Are you contemplating CBD oil for dogs?
The good news is that it may help with several health issues in your pet. Unfortunately, information in the CBD industry is confusing. Don’t worry, we are here to break everything down for you. It is recommended to stay in touch with your vet for more information on how to choose the right product for your companion.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD is the abbreviation for cannabidiol. It is the second major active ingredient in marijuana (cannabis). While it is a critical component in medical marijuana, manufacturers can derive CBD from the hemp plant, a cousin of marijuana. Hemp is differentiated from marijuana by THC levels, a cannabinoid that contains psychoactive properties. Hemp-derived CBD contains a maximum of 0.3 percent THC, so your dog will not get high from consumption of hemp derived cannabidiol products. A World Health Organization (WHO) report shows that CBD may not have any potential abuse or dependence effects.
The History of CBD for Pets
The CBD compound was first isolated from cannabis by Roger Adams in 1940. By the 60s, researchers in the United States were researching the effects of cannabinoids on animals such as primates and mice. The Controlled Substances Act of 1970, criminalized the production, use or possession of any form of cannabis. These inhibited researchers and scientists from exploring the plant further, reducing the number of studies on humans and animals.
Hemp laws and technology progress are now helping expand the knowledge of CBD and the effects it has on the endocannabinoid systems of animals and humans. Before the production of hemp-based products for pets, people understood the potential benefits of supplements such as CBD oil for both people and animals. Cats and dogs often experience the same issues as humans, including anxieties and discomfort. The common reasoning was if something works for humans, it should work for pets too. Pet-specific research is progressing, even to this day.
Effects of CBD on Dogs
Like humans, dogs have ECS in their molecular structure. Endocannabinoid cells tell the body systems the functions the brain wants to accomplish, including relaying instructions to the immune system. These signaling molecules also send instructions when the brain detects an imbalance such as discomfort, immune response, inflammation, disquiet, digestion problems, stress, among others.
The major cannabinoid acids are endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are in animals and humans, while phytocannabinoids are in plants such as cannabis. Phytocannabinoids in CBD can mimic the animal endocannabinoids through the communication of the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 (also known as C1 and C2) – the basis for the optimism behind CBD products. Some researchers believe CBD encourages the body to produce more of its own endocannabinoids, which may help the body deal with imbalances at hand.
