main logo

Blog

A full breakdown of the 2018 Farm Bill

At the end of 2018, Congress passed the Agricultural Improvement Act, also known as the Farm Bill. A revised version of this bill goes through congress every five years. The intent behind the Farm Bill is to set the “national agriculture, nutrition, conservation, and forestry policy.” Most years, the passing of this bill is relatively uneventful. Occasionally, there is some debate around it, but usually, it passes without much fuss. As such, if you haven’t heard about the Farm Bill until recently, you’re not alone. Many Americans are unaware of the contents of these bills. They also don’t realize that Congress is supposed to pass them once every five years.

In the 2018, however, the contents of the Farm Bill contained a few essential provisions that would dramatically alter the legality and commercial landscape of Industrial Hemp and Cannabidiol (CBD) forever. To understand what this bill did for CBD, let’s take a look at a breakdown of the 2018 Farm Bill and the key takeaways for CBD.

Critical 2018 Farm Bill benefit for CBD: legalization

The 2018 Farm Bill removed Hemp-derived substances from the controlled substances list.  Prior to the bill, industrial hemp and any products derived from the hemp plant were considered to be dangerous and addictive drugs with the law enforcement community considering hemp products to be equivalent to heroin. Descheduling CBD products effectively legalizes CBD, so long as it comes from Hemp that is legal under the Farm Bill itself.

Many people talk about industrial Hemp or Hemp plant. While Hemp is a frequently used word in the Cannabis industry, it’s essential to understand its meaning. Hemp and Marijuana are often associated; this is because they both belong to the Cannabis plant family.

Hemp and Cannabis are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference. This difference is more a matter of semantics. Hemp is defined as a subspecies of the Cannabis sativa plant that contains less than 0.3% Tetrahydrocannabinol, (THC), so CBD can not get you “high.”  THC is the psychoactive chemical in Cannabis that is psychogenic, promoting a high or euphoric feeling. Plants with THC levels >0.3% are referred to as Marijuana.

For decades, the law at the Federal level classified all cannabis plants in the same way. The 1937 Marijuana Tax Act levied taxes on the growing, selling, and distribution of Marijuana. This bill made Marijuana illegal because growers had to receive a tax stamp for their product from the government.  Any products not containing the tax stamp were deemed illegal. Additionally, as part of the US Government’s “War on Drugs” passed the Controlled Substances Act in 1970, making Cannabis illegal in any form. This bill made is entirely unlawful to grow, sell, or possess any Marijuana, no matter how little THC it may have. The law stayed in effect for 48 years.

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized Hemp. That is, it legalized any Cannabis plant with less than 0.3% THC (which is nowhere enough to create any psychoactive effects).

You might be wondering what all this has to do with CBD. With the legalization of Hemp, any derivative products that come from these plants are also legal.

The Cannabis plant contains many cannabinoids, which are chemicals that interact with our bodies in some meaningful way. Cannabis contains over 100 different cannabinoids. THC is one, CBD is another. 

Just because hemp doesn’t contain significant levels of THC doesn’t mean that there isn’t any CBD in there. Certain strains of legal Hemp contain high levels of CBD. As such, some CBD products that derive from Hemp are lawful to sell. But if that CBD comes from Marijuana (that is, a plant with over 0.3% THC), then it is illegal to sell. 

The Hemp market Is not entirely free

Unfortunately, there are quite a few laws that intersect when it comes to Cannabis and its legality. There are state laws as well as federal laws, and each level can be in conflict with each other.. Sorting through the maze of issues can lead to significant headaches.

The 2018 Farm Bill is not a single comprehensive license to grow as much Hemp as you want. It provides tight regulations that ensure that people are not able to grow Hemp as freely as other crops like carrots and celery. In other words, this Hemp bill won’t let you buy a Cannabis plant and put it in your backyard to get whatever CBD you would like.

