CBD (Cannabidiol)

 Understanding CBD: From Extraction to Action in the Body

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is one of over 100 naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids found in the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa). Unlike its psychoactive counterpart THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not produce a “high.” Derived primarily from industrial hemp, which contains low levels of THC (typically less than 0.3%), CBD is used in various products for both humans and animals. This detailed guide explores how CBD is extracted and its mechanisms in the human and equine bodies.

How CBD is Extracted from Hemp

Before delving into its biological interactions, it’s essential to understand how CBD is produced, as the extraction method impacts purity, potency, and safety. CBD is typically extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of mature hemp plants, where cannabinoids are most concentrated in resinous trichomes.

The most common and preferred method is supercritical CO2 extraction, considered the “gold standard” for producing high-quality, contaminant-free CBD. In this process, carbon dioxide is pressurized and heated to a supercritical state (neither fully liquid nor gas), allowing it to act as a solvent that pulls cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from the plant material without leaving harmful residues. The CO2 is then evaporated, leaving behind a pure extract. This method is efficient, environmentally friendly, and preserves the plant’s full spectrum of compounds.

Other methods include ethanol extraction, where food-grade alcohol dissolves the cannabinoids before being evaporated, yielding a potent concentrate but potentially extracting unwanted chlorophyll if not refined properly.   Solvent-based extractions using hydrocarbons like butane are faster but risk residual toxins, making them less ideal for consumer products.   Simpler, home-friendly approaches like oil infusion involve soaking hemp in carrier oils (e.g., olive or coconut) to create tinctures, though this is less precise and scalable.   Post-extraction, the crude oil undergoes winterization (to remove waxes), distillation, and third-party testing to ensure purity and compliance with legal THC limits. These methods are crucial for producing safe CBD, as poor extraction can introduce contaminants or degrade active compounds.

The Endocannabinoid System: The Foundation of CBD’s Action

At the core of CBD’s interactions in both humans and horses is the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) that plays a role in various physiological processes.   Discovered in the 1990s, the ECS is present in all mammals, including humans and horses, making CBD’s mechanisms broadly similar across species.

The ECS comprises: •  Receptors: Primarily CB1 (abundant in the brain and central nervous system) and CB2 (found in peripheral tissues and immune cells). •  Endocannabinoids: Anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), produced on-demand by the body. •  Enzymes: FAAH and MAGL, which break down endocannabinoids after use.

CBD does not directly bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors like THC does; instead, it modulates the ECS indirectly, influencing endocannabinoid levels by inhibiting breakdown enzymes and interacting with other systems (e.g., serotonin 5-HT1A receptors).

How CBD Works in the Human Body

In humans, CBD enters the bloodstream via ingestion (e.g., gummies, oils), inhalation, or topical application, with bioavailability varying by method (oral: 6-20%; sublingual: higher).   Once absorbed, it interacts with the ECS.

Key mechanisms: •  CBD activates CB2 receptors in immune cells and inhibits FAAH, influencing endocannabinoid levels.

•  By interacting with serotonin receptors and modulating GABA (inhibitory neurotransmitter), CBD engages with neurotransmitter systems. •  CBD interacts with neurons and may influence oxidative processes and circadian rhythms. •  Other Interactions: CBD affects opioid receptors, vanilloid receptors (TRPV1), and even cytochrome P450 enzymes, potentially interacting with medications.

Effects vary by dosage, individual factors (e.g., metabolism, ECS tone), and product type (full-spectrum vs. isolate).

How CBD Works in Horses

Horses, like humans, possess a well-developed ECS, with CB1 and CB2 receptors distributed similarly—in the brain, gut, joints, and immune system—allowing CBD to exert comparable interactions.   Veterinary research, though emerging, shows CBD is bioavailable in horses, with oral doses (1-3 mg/kg) achieving plasma levels.

Mechanisms mirror humans but are tailored to equine physiology: •  CBD interacts with joint tissues and influences nociception processes in horses.

•  In various situations, CBD modulates the ECS. •  By interacting with cytokine production and immune cells, CBD engages with immune processes. •  Bioavailability Variations: Horses metabolize CBD variably; oral absorption is dose-dependent, and effects may last longer due to their size and slower metabolism.

Differences from humans include horses’ sensitivity to dosing—start low (0.5-2 mg/kg)—and potential for gastrointestinal effects, requiring veterinary oversight.

Safety and Considerations

In both species, CBD’s non-psychoactive nature makes it a subject of interest, but responses depend on factors like age, health, and product quality.  Always consult professionals, as CBD can interact with drugs (e.g., via CYP enzymes). Ongoing research continues to explore CBD’s interactions in the body’s natural systems.