What exactly is CBD? The official name for CBD is cannabidiol, one of the main components of hemp. Hemp contains more than 100 types of active substances called endocannabinoids, of which CBD is the one that has been attracting the world's attention.
Since its discovery by a chemist in 1940, CBD's close relationship with the human body and its great potential in the life science and medical fields have become increasingly clear. The use of life science and medical technology is becoming increasingly evident.
Although there are signs of increasing awareness of CBD in Japan, we are still in the early stages of its development. We visited the new "Endoca Shop" in Kamakura to talk with Mr. Toshi Matsumoto, Director of Endoca Japan, about CBD, Endoca, and the recent wellness boom in Japan.
Newman: Tell us about CBD.
Matsumoto: The raw material for CBD is hemp, which you know is hemp, and hemp contains more than 300 plant molecules, an ingredient called THC, which is a high, and more than 100 other things called phytocannabinoids. One of them is CBD.
What are the benefits?
Matsumoto: CBD works directly on the human endocanambinoid system, a function that supports the body-mind balance and human homeotasis. Many people feel relaxed and focused as a response. Many people take it before bed for its relaxing effects, but it can be used in many ways. It can be applied to all kinds of situations, such as when a golfer puts a drop of oil under the tongue before hitting the bunker, or when used to avoid unnecessary tension before a work presentation.
Mr. Toshi Matsumoto, Director of Endoca Japan
Do you use it in the daytime and don't you get drowsy?
Matsumoto: Some people seem to get a little too relaxed or sleepy. Therefore, it is best to experiment while looking for the dosage and amount that suits you best. Some people feel a great effect with just one drop, while others feel no effect at all even with a high concentration. The sweet point (the point at which you feel comfortable) is totally different for each person.
So you operate this restaurant by reservation only.
Matsumoto: That's right. At this point in time, about 450 clinics in Japan are using Endoca's CBD products. We are often working with doctors who do not use much medicine and are based on so-called nutritional and lifestyle medicine, but we have found that it is important to talk with customers face to face and let them try our products while determining what form of product is best for them.
