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Why Are Hotels Incorporating CBD Into Their Services?

Why Are Hotels Incorporating CBD Into Their Services?

by Awesome Author | Jan 6, 2022 | Hotels & Accommodation

In recent years, CBD also referred to as Cannabidiol, has become very much available on the market, ranging from body lotions to kombucha and coffee. According to many scientific studies by pharmaceutical companies and universities, it has been found that CBD may alleviate many health issues, such as anxiety, sleeplessness, menstrual cramps, and depression. Since CBD products do not carry intoxicating effects and do not make you high, more and more hotels and centers in the tourism sector have started incorporating CBD into their therapies and menus.

Ordering room service? Get a dose of CBD right away!

Several spas, hotels, and other companies have sought to include CBD in their daily practices, fusing it with food and therapies.

In New York City, if you happen to look for a CBD-friendly hotel, James New York – NoMad in midtown is one to check out. They have CBD-infused munchies on their CBD menu. The chef who puts together all food items on the menu thought to start adding CBD to her creations in order to help in easing the joint pain of travelers staying at the hotel. Their toast points have 15mg of CBD and serve house tots with chipotle ketchup infused with CBD.

With the introduction of the CBD-infused menu, hotels now make sure that their guests and travelers can unwind and relax. It doesn’t end there. If you are not interested in food, the manager, James La Russo, makes sure the menu has non-food items like Wildflower’s body soap and CBD lip balm by Vertly for you to relax with.

Spa treatments with topical CBD preparation

Hotels and Retreats for Valentines Day

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The benefits of spa therapies and sessions are plenty, but by adding CBD oil, treatments stand apart from the usual ones. Spa Solage, an Auberge Resort in Napa Valley, CA, offers CBD treatments. They have incorporated CBD oil in their massage treatments with body oils and facial scrubs.

The hospitality industry in the US has taken the medicinal benefits and studies seriously, as a result of which, the use of CBD in their treatments is growing. For instance, in Colorado, you can find many hotels that offer CBD spa services, which include deep-tissue massage, scalp massage, along a CBD-infused tea to conclude the treatment.

Even in states where medical cannabis laws are robust, you’ll end up finding local hotel spas offering CBD massages and several other treatments and therapies.

CBD Cocktails

Hotels are now serving CBD cocktails

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Since it’s not advisable or recommended to mix THC and alcohol, as the effects of THC get amplified by alcohol, CBD may add several vital benefits. As a result, many hotels and bars have initiated the serving of CBD-infused cocktails, which are succulent and add many health benefits in the process.

For example, in a city like Los Angeles, you have the option to head into Hollywood Roosevelt to enjoy a glass of CBD mojito. Through many testimonials, it has been found that people enjoy the drink for its relaxing effect.

Let’s do a quick rundown of some of the types of CBD-infused products you can opt for during your stay or a visit.

Topical Oils and Balms

CBD Oil for Massage

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Hotels and spas in the country incorporate oils and lotions into their menus for use in treatments and therapies. CBD oils and balms can warm the skin area and may result in easing stiff joints and muscle pain. If you are looking for some CBD recovery and relief massage therapies, you can choose to visit Florida Ritz-Carlton. Moreover, Philadelphia’s The Logan Hotel also offers CBD massage therapies by utilizing massage oil and exfoliating scrubs. Even in hydrotherapy sessions, hotels and spas have started to opt for bath oils infused with CBD.

Edibles

Since CBD is being used by many hoteliers, they make sure that the dosage used remains under the recommendations of certified doctors. In blood orange products, there’s about 20 mg of CBD. If you want to get your hands on this product, you can easily locate the edible at Miami Beach’s minibars. Many Hollywood establishments have started to introduce full-scale dispensaries post-2019.

Tinctures, bitters, and shrubs

CBD-infused products have also begun to appear on the menus of several bars across the country, but majorly in the locations where cannabis is legal for recreational and medical purposes. Hotel Teatro, for instance, laces a shot of White Russian by accommodating CBD-infused pepper oil and turmeric. St Julien, Colorado, on the other hand, offers CBD-infused tea as an essential part of their spa packages for you to unwind at the end of the therapies and sessions.

Conclusion

Since hotels aim to deliver an experience during their guests’ stay, CBD has been the cherry for them to indulge with. It’s no surprise that they have started including CBD in their offerings, be it the menu or spa services. The pointers, as mentioned earlier, educate you about hotels along with the type of CBD-infused menu and services that are offered across the country.

Featured Image Credits: Pixabay

5 Amazing Benefits Of CBD Oil For Healthy Hair

5 Amazing Benefits Of CBD Oil For Healthy Hair

by Awesome Author | Dec 14, 2021 | Hair Care

Healthy and strong hair is something that everyone desires. They indulge in hair care regimes and use various hair care products. Some people even spend huge sums of their hard-earned money on treatments and procedures to get rid of hair fall problems and achieve the desired healthy hair. However, it is necessary to nourish your hair using the right products to keep it healthy. One such product that’s helping a lot of people maintain healthy hair is CBD oil. Let’s see how CBD can help us achieve healthy hair.

CBD Oil

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What is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the two most studied compounds of cannabis, that is non-psychoactive and has many physiological and physical benefits. It is not an intoxicating compound, which means it does not make people feel ‘high’ after its consumption. It is available in many forms of health and lifestyle products such as the best CBD oil tincture, CBD oil, lip balms, edibles, etc.

Let us now look at the five astonishing benefits of CBD oil for healthy hair.

Enhance or stimulate hair growth:

CBD Stimulating Hairgrowth

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Hair Fall is one of the main problems that many men and women face. Breaking and falling of the hair strands daily are usual for everyone. However, the issue arises when the fallen hair does not grow back, and one keeps losing hair regularly. That causes baldness and thinner hair with less volume. Some of the reasons restricting the growth of new hair on the scalp are the lack of sufficient nutrients required, dandruff, and other chemical toxins polluting the scalp.

CBD oil stimulates hair growth by providing the necessary omega fatty acids and helps the scalp retain moisture. That is because omega fatty acids lock the cuticle by sealing the moisture. CBD oil also consists of GLA (gamma-linoleic acid) that boosts hair growth.

Improves scalp health:

Unhealthy scalp conditions and flaky patches on the scalp also constitute restricting the growth of the hair and causing hair fall. CBD oil tends to improve scalp health as it possesses anti-inflammatory properties. It interacts with cannabinoid receptors of the scalp and helps in restoring balance, which results in reducing any skin inflammation and patchy flakes. Furthermore, hair conditions such as folliculitis or psoriasis can also be cured by applying CBD oil. Apart from healing the scalp, CBD oil prevents the scalp from infections, thanks to its antimicrobial properties.

Prevents hair damage:

Most people focus on growing new hair and forget to maintain and nourish the existing ones. It’s essential to protect your hair from any type of damage that makes them weak. Each hair strand is made up of proteins, which means that each strand of hair requires proteins to stay healthy. Lack of nutrients and proteins makes hair weak and dull over time.