Perhaps the most telling feature of the Farm Bill is that it does not, in any way, make Cannabis with THC content above 0.3% legal. Federal law still classifies this as Marijuana, and possession and growing Marijuana carry with it steep penalties at the federal level! Therefore, you need to have a commercial enterprise where you can have 100% confidence that the plants you are growing will now have a THC content of 0.3% or above. If you try and grow hemp in your backyard, you might inadvertently break the law. 

It is worth noting that laws are different from state to state. Medical Marijuana is legal in several states, and recreational Marijuana is legal in 11. These states also have their own regulations on how Cannabis may be grown and sold. 

The other key piece to this legislation that restricts the Hemp market is that it requires states to work with the USDA to create programs for licensing and regulating hemp. Only once the individual state has submitted their proposal to the USDA, and the USDA approves that proposal, can residents within that region produce industrial Hemp. If some states don’t want to create their own regulatory body, then people within those states can apply for a federally run program. Whether individual states create their systems or residents have to opt-in to ones that the USDA has made, the reality is that growing Hemp will require significant regulatory hurdles.

Given all the hurdles and potential downsides for growing Cannabis that may accidentally exceed 0.3%, it’s clear that the market for growing hemp is not entirely “free.” It’s less restrictive than before, but people will not be growing hemp in their backyards any time soon.

The 2018 Farm Bill adds to already conflicting laws

While the 2018 Farm Bill sought to bring clarity to the legal status of Marijuana and Hemp, it also added to the confusion. Part of the problem is that the laws at the state and federal levels often conflict in specific, intractable ways. 

One way in which the laws intersect is with CBD-derived products. As you might know, you may buy just about anything with CBD in it. From pain relief creams to oils to tinctures, manufacturers have been adding CBD to almost anything and everything. Of course, there is a good reason for doing this. CBD has been reported to provide a multitude of health benefits from supporting joint health and flexibility to providing mental well being.  While the research into exactly how CBD accomplishes these outcomes is still in its infancy, it has been promising so far.

Recall that the 2018 Farm Bill legalized CBD. However, in doing so, it legalized it in a very narrow manner. Any CBD-derived product created from industrial Hemp, grown in full compliance with the Farm Bill itself, is legal. Technically-speaking, all this means is that it CBD is no longer a Schedule I controlled substance. You cannot go to jail for possessing CBD extracted from a legal Hemp plant.

However, this bill says nothing about how CBD products are to be regulated or manufactured.  The food and Drug Administration FDA has issued unclear guidance regarding CBD products. The FDA is currently very concerned about false claims being made by CBD companies and the language of health claim wordings (no, CBD will not miraculously cure cancer, but there is some evidence that it might be a helpful supplement with symptoms). Again, as per the letter of the law, CBD cannot be added to a food product as per FDA regulations, but the FDA is not enforcing that rule particularly strictly.

Some states have expressly legalized CBD oil, which makes it legal to sell within state lines. Despite these states’ rules, federal laws still apply.  As you can see, federal legality, state laws, and the FDA produce a legal compliance maze that leads to consumer and producer confusion.

Because of the popularity of CBD products and the reported positive health benefits, lawmakers and regulatory agencies are working as rapidly as possible to clarify rules and regulations.  The Farm Bill has been a great start, but there is much more work to do.  

The Federal Government is still very much against Marijuana

Some people saw the 2018 Farm Bill as a breakthrough whereby the federal government would relinquish prohibitions on Marijuana. However, this isn’t the case.

Not only does the bill require legal plants to have less than 0.3% THC, but it also forces state regulators to have a plan to test growing plants continuously. If they find that growers have Cannabis with a THC content that exceeds the legal limit, they are still subject to fines, penalties, and destruction of the plants themselves. 

Recent USDA guidelines indicate that producers must dispose of plants that contain 0.3% to 0.5% THC. Not only do they have to get rid of them, but they have to notify the USDA of that fact as well. However, this again varies from state to state, depending on the state’s legal status of all Cannabis plants.

