Are you using CBD (Cannabidiol) yet? Most likely, you’re using it, researching it, thinking about it, asking about it, or simply curious. So, what’s all the hype and is it legit? I’m not the expert, but if you want something with research-backed benefits, you found it. It can improve inflammation, sleep, anxiety, stress, depression, mood, brain health, and reduce risk of obesity and diabetes.
When it comes to food and supplements, I believe in keeping it “real.” I also believe in balance, mother nature, and plants. So, do I believe in CBD? Absolutely! Like every other supplement, not all CBD oil is created equal, so when I decided to make it part of my daily regimen, I did my due diligence. I’m a runner, fitness fiend, supplement snob, and nutrition nut, and when I want guidance, I always trust Jake.
Jake Anderson has a Master of Science Degree in Exercise Science, is a NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, an RRCA Certified Running Coach, and a Clinical Cannabinoid Consultant. He’s the founder and owner of Norfork Adventure Supply and Norfork Hemp Co, which is the CBD oil my boyfriend and I have been using for six months. Their CBD oil is premium grade Hemp Extract that has only two ingredients: Organic, Cold-Pressed Hemp Seed Oil and Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract. Certificates of analysis show it has the full complement of phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids to support an active lifestyle.
Not only is Jake a wealth of knowledge, he’s a running billboard: 2-time Sylamore Trail 50K overall winner, Styx ’n Stones 30K overall winner, Outback in the Ozarks record setting team member, Arkansas Traveller 100-mile finisher, Dogwood Canyon 25K overall winner, Ozark Highlands Trail – Sylamore Section FKT holder, Buffalo River Trail Half overall winner, and plans to set the Buffalo Trail FKT in a couple weeks. He’s been running trails competitively for 12 years and shares, “consistency in training means everything for prolonged improvements in this sport. The ability to recover from everyday life that includes endurance training will ultimately determine how well you can do in the long run. PUN intended.”
Creating Balance with Hemp-Derived CBD, by Jake Anderson
The goal of the human body should always trend toward “homeostasis” or a relatively stable equilibrium between interdependent elements. Maintaining this balance creates an environment for optimal functioning and a greater sense of well-being. The current research shows that the human Endocannabinoid System (ECD) aids in this process, with cannabinoids being produced within the body that work to stimulate receptors and maintain balance. For this educational article we will stick with this primary function, although more mechanisms of action are established, and even more are being discovered as scientists make advancements in this relatively new field.
When asked to discuss the benefits of CBD, I like to start with this concept of balance so that a person can understand why it has the potential to support so many areas of health and wellness. The human body produces two primary Endocannabinoids, Anandamide and 2-AG, that manipulate receptors and promote homeostasis. During times of acute or chronic stress the body can degrade these Endocannabinoids at faster rates, leaving our net balancing potential diminished. This is where Phytocannabinoids come into play. Phyto refers to the origin of these cannabinoids, which are produced in certain plants, with Cannabis being a primary source, but they are also found in a lesser degree in other botanicals like echinacea and passionflower. CBD is the most abundant Phytocannabinoid found in therapeutic hemp and although it doesn’t directly stimulate receptors, it does suppress the enzymes that break down Anandamide and works to stimulate greater release of 2-AG. These very important qualities allow the body to continue its ability to keep us stabilized. There are many other important discoveries about CBD, but we’ll leave those for another article.
According to many practitioners, including Jeffrey Hergenrather, MD, many common conditions could be linked to an Endocannabinoid deficiency including: Schizophrenia, Migraines, Multiple Sclerosis, Huntington’s Disease, Parkinson’s, IBS, Anorexia, Chronic Motion Sickness, Fibromyalgia, Seizure Disorders, as well as mood disorders and depression. For more information about specific research into these conditions look to Society of Cannabis Clinicians at www.cannabisclinicians.org. Further research supports the use of CBD as an alternative to common anti-inflammatories, allowing daily usage without toxicity and potential long-term side effects associated with NSAIDS and Acetaminophen. For a detailed approach to dosing contact me at info@norforkhemp.com.
There are hundreds of CBD companies out there and making the right decision on which one to choose can be difficult. In an unregulated industry, the reality is that there is a wide range in quality with the products on the market. In fact, when the FDA evaluated CBD products in 2015 and 2016, They found that 22 out of 24 products did not have the levels of CBD advertised on their label. A follow-up study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2017 revealed that 70% of the products did not match their labels. Therefore, it is crucial that you demand a Certificate of Analysis (COA) that ensures a third-party lab analyzed the product to determine its cannabinoid properties. When looking for the highest therapeutic potential it is important to look for a product that includes a full array of Phytocannabinoids including: CBG, CBN, CBC, along with high levels of CBD. Science also shows that certain terpenes associated with specific strains of Cannabis can offer support. One specific example is Beta-Caryophyllene (BCP), which by binding to CB2 receptors, one of two receptors found in the endocannabinoid system; works to help support a healthy nervous system and immune function while promoting overall health and well-being.
The goal of this article is to help clear up some of the confusion and stigma that surrounds industrial hemp. Since we now know our bodies have an Endocannabinoid System that functions to keep us in better balance, we have to opportunity to support it. When life creates imbalances for whatever reason, we can seek relief from plant-based sources of cannabinoids, assisting our own natural system in a safe and effective manner. If you would like more information about Norfork Hemp Co “Peak Extract” you can stop by Norfork Adventure Supply in Historic Downtown Norfork or call the store at 870-726-4845.