CBD oil contains twenty-one amino acids, which are building blocks of proteins that strengthen hair and prevent hair damage. CBD oil also protects hair from environmental damage as it contains Vitamins A, C, and E, which are known as antioxidative vitamins.

Treats dry hair:

CBD Oil for Dry Hair Treatment

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Here’s another crucial and common problem that many women face dry and dull hair. Soft, shiny hair is a distant dream for many people. Some various reasons and factors cause dry hair making it look like straw or dry grass. One of the reasons for dry hair could be over usage of styling products and heat appliances such as straighteners, etc.

Cells present on the skin and scalp produce necessary oil, a.k.a sebum naturally. However, in some people, the production of sebum is too low, which causes dry hair. CBD oil regulates sebum production in the scalp, ensuring that your body naturally produces the required amounts of sebum as it is an adaptogen.

Prevents stress-induced hair loss

If you’ve ever experienced hair loss in your life, you know that one of the main factors causing it is stress. It is like a vicious cycle that one falls prey to. When a person experiences stress-induced hair fall, the stress of losing hair in return adds up, causing more hair fall. CBD is known for its anti-stress and anti-anxiety properties. It perfectly balances stress levels and ensures that the right chemicals and nutrients required for hair growth are also regulated.

Hormonal fluctuations also cause hair fall, especially among pregnant women that experience massive fluctuations in hormone levels that cause hair fall. CBD interacts with the cannabinoid receptors that are responsible for hormonal changes and ensures proper balance. That, in turn, prevents hair fall and stimulates hair growth as well.

Final Thoughts

CBD provides many physical and psychological benefits. You can incorporate CBD oil and other CBD-infused hair care products in your hair care regime to achieve healthy and gorgeous hair. You can find several CBD shampoos, conditioners, etc., available for all hair types as well.

Featured Image Credits: Pixabay

The Ultimate Guide to CBD Oil Benefits

The Ultimate Guide to CBD Oil Benefits

by Awesome Author | Nov 14, 2020 | Medication & Health Science

CBD is touted as a cure-all to, well, almost anything. But – what about your needs? Could CBD oil cure, treat, or improve the symptoms of your specific condition?

Inside this guide, you’ll find a list of conditions that CBD can help improve. Along with each condition, you’ll find the scientific studies and explanations to back it up.

Don’t waste time searching the web for lack-luster information that may or may not be correct; find what you need to know here.

Want to know if and how CBD could help you or a loved one? This guide is the place to start.

 

CBD OIL FOR PAIN RELIEF AND INFLAMMATION

Chronic pain comes in many varieties and affects each sufferer differently. 

Regardless of the source of pain, however, those who must deal with it on a daily basis face challenges that the average individual cannot understand.

Because pain sources can be difficult to identify and finding effective treatments can be a challenge, many suffer in silence, forced to modify or completely avoid certain activities.

Those who suffer are not alone. In fact, recent estimates suggest that at least 11 percent of the general population suffers from chronic pain that impacts their daily lives. (source)

In many cases, this pain is caused by, accompanied by, or worsened by inflammation. When inflammation is present, pain can become much worse thanks to the biochemical reactions that this inflammation causes.

For both sufferers of chronic pain and chronic inflammation, CBD has been known to reduce symptoms and provide relief, without the negative effects of standard over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, narcotics, opioids, and other traditional treatments.

The negative effects of traditional pain medication include:

  • Liver Damage
  • Cardiovascular Damage
  • Addiction
  • Withdrawal
  • …and more.

Cannabis, on the other hand, has been known to reduce pain – and has been used to do so for thousands of years. Recent studies, most notably those published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine, have demonstrated the link between CBD and pain/inflammation reduction. (source) While some sufferers of chronic pain resort to traditional marijuana use, it may not be necessary. Because of how CBD interacts with the body, it may be just as effective.

Specifically, CBD helps suppress pain by targeting a3 glycine receptors, which are found in the spinal cord and brain, controlling the way we react to pain. By interacting with these receptors, the sensation of pain is reduced, similarly to how traditional pain management medications act, without the traditional side effects and negatives. (source)

QUIT SMOKING WITH CBD

According to the CDC, 38.7 million adults in this country are currently tobacco smokers, that’s over 15 percent of the population, for reference’s sake. (source)

It’s a deadly habit, but most of us – smokers included – already know that.

What we might not realize, is just how deadly it is.

Smoking is considered the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for about 1 in 5 adult deaths each year.

Many smokers have begun to realize this. In fact, 70 percent have a desire to quit or have attempted to quit and have failed. Nicotine and the other ingredients in standard, everyday cigarettes are simply that addictive. (source)

While many have attempted to quit using medications, counseling, or even e-cigarettes (which some consider an alternative that might not be as healthy as we’d like to believe), a natural option may be available that’s, perhaps, even more, effective than any of these methods.

You guessed it.

Smoking cessation may be one of the many benefits of CBD oil.

As revealed by the results of a study published by the Addiction Journal and performed by University College London, smokers wishing to quit and be treated with one 800mg dose of CBD, saw 40 percent more successful in the first week of their attempt when using CBD products, than those treated with a placebo. Those treated with even a low dose of CBD claimed fewer intrusive thoughts, enabling them to go about their daily lives without the need for a cigarette, unlike those who were not given the cannabinoid. (source)

Why?

We don’t know for sure. However, nicotine addiction seems to be tied to the endocannabinoid system, which, CBD interacts with and helps regulate. When this system is balanced, traditional addiction cues may become less severe, leading to higher success rates with lower levels of reported discomfort.

These positive effects of CBD are promising news for the majority of the aforementioned smokers who want to quit the habit.

TREAT EPILEPSY SYMPTOMS WITH CBD

Currently, studies around the country are ongoing to identify the way CBD can be used to treat epilepsy.

Why?

Because it’s already shown promising signs. Beyond that, just this year the FDA approved the first-ever CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, now available to treat rare and severe forms of epilepsy. (source)

While CBD and marijuana have been used for centuries for many remedies, the role CBD can play in lessening the severity and number of seizures in those diagnosed with epilepsy came into the spotlight in the early 2000s. That’s when the Figi family began looking for a way to treat their daughter Charlotte’s seizures. At the time, she was suffering upwards of 300 seizures per week. (source)

After obtaining cannabis plants at a high cost, and extracting the oil by hand, they saw a major reduction in the number of seizures their daughter experienced. It was life-changing, leading to a series of legislative battles to change the status of medical marijuana and CBD products across the country.

Recent studies – in addition to new medication options that include CBD – have also shown promising results in various forms of epilepsy, including Dravet Syndrome. In summary, findings published by the U.S. National Library of medicine, multiple small clinical trials have shown that CBD is able to reduce the number of seizures and severity of seizures for those that experience specific forms of epilepsy on a regular basis. (source)

Perhaps just as exciting, studies have often shown that CBD has neuroprotective properties, allowing the brain to be better protected when seizures do occur.

