Introduction
In recent years, a phytocompound has captured the attention of both the scientific community and those seeking natural wellness solutions: cannabidiol, better known as CBD. Derived from the Cannabis sativa L. plant, this compound has been the focus of numerous studies due to its non-psychoactive properties and its interaction with one of the body’s most complex systems: the endocannabinoid system.
What is CBD and where does it come from?
CBD is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Unlike THC, its more famous counterpart, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects, meaning it doesn’t alter consciousness or cause euphoric states. Instead, it acts more subtly, functioning as a natural modulator of physiological processes.
This compound is primarily extracted from industrial hemp varieties selected for their low THC content. CBD is available in isolated crystal form, distillates, or full-spectrum extracts and can be incorporated into a variety of botanical formulations.
How does CBD work in the human body?
The human body has a system known as the endocannabinoid system—a biological network that helps regulate key functions such as sleep, appetite, inflammation, stress response, and internal balance (homeostasis).
CBD does not bind directly to CB1 receptors (mainly in the brain) or CB2 receptors (present in the immune system and peripheral organs). Instead, it modulates their activity and also interacts with other receptors such as TRPV1 (involved in pain and inflammation) and serotonin receptors, expanding its therapeutic potential.
Investigated Uses of CBD
Recent studies have shown that CBD may support:
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Neurochemical balance in the nervous system
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Inflammatory response regulation
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Relaxation and sleep quality
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Immune system modulation
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Pain perception regulation
It’s important to note that these applications are based on academic and clinical research and do not constitute direct usage recommendations in specific health contexts.
Bioavailability: How is CBD absorbed?
One of the key factors for CBD’s effectiveness is its bioavailability—the body’s ability to absorb and utilize the compound after administration.
Because CBD is lipophilic (fat-soluble), it needs a fat-based carrier for efficient absorption and transport. That’s why it is commonly blended with a vegetable carrier oil. The choice of this oil can make a significant difference in the absorption quality and user experience.
Which carrier oils are used in CBD formulations?
| Carrier Oil | Main Benefits | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Sacha Inchi | High affinity with the human body. Rich in omega 3, 6, 9. Strong antioxidant (vitamin E). Light texture and excellent absorption. Ancestral Amazonian tradition. | Higher cost. Limited production in specific regions. |
| Grape Seed | Very light texture. Fast absorption. Good oxidative stability. | Lower concentration of active nutrients than other oils. |
| Jojoba | Liquid wax similar to human sebum. Highly dermo-compatible. Ideal for topical use. | Low penetration in internal tissues. |
| Fractionated Coconut | Stable, colorless, neutral, and odorless. Easy to use in cosmetics and supplements. | Lower physiological affinity with lipophilic plant compounds. |
| Extra Virgin Olive | Rich in polyphenols and oleic acid. Emollient and protective. Stable and accessible. | Dense texture, slower absorption, dominant aroma. |
Sacha Inchi Oil: A Superior Carrier
Among all the carrier oils analyzed, Sacha Inchi oil stands out due to its unique composition and its ancestral use in natural wellness traditions. Its balanced profile of essential fatty acids, light texture, and high biological compatibility enable plant compounds like CBD to disperse efficiently throughout the body.
This dispersal capability not only enhances bioavailability but also harmonizes the extract’s interaction with internal body systems. Moreover, its antioxidant profile helps preserve the compound’s integrity during formulation and use.
Conclusion
CBD represents one of the greatest modern discoveries in the study of medicinal plants. Its modulating action, plant-based origin, and interaction with natural body processes make it a compound worthy of serious attention.
However, for its benefits to be truly effective, understanding its formulation is essential. The choice of carrier oil is not a minor detail—it directly impacts absorption, compound distribution within the body, and the user’s holistic experience. Thanks to its phytochemical richness and ancestral legacy, Sacha Inchi oil emerges as an exceptional carrier.
Sources:
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Iffland, K., & Grotenhermen, F. (2017). An update on safety and side effects of cannabidiol: A review of clinical data and relevant animal studies. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research.
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Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology.
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Mecha, M., et al. (2013). Cannabidiol provides long-lasting protection against the deleterious effects of inflammation in a viral model of multiple sclerosis. Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology.
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Gutiérrez, L. F., et al. (2011). Chemical composition of Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) and its potential use in food industry. Journal of Food Science and Technology.