If people are hoping that this bill could be a pathway towards the legalization of Marijuana at the federal level, it’s clear that it won’t be happening any time soon.

There are now more potential pathways for Hemp research

Given the fact that this bill has opened the door for legalized CBD and Hemp, restrictions on hemp and CBD research have also been lessened. 

The 2018 Farm Bill goes even further than merely permitting this research to happen legally – it expressly “provides USDA oversight and funding for hemp research.” In other words, we should expect to see researchers all across the US looking into the various ways that industrial Hemp can be beneficial. While there is nothing in this directive that targets CBD specifically, given the interest in CBD and its potential health benefits – as well as the FDA who wants to take an official stance on the subject based on science – we will likely see more research into this topic in the future.

Why is the 2018 Farm Bill important for the consumer?

There are five main takeaways from this bill.

  • The legalization (at least in some form) of CBD
  • The restrictions on the production of industrial hemp
  • The conflicting laws
  • The fact that the federal government’s stance on Marijuana still has not changed
  • The newly opened paths for Hemp research

For the first time in 48 years, the federal government was willing to decriminalize something – anything – related to Marijuana. This decriminalization, even if it only applies to industrial Hemp, represents a seismic shift in how politicians at this level view Cannabis and its potential benefits.

There is already a growing body of research indicating that CBD may be a beneficial substance to improve overall human health. There is ample research showing that CBD has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, if you experience anxiety or depression, CBD may help with that. CBD may also help with insomnia, may protect against neurodegenerative diseases, and may even promote heart health through its powerful antioxidant properties. In short, the body of research that shows CBD may be fantastic for our bodies is growing.

While this bill did not explicitly legalize CBD from any source and in all forms, it did provide a legal pathway for researchers and consumers to obtain this impressive substance. That legalization is also forcing appropriate agencies, like the USDA and FDA, to have tough conversations to create a set of policy documents that are in line with the will of both Congress and the people. The fact that the bill removes CBD from the FDA controlled substance list is a hint to the other agencies to consider updating their rules and regulations appropriately.

The precise implications of the Farm Bill are still ongoing, of course, since Congress passed it a little over a year ago. However, the text within the bill is encouraging and may lead to more permissive CBD bills coming into law in the future. Maybe that will happen with the next Farm Bill in 2023.

Other Products
Top Rated Products

CBD Oil for Cats

Cat owners, just like any other pet owner, have a lot of love and often worry for their furry feline friends. Naturally, when their cat starts to show signs of illness, owners quickly start to look for a solution. Veterinarian sciences have made some incredible advances in health and wellness for our pets. However, the medications that are often used may not always be the solution. Some cats are allergic to medications, or the prescription is not sufficient to return the cat to health on its own. 

When faced with the inadequacies of current prescription drugs, many pet owners have been turning to more holistic solutions for their cat’s ailments. Recently, CBD has risen as a potential option.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound derived from plants in the Cannabis family (Marijuana and Hemp, to name the most well-known). There is a lot of misconception surrounding CBD. One of these is that people often confuse it with another compound found in the same plants, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Both cannabinoids are prevalent in the flowers and leaves of all Cannabis plants.  However, CBD and THC produce radically different effects in our bodies.  

THC is the compound that creates the high that is most often associated with Cannabis. CBD, on the other hand, is much less intense. CBD does have effects on the brain effectively to promote a calming effect and will not give you the high that THC does. CBD also does not impair cognitive functions as THC can. It should be noted that THC should not be given to cats.

CBD may be found in all plants in the Cannabis family. However, most CBD manufacturers are more likely to use Hemp instead of Marijuana. This is because Hemp has much higher concentrations of CBD, while Marijuana is richer in THC.

CBD is often used by humans to relieve stress, help with their epilepsy, use for skincare, or to help with any number of ailments. Now pet owners and holistic veterinarians have started using CBD for similar benefits for their household pets, including cats.

CBD for cats?

