CBD, a new therapeutic ingredient in haute cuisine?
Although its use in food is still prohibited in some countries, this component of cannabis has positive effects on anxiety, nausea or migraines.
Foods with CBD are becoming a trend that, for the moment. Many readers may not know what it is exactly about. It may help to know the full name of this substance, cannabidiol, which, as you may have already guessed, is a component of cannabis. But do not think that you are going to “get high” eating a brownie, hummus or mineral water with CBD, because that particular component does not have the psychotropic effects of cannabis.
So it is not the same as eating cookies, cakes or butter to which marijuana has been added, something common among supporters of its consumption, and found in cannabis clubs.
What is CBD actually?
CBD is one of the most common cannabinoids of the nearly 80 active chemical components that this plant has. The other most common is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is what produces the psychotropic effects associated with marijuana.
According to the World Health Organization, CBD, unlike THC, does not have addictive effects or can cause overdose, and its toxicity is relatively low. To date, no human health problems associated with the use of pure CBD have been detected.
Technofaq suggests the use of CBD for its therapeutic effects as it facilitates relaxation, fights pain, nausea, asthma, migraine or anxiety.
The cultivation of the CBD Flower UK, the plant where the marijuana that contains it comes from, is not outside the law, but it must meet the requirement of not exceeding 0.2% THC. Its main use, apart from textiles, for which its fibers are used, is to make feed for livestock.
In the United States it is legal and in Great Britain there are already restaurants serving dishes that include this molecule, such as Erpingham House, where they prepare the brownie with CBD and hope to incorporate it into other desserts.
More therapeutic than tasty
Other chefs use it in Thai or hummus style dishes. They recognize that its flavor is earthy and not exactly pleasant, but it is well camouflaged if mixed with coconut or olive oil, and among spices and herbs with an intense flavor. Or with chocolate and coffee. But if it doesn’t add flavor, what is the purpose of incorporating CBD into cooking?
It is about “combining creative and recreational cuisine”. To note, gastronomy is not only food, but also experience, and any new product can add incentives to the act of eating. And, although it does not have psychotropic effects, CBD does have certain beneficial health properties. Although, it must be said, there is still a lot of ground to explore from the point of view of science. There are also mineral waters with CBD on the market. The purpose is to take advantage of their benefits, and they recommend them especially for people with anxiety problems or for athletes. Chocolate is another such food, as are many teas, herbs, and spices. Instead, alcohol is considered an inhibitor and should not be taken if you want to take full advantage of the benefits of CBD.