📖 CBD Education: What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound from cannabis used for its many health benefits. Here's everything you need to know about CBD to make informed health choices.

🌿 General Information

WHAT IS CANNABIDIOL (CBD)?

Cannabidiol or CBD is a cannabis-derived compound, studied for its wide range of potential wellness benefits. Even though CBD has become extremely popular in the mainstream media, there seems to be a lot of confusion surrounding what the plant-based compound can and can't do—making it difficult for even the savviest health-conscious consumers to navigate.

Neurogan is all about delivering transparency and setting a standard in the CBD industry, providing consumers with the information needed to ensure they're purchasing the right hemp-based products to support their health goals.

CBD belongs to a class of phytochemicals called cannabinoids which are concentrated in hair-like, resin crystals speckled on the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant. While CBD is present in both marijuana and hemp strains, it's most abundant in hemp plants, and it's harvested for its benefits towards relaxation and optimizing one's overall health.

Unlike CBD's counterpart, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD on its own does not produce intoxicating effects. The CBD and THC levels distinguish the type of cannabis Sativa plant. In the United States, any cannabis plant with more than 0.3% THC by dried weight is considered marijuana.

CBD that is made with hemp extract tincture oil is federally legal and can be found in products from CBD spray, tinctures, capsules, gummies, lotions, tea, and more, making the benefits of CBD easier to consume and enjoy.

HOW DOES CBD OIL WORK?

CBD has such diverse effects because of its interaction with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Every mammal has an endocannabinoid system made up of a network of neurotransmitters, receptors, and enzymes throughout the body that regulates homeostasis, i.e. internal balance.

If the name of this system sounds familiar, it's no coincidence. The ECS was discovered thanks to researchers investigating the interaction of cannabis plants within our bodies.

It turns out, these active cannabis-derived compounds behave similarly to the neurotransmitters in the ECS called endocannabinoids (endo=within).

When we take a CBD supplement, we're essentially enriching our levels of endocannabinoids that support this complex system’s efforts to keep us in good health by facilitating messaging signals that regulate our vital systems.

IS CBD MARIJUANA?

Neurogan's lineup of CBD products is not derived from marijuana plants.

While hemp and marijuana are technically the same species of plant, cannabis Sativa, and you can harvest CBD from marijuana, hemp and marijuana have differing phytochemical makeups. What distinguishes the two plants are their CBD and THC content. Hemp has a high CBD content and must have no more than 0.3% THC.

Any plant over 0.3% THC is considered a marijuana plant in the United States.

All Neurogan CBD products are hemp-derived, containing high levels of CBD, a diverse cannabinoid, and terpene profile with under 0.3% THC. For those looking for a complete THC-free experience, we offer broad spectrum THC-free CBD extracts that undergo further distillation processes to isolate and remove THC from the extracts.

ARE HEMP OIL AND CBD OIL THE SAME THING?

There is a lot of confusion in the CBD landscape today especially when it comes to terminology. Sadly, manufacturers are cashing in on this confusion by selling hemp-based goods that are not true hemp extract products.

When you hear the term “hemp oil” it could either denote hemp seed oil or referring to a hemp-based CBD (cannabidiol) extract.

Hemp seed oil is a dietary oil that's rich in omega-3. It's consumed as cooking oil or used as an ingredient in the skin and beauty industry. Hemp seed oil is made by pressing the seeds of the plant to extract the oil. Since cannabis seeds do not contain cannabinoids, there are no traces of CBD or THC.

Hemp extract is harvested from the resin found on the leaves and flowers of the hemp plant and is rich in cannabinoids and terpenes. These raw extracts are bitter and potent, making them extremely difficult to use as a pure extract, which is why it's often combined with a carrier oil such as hemp seed oil, olive oil, or MCT coconut oil to make dosing and palatability more enjoyable.

We create all Neurogan products by extracting cannabinoids from raw hemp for either a full spectrum or a THC-free broad spectrum extract. From here, our formulators create signature CBD products that are innovative and effective.