CBD CAN REDUCE ANXIETY AND IMPROVE MENTAL HEALTH

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the U.S., affecting 18.1 percent of the adult population across the country.

Anxiety doesn’t come in a single shape or form. Officially diagnosed conditions that fall under the realm of “anxiety” include:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder
  • Panic Disorder
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Social Anxiety Disorder
  • Phobias
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
  • And others

In addition to a standalone disorder, anxiety often accompanies other medical conditions making the diagnosis a challenge at best.

Those who understand the way anxiety can be debilitating – affecting daily functioning and activities and making simple tasks seem impossible – also probably understand the fact that finding a treatment that helps can be a significant challenge.

Most traditional treatments come with side effects that – in many cases – seem worse (or just as terrible) as the anxiety itself. These side effects range from mood-altering effects like depression, weight gain or loss, to dependence (the need for higher doses to achieve the same effect and avoid withdrawal symptoms)… the side effects are often a deterrent. Only around 36.9 percent of anxiety sufferers receive treatment for their condition.

Once again, as with many other disorders, CBD may be a natural option to combat the side effects of traditional anxiety and mental health conditions while providing noticeable relief.

Why?

At the most basic level, CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and is widely believed to directly impact the brain’s CB1 receptors – the same receptors that certain anxiety medications interact with – lessening the effects of anxiety and related conditions. This allows sufferers to live more normal lives, free from the constraints of anxiety. That’s just the tip of the iceberg… the positive effects of CBD for anxiety are incredible!

CAN CBD CURE CANCER? NO, BUT IT CAN HELP.

Cancer.

The word all by itself is terrifying, perhaps because of how prevalent it’s become in our world – who doesn’t know someone who has (or has had) cancer?

Maybe because there are so many unknowns – what if we’re next? Maybe because potential treatments seem so harsh, and the negative effects are so easy to see when someone is fighting the disease.

One thing is for sure, however: we can all agree that the need for a cure is more urgent today than it has ever been before.

According to the National Cancer Institute, over 38 percent of people will be diagnosed with one type of cancer or another at some point in their lives. While standard treatments – like medication, chemotherapy, radiation, and various surgeries – have come a long way, there may be natural options to further the effectiveness of these drugs or to provide an entire set of other benefits. (source)

One of these might just be CBD.

Before you roll your eyes or write CBD off as another “hippie” remedy, check out the facts.

While CBD is often used to increase appetites, decrease nausea, and decrease the pain experienced by cancer patients, the true benefits of the compound may be further reaching.

In fact, recent studies have demonstrated that CBD may enable “antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic effects” that:

  • decreases the ability of cancer cells to grow.
  • decreases the ability of cancer cells to attach to various structures or “adhere.”
  • prevent cancer cell migration to other parts of the body and organs.
  • shrink tumors, and more.

With these potential health benefits, along with CBD’s proven interactions with the body’s endocannabinoid system to enable a sense of balance throughout various body systems, CBD may be an integral part of traditional cancer treatments in the very near future. (source)

CBD HEMP OIL FOR DIABETES (TYPE 1)

Unlike Type 2 Diabetes, often correlated with lifestyle factors and choices (including weight management, diet, and exercise), Type 1 Diabetes is an inherent condition that sufferers have little control over contracting.

1.25 million adults and children in the United States are currently living with Type 1 Diabetes, which is characterized as an autoimmune disorder, where the patient’s immune system destroys cells in the pancreas, leading to long-term damage and the inability to produce insulin properly, causing trouble controlling blood sugar. (source, source)

The disease – especially when poorly controlled – can lead to major negative effects, ranging from gout and skin infections to cardiovascular and even brain damage.

Because Type 1 Diabetes is classified as an autoimmune system, and because CBD is known to help regulate and promote balance throughout various body systems, especially as autoimmune conditions are concerned, it’s logical to assume that it could be helpful in the regulation of Type 1 Diabetes.

While the research is still forthcoming, and traditional medications and insulin are still the trusted first line of defense for Type 1 Diabetes, studies on the way that CBD interacts with the pancreas have become more popular, and the early results are promising.

In one study, posted in Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, CBD was found to ease the inflammation Type 1 Diabetes causes within the pancreas in mice. Furthermore, it showed a lower overall occurrence of the disorder, which could have positive ramifications for future human studies. (source)

While CBD has not been proven able to reduce overall occurrences among humans, it has been demonstrated that the compound can reduce the amount of insulin a patient requires to reach target blood sugar levels and functionality.

CBD FOR ACNE AND SKINCARE

Acne.

Who hasn’t suffered from this unfortunate condition – or other skin conditions – at one point in life or another? 

Aside from creating social stigmas and challenges, the condition is uncomfortable and often associated with lower levels of self-esteem, and even, in severe cases, depression. (source)

A myriad of treatment options exists, from essential oils to prescription medications, laser treatments and more. But, what has dermatologists really excited is the potential for CBD, a compound nearly free of negative side effects, for treating acne and other common skin conditions.

According to one board-certified dermatologist who specializes in cannabinoids in skin care and treatment, Jeanette Jacknin, as recently published in The Strategist, the way CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, helps the skin look more “radiant and youthful” slowing down the signs of aging. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory actions and interactions with the body can help decrease the effects of acne, eczema, and psoriasis. (source)

Other studies have found that CBD may help lower the production of the specific sebum that is known to cause acne, reducing its visible effects. (source)

At the core of these seemingly miraculous effects, is CBD’s proven ability to lower inflammation throughout the body. Much like chronic pain and other chronic disorders, acne – and many other skin conditions – are worsened by inflammation, which often leads to the overproduction of the chemicals and other hormones that cause visible effects.

Because traditional acne treatments are accompanied by various side effects, ranging from dry skin and irritation to more serious complications like dizziness, and even high blood pressure (when non-traditional treatments like birth control pills are used), finding a more natural remedy is a top priority for patients and researchers alike. (source)

CBD FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

Alzheimer’s Disease is frequently associated with many things: memory loss, the inability to care for one’s self, an increased likelihood of wandering off or becoming lost, fear, and (perhaps most importantly) the lack of a cure.

The disease is prominent; it’s the 6th leading cause of death in the United States and that figure is likely to increase. Between 2010 and 2015, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s cases grew by 125%. In stark figures, Alzheimer’s is responsible for more deaths than breast cancer and prostate cancer, combined.

Oftentimes, the burden of care lies in family members and other unpaid individuals due to high costs and a lack of options.

While researchers continue to search for a cure, and while early diagnosis techniques are improving, there may be hope for current sufferers: CBD.

As a neurodegenerative disease that progresses over time, sometimes more rapidly than others, the disease attacks the brain and various neuroreceptors of sufferers. A few of the hallmarks of the disease, only identified post mortem, are plaque build-up in the brain and inflammation. Each of these affects the cognitive abilities of patients.

Multiple treatments designed to reduce the effects of the disorder exist, but none are able to stop the physical momentum of Alzheimer’s in its progression forward.

