Let’s first begin by defining CBD.  CBD means Cannabidiol, which is a compound found in marijuana.  CBD can be derived from hemp or from non-hemp plants.  Hemp is defined as any part of the cannabis sativa plant with no more than 0.3% of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the mind-altering substance found in marijuana plants.

CBD oil is pretty accessible to most in the form of lotions and oils, foods, and even cosmetics.  In 2018, the U.S. Congress passed and signed into law the Agriculture Improvement Act.  This law removed hemp from the federal Controlled Substances Act, effectively legalizing CBD if it comes from hemp.  However, a few states have not removed hemp from their state’s controlled substances acts, so legality of CBD products differs across states.  Scientists are still learning about how CBD affects the body. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)  approved Epidiolex, a medicine that contains purified CBD from hemp, to help treat rare seizure disorders.  A prescription form of CBD is used for seizure disorder (epilepsy).  CBD is also used for anxiety, pain, a muscle disorder called dystonia, Parkinson disease, Crohn disease, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Using CBD products is not risk free.  The FDA has limited data on CBD safety.  Please consider these possible side effects and risks before using CBD:

• Liver damage
• Interference with other drugs you are taking, which may lead to injury or serious side effects
• Drowsiness or sleepiness
• Diarrhea or changes in appetite
• Changes in mood, such as irritability

Using CBD during pregnancy is not recommended.  CBD use during pregnancy is not recommended. The potential health effects of using CBD products during pregnancy are currently unknown.  In animals, high doses of CBD have caused negative effects on developing fetuses.  We do not know if CBD is passed to a baby through breast milk.  Since negative effects have been associated with CBD use, people who are breastfeeding are encouraged to avoid CBD.

What body system is CBD and Copaiba Essential Oil trying to access, and why?

The Endocannabinoid System or ECS helps the body regulate stress and anxiety.

The ECS is a signaling and regulating system comprised of enzymes, receptor sites throughout the body, and endocannabinoids produced by the body.  With cannabinoid receptors found widely in the body and all major organs, the ECS acts as a major regulator of human health.  The CB2 receptors in this system are of particular importance because they are mostly found within the immune system.  When Copaiba is consumed, the BCP binds to these receptors to aid healthy immune and inflammatory responses.   It also influences multiple signaling pathways to promote healthy liver, digestive, kidney, heart, and brain function.

Powerfully relaxing, Copaiba oil comes from the resin of four tropical trees native to Brazil.  Copaiba oil is a powerful anti-oxidant and can help soothe anxious feelings, help with the cardiovascular, nervous, digestive, immune, and respiratory systems.  Using natural plant products in traditional health has been a practice for centuries. Mother Nature has provided some of the most diverse, complex compounds still used today to promote wellness and address a variety of concerns.

Taken internally, Copaiba essential oil supports the health of the cardiovascular, immune, digestive, and nervous systems.  It also helps support a healthy inflammatory response.  Copaiba essential oil can be added directly to the mouth to cleanse and soothe the gums and oral cavity.  The main component, β-caryophyllene, may be neuroprotective and may have cardiovascular and immune benefits when consumed.  Copaiba oil contains the highest levels of β-caryophyllene (BCP) among currently known essential oils.

What is Beta-Caryophyllene? 

The Terpene Beta-Caryophyllene is present in black pepper, oregano, basil, and many other herbs and spices. Beta-Caryophyllene molecular structure is unique and a natural constituent of many essential oils.  Caryophyllene is notable for having a cyclo-butane ring, a rarity in nature.

CB1 and CB2 receptors are essential in the vast network of receptors in the endocannabinoid system.  CB1 receptors are principally located in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found mainly in our peripheral organs.  Beta-Caryophyllene easily attaches to CB2, meaning it doesn’t cause the euphoric feelings.  As mentioned earlier, its relationship with the endocannabinoid system and its ability to bind to CB2 receptors gives it excellent potential to provide medicinal benefits.

BCP selectively binds to CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS)

The ECS is a signaling and regulating system comprised of enzymes, receptor sites throughout the body, and endocannabinoids produced by the body.  With cannabinoid receptors found widely in the body and all major organs, the ECS acts as a major regulator of human health.  The CB2 receptors in this system are of particular importance because they are mostly found within the immune system.  When Copaiba is consumed, the BCP binds to these receptors to aid healthy immune and inflammatory responses.   It also influences multiple signaling pathways to promote healthy liver, digestive, kidney, heart, and brain function.

Copaiba oil is sourced in Brazil from four species of copaiba tree resin: Copaifera reticulata tree, officinalis, Coriacea, and Langsdorffii.  By harnessing the benefits of the most potent copaiba species, a maximum potency essential oil is obtained.  With a pleasant, spicy, and woody aroma, Copaiba oil can help calm emotions and soothe anxious feelings. 

Uses

• Add one to two drops to water, juice, or tea to support the health of the cardiovascular, immune, digestive, nervous, and respiratory system.
• Provides antioxidant support when ingested.
• Take internally to help soothe and calm the nervous system.
• Apply topically combined with a carrier oil or a facial moisturizer to help keep skin clean and clear, and to help reduce the appearance of blemishes.
• Swish with two drops of Copaiba Oil and one drop of peppermint oil to freshen the breath and promote oral cleanliness.
• Apply two to three drops and cover with Deep Blue rub to soothe sore, tired muscles after strenuous activity.
• Mix equal amounts of Copaiba Oil and Fractionated Coconut oil and apply to restore stressed skin.
• Place one to two drops of Copaiba under the tongue to encourage a general sense of well-being during periods of stress or nervousness.
• Diffuse three drops each of Copaiba and Breathe blend to support healthy respiratory function.
• Diffuse two drops each of Copaiba, Vetiver, Lavender, and Wild Orange or Serenity blend to promote restful sleep at night.

Listen to this PodCast from Dr. David K. Hill, D.C., Founding Executive Chief Medical Officer/Chairman, and Scientific Advisory Committee:  CBD vs. COPAIBA Essential Oil