If you feel unable to make the distinction between whether you’re buying hemp seed oil or hemp-based CBD extract, ask to see lab reports for the product in question. While sharing independent lab testing is not yet a requirement in the industry, it's becoming a standard for products containing cannabis compounds.

It's no secret that the cannabis market is full of deception, which is why referring to a product's certificate analysis from a third-party lab can tell you exactly what's in your product from cannabinoid and terpene profile to residual solvents (from extraction) and pesticides or other potential contaminants from farming and processing.

IS THE TYPE OF CBD EXTRACTION IMPORTANT?

The extraction process directly affects the quality of your CBD product.

The two most popular industrial CBD extraction methods are CO2 and ethanol extraction.

CO2 extraction uses CO2 (carbon dioxide), compressed to a supercritical point where it behaves more like a liquid than a gas. If you recognize this chemical abbreviation, it's because we breathe CO2 out of our very own lungs.

The benefit of using CO2 extraction is that it does not leave any harmful solvent residues like butane hash oil extraction (BHO) methods. CO2 extraction is considered the gold standard for yielding high-quality, clean hemp extract, and it's much better for the environment and for the people working with it asCO2 is non-toxic.

Ethanol extraction is another popular and generally safe extraction method used in the health and cosmetic industry, but it is a more time-consuming process.

Supercritical CO2 is used for all Neurogan products and independent lab results confirm that our extracts are free from solvent contamination, pesticides, and have an extensive cannabinoid and terpene profile.

DOES CBD HAVE ANY AGE REQUIREMENT/LIMIT?

CBD’s been shown to be a healthy, all-natural alternative for all ages. However, CBD is typically used by adults aged 18 above. If you wish to use CBD for a child under the age of 18, consult a medical professional to ensure it's a safe compound for your child.

DOES CBD SHOW UP ON A DRUG TEST?

Neurogan full spectrum extracts contain trace amounts of THC. It's not enough to produce any intoxicating effects. However, if taken in large doses over time, THC metabolites can build up in the body.

People may fail drug tests from consuming poppy seeds just as you may receive a false positive when consuming hemp products. The chances are low but it may increase if you consume large portions each day over time.

While drug tests aren't looking for CBD metabolites, as it's a legal substance, drug tests may be triggered from the trace amount of THC metabolites in your system. If you're worried about drug testing for THC, our THC-free broad spectrum CBD products are your next best option.

HOW LONG DOES CBD STAY IN YOUR SYSTEM?

Cannabidiol can remain active in your body for up to 6 hours, and the elimination (half-life) of edible CBD (how long it takes to break down by half) is roughly 1–2 days.

This means that you can expect to feel the effects of CBD for approximately 6 hours, but CBD and other cannabinoids get stored in fat cells as your body metabolizes them.

It can take up to a week for the compounds to completely leave your system, but this length of time may depend on your doses, frequency of use, and metabolism.

CAN I USE CBD FOR MY PET?

Our pets are part of the family, and we all want what's best for our most loyal companions.

Hemp-derived CBD products for pets are a natural and gentle way to support your animal's health. All mammals have an endocannabinoid system to regulate homeostasis. CBD oil for pets works very similarly to how it works for humans — but you'll need to adjust the dose to suit your pet's size.

Cats and dogs don't need as much CBD, which is why you'll often find pet-related CBD products in much lower potencies and in more palatable options for pets.

Another thing to note when purchasing CBD products for your pet is that you may want to avoid products containing THC, as animals may be more sensitive to the psychotropic compound (even in trace amounts).

It's still considered generally safe to administer full spectrum CBD products to your pet, but you should discuss this with your vet and monitor your pet closely after giving them CBD oil with THC to ensure they're not experiencing any discomfort.

If you want to avoid THC altogether, you can still ensure your pet is getting the highest potential of benefits from the cannabis plant with THC-free broad spectrum CBD products for pets. They can enjoy the effects of CBD and the other beneficial cannabinoids without experiencing potential discomfort from THC.