In one study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, researchers sought to study whether CBD’s known and proven anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties could help reduce the symptoms of sufferers. (source)

While the study was performed on mice, the results were promising. CBD was shown to reduce – and in some cases, remove – cognitive impairment and the inability to recognize familiar objects and structures in the rodents that were studied.

MANAGE NAUSEA AND APPETITE WITH CBD

Whether the side effect of disease – certain cancers, intestinal and digestive system disorders, cystic fibrosis – or the side effect of the treatment for a disease – medications, chemotherapy, epilepsy drugs – nausea and a loss of appetite can be just as damaging as the disease itself.

Our bodies rely on proper nutrients for regular functioning, healing, repair, and growth. When those nutrients are difficult to take in (or to keep in), increased suffering is likely to ensue.

Television shows, the experiences of others, and history have demonstrated cannabis’s ability to increase a user’s appetite… but what about CBD? Could the all-natural compound, relatively free of side effects help combat nausea, vomiting, and limited appetite associated with specific drugs and diseases?

The science is promising! It’s also far from new.

Back in the 1970s and ’80s before the development of “modern” anti-nausea drugs, CBD was widely studied for its anti-emetic (vomiting) properties. Then, when new treatments were introduced, the research was waylaid, paused, and put on the back burner, in simple terms.

The pharmaceutical industry had an interest in promoting more profitable options and pushed forward in supporting those initiatives instead of opting for the more natural option.

Recently, this has started to change.

One study – of many human trials – published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, found that cannabinoids – like CBD – may be more effective than standard anti-emetics in treating difficult to control, or difficult to treat – vomiting and appetite problems in both children and adults. (source)

CBD may work on the same receptors as traditional treatments, being similarly effective without all the negative side effects. The term promising may be an understatement for both suffering patients and medical professionals.

CBD HEMP OIL HELPS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Multiple Sclerosis (or MS) is the most commonly diagnosed disabling neurological condition affecting young adults on a global scale.

Unlike many other neurological conditions prevalent among older population groups, MS primarily first affects individuals between the ages of 20 and 50. (source)

Currently, it’s estimated that 2.3 million individuals around the world are living with MS. Here in the United States, around 200 new cases are diagnosed on a weekly basis. (source)

While the lifespans of sufferers are generally considered “average,” the range of symptoms and progressive symptoms can range widely – from pins, needles, and tingling in various parts of the body to the inability to function and walk independently.

MS affects the central nervous system of sufferers, with lesions affecting the myelin, neurons, and fibers of the brain and spinal cord, which, in turn, affect and limit various bodily functions.

Multiple studies have concluded that CBD may be useful in:

  • Reducing the pain felt by MS sufferers.
  • Reducing muscle stiffness experienced as a result of MS.
  • Reducing extremity spasms commonly associated with MS and MS relapses.
  • Reducing bowel and bladder dysfunction associated with MS, and more.

While there is more research to be done, the fact that CBD could provide relief to those diagnosed with MS is promising. (source, source, source)

CBD CAN IMPROVE CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH

Ranging from long-term conditions (like valve problems, arrhythmias, and more) to life-changing events (like heart attacks or cardiovascular-related strokes), the potential for cardiovascular problems throughout a given individual’s lifespan is great.

In fact, heart disease or cardiovascular dysfunction is the leading cause of death among both men and women in the United States, with regional differences in prevalence and type. Each year, over 630,000 people in the United States die due to heart disease.

The numbers are staggering, the research is ongoing, and early intervention and symptom identification education have grown in prevalence in order to increase heart health.

Today, Americans are (mostly) aware of the risks of heart disease, attempting to remain active and to focus on nutrition, and take other steps to prevent trouble. But, something that’s often left off the agenda might be more useful than previously thought – cannabinoids, like CBD.

CBD’s anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties may be useful in preventing cardiovascular disease and events, even for those considered “high-risk.”

Research compiled by the National Institute of Health hypothesizes that CBD may work directly on isolated arteries, to promote relaxation and to reduce negative cardiovascular responses to various models of stress, which could lead to damage over time. (source)

Other studies have shown promise in CBD’s ability to:

  • Reduce cardiac arrhythmias.
  • Reduce the risk of death following a cardiac event or heart attack for past users.
  • Reduce the risk of additional heart attacks after the first in surviving patients.
  • Potentially regulate hypertension.
  • Reduce imminent death rates among heart failure patients.
  • Reduce cell death relating to diabetic cardiomyopathy, and more. (source)
CBD is also helpful in combating and treating conditions that are risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including:
  • Diabetes
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Smoking
  • And more.

CBD SHOWS ANTIBACTERIAL QUALITIES

In-house hospital infections, multi-drug resistant bacteria, and “new” bacterial infections are on the rise with the potential to be a crisis in the very near future.

The ones that have scientists, researchers, and medical professionals around the world most concerned – with good reason – are drug-resistant bacteria.

Because of the overuse of antibiotics, multiple bacteria have “evolved,” to develop a resistance to treatments that would have been effective not all that long ago.

Just a few decades ago, only 1-5 percent of bacteria and “bugs” were considered resistant to drugs. Today, that number has risen to somewhere between 60-70%.

According to the CDC, each year in the United States, over 2 million individuals become infected with a drug-resistant bacterial strain, and over 23,000 pass away. The age of superbugs has arrived. (source)

While researchers scramble for answers and new treatments, a more historically-trusted, natural alternative might be more widely available than any of us would have thought: CBD.

Research has shown that certain cannabinoids, including CBD, have antiseptic properties. Used both topically – as a cream on skin lesions and injuries – and internally, CBD – and other cannabinoids – have shown promising results against even the most deadly of drug-resistant bacteria (like MRSA). (source)

When applied to the skin, some studies have shown CBD and other cannabinoids to be more effective than traditional treatments and antiseptic lotions. Notably, the skin lotions had a lower number of negative reactions, in addition to their powerful results. (source)

Imagine the possibilities!

At the very least, CBD’s potential ability to mitigate a current cultural crisis – drug-resistant bacteria – warrants additional research, which is currently underway around the world. (source)

CBD OIL FOR SLEEP AND INSOMNIA

Sleep disorders come in many shapes and sizes. One thing remains clear: a lack of regular, quality sleep can have detrimental effects on the overall health of anyone.

CBD has shown promising potential for providing relief from many sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea, REM sleep behavior disorder, excessive daytime sleepiness, nightmares associated with PTSD, reduced sleep due to chronic pain, and more. Then there’s the big one… CBD is proving to help with insomnia. (source)

This is significant: insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, affecting 30 percent of adults in the short term, and 10 percent on a chronic basis. (source)

The inability to obtain quality sleep doesn’t just lead to tiresome days; it can impact regular functioning. Each year, numerous individuals make life-altering mistakes on the job, in vehicles, and more, leading to fatalities. In the medical field, sleep deprivation among practitioners may be responsible for up to 100,000 deaths in the United States.

Sleep. Matters.

But, when it’s hard to come by, what’s someone to do?

