What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a molecule belonging to the cannabinoid family, found in the flowers of the industrial hemp plant (Cannabis Sativa). It is found in products such as flowers, oils, balms or creams. Studies on CBD, mostly preclinical, explore possible properties such as:
- Anxiolytic
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Neuroprotective
- Analgesic
- Anticonvulsant
These results do not allow any conclusion, and CBD is not a medicine. Many users say they choose CBD products in a logic of wellness, and CBD does not have the intoxicating effect of the illegal THC-rich recreational cannabis (Cannabis Indica). For any health question, ask your doctor.
How does CBD act on the body?
What makes CBD very special is its ability to work with the endocannabinoid system. All mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which produces molecules (endocannabinoids) similar to some of those found in hemp or cannabis. Researchers are studying how cannabidiol interacts with this system, whose CB1 and CB2 receptors are involved in many processes such as:
- The metabolism
- The nervous system
- The immune system
- The digestive system
- The sensory system
- etc.
Is CBD vegan?
CBD cosmetics and all other CBD-based products may be derived from the hemp flower, but this does not necessarily mean that they are vegan. We will explain why, but first what is veganism?
The term vegan was created by Donald Watson in 1944. Co-founder of the Vegan Society, Watson conceived this word from the first and last letters of "Vegetarian". This movement recognizes that animals have a natural right to life and liberty, and does not accept that they can be exploited for food or work of any kind. Vegans refuse to be a source of suffering for animals, and want animals, like humans, to be treated ethically.
Vegans do not consume or use any animal products, including meat, milk, fur, leather, or wool. They also eliminate all products that have been tested on animals, such as certain cosmetics and cleaning products.
What does this have to do with CBD, which comes from a plant, you may ask? Well, you should know that during the different stages of hemp's life, from the small seed buried in the ground to the finished product, many processes take place, and other elements or ingredients can be added by the manufacturer. Some fertilizers use compounds derived from lactose, thus from milk. Some capsules or candies may contain ingredients such as animal gelatin (note that in France, CBD foods cannot be sold, CBD not being authorised as a food in the European Union). A cream or a balm with CBD may have been tested on animals. The examples are numerous, and it is easy to understand that it can be difficult to find your way.
To check whether a CBD cream, balm or other product is vegan, read its label: when a product is vegan, the producer usually says so. If you find no mention, you can contact the brand's customer service to find out, and avoid using a product that does not match your values.
