In recent years, CBD oil has gained immense popularity, offering diverse benefits such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, enhanced sleep, anti-seizure effects, inflammation control, cancer symptom management, acne alleviation, potential heart health improvements and aiding in substance abuse treatment. However, there are also some challenges and luckily in nature, chemistry duplicates, meaning that similar alternatives are always available. Let’s explore one of those – Copaiba.
Copaiba essential oil is derived from the resin of the copaiba tree which can grow upwards of more than 100 feet and can be found in tropical South America. Since the 16th century, Copaiba essential oil has been utilised in traditional health practices by the locals of north and northeastern Brazil. It is now available through doTERRA in various forms that allow topical, aromatic and internal use.
To understand how both Copaiba and CBD Oil work it is essential to understand the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Within the body it plays a fundamental role in managing many modern and prevalent concerns, including mood, inflammation, appetite and relaxation. The ECS is found throughout the central and peripheral nervous system and acts to maintain internal balance in a world that is constantly changing.
Within the ECS, there are two receptors, cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2). The brain and spinal cord contain CB1 receptors, whereas CB2 receptors are predominately found in our immune system. Due to residing in different parts of the body, activation of these receptors can have very different effects. For instance, CB2 activation supports healthy nervous and immune system function, while activating its counterpart (CB1) receptors can modulate mood, memory or even perception of pain. While binding to the CB1 receptors positively influences many brain functions, research has shown that it may also have some unwanted psychoactive effects.
There are three groups of molecules that can greatly affect the function of the ECS: endocannabinoids (produced by the body), phytocannabinoids (produced by plants) and synthetic cannabinoids (produced in a lab). Phytocannabinoids, being produced naturally by plants, such as Cannabis, Black Truffle and Cacao, and found within essential oils such as Copaiba, Black Pepper and Melissa offer a potent option for helping support the influences of the ECS.
The literature suggests that ECS-influencing substances such as phytocannabinouds are often selective in activating receptors, primarily CB1 or CB2. This activation can be direct or indirect based on their chemical composition. The stronger the molecule binds to its receptor, the faster the physiological effect. Copaiba essential oil contains high levels of the phytocannabinoid beta-caryophyllene (BCP), which directly binds to CB2 receptors. On the other hand, CBD does not effectively bind to either receptor so it only indirectly affects the ECS. In fact, despite having the unique ability to bind (indirectly) to both CB1 and CB2, CBD’s interaction is not nearly as intense as Copaiba’s.
Another phytocannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is found in CBD Oil. This is renowned for its ability to stimulate psychoactive or hallucinogenic effects. For CBD Oil suppliers they can either leave the THC within the oil or remove it. However, such manipulation can impact the safety, efficacy and consistency of these products, raising questions about their reliability and potential side effects. Furthermore, according to a study published in 2017, 69% of CBD products were mislabelled and found to have higher levels of THC than are currently permitted by the country’s regulations. Thankfully Copaiba contains no THC naturally and thus, does not need to be altered.
For some countries, CBD Oil is not an option. It is banned or heavily restricted in countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia, Russia, Japan and China due to their strict regulations on cannabis and its derivatives. Fortunately, Copaiba does not have any restrictions anywhere in the world.
Finally, medically prescribed CBD Oil is available and offers a trustworthy therapeutic option. However, it usually comes with a costly price tag. Here Copaiba again reigns supreme and is often available at a much more affordable price.
If you would like to try Copaiba for the support of your health concerns, doTERRA offers this essential oil which has undertaken strict quality and purity measures. This guarantees you are receiving a safe and effective product that you can feel comfortable using.
Here is a summary of the main effects of Copaiba essential oil use:
- Relieves inflammation
- Relieves respiratory congestion
- Supports urinary tract health
- Relieves cystitis symptoms
- Reduces aches and pains
- Promotes clear and smooth complexion
- Grounds you during times of overwhelm
- Creates a calm and relaxing environment'
* Shared by: Adam Baralet & The DoTerra Science & research team