Neurogan's lineup of CBD products for pets includes CBD oil, CBD dog treats, CBD pellets for horses, CBD horse chews, and CBD horse oil.

💚 CBD Effects & Benefits

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CBD AND OTHER CANNABIS-DERIVED COMPOUNDS?

CBD has become a go-to for natural health-seekers to support homeostasis (balance) for optimal function — but it's not the only cannabis-derived compound with health benefits.

Minor cannabinoids including cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN) are gaining more appreciation with new research emerging about their unique effects.

Cannabis experts and many health professionals agree that the best way to consume CBD and other cannabinoids is as full spectrum extracts. When all these cannabinoids work together in a full spectrum or broad spectrum hemp supplement, they leverage a phenomenon called the entourage effect that actually makes the compounds more effective and well-rounded.

You can think of the effects of a single cannabinoid versus the entourage effect like a solo vocalist versus an acapella group.

On its own, one cannabinoid can produce some health benefits, but when they work together, you get a richer and more dynamic harmony. Research promotes the benefits of full spectrum hemp supplements over isolate-based compounds — like pure CBD — and our products reflect hemp’s natural components with near-perfect accuracy.

Among the diverse benefits that CBD has to offer, CBD devotees express enthusiasm over its ability to invoke a sense of calm, aid post-workout recovery, and support a healthy sleep cycle.

Neurogan proudly offers full spectrum and THC-free broad spectrum extracts, rich in CBD content and hemp’s full variety of beneficial plant compounds.

CBD For Focus And Management Of Everyday Stressors

CBD may help to support mental focus and productivity. When our bodies are in a state of high stress, our ability to maintain concentration on given tasks is near impossible. Full spectrum CBD may help to improve mental focus with its calming effects and elevate our mood.

Whole hemp extracts also contain a range of terpenes (aromatic botanical compounds) that contribute to CBD's effect profile. Terpenes such as alpha- pinene (also found in pine needles) and limonene (citrus) have been shown to positively affect our overall mood and uplift our mental alertness.

CBD For A Healthy Sleep Cycle

CBD's calming properties may help to wind you down from your day and prepare your body for rest since the endocannabinoid system plays a key role in regulating our sleep cycle.

Taking CBD oil as part of your bedtime regimen, alongside other healthy sleep habits, can help you create a sustainable sleep routine to achieve the recommended eight hours of sleep each night.

CBD is not a sedative, which means you can wake up the next day feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.

CBD For Normal Recovery Post-Workout

CBD has become many people's gym-bag staple.

You can use it as a cooling rub for targeted benefits or take it as a capsule for a daily supplement to support your hard-at-work endocannabinoid system.

Active individuals like athletes are prone to soreness and joint and muscle overuse. Cannabidiol is a gentle and natural compound that boosts the body's self-healing mechanisms by helping to support normal inflammatory function through the ECS, so you can get back to the gym sooner and safely.

WHAT WILL IT FEEL LIKE WHEN I TAKE CBD OIL?

The most important thing to understand is that CBD affects everyone differently — just as no two bodies are the same, no two people will react to CBD the same.

CBD works intimately with the body’s endocannabinoid system and has a balancing effect on your internal chemistry. That CBD effect will look different based on your genetics, age, your current level of health, and other internal and external factors.

Some individuals report feeling energized or focused after taking CBD, while others report feeling ready for bed. However, one of the most commonly mentioned feelings that people experience once they take CBD is a sense of calmness.

In short, there is no way of predicting how CBD will feel for you, so go ahead and try it with our 30-day risk-free trial to find out whether cannabidiol can support your lifestyle.

DOES CBD HAVE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

When you buy CBD from a reputable, trustworthy brand, like Neurogan, you can trust that you’re getting a high-quality product. However, as with any dietary supplement, there is always the risk of an adverse reaction and/or interaction with medication.

Consult with your physician before you begin taking CBD in order to ensure it’s the right fit for you.