Traditional medications for helping an individual sleep have major side effects, including:

  • Dependency on worsening symptoms after medications are discontinued
  • Dizziness
  • A loss of balance
  • Addiction and Withdrawal difficulties
  • Digestive issues
  • Impairment upon waking
  • Shaking
  • Changes in appetite
  • And more

While many sufferers of insomnia depend on CBD due to its natural qualities and low rate of side effects, early scientific studies have begun to explain why.

It’s thought that the endocannabinoid system may be critical for regulating sleep and sleep stability, which makes sense, as it promotes balance throughout the body. Research seems to show that when CBD interacts with this system, sufferers may achieve longer periods of overall sleep. Furthermore, earlier research demonstrated that CBD may provide relief for insomnia sufferers who struggle to achieve REM sleep due to anxiety. (source, source)

CBD SUCCESSFULLY TREATS DRUG WITHDRAWAL

The opioid crisis – the drug category responsible for most addictions in the United States – is very real.

Opioids were responsible for over 42,000 deaths in 2016, rising over 5 times from just a decade earlier, and over 20 percent from 2015 alone. Today, over 800 individuals die from overdoses each week in the US. (source, source)

Many of these addictions are born with prescription painkillers (prescribed by medical professionals) used to treat varying levels of pain following accidents, medical and/or dental procedures, surgeries, chronic conditions, and more.

After initial use, the brain’s chemistry changes to require the drug – often in higher doses – to achieve the same level of pain control. When the drug’s usage is stopped, the brain still “needs” it, causing (sometimes) debilitating symptoms including:

  • Low energy
  • Headaches
  • Body twitching and shaking
  • Digestive symptoms
  • Muscle pain and body aches
  • Hot and cold sweats
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • And more

In most cases, the discomfort caused by these withdrawals (along with the brain’s need for the substance) force users to continue, often requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. (source)

This cycle, along with the growing issues of synthetic drugs and Fentanyl lacing, leaves users forced to risk death from usage – OR – face life-threatening/life-altering withdrawal symptoms.

How could CBD make a difference?

Research is still in the early phases but has shown promising results. (source)

Because CBD helps reduce cravings for other addictive substances – like nicotine – it’s logical to believe it might be helpful for other addictions as well.

Those who have used CBD to reduce drug withdrawal symptoms have reported lower levels of anxiety and reduced side effects. But, why?

It’s believed that while CBD helps activate and regulate the body’s endocannabinoid system, it also helps regulate the neural pathways that are responsible for withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings. In early rat trials, those treated with CBD were less likely to exhibit anxiety-related withdrawal symptoms and drug-seeking behaviors after being exposed to cocaine. (source)

There’s more work to do… but multiple studies are underway to learn more.

SUPPLEMENT IBS TREATMENTS WITH CBD

Inflammatory Bowel Disease ranges in severity for sufferers, affecting daily functioning and requiring diet, lifestyle, and (sometimes) medication for management.

  • Abdominal pain
  • Cramping
  • Gas
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • And other unpleasant effects

There’s no known cause for IBS. Theories held by different medical professionals include muscle contraction control in the intestines, inflammation, nervous system malfunction, imbalanced gut bacteria, infections, and more.

Symptoms sometimes have no identified triggers. Other times, sufferers can find a link between certain foods, stress, and even hormones.

Because CBD has proven effects on many of these potential causes – especially inflammation, bacterial infections, and nervous system malfunctioning – it’s reasonable to believe that it may play a role in regulating the disorder.

It all starts with the connection between the endocannabinoid system and intestinal function/motility. Recent studies have found that the transmitters regulated by the endocannabinoid system are located throughout the human body. Some of these transmitters are responsible for gut function; when imbalanced, negative effects are likely to occur. (source)

A study highlighting this was performed approximately one decade ago. The study found a link between IBS sufferers and clinical endocannabinoid deficiency, which relates back to the fact that the system directly impacts intestinal motility and function. When CBD was used to activate and regulate the endocannabinoid system, sufferers of IBS saw significant symptom improvement. (source)

Another study (performed in 2011) found a link between nervous and immune system involvement and IBS. When CBD was used to treat IBS patients, regulation of gliosis in the nervous system (commonly associated with negative IBS effects) seemed possible, without the psychoactive and other common effects of traditional treatments or even medical marijuana. (source)

CBD OIL FOR ADHD

Often thought of as a childhood disease – which it is – ADHD has been known to last well into adulthood and throughout an individual’s entire life.

ADHD, or attention deficit disorder, with or without hyperactivity, is often first noticed and diagnosed in school-aged children (it is the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorder of childhood). Many sufferers must learn to adapt to difficulties in paying attention, remembering seemingly simple tasks, being over-compulsive, and more, over the long term. (source)

This can lead to difficulties in performing at work, keeping a job and growing in a given career track, and even interpersonal relationships. Because an estimated 6.1% of American children are estimated to suffer from ADHD – a number that has skyrocketed in recent years – there’s clearly room for improvement. (source)

Current protocols include managing ADHD with a combination of behavioral therapy and medications. Numerous medications, both stimulants, and non-stimulants have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat ADHD. Because each individual reacts differently to each medication, finding an appropriate protocol can be a challenge associated with many negative symptoms, including:

  • Sleepiness
  • A loss of appetite
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Weight loss
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • And more

Researchers have begun to search for a better way. One potential option? CBD, of course!

Because CBD works with specific neurotransmitters to reduce anxiety and increase the ability to focus, initial studies have shown promise in its ability to increase the quality of life by decreasing the symptoms of ADHD for many sufferers. Much of this research is still in the early phases (with a lot of room to learn more), however, CBD may be worth adding to a daily routine for those frustrated with traditional treatment options.

CBD OIL FOR ARTHRITIS

Arthritis hits close to home for many individuals. As a conservative estimate, around 54 million American adults, and 300,000 children suffer from arthritis that has been diagnosed by a medical provider, with many more believed to suffer in silence.

That means nearly a quarter of the US population is suffering from daily pain, swelling, and other negative effects caused by the disease. (source)

Furthermore, this number is expected to grow. According to the CDC, it is estimated that by 2040, over 78 million adults will have arthritis that has been diagnosed by a doctor, with 43% of those individuals limited in terms of activity because of the disease, without taking into effect other conditions that contribute to arthritis side effects, like growing obesity numbers and more.

Current arthritis treatments have a variety of negative side effects, including:

  • Cardiovascular effects
  • Hair loss
  • Digestive issues like nausea
  • Swelling and water retention
  • Elevated blood sugar levels
  • Breathing difficulties
  • And more
 In many cases, avoiding traditional treatments is not an option. Because the disease itself can harm the body due to chronic inflammation, many sufferers feel trapped; forced to decide between the “lesser” of two evils: allowing arthritis to continue its course – or – accept the side effects. (source)

There might be a better way: CBD.

