CBD (Cannabidiol) is a compound found in cannabis and hemp plants and has enormous therapeutic potential, though it doesn't make people feel high like THC. Research from around the world has shown that it treats the symptoms of a wide range of conditions. Scientists refer to CBD as “promiscuous” because it confers therapeutic benefits in a deep physiological and systemic way.
Our bodies produce their own CBD and THC, chemicals that mimic the two most prominent molecules in the cannabis plant. This was discovered in 1990's by a group of Israeli scientists, who also discovered that these chemicals produced by our bodies - 'endocannabinoids' (‘endo’ means ‘from within’) - play a role in regulating many physical functions. They help keep our systems in balance, regulate our moods and our stress responses. They protect the nervous system, help to optimize our immune systems, and can even fight certain tumor cells. The ability of phytochemicals - the molecules produced by cannabis and hemp plants - to affect this important regulatory system explains their wide ranging effects on healing.
"The 'ah-ha' moment was when we could all see that it was working" ~Dr. Levinson
Wonderfeel’s innovations combine terpenes with natural and safe pharmaceutical-grade remedies, such as vitamins, minerals or enzymes, to name a few. These CBD 'activators' can unblock failed metabolic pathways faster.
“Evolutionarily terpenes are cofactors that keep the plant alive and effective,” explains Dr. Levinson, Wonderfeel's chief formulator. “They repel predators and even keep other plants from invading their territories. The plant world is constantly at war and terpenes are like biology’s Missile Defense System.”
The essential oils revolution has brought with it scientific research and awareness of the medical benefits of terpenes and aromatherapy. Nearly all of the major terpenes in cannabis are either analgesic (anti-pain) or anti-inflammatory.
But it was in a groundbreaking 2011 paper by neurologist and researcher Dr. Ethan Russo that described how cannabinoids and terpenes work together to boost each other in the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). For a long time THC was considered the only chemical of importance in cannabis. Russo and his team posited how terpenes, when combined with cannabinoids might be able to power up many therapeutic effects.
Myrcene, for instance, induces sedation (sleepiness) and provides anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and analgesic (anti-pain) effects. Limonene, on the other hand, is regarded as an energizing antidepressant compound which has antibacterial properties as well.
In the same paper by Dr. Russo it was revealed that terpenes “could produce synergy with respect to the treatment of pain, inflammation, depression, anxiety, addiction, epilepsy, cancer, fungal and bacterial infections.”
Wonderfeel uses only native-derived terpenes in our formulas. While non-cannabis-derived terpenes (prevalent in plants, fruit, and surprisingly some insects) might be great, we've decided to let Nature's 'whole plant experience' aka 'the entourage effect' be the chef behind our formulas. Our terpenes are captured solely from the cannabis plant. We take great measures in procuring the highest quality terpenes available for our wellness products.
You'll find essences of pinene (alertness) in our Daytime Extra Strength formula, and hints of myrcene (calming) in the Evening CBD category. We invite you to discover terpenes and how they can work for your individual needs.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
1 comments to
Very informative article.