1) IS HEMP THE SAME AS MARIJUANA?
Hemp and marijuana are both derived from the plant genus Cannabis. There are several species of the Cannabis genus. Cannabis sativa is one of those species. Hemp and marijuana are 2 separate varieties within this species.
Hemp has at least 400 strains and marijuana has over 775 strains. Several differences are found between the Hemp variety and the Marijuana variety.
Genetic Alterations/Appearance
Hemp producing cannabis strains are tall, fibrous stalks. The stalks are strong and have few flowering buds.
Marijuana strains are short, bushy, and have high concentration of flowering buds.
THC Content
Marijuana typically contains 5-30% THC* and lower amounts of CBD**.
Hemp contains < 0.3% THC and a higher concentration of CBD.
Cultivation, Chemical Properties, and Uses
Hemp is grown and cultivated for fiber, foods, oils, and fabrics.
Marijuana is cultivated to yield the psychoactive ingredient THC found in the flowers and buds.
*Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of at least 113 cannabinoids identified in cannabis. THC is the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis.
**Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid discovered in 1940 and, it is one of at least 113 cannabinoids identified in cannabis plants.
2) WHAT IS CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of at least 113 different compounds, known as cannabinoids, found in the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids are unique because they act on cannabinoid receptors that are part of the endocannabinoid system found throughout the body. The second most abundant compound in cannabis, CBD is not intoxicating and does not have any of the psychoactive properties of marijuana.
3) HOW IS CBD EXTRACTED?
Supercritical/Subcritical CO2 Extraction.
This method uses carbon dioxide under high pressure and extremely low temperatures to isolate, preserve, and maintain the purity of the CBD oil. This process requires expensive equipment and when done properly it is considered potent, safe, and pure.
Superthermal Extraction
This method uses heated air and condensation to vaporize THC and extract CBD allowing no traceable THC.
Oil Extraction
This method exposes the plant to high heat to activate the plant's chemicals. Then it is added to olive oil and again heated at high temperatures.
Solvent Extraction Method
Ethanol or butane extracts the full range of cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant which makes the end product safe for consumption. It also extracts chlorophyll which may cause side effects. Chlorophyll may be removed by filtering the extract, but the oil’s potency is reduced.
Superthermal Extraction
This method uses heated air and condensation to vaporize THC and extract CBD allowing no traceable THC.
4) WHAT IS A CBD ISOLATE?
Cannabidiol known as CBD is one of at least 113 different cannabinoids which have been isolated from the Cannabis plant. CBD must be extracted, purified, and thus separated from the other cannabinoids in order for it to be considered an isolate. CBD Isolates are considered THC free.
5) WHAT IS A FULL SPECTRUM CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD contains not only CBD, but other compounds such as terpenes, other cannabinoids, flavonoids, and fatty acids found in hemp. The addition of these compounds may produce what is called the entourage (synergistic) effect. The full spectrum product will contain <0.3% THC.
6) WHAT IS A BROAD SPECTRUM CBD?
Broad spectrum CBD is similar to a full spectrum CBD, but contains 0% THC.
7) WHAT IS THE ADVANTAGE OF CBD OIL OVER OTHER PRODUCTS?
Oils have the ability to absorb sublingually (under the tongue) as well as in the digestive system. Sublingual administration quickens the absorptive response.
8) WHICH BRAND SHOULD I CHOOSE?
CBDfx - great option for fast acting full spectrum CBD pen
cbdMD - independently voted best value
Hemplucid - good taste, MCT (medium chain triglycerides) carrier oil option, great highly popular in local market as it is known to enhance the bodies ability to absorb CBD
Med7 - a full spectrum CBD tincture only sold by medical professionals, quick acting given it is a water soluble formula. Check out our link to their website.
Medterra - independently voted best THC free CBD
mintedLeaf - great cost for full spectrum CBD tincture
Populum - independently voted highest quality overall
Pur7 - great travel size selection and focus on full spectrum products
Purehemp Biotanicals -excellent reviews and voted worlds best pet products
Pure Spectrum - great option for full spectrum CBDs with a good taste
Receptra Naturals - independently rated number 2 in pet CBD, and rated in the top 10 overall, for all other CBD products
Select - excellent taste and flavors, the 1000 mg/30 ml CBD oils are a favorite regionally
Star Spangled - if you want CBD Isolate, they offer the perfect 1500 mg/30ml high concentration vial, and for full spectrum choose a 750 mg vial, and for athletes choose the 3500 mg per 30 ml vial
9) WHAT DOSAGE SHOULD I TAKE?
No official medical standard yet exists. Please consult your doctor. However, dose ranges are seen between 10-100 mg a day total. However, it has been advised to split doses twice a day. Manufacturers often suggest using 30-60 mg a day on average. Starting doses range from 10-30 mg a day, and slowly increase if needed, over days to weeks. Some use the rule of using 1-6 mg/lb in body weight twice a day.
10) HOW DO I USE CBD OIL?
Manufactures often recommend using a dropper to apply 1/4-1 ml under the tongue. Let it sit under the tongue for 60 seconds to allow the absorption process to begin. Then, slowly swallow.
11) HOW DO I USE CBD CREAMS?
Consult your doctor as no official standard exists. Read labeling. Manufacturers will likely advise avoiding eyes and other sensitive areas. They may recommend 1-4 pea size drops rubbed in thoroughly up to twice a day.
12) HOW TO USE CBD PET PRODUCTS?
Consult a veterinarian for advice. Some manufacturers recommend purchasing 250 mg/ml vials for cats and small animals, 750 mg vials for medium to large dogs, and 1500 mg vials for large animals, such as horses. They may recommend dosing 1/2-1 ml per once to twice a day.
13) ARE THERE STUDIES SHOWING BENEFITS OF USING CBD PRODUCTS?
Discuss this with a medical professional.
14) DO WE SELL GUMMIES AND VAPING CBD PRODUCTS?
Yes we sell gummies, but we no longer carry vape products.
15) DOES CBD HAVE A SIDE EFFECT PROFILE?
Yes, the main three side effects at prescription strength doses, as noted by the FDA approved cannabidiol named Epidiolex (which is up to 100 times the recommended over the counter strength,) are tiredness, anemia and lower appetite.