While CBD is considered a safe compound, even at high doses, it may produce some uncomfortable side effects including, nausea, lethargy, stomach aches, and dry mouth. However, these adverse effects are temporary and should subside within 4–6 hours.

DOES CBD MAKE YOU HUNGRY?

CBD doesn't give you the munchies like THC is known to do.

Because CBD has a more balancing effect in the endocannabinoid system, it tends to support the body's sensitivity to our hunger and fullness levels. If you're not on a regular eating schedule, CBD may help to balance your appetite control signals.

HOW LONG DOES CBD STAY IN YOUR SYSTEM?

Cannabidiol can remain active in your body for up to 6 hours, and the elimination half-life of edible CBD (how long it takes to break down by half) is roughly 1–2 days.

This means that you can expect to feel the effects of CBD for approximately 6 hours, but CBD and other cannabinoids get stored in fat cells as your body metabolizes them.

It can take up to a week for the compounds to completely leave your system, but this length of time may depend on your doses, frequency of use, and metabolism.

💊 Product Types & Extracts

WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO CONSUME CBD?

One of the highlights of CBD is that it's an incredibly versatile ingredient. Since the US Farm Bill came into effect in 2018, legalizing hemp crops for supplement use, there's been a tremendous amount of innovation in the space.

We've got products to suit virtually everyone's needs and preferences from classic CBD oils, skincare products, smokables, and edibles in varying flavors and potencies.

HOW DO I PICK A CBD PRODUCT AND HOW MUCH SHOULD I TAKE?

When it comes to picking your first CBD product, we recommend starting with a low-medium dose of one of our basic full spectrum CBD products: Neurogan CBD oil 1000 or Neurogan CBD oil Robust 2000. Our CBD oil, CBD pills and CBD spray were our very first Neurogan CBD products — made with simple ingredients, premium hemp, and designed for ease of use.

Finding the right dose for you will take some time to perfect, however, we always recommend starting low and going slow.

Follow the instructions on the product packaging for dosage during the first 4-6 weeks and determine if either a higher or lower dose product would be right for you based on your experience. During this trial period, try taking CBD daily. Consistent dosage is the best way to experience the beneficial effects of CBD.

Once you feel like you’ve become comfortable with CBD and the right dose for you, it’s time to explore! Hemp-derived CBD is a versatile compound, allowing for many ways to enjoy the compound from fast-acting smokables to more targeted effects with skin products. Try our CBD skin products, CBD smokables, CBD teas, and more.

WHAT CBD PRODUCT DELIVERS THE FASTEST EFFECTS?

There are endocannabinoid receptors found all throughout the body. While eating CBD (oils, capsules, gummies, tea) is a popular way to get the effects of CBD, it's not the fastest. When you eat CBD, it has to go through the gut before it enters the bloodstream to exert its effects, which can take anywhere from 30–45 minutes.

By far the fastest way to feel the effects of CBD is through inhalation, which you can feel within a matter of minutes. Smoking CBD products delivers the active cannabinoids and terpenes directly into the bloodstream via the oxygen exchange in the lungs.

Smoking isn't suitable for everyone, so it's best to experiment with different products to see what delivers the results you're after.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BROAD SPECTRUM AND FULL SPECTRUM CBD?

The biggest distinction between full spectrum or broad spectrum cannabis extracts is the THC content.

Full spectrum contains as close to the full range of the original hemp plant's cannabinoid and terpene profile. Broad spectrum CBD oils are still rich in terpenes and cannabinoids, but the extract undergoes extra steps in its processing to remove traces of THC.

As long as you're looking to shop for hemp-derived CBD products, they can only contain up to 0.3% THC, which isn't enough to produce any intoxicating effects (even at high doses). However, if you undergo drug testing for work, the trace amounts of THC may result in a buildup of metabolites in your system that may trigger a positive result.

In these instances, we've created THC-free broad spectrum CBD oil and other popular CBD products.

Whether you choose a broad spectrum or a full spectrum product, you’ve made a great choice.