Cat owners have been using CBD to help their cats with several different problems. Cats and humans both have cannabinoid receptors (the receptors that interact with cannabinoids like CBD and THC); this could be the reason why cats and humans seem to be affected by CBD in similar ways. 

As with humans, cats may benefit from CBD to help with epilepsy, relieve stress, and the conditions of their coats and skin.

Inflammation may be a side effect of all kinds of pain issues in cats, including arthritis and pancreatitis. A study done at Cornell University showed that CBD could help with pain experienced by arthritic dogs. The study found that CBD may have an anti-inflammatory effect on the trouble areas. This could possibly lead to less pain and better movement. As this study showed, CBD had great effects on dogs, and it is likely that it could work well with cats too.

Epilepsy and seizures are not overly common in cats. But that does not mean that cats never suffer from these issues, and CBD may be able to help. Many holistic vets and cat owners have reported a drop in the number of seizures their epileptic cat has suffered since they started giving them CBD. CBD will not cure your cat’s epilepsy but may be able to help. 

CBD has been known to help increase the production of serotonin and dopamine. Both of these are compounds that could have a positive effect on mood and attitude. Most of the studies that have shown improvement in mental well being are focused on people. However, many pet owners and vets have reported improvements in a cat’s anxiety after starting with CBD. This could possibly help with separation anxiety, former feral cats who may still be skittish at home or anxiety caused by situations that are potentially distressing for cats (like car rides to the vet).

Many cats suffer from dry skin, an affliction that often makes their coats dull and dry. CBD is becoming a common option to improve skin health among humans. Now holistic veterinarians are recommending CBD to help with pets’ skin. CBD may help hydrate the skin and, as a result, improve the coat, making it shinier and softer.

Another common feline affliction is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). This is a condition that may cause much discomfort and may even cause them to lose weight. While vets do not recommend using only CBD for IBD, some do report improvements when it is used alongside a special diet.

There are other owners who give their cats CBD just to improve their overall health. These owners often report their cats having higher activity levels and better skin and coats with less shedding.

Will CBD have any side effects on my cat?

There are multiple studies on the effects of CBD. Most are on humans and laboratory animals; some are on dogs. Unfortunately, it appears that few (if any) studies are focused on cats. However, many owners report that CBD has been beneficial for their pets.

CBD is unlikely to have your cat running around and acting crazy like they might when you give them catnip. In fact, CBD may have the opposite effect. Some owners report that CBD has a sedating effect on their cat. Owners also report that this sedation does go away quickly after they stop giving CBD to their cat or decrease the amount or frequency at which they dose CBD. Veterinarians and owners have also found that CBD may sometimes lead to a gastrointestinal upset in cats. Like the sedation, this quickly alleviated by stopping or decreasing the dosage.

The best way to avoid these side effects is by starting the amount of CBD you give to your cat at low levels. You should start with low CBD concentration and give your cat only a little bit initially. If there are no negative observations, you may try slowly increasing how much your cat is taking. You should also be sure that the THC level in your CBD product is low. Most products will contain a small amount of THC. That small amount is unlikely to harm your cat, but you should also be sure that it is a low concentration.

Be sure to discuss with your veterinarian before you start giving your cat CBD. If you do decide to try starting your cat on a CBD regimen, keep an eye on your cat when you start them with whatever pet product you’ve selected. Pay attention to their napping and eating schedule and note if there are clear and worrying changes. If there are, stop or reduce the amount of CBD and talk with your cat’s vet.

How do I give my cat CBD?

Cats may sometimes be difficult to give medication to. They are not always as eager and trusting as dogs and won’t necessarily take a pill wrapped in lunchmeat or covered in peanut butter. In fact, getting a cat to sit still long enough to do anything may often be a challenge. So, how do you get them to take CBD?

