Demystifying Cannabis and CBD in South Dakota

CBD and other cannabis compounds can be derived from either the hemp or marijuana plant, both plants residing in the cannabis family. As of the writing of this article, in South Dakota, hemp-sourced CBD containing less than 0.3% THC is legal due to House Bill 1008. (Governor Kristi Noem enacted House Bill 1008 in March 2020, which legalized industrial hemp cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution, provided it contains less than 0.3% THC.) Marijuana-derived CBD remains illegal unless sourced through the South Dakota Medical Cannabis Program. Ever since the U.S. Congress legalized hemp production at the federal level by passing the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived CBD has become popular among users as a natural alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals.

Understanding Cannabis Compounds

Beyond just CBD, mirroring its sister plant, the hemp plant boasts an array of cannabinoids, each with its unique therapeutic benefits. Because of this, the variety of CBD-related products on the market today can be overwhelming to new users. In this article, I’ll break down the differences between the most common ones available today: CBD, CBG, CBDV, CBC, CBDA, and CBN.

 

CBD (Cannabidiol): The All-Rounder

• Mood Regulation: By acting on serotonin receptors, CBD may help combat anxiety and depression.
• Pain Alleviation: CBD has potential anti-inflammatory properties that can offer relief from pain.
• Neuroprotection: Promising in treating neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s.

CBG (Cannabigerol): The Mother of Cannabinoids

• Anti-inflammatory: CBG may effectively reduce inflammation, especially in conditions like IBS.
• Eye Health: It’s been found to reduce intraocular pressure, making it promising for glaucoma treatment.
• Neuroprotection: CBG might protect neurons in Huntington’s disease, highlighting its neuroprotective potential.

CBDV (Cannabidivarin): The Unsung Hero

• Seizure Management: CBDV is showing promise for epilepsy and other seizure disorders.
• Neurological Diseases: Preliminary studies suggest potential benefits for conditions like Parkinson’s and ALS.

CBC (Cannabichromene): The Brain Booster

• Brain Growth: CBC may support neurogenesis, encouraging brain growth and development after traumatic brain injury or stroke.
• Anti-inflammatory & Pain Relief: Works in conjunction with other cannabinoids to reduce inflammation and pain.

CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid): The Raw Power

• Anti-nausea: CBDA might be effective in reducing nausea and vomiting, especially in chemotherapy patients.
• Inflammation Reduction: Just like its counterpart CBD, CBDA also has anti-inflammatory properties.

CBN (Cannabinol): The Nighttime Wonder

• Sedative Effects: CBN is known for its sedative qualities, making it a potential sleep aid.
• Appetite Stimulation: Those struggling with reduced appetite might benefit from CBN.
• Pain Alleviation: CBN could act as a pain reliever in certain conditions.

Individualize Your Approach

Whether derived from the hemp or marijuana plant, cannabinoids are a goldmine of potential health benefits. Each cannabinoid, from CBD to CBN, offers unique therapeutic advantages. Hemp-derived cannabinoids offer patients a natural alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals for many therapeutic uses. Of those looking to use cannabis for medical purposes, hemp-derived cannabinoids are recommended for patients who want to avoid the head high associated with high THC products, for sensitive patients, and for the elderly. As is the case with any new natural remedy, every patient should take an objective approach to their individual needs and experiences.