One cannabis Sativa-derived medication, Sativex, has already been put to the test with impressive results, including an improvement in pain levels at rest and during movement, and increased quality of sleep due to lower levels of pain. (source)

Additionally, because of CBD’s ability to reduce inflammation, it has been noted that nerve damage (caused by inflammation) may be prevented or lessened by the consumption of CBD by arthritis sufferers. (source)

CBD – nature’s wonder drug – may reduce other effects of this debilitating disease, including cardiovascular damage, chronic pain, and more.

AUTISM IMPROVEMENT WITH CBD

Autism. Most of us have been touched by a disorder that falls somewhere on the autism spectrum. That’s because its diagnosis is becoming more common than most other childhood conditions. 

Today, 1 in 59 children has been identified as having symptoms consistent with autism spectrum disorders. This is up from 1 in 150 in the year 2000. (source)

Disorders that are classified as relating to autism are often shrouded in mystery. While some hereditary links seem to exist, other causes – though hotly debated – have been difficult to nail down with any clarity.

The symptoms range in both type and severity, from one individual to another. These could include:

  • Difficulty in communication
  • Struggles to connect
  • Hypersensitivity to specific sensory situations and stimuli
  • Emotional outbursts
  • Lack of speech and/or eye-contact
  • An inability to understand the emotional cues of others
  • Inability to handle specific textures
  • Lack of coordination
  • And more.

More severe forms are often identified in childhood, while others are often masked – or misidentified – as other conditions like anxiety or OCD. Treatments are often prescribed based on symptoms, in addition to behavioral and cognitive therapies, varying based on the individual patient.

This range of symptoms and lack of treatment leaves many parents and adults on the spectrum, wondering where to turn and/or where to start.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, CBD has shown promise in the treatment of autism-related symptoms.

Current studies, including one carried out by the UC San Diego School of Medicine, are looking into how the endocannabinoid system may be linked to reducing symptoms associated with autism. This is due to its role in social reward responsivity, neural development, and circadian rhythm, and anxiety regulation – all of which are often affected by autism. (source)

If these links are found, regulation of symptoms may be possible using therapeutic CBD. (source)

CBD OIL CAN HELP DEPRESSION

Depression and major depressive disorders are the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorders in the world.

In the last year, nearly 7% of adults have suffered from one major depressive episode – lasting two weeks or longer – with 10 percent of physician office visits mentioning depression as a topic of conversation. (source, source)

The potential negative effects of depression are great; each year, over 44,000 American lives are lost to suicide, with depression noted as a common link.

For those who seek help, therapy, lifestyle changes, and medications are often recommended. Unfortunately, finding a targeted treatment is often a long process with periods of worsening depression and other side effects, including:

  • Insomnia
  • Weight gain
  • Dry mouth
  • Appetite changes
  • Sexual side effects
  • And more.
 Currently, researchers are looking for a better way. Studies are currently being conducted to create a novel line of anti-depressants (that effect and help regulate the endocannabinoid system) using cannabinoids like CBD as a more natural treatment option. (source, source)

Preclinical and research findings indicate that, by enhancing the signaling of the endocannabinoid system, CBD may be able to reduce activity related to neuroendocrine stress while enhancing serotonergic and noradrenergic transmission – similar to how current anti-depressants function, but without the side effects.

Other research indicates that CBD may provide more fast-acting benefits, with a shorter time period between consumption and positive effects for those suffering from depression. (source)

The fact that CBD can help to combat the side effects of depression, allowing sufferers to function at their optimal level of performance, is nothing short of positive.

IMPROVE FIBROMYALGIA WITH CBD

While many of us associate fibromyalgia as a pain-related condition, pain is not all the disorder causes.

It’s true that nerve pain is one of the most commonly reported symptoms of fibromyalgia, but it goes further than that. Sufferers are often faced with fatigue, memory problems, mood changes, and much more. (source)

Unlike other chronic conditions, fibromyalgia is not known to cause muscle or joint damage, but the symptoms it causes are no less devastating. Today, 3.7 million Americans are living with fibromyalgia, often in tandem with other conditions, including depression, anxiety, arthritis, and more.

Because the cause of fibromyalgia cannot be pinpointed, treatments are often prescribed to lessen the side effects, providing a better quality of life for those who are afflicted with the disease. (source)

These often include pain medications, sleeping pills, anti-seizure drugs, and anti-depressants.

As mentioned in previous conditions, these treatments are often associated with devastating side effects, ranging from mild mood changes, sleeping problems, and/or appetite changes to depression, dependence, and more. In many cases, as patients become acclimated to specific doses, they are increased, leading to a higher potential for negative effects.

Once again, CBD – nature’s miracle compound – may provide a better alternative. Because of its role in treating chronic pain, depression, nausea and appetite issues, and even nerve pain, CBD may provide benefits to fibromyalgia sufferers as well.

One study (in 2009) found that CBD may be more effective at treating neuropathic pain than opioids. A 2013 review demonstrated similar findings. (source, source)

Because the endocannabinoid system may help regulate the way various neurons fire, this is promising for fibromyalgia patients looking for a better way to treat symptoms.

The original article by Laura Pyne was published at cbdcentral.com

About the Author:

Laura Pyne – CBDC Lead Researcher

As a nature/natural-living enthusiast and professional writer/researcher, Laura enjoys learning about and sharing the benefits of healthy alternatives to traditional medicines and options that more mainstream outlets often fail to highlight.

You May Also Like: Medical & Recreational Marijuana: the Importance of Understanding the Difference

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How to Use CBD for Anxiety

How to Use CBD for Anxiety

by Awesome Author | Oct 29, 2019 | Medication & Health Science

How to Use CBD for Anxiety

Research is starting to show that it’s possible to use CBD to treat anxiety with few to no side effects. According to the World Health Organization, more than 260 million people all over the world live with anxiety.

It can come in a variety of forms and the symptoms can be severe enough to prevent people from living a normal life. If you’re interested in using CBD to treat your anxiety, it is important to understand more about it and what to expect.

Why CBD is an option for treating anxiety

CBD (Cannabidiol) is a compound found in the cannabis plant, as is THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). Both of these compounds interact with the receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body in different ways.

The CBD that comes from hemp contains only a trace element of THC and doesn’t get you high. While high amounts of THC can make you feel paranoid or restless, CBD works with the ECS to inhibit these symptoms.

Researchers have established that the endocannabinoid system plays an important role in managing anxiety. They have also found that CBD appears to enhance serotonergic signaling through a 5-HT1a receptor-dependent mechanism. In other words, it has a rapid effect on serotonin receptors to help reduce the symptoms of anxiety.

As many anxiety medications are habit-forming and have unwelcome side effects, people are increasingly looking at using CBD as an alternative. CBD has a much better side-effect profile than SSRIs commonly used to treat anxiety, like Zoloft and Prozac.

In 2015 researchers reviewed and analyzed previous studies and reached the conclusion that CBD oil shows promise in treating many different forms of anxiety, such as panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

How to use CBD for anxiety

Image Credits

Choosing the right CBD product

There are many different CBD products and they all contain different ingredients and have different potencies. It may take some experimentation to find the right CBD product and dosage for treating your anxiety.