Cannabis oil for cats comes in several different forms. However, most of the forms are made with humans in mind. If you are trying to give a CBD product to your cat, the easiest way is CBD drops. Drops are tinctures generally made with different concentrations of CBD oil and palm oil that are dispensed with a dropper. You may simply put a drop directly into your cat’s mouth or mix it in with their food or treats.  Panacea Life Sciences is developing a feline-specific formula that will make it easier to provide beneficial CBD to your cat that will launch late spring 2020.

Because of the plants that CBD is derived from, some of the oils may be rather bitter in taste. If your cat is a picky eater, you may find drops with different flavors like mixed berry or vanilla that may be easier on their palate.

If you would like to use CBD to help with your cat’s coat and/or skin, the easiest way to go about it is by applying it directly to their skin or fur. Feeding them, the CBD may also help, but the direct application seems to work better for skincare. Applying the CBD directly to inflamed areas may also be a more direct way to help with your cat’s pain potentially. 

There are not many CBD products made for cats. However, there are some that are made for dogs, and cat owners have reported that those work just as well. Many also just use the products made for people using smaller doses.

If your cat is already on medication, be sure to talk and work with your vet before starting your cat on CBD.

Anyone with a pet knows that they are more than just a pet; they are a part of the family. Cats are no exception. So, it is understandable that owners want to find the best way to take care of them. CBD may not be the solution for all of your pet’s problems, but it appears that it may help.

Sources:

https://www.petmd.com/cat/care/cbd-oil-cats-what-you-need-know#

https://www.innovetpet.com/blogs/cats/cbd-oil-for-cats

https://www.allthebestpetcare.com/pet-nutrition/cbd-oil-for-cats-anxiety/

https://boulderholisticvet.com/cannabis-101-cbd-cat/

https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/blog-cbd-oil-for-cats-how-does-it-work-n935

https://www.certapet.com/cbd-oil-for-cats/

https://www.thesprucepets.com/is-cbd-oil-good-for-cats-4686100

Other Products
Top Rated Products

What is the Entourage Effect?

As the world grows to accept the use of Cannabidiol (CBD) products and cannabis, the world of science and experimental research grows alongside it.

The use of cannabis products as a medicine or dietary supplement has been shunned by a lot of major scientists and media publications as many people think of cannabis or marijuana as a recreational drug. Even to this day, there are certain people who refuse to accept the benefits of CBD and cannabis for healing, mental health care, and general well-being.

Luckily, this perception is changing as time goes on.

With the movement to legalize and accept CBD and Hemp products growing worldwide, more industry giants and names in science are looking to understand the beneficial effects of these products and cannabis-derived compounds. How do cannabis products interact with the human psyche, and what exactly do they do to the human body? What are the long-term effects of usage? There are so many key questions to answer that are starting to get looked at now, which is fantastic. 

One particularly interesting area of the science behind cannabis and CBD is the interaction of cannabis-based compounds with other substances. One of the main reasons why people opt out of taking CBD, for example, is that it has been shown to interact negatively with existing medications resulting in what is called a drug-drug interaction.  This is similar to warnings with prescription medications where patients are advised not to consume alcohol or grapefruit juice while on the prescription. Cannabis extracts may inhibit the body’s ability to metabolize the medications, which may cause an increase in prescription medication concentration leading to negative health effects. 

As we have stated in other posts, there are a large number of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavanoids in cannabis products.  How do the different elements in cannabis interact with each other?

That’s exactly the phenomena that we’re going to be taking a look at today. In this blog post, we’re going to be looking at the Entourage Effect and what this means for the CBD user. It’s an intriguingly vibrant subject and something that fascinates us all, here at Panacea Life Sciences.

What is CBD?

First things first, let’s establish what compounds you need to be aware of in order to understand the Entourage Effect fully.

CBD is one of the main elements to be aware of when discussing this.

CBD is short for cannabidiol, and it’s a natural compound that is extracted from the cannabis plant. It is a non-psychoactive, organic compound that has a wealth of benefits associated with it. CBD is one of our specialties here at Panacea Life, and we’re big fans of its potential benefits.

