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If you have not been caught up in the momentum of CBD yet, and unaware that it comes with a wealth of health benefits, you have probably been too busy having the joy sucked from your life by the rigours of work and the daily struggle to survive. If so, you just need to sit back, relax, and read on.

What is CBD and why is it safe?

Discovered in 1940 from Minnesota wild hemp, cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemical compounds present in the Cannabis plant, concentrated in a viscous resin that is produced in plant structures.

There are at least 113 types of compounds that have been isolated from the Cannabis plant including cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), and the most controversial of all plant chemical compounds: tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short.

Now, THC is what most people are largely concerned about – probably because it is illegal in most countries due to its psychoactive tendency to get one high and the association with violence and criminality – and possibly why many have wrongly perceived CBD as nature’s taboo.

Here comes the geeky part…

The endocannabinoid system – let’s stick with ECS for short – is a specialised biological system within our bodies that remains under preliminary research.

The ECS is our in-built regulatory machine.

The reason for scientists developing techniques, theories, and building technology around the ECS is because its receptors are heavily involved in the following:-

Regulating physiology and cognitive processes

• Fertility
• Pregnancy
• Sleep
• Appetite
• Mood
• Memory
• Postnatal development
• Immune response
• Pain-sensation

…so, as you can see, it’s a big deal.

So what’s the big issue with CBD?

Located throughout the body, and part of the aforementioned ECS, are cannabinoid receptors. These are responsible for appetite, sleep, pain and memory, and there are two known subtypes: CB1 and CB2.

CBD is already naturally present within the ECS and works to restore balance as the body’s conductor of biological activity; working to keep all bodily systems in harmony.

Say ‘Hello’ to CB1. This guy is expressed in the lungs, kidneys, liver and the central nervous system. The fact that CB1 has access via the central nervous system to our brains often means that some of its work is associated with all the negativity that the brain can throw at us – you can see where I’m going with this – and I will now explain the fundamental difference between CBD and the well-known THC.

Stay with me on this…

As touched upon, the infamous chemical compound (THC) binds itself to the receptor CB1 and this is what induces the ‘high’ sensation within the brain that shocks many into a morality rant.

Now, show a warm welcome to CB2. CB2 receptors work on T-cells and the immune system and play a role in pain relief. The skin also has CB2 receptors which we will discuss later.

To conclude, THC attaches itself to the brain’s CB1 receptors whilst CBD passes right by this area and works its magic without the ‘high’ and supports the areas associated with the CB2 receptors.

Likewise, taking these facts into consideration, there are strict guidelines in place with regards to the legal THC content for CBD oils. In the UK, it must contain no more than 0.2% THC, and the THC must not be easily separated from it.

Subsequently, with the legalities in place, CBD oil has surged in popularity and is now available to buy in high-street health shops and stores promoting wellness.

The Benefits of CBD oil and how it works

This is where it gets interesting…

Pain – as previously mentioned, using natural remedies for wellness is nothing new. It is highly likely that Marijuana was first used to treat pain as early as 2900 B.C. and pain is high on the agenda of things to avoid if long and fruitful life is to be achieved.

You know that aforementioned specialised system…ECS …? Well, the body produces endocannabinoids there and the neurotransmitters bind to cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system and, according to in-depth studies, CBD may help reduce pain and inflammation upon interacting with neurotransmitters.

Furthermore, CBD is now approved in many countries to help relieve pain related to sciatica, multiple sclerosis, cancer-related symptoms and rheumatoid arthritis. And, furthermore, several relatively new studies have shown positive results when treating epilepsy.

This ability to act on systems of signalling within the brain means that the majority of studies involving CBD is likely to be in an area of research that treats neurological disorders.

Mental Health – we’ve all heard the reports and, if you aren’t amongst the growing number of individuals suffering due to mental health issues, you will certainly know someone or know of someone who has anxiety issues or depression. It’s everywhere and it’s a major concern.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), depression is now the single largest contributor to disability in the world.

Traditionally, anxiety and depression have been treated with prescription drugs that carried enough side effects to bring down a revolution. Pharmaceutical giants have been more than happy to profit from addictive substances that burden patients with drowsiness, migraines, insomnia and sexual dysfunction.

Where there is CBD… there is hope.

The natural elements of CBD oil have shown us encouraging results as a safe treatment for anxiety and depression with minimal side effects and zero chance of CBD substance abuse. In fact, studies suggest that CBD modifies circuits in the brain, thus making it an effective defence against dependency.

CBD’s stress-reducing properties can regulate mood and behaviour because it acts on the brain’s receptors for serotonin (a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness).

CBD’s antidepressant qualities have also been shown to be useful when safely treating post-traumatic stress and sleep disorders.

Scrutiny.

Of course, there is scrutiny, everything is scrutinised. Even the bees are scrutinised over their production of honey, and penguins have probably been accused by capitalist governments of being far too left-wing – we don’t want those communists taking our ice.

If you didn’t already know, scrutiny is nature’s defence against joy.

