly anticipate the transformative impact it will have on our lives.
E1011 Labs and CBD
As Neto and his team of researchers search for a way to extract CBD from the Brazilian weed, here at E1011 Labs we are working to bring the power of cannabinoids to your fingertips. By creating an innovative heat-not-burn device and prefilled, predosed flower pods we have created a convenient plug and play system to use with CBD-rich hemp flower. Our elon® device works to quickly heat the flower to the optimal temperature while avoiding the toxins and ash created by traditional flower consumption methods. Simply insert a flower pod, arrow side down, into the device and enjoy as the cannabinoids and terpenes are released for you to inhale.
Our flower pods are known as stelo™ and, as mentioned above, come predosed and prefilled with CBD flower. We use full spectrum flower in our stelo to allow users to receive the full range of benefits from the cannabinoids released during the heating process. So while our flower will always be 2018 Farm Bill compliant by testing with THC levels of 0.3% or below, users should be aware the stelo products do still contain THC. The levels of THC are low enough to not produce a psychoactive effect however, using the stelo on a regular basis could result in positive results on a drug test. Users have the ability to check the THC level in our products by scanning the QR code on the back of the 10 count packs or searching for the batch number here to find the corresponding COA.
Those curious about CBD and our products can order a Starter Bundle to get all the benefits of elon and stelo at a fraction the price. Order now to begin your CBD journey with E1011 Labs!