The most common form to find it in is within CBD oil extract, although there are a plethora of different products infused with CBD that may be found on the market. 

What is THC?

In contrast to its mellow counterpart, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the compound extracted from the cannabis plant that results in the sensation of getting high. It’s a naturally psychoactive compound that creates a euphoric sensation.

Like CBD, THC may be found in a number of different products. You may find THC in edibles and candies, tinctures, and so much more.

What are Terpenes? 

When discussing the entourage effect, it’s important to make sure that you understand what terpenes are. Terpenes aren’t just associated with cannabis, as this Well and Good article points out– they are strong-smelling compounds that may be found in everything from herbal tea to essential oils.

The terpenes in cannabis may have an effect on the consumer, changing everything from mood and emotions to mental clarity. Terpenes are a rarely discussed element of herbal significance, but they are fascinating to explore. They work in synergy with compounds like CBD, which brings us to our exploration of the Entourage Effect. 

What Products Might you Find CBD In?

There are a plethora of different forms that you may find CBD in. Before purchasing any CBD products, it’s incredibly important that you do your research to make sure that you are aware of any legal issues that you may encounter when using them in your location.

Furthermore, make sure that CBD is not going to have a negative impact on you. Do you have any pre-existing medication that it may interfere with, for example? How about any pre-existing health conditions? These are all things to be well researched and potentially consult with a medical professional before you even think about taking CBD.

Here at Panacea Life Sciences, we’re dedicated to finding the latest and greatest in CBD culture and educating our customers with real data regarding hemp products. There are a number of hemp products that stand out that perhaps you wouldn’t have guessed are coming onto the CBD market. Products like; 

  • Oil Extract and Tinctures
  • Makeup products
  • Skincare
  • Topical Balms
  • Candy and gummies
  • Edibles
  • Pet Supplements

This list is not exhaustive, of course. There are a number of creative minds and innovators in this industry who are constantly striving to make sure that they are crafting new ways for their consumers to enjoy CBD.

There are a number of different types of THC containing products as well, with one of the most common being smokable cannabis. When smoking cannabis, it is the THC compound that provides the intoxicating effect that so many users desire.

All hemp-derived products from edibles to teas may contain low levels of THC.  Full Spectrum products contain the entire hemp extract, which will have cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavanoids.  These CBD products will contain less than 0.3% THC. By definition, these products will contain less than 0.3% 

What is the Entourage Effect? 

So, what on earth is the entourage effect? To put it plainly, the Entourage Effect is a term that describes the impact of the different compounds found within cannabis that have an impact on each other and the user, as shown in Wired.

To be more specific, this effect relates to the fact that the entire cannabis plant is made up of a plethora of different compounds- and that they work together more effectively in synergy than they do on their own. The entourage effect may assist the body to absorb more CBD, or the other compounds in a full spectrum oil may work directly with CBD or enhance the effect by stimulating parallel biological pathways.  

While pure CBD has been reported to boost mental wellness, full-spectrum products are reported to be more effective and at lower concentrations.  The multiple compounds in a full spectrum oil explain why holistic products may be more beneficial in some cases. Add in the extra benefits of organic terpenes, and you’re sure to have a much more pleasant experience overall. 

As with most areas of CBD and cannabis, research on the entourage effect. Legislation and stigmatization have slowed cannabis research, but as both hemp and marijuana have been legalized in various states, the number of scientific studies is rapidly increasing.    

As the movement to understand herbal alternatives grows, we’re sure to see this area of study becoming more developed and looked upon with greater interest. 

CBD has been incredibly popular in recent years, with more and more people looking to use it for medicinal and recreational means. There are even dedicated locations opening up in the world, like cannabis cafes. The world is slowly but surely becoming more accepting- which is exactly what this community needs.

What research is there to support the entourage effect?

There is currently not much research to back up the Entourage Effect. This is an area of science that is severely lacking. However, this is changing as general attitudes towards CBD and cannabis are changing as a whole.