Both extracts feature a wide variety of hemp’s cannabinoids, making them capable of the entourage effect: the synergistic quality of hemp’s cannabinoids working together for a stronger effect.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CBD, CBG, AND CBN?

CBD is one of over a hundred cannabinoids harvested from cannabis. While it's the main cannabinoid in hemp, minor cannabinoids such as cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN) have been researched for their unique effects as well and contribute to the overall effectiveness of CBD.

WHAT IS CBG GOOD FOR?

Cannabigerol is a minor cannabinoid that's found in the early flowering phase of cannabis plants. It's better known as the parent molecule to CBD and THC.

CBG has many of the same benefits as CBD, but it's best consumed alongside CBD and other cannabinoids. People report CBG has helped them with supporting a healthy appetite, natural recovery, and to mitigate the adverse effects of THC.

WHAT IS CBN GOOD FOR?

Cannabinol is a metabolite of THC. It's found in higher concentrations in older hemp crops as the THC compound breaks down from oxidation.

While it's a derivative of THC, it does not induce the same level of intoxicating effects.

CBN is best taken alongside a wide range of cannabinoids, and when combined with CBD, it can help to support focus and a sense of calm.

💡About Neurogan CBD

WHAT MAKES NEUROGAN DIFFERENT?

We offer CBD products that are as close to nature as it gets.

Each step in our unique process from seed to bottling is integral to creating a truly unrivaled hemp experience that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

WHY DOES NEUROGAN SELL CBD?

Our co-founder, Jan Brandrup, has had a lifelong interest in hemp. He gained an appreciation for the plant at a young age, through observing the benefits his grandmother, Karen got from her daily cup of homemade hemp-based tea. Jan devised a plan to one day start his own hemp company, and nearly two decades later, Neurogan was born.

HOW DO I KNOW NEUROGAN CBD IS QUALITY?

We take an immense amount of pride in the quality of our Neurogan CBD products.

We start by growing all of our hemp with natural farming practices and a commitment to no pesticides and no GMOs throughout our growth cycle.

Once we’ve finished the extraction, it’s time to test our batches through third-party laboratory testing. This is an important part of our process not only for our internal quality control but to provide our customers with transparency.

We send all of our extracted CBD components to a private laboratory to confirm the cannabinoid content and purity of every batch before packaging our products and sending them to your door.

In fact, we stand behind the quality of our product so much, that we offer a 30 Day Risk-Free Trial. So, if you’re not a fan of our CBD, go ahead and send it back for a full refund — it’s that simple.

DOES NEUROGAN GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY?

We started Neurogan because we wanted to provide quality, affordable, all-natural health products to benefit individuals all over the world. But rather than getting ahead of ourselves, we started by supporting our local San Diego small businesses.

Our company gives back by supporting our local community— in 2019 alone, we gave away over 400bottles of CBD for free to local entrepreneurs, businesses, and non profits.

We are proud to offer special discounts to those who serve our country, including military personnel, as well as to seniors, students, and individuals with disabilities.

Alongside our enthusiastic community support, we love to support causes related to animals. We’ve proudly sponsored national dog shows, horse retreat and training camps, and adoption-centered pet nonprofits.

WHAT MAKES NEUROGAN UNIQUE?

As we’ve mentioned, the quality and purity of our CBD are second to none, but that isn’t the only thing that makes us special.

Our co-founder, Jan Brandrup, has a specialized focus on educating customers when it comes to the pitfalls of the health and supplement industry. It's become our passion to uncover the truth behind popular supplements and manufacturers to help customers feel more informed and hold brands accountable.

To deliver on our education-focused approach, we use independent labs to test popular health products across the market: spirulina, proprietary blends, CBD, fish oil, and other dietary supplements.`

We also take an in-depth look at the structure of goods sold on the Amazon marketplace, while advocating for certified, FDA-approved transparency when it comes to CBD and other health-related products.

As our customer, you’ll receive exclusive access to all of our investigative findings through helpful articles and newsletters that’ll make you feel informed and empowered to make decisions that benefit your health and wellness.

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