Not wanting to deliberately side with caution, I must point out here that further studies are required. However, the optimist in me sees the potential for CBD being used to treat a host of serious health issues in the future.

The studies are there; the writing is on the wall.

The CBD research will continue and I’m positive we will see this powerful antioxidant making more ground-breaking headlines around the world as CBD is linked to treating heart disease, diabetes, blood pressure, the prevention of cognitive decline, cancer reduction, stroke and much, much more.

CBD and Massage – taking you to another level.

For those of you who already know the science behind a good massage – relaxation, heals sore muscles, stress relief, improved posture, relieves back pain, aids sleep, lowers blood pressure etc, etc – combine that knowledge with the science-based facts of CBD oils and we are talking about a whole new level of wellness.

Consider CBD to be the Machu Picchu of massages; the highest form of care for your tired, aching muscles.

Remember how we were discussing receptors? Well, those CB2 receptors that work on T-cells and the immune system also work on the skin. The receptors have an uninterrupted journey to the bloodstream for fast, effective impact, meaning that all the natural goodness of CBD is soaked right up and absorbed in one pain-relieving, anxiety-soothing, muscle tension-melting experience.

Making a CBD oil massage part of your wellness regime can make all the difference to your mind and body.

Are you sure about this? Do you see a perfect collaboration now? If not, allow me to pontificate:

CBD massage calms inflammation; soothes anxiety; combats chronic pain; reduces tension. It might sound like something different to a traditional rubdown but this is the traditional massage. Humanity has been building up to moments like these for centuries. We just didn’t realise it until science showed us the way – it is now evidence-based!

Whilst on the subject of skin…

Reaching areas more effectively, CBD oil may also help various types of acne.

That oily substance the skin makes, sebum, can be adjusted by CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce and prevent outbreaks.

Those affected by skin conditions such as acne and eczema have been seeking solutions for generations and turning to potions and chemicals in an attempt to eradicate irritation and worsening symptoms.

When pores get blocked by dead skin cells, waxy sebum is released. This results in a build-up of excess bacteria which leads to oily skin and the forming of spots.

Topicals: medicinal application directly to body surfaces… not current events.

A wise, preferred choice for acne sufferers should be a range of topicals (creams and balms) containing CBD and essential amino acids. The fast, effective qualities of CBD oil is highly permeable and gets to work fast upon entering the skin – CBD has a habit of working as efficiently as a growing economy – and the CBD oil anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties not only eliminate but help prevent the inflammatory causes.

More significantly, researchers have proven that the incredible compounds of CBD oils actually change our DNA, resulting in an improved appearance of acne scars upon a regular application of topical CBD oil.

The ongoing research has also shown that CBD oils can contribute to the reduction of a variety of other skin complaints such as psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and dry, itchy skin.

The oil can also be applied to the back, shoulders, and neck where necessary, as acne can be prone to these areas due to an abundant share of sebaceous glands.

Product Placement

If you are looking for product advice on this page, look no further…

UK-based and consciously produced, Gaia Guru (www.gaiaguru.co.uk) comes highly recommended.

Producing a wide range of massage oils, balms and drops, Gaia Guru blend full-spectrum CBD with herbs and spices from nature’s lovingly prepared garden. If you would like to receive 10% off their range, enter ‘gurulauraq‘ at checkout.

Massaged into the skin, the motions increase the blood flow that helps to heal damaged muscles whilst reducing inflammation and soreness. Balms can be applied to more concentrated, localised areas for a more defined approach, allowing your therapist to adapt and treat in accordance with each individual requirement.

Incorporating all the elevated benefits of massage we have already discussed, Gaia Guru is ahead of the game when it comes to targeting relaxation, deep tissue massage and sports-related aggravation.

Carefully lab-tested in line with UK and EU legislation, Gaia Guru’s products are all-natural and all contain < 0.2% THC and 1% CBD per 100ml bottle of massage oil.

Ethically transparent and cruelty-free, Gaia Guru exhibits all laboratory tests on its website and specifically tailors its products towards the needs of the consumer.

Ask your therapist for details and don’t forget to mention any allergies, currently prescribed medication, application preferences, and any pregnancies. I’m sure there will be a treatment tailored just for you.

And it doesn’t stop there…

There is no denying the medicinal, therapeutic value of CBD oils. CBD now holds the status of having its qualities rubber-stamped with the approval of UK and EU legislation, and things can only continue to get better as the clinical research into its full capability continues.

We’re not quite there yet.

It’s not quite the miracle cure humanity has been hoping for but thanks to the legislation and the careful production from environmentally conscious companies such as Gaia Guru, the side effects to these products are isolated and being continuously monitored to ensure that enjoyment, safety, and wellbeing are at the forefront of this product – I wonder how many other industries can say that?

And, I’m sure it won’t be long before drinks giants such as Coca-Cola, Pepsi and craft ale breweries provide CBD-oil laced drinks – watch this space.

I hope you found fulfilment from this post and please refer back to us for further developments in massage and CBD advice.

If you would like to try a CBD massage and experience all its remedial and therapeutic benefits, click here to book a treatment today.