Regardless of your personal opinion on cannabis, it’s hard to deny the fact that regulation is hugely important, as are long-term studies. It’s fair to say that people will always be on the hunt for things like CBD, so arguably, it would be better for them to be verified, safe, and easy to get hold of in a regular store. However, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD is no longer on the list of Controlled Substances, enabling the legal transportation of CBD across state lines.

One of the main research points that supports the idea and use of the Entourage Effect is a 2011 review, present in the British Journal of Pharmacology. This review highlights the benefits of using terpenes and cannabinoids like CBD together, noting that they may be used to help with everything from pain management to dealing with infections. A fantastic point in this review is the proposal for future studies in this area. 

This is one of the beautiful things about being part of the CBD and cannabis world. This industry is constantly growing, fighting stigmas, and evolving to meet the demands of customers and clients as a whole. It will be fascinating to see where this research goes in the future.

There is also an acknowledgment in the 2011 study that THC and CBD balance each other out well. As you may know, THC may bring about anxiety in some pre-disposed people- and the mellowness of CBD helps to promote mental calmness.

More recent research from 2018 shows us that elements like terpenes may have an immense impact on the brain and neurological health, too. This report highlights the importance of considering holistic cannabis products for health and medical usage and begs the question of when modern medicine will start to embrace cannabis more.

Of course, the research listed here is not exhaustive. There is still much work that needs to be done to analyze the effects of cannabis compounds and to determine whether the Entourage Effect is a real thing or simply a well-supported concept.

How Panacea Life Could Help You Today

As you may see, the Entourage Effect is a fascinating element of cannabis culture that more people should be aware of. It has the potential to encourage the development of even more fantastic products to help people, specifically in the realms of pain management, anxiety release, and stress mitigation.

Here at Panacea Life, we’re dedicated to providing the best of the best when it comes to CBD and Hemp. We understand the importance of being able to find organic, verified products that you may rely on, and our aim as a company is to be the source of our customer’s knowledge when it comes to CBD. 

Whether you’re looking for delicious CBD edibles, high-quality extracts, or even the latest in equine or canine treatments, our shop will have you covered. We’re constantly striving to have the latest CBD treats and products in stock, and are always updating our store. Take a look at our website to see our full range of products.

Alternatively, if you have any questions about what we do, then we’d love to help out. No matter if you want to learn more about our company, our products, or something that we’ve written about in one of our blog posts, our team would be happy to hear from you. You may contact a member of our team at [email protected] to find out more today.

Other Products
Top Rated Products

CBD for Horses and Other Equine

If you’ve ever worked with horses, you’ll know that they’re incredibly intriguing animals. They’re intelligent animals that are both graceful yet powerful all at once. Whether you own them as pets, race with them or train them for shows, you’re bound to have had some fascinating experiences.

That being said, horses may be tricky to look after. There are plenty of potential ailments and illnesses that horses may fall victim to, and they may easily become injured as well. Horses certainly aren’t animals that you may simply obtain as a pet to play with on the weekends (although, no pets should be treated like that). They require constant attention and care.

This is why it’s so great to see the pet care sector evolving with the times. There are plenty of interesting, new products being developed to help care for animals in 2020- and horses are receiving particular attention from the innovative minds in this industry.

One product category that’s risen in prominence in the last year is CBD infused products for pets. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been disrupting most industries in recent years, and the pet care industry is no different. This natural, organic compound has a wealth of potential health benefits that are associated with it for humans, so it’s no wonder that it might benefit animals as well.

But how exactly can it be used for horse and equine studies? And what benefits may horse owners expect to see from using these products? That’s what we’re taking a look at in this blog post today. We’ll be going over the importance of CBD, how it may be used for equine care, and what you need to know about buying CBD products.

Here at Panacea Life, we’re dedicated to helping our clients live their healthiest, most fulfilling lives possible using CBD, and hemp inspired products. We’re passionate about providing pet care products and are excited to tell you about our equine CBD products too.

 

What is CBD?

Before we get started, let’s take a quick look at what CBD actually is. There are a lot of misconceptions surrounding CBD, as the link to cannabis and drug use has given it somewhat of a negative stigma in particular circles.

Contrary to popular belief, CBD has nothing to do with drugs or ‘getting high.’ It’s a natural compound typically extracted from the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L.). CBD hemp extracts have minimal levels of THC, so it will not affect your pet, and CBD itself is not considered to be a psychoactive compound.  Please make sure that any product that you give your pet is certified to not have any THC in the product as it may be lethal to your pet.

The most common form to find this ingredient in is CBD oil that is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and blending it with a carrier oil. Of course, there are plenty of other intriguing products that CBD may be found in, ranging from teas and gummy candies to makeup palettes and facial serums.

 

Why have CBD products become so popular lately? 

If you’re interested in the healthcare, beauty, and wellness industries, we’re sure that you’ve seen CBD products online lately. It’s becoming more and more popular nowadays, with huge makeup and beauty companies jumping on it as a hero product.

One of the main properties of CBD that has made it so popular is that its primary activity is as an anti-inflammatory. As this Healthline article points out, CBD products are used as topical solutions to help with inflammation- often, to fantastic effects. This, in turn, is one of the reasons why CBD is so great at helping to reduce inflammation caused by a variety of conditions, including acne and other skin conditions.  It’s worth noting that research into the effects of CBD is still relatively new.

An interesting benefit of CBD products that’s worth noting is that these products have been reported to help to manage anxiety and reduce stress, as noted by Harvard Medical School’s blog. People who are suffering from any sort of anxiety disorder (for example, PTSD, OCD, or panic disorder) have been reporting great benefits from using CBD products.

Of course, the studies that we’ve linked here are related to humans- but that doesn’t mean that they can’t be extrapolated to apply to animals as well. We’ll be looking at the benefits of CBD for horses in just a moment, once we’ve looked at what types of animal products are available.

 

What pet-friendly CBD products are there?

As with human CBD products, there is a wonderful variety of products available for pet owners who are looking to give CBD to their pets in a healthy manner. The most popular, intriguing examples of pet CBD products that We’re personal fans of include:

Of course, this list is not exhaustive- there are constantly new and innovative products being brought out to meet the demands of this ever-expanding market. There are even books and social media influencers who are dedicated to talking about this fascinating subject. 

In fact, if you’re looking to learn more about CBD usage for pets, social media is a wonderful place to start. It’s incredibly popular on social media, with influencers and start-ups talking about CBD on Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest. If you’re looking to speak to other people about using CBD for your pets, Facebook groups could be an interesting place to look.

 

Why would people use CBD products to help their horses?

Now that we’ve covered what pet products are available in the CBD world, it’s worth going over the main reasons why people might use CBD as a tool to help their horses. Surprisingly, a number of benefits are overwhelmingly similar to the benefits that human users may expect to receive from CBD products.

One of the main benefits of CBD equine products is that it’s great for supporting joint health. This is one of the main findings that we noted in our study on equine CBD during our trials, and we noticed a positive improvement in gait and movement in horses.

If you have a horse who suffers from age-related movement decreases that may be due to arthritis or exercise recovery, for example, it could be worth your time to look into buying CBD products. As this helpful Horsetalk article points out, there are a plethora of conditions that have been shown to lessen with CBD usage.

CBD equine products could be a great way to help care for horses who have sore or stiff joints after performing in shows or traveling a great distance, too. 

Another great reason to use CBD products to help your horse is that it may help to help promote calmness.  Horses are social-herd animals that, when separated from their herd, placed in isolation or in close quarters for transport, become skittish and easily frightened.  Some horses need to travel by trailer for shows, which elevates stress. CBD is great for promoting a sense of calm that may help animals with high-stress levels relax.  

Generally speaking, CBD products are fantastic for equine use. They’re