Taking CBD oil orally/sublingually

This is the most straightforward and easy way to consume a therapeutic dose of CBD for anxiety. When you take it under the tongue, it is important to keep the drops there for at least 60 seconds before swallowing. This allows CBD to get into your bloodstream instead of having to go through your digestive tract.

Tip: Try taking your CBD oil together with olive oil or some other edible oil. Recent research shows that CBD has a higher bio-availability when you take it with other dietary lipids.

Vaping CBD

If you’re going to vape your CBD, make sure that you’re using a product suitable for vaping. Vaping CBD oil has immediate effects, although they won’t last as long as when you use edibles. If you suffer from panic attacks, you want a method that works quickly, such as vaping.

Using CBD edibles

Edibles are also popular, although they go through the digestive system so the effects are not felt quickly. The advantage is that the effects may last longer.

What is the right dosage?

There’s no standard dose recommended to relieve anxiety. Effectiveness depends on numerous factors, including the method of consumption, type of CBD product as well as the physical and biological characteristics of individuals such as metabolism and weight.

A 2018 study looked at the effects of CBD on anxiety levels when it came to public speaking. Researchers discovered that 150mg of CBD and 600mg of CBD did not have any effect on anxiety levels. They had to give the 57 healthy male subjects 300mg of CBD isolate to significantly reduce anxiety.

An effective dose of CBD can obviously range quite widely from one individual to another, and therefore, some experimentation is essential. It is important to consume a therapeutic amount but it is best to start low and slowly work your way up in 10mg increments until you reach an amount that works for you.

CBD is not a cure-all for high stress and anxiety. It is most effective if it is used as part of a healthy regime to manage anxiety. It is also important to be patient when you start taking CBD as the effects are subtle and it can take a while for you to notice a difference.

This article is brought to you by Verified CBD

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What’s the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana?

What’s the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana?

by Awesome Author | Sep 22, 2019 | Medication & Health Science

Hemp vs Marijuana: What’s the Difference?

It seems like you see the letters CBD everywhere today. You almost forget that not long ago, CBD products weren’t legal in America. What makes CBD legal comes down to its plant source. Following the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and marijuana are classified as two different substances under the Control Substance Act. That’s because the effects of hemp vs marijuana are very different. This contrast is thanks to how marijuana and hemp affect a network inside of our body, known as the endocannabinoid system. Let’s discuss the differences between hemp and marijuana.

Hemp vs Marijuana: A Difference in Genetics

While hemp and marijuana effects differ, the two plants are siblings from the same family. Marijuana and hemp are both species of the Cannabaceae genus. There are two predominant plants in the Cannabaceae family. They are Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa.

Due to its sturdier frame and huskier exterior, present-day hemp evolved from Cannabis sativa. Their short and stocky frame causes hemp plants to grow closer together than marijuana plants do, maxing out around 4 inches apart.

Thanks to the hardiness of their fibrous stalks and close proximity to other plants, hemp can withstand many climates. The durability of hemp allows them to reach maturity within 108 to 120 days.

While hemp is just one species of the Cannabaceae genus, marijuana, on the other hand, can be cultivated as either Cannabis indica or Cannabis sativa. That’s where its pickiness stops.

To best grow marijuana, you’re going to need warmer climates and more space. These cannabis family members also like breathing room–upwards of six feet between plants! Hey, maybe space is a bit of a good thing. After all, marijuana matures quicker than hemp, as these plants are ready for harvest within 60 to 90 days.

Another glaring difference between hemp and marijuana? Hemp plants are male. Whereas, marijuana is female. Maybe that’s why they mature quicker than hemp plants!

Hemp Effects vs Marijuana Effects

One last difference in the hemp vs marijuana debate might just be the most important. It involves how compounds within these plants interact with our endocannabinoid system.

The endocannabinoid system relies on a series of receptors located throughout our body. These receptors regulate everything from our mental health to hormone production to appetite.

Research indicates hemp effects are very beneficial to the system. The plant is a complete protein containing all the essential amino acids. Hemp effects also include antioxidative and anti-inflammatory benefits. This wide range of qualities is why CBD oil is popping up in everything from beauty lines to supplements to skincare.

Additional research confirms many of the benefits of hemp effects can also be achieved to some degree by marijuana as well. However, there’s one significant difference between how hemp affects the endocannabinoid system vs how marijuana affects it. This primary contrast is that marijuana triggers a psychoactive effect on the endocannabinoid system.

While marijuana can create a euphoric feeling throughout the body, hemp doesn’t have the same effect on the endocannabinoid system. Farm Bill-compliant hemp can’t get you high. The reason for such a variance in cannabis experiences comes down to two molecules–CBD vs THC.

CBD vs THC

What gives plants their distinct attributes are the network of chemical compounds within their DNA. In the Cannabis sativa family, the significant differences between plants come down to plant-based compounds known as cannabinoids.

Hemp vs. Marijuana

Cannabinoids are molecules formed within the oils of the cannabis plant. They are also behind the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.

As the prefix implies, cannabinoids are closely associated with the cannabis family. While other plants do have cannabinoids, none has an abundant supply as members of the Cannabaceae clan. Research indicates that the hemp plant has at least 113 cannabinoids known to humankind.

Think of cannabis plants like men and women. Both genders have estrogen and testosterone in their system. The difference in these levels is what causes one person to grow the characteristics of a male like facial hair or traits of a female such as the growth of breast tissue.

In hemp vs marijuana plants, instead of estrogen or testosterone, their molecular structure depends on the ratio of CBD vs THC.

What Causes Marijuana Effects?

Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol is the THC molecule that gives marijuana its psychoactive or intoxicating characteristics. The THC molecule binds on cannabinoid receptors, creating a euphoric-like feeling on the system.

Under the Farm Bill, hemp plants must have 0.3% THC or less. Due to its low concentration of THC, hemp effects are not psychoactive.

What Causes Hemp Benefits and Effects?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is predominant in hemp plants and the primary reason for the effects felt from hemp. It works in unison with the other cannabinoids in hemp to help bring homeostasis (balance) to our system.

Unlike THC, the CBD molecule doesn’t bind to many receptors. Instead, it stimulates stressed receptors, causing a calming-like effect on the body.

CBD can’t get you high. In fact, due to its molecular structure, CBD can even counteract unwanted marijuana effects.

A History of Hemp CBD Benefits on Ancestors

Back before plants were classified by species and family, our ancestors learned about herbs through trial and error. They would use plants for sustenance and eventually, for medicinal purposes. One of the earliest texts known to humankind is a Hindu work known as The Vedas. This ancient record referenced cannabis as one of the Five Essential Plants.

History of Hemp

When our ancestors migrated, they brought this versatile plant along with them. Chinese emperor Shen-Nung seeped the leaves in a tea to experience hemp effects such as pain relief. Egyptians used cannabis to treat sore eyes. Romans applied hemp extracts to heal sores on both humans and horses.

Our ancestors who went west took hemp along for the journey. As America started colonizing, parts of the country even valued hemp as an acceptable form of payment!

Cannabis was so commonplace that in the 1800s it was an ingredient in many over-the-counter medicines. The plant even landed itself on a list of medicinal herbs in the 1850 US Pharmacopeia.

In 1850, science hadn’t evolved to the point where scientists could differentiate between hemp and marijuana. Cannabis the species was classified like one plant, and this would come to be detrimental in the hemp vs marijuana battle.

Hemp vs Marijuana and Prohibition

In the early 1900s, America was cracking down on mind-altering substances. This change in philosophy caused the country to ban cannabis. During this time, nobody was able to differentiate between hemp and marijuana. They couldn’t figure out that one plant will cause the psychoactive side effects, while the other won’t. Since no one could distinguish between the two, the cannabis ban affected both plants.

With prohibition, companies removed cannabis as an active ingredient in their over-the-counter remedies. Consequently, the masses became deprived of the CBD benefits from ingesting hemp products.

Figuring Out the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana

In the 1960s, scientists finally discovered the THC molecule. They realized this cannabinoid interacted with the body, fostering the high associated marijuana effects.

Simultaneously, pharmaceutical companies started to grow. With the industrial revolution, companies began mass-producing medications in the same laboratories that were performing studies on these drugs. With our ever-growing reliance on pharmaceutical remedies, hemp-based care and studies seemed a thing of the past. Therefore, the need to distinguish between hemp and marijuana seemed unnecessary.

While conventional drugs have a place in wellness, many come with a laundry list of side effects. Just watch one commercial and your head will be spinning. These unfavorable effects led many to look toward a more natural form of therapy that had our ancestors’ approval.

In 1996, medical cannabis became legal in California. However, the groundswell behind the hemp movement didn’t swing into full gear until 2012. This was a landmark year where numerous states voted in favor of medical cannabis. Even then, it wasn’t until 2014 the differences between hemp and marijuana were recognized legally. Still, the laws surrounding cannabis can be tricky and make knowing the difference between hemp and marijuana more crucial than ever.

Hemp vs Marijuana and the Law

In 2018, Congress signed a new Farm Bill into law. A provision in this legislature saw the differences between hemp and marijuana finally recognized.

The new Farm Bill reassigned the cultivation of hemp under the jurisdiction of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) instead of the Department of Justice. With this change of oversight, hemp became reclassified under the Controlled Substance Act.

During prohibition, the Controlled Substance Act classified both hemp and marijuana as cannabis. Unfortunately for those who wanted hemp CBD benefits, all species of cannabis were classified as a schedule 1 controlled substance. That categorization held hemp in the same regard as opioids and meth. It’s also a reason for the long-standing stigma surrounding cannabis products today.

Thanks to the new Farm Bill, which was signed with a hemp pen by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, hemp is currently a schedule 5 substance. While recognizing the differences between hemp and marijuana was vital for CBD legality, it doesn’t make all forms of CBD oil legal. Let’s take a look at the difference between hemp vs marijuana-derived CBD Oil.

What is the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana Derived CBD Oil?

CBD derived from hemp plants compliant with the Farm Bill is legal in all 50 states. That’s because these hemp plants have less than 0.3% THC in their genetic makeup. Therefore, companies can use these plants to extract CBD oil without worrying about creating a formula with psychoactive properties.

Almost one-fifth of the states in our country recognize recreational marijuana. Based on the guidelines of those states, extracting CBD oil from marijuana plants is legal. Therefore, products in states where recreational marijuana is legal may have a higher concentration of THC than the 0.3% in government-mandated hemp. Consequently, these products may cause psychoactive side effects for the person who is using them. Furthermore, the products may become illegal when they cross state lines.

While hemp got a pass during the new Farm Bill, marijuana did not. If you are purchasing CBD oil in a state where recreational marijuana is legal, check out the label. Make sure the CBD oil comes from hemp instead of marijuana.

To further complicate the situation, states which recognize medical marijuana but not recreational, also allow the extraction of CBD oil from marijuana. Medical marijuana cardholders should always have their card inside their wallet, especially when they are traveling with CBD oil. That way, if you do purchase a product in compliance with your state’s medical marijuana program, you will be in accordance with local laws in neighboring states too.

Full Spectrum CBD Oil Benefits

You must be asking yourself, why bother making CBD oil with marijuana if the plant is illegal on a federal level? That’s because there are therapeutic benefits to the THC molecule. In fact, all 113 cannabinoids in the hemp plant (including THC) are rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and other micronutrients. Though THC found in CBD products is below .3% and not nearly enough to get you high, having a small amount can still provide benefits.

Hemp vs. Marijuana

The primary objective of cannabinoids is homeostasis (balance). They enter the bloodstream in search of angst-ridden receptors throughout the endocannabinoid system. Based on the cannabinoid’s interaction with the stressed-out receptor, the balance gets restored throughout the network.

Cannabinoids love homeostasis so much they try to accomplish this task as efficiently as possible. Studies suggest cannabinoids have a beneficial effect on one another. Dubbed the entourage effect, cannabinoids exhibit a natural synergy. This unique interaction is what makes the benefits of CBD oil possible for millions.

Not all CBD oil is created equally. To know you are getting all of the cannabinoids, make sure the label says words such as:

  • Full-Spectrum
  • Broad-Spectrum
  • Whole-Plant

These labels indicate all parts of the hemp plant including its leaves, stems, and seeds were used during the extraction process. This means the formula is enriched with a load of nutrients that subpar, fly by night companies may leave out.

How to Get CBD Oil without the THC Molecule   

There are many reasons for someone to be skeptical of purchasing a product with THC. For one, you may have a sensitive endocannabinoid system. Others may be afraid of unknowingly breaking the law. If this sounds like you, you can still experience the benefits of CBD oil.

At Made by Hemp, we produce phytocannabinoid-rich hemp oil without any THC. While the THC molecule does exhibit therapeutic benefits, it is not necessarily needed in CBD products, though as highlighted above can prove beneficial.

CBD products made with CBD isolate are THC free.

Hemp vs Marijuana Uses

With marijuana being abundant in THC, it is mostly used for its psychoactive properties and medicinal benefits. States with laws allowing for both recreational and medical marijuana have laws for when, where, and how to use these products.

Hemp, on the other hand, has historically been used for more industrial purposes like clothing, biofuel, food products, paper, and more. With the recent rise in popularity as a supplement, CBD derived from hemp is making this plant popular again, and helping companies like ours to educate more people on the benefits of hemp vs marijuana as a supplement.

Conclusion

Now you know the difference, spread the word! Help others to understand this important concept about the difference between hemp and marijuana. There are many epidemics going on in the world today such as deforestation, sickness and disease, opioid addiction, and more which more studies and research could provide insight into how the hemp plant and its constituents could prove important in these issues and more.

This article was originally published on MadeByHemp

Featured Image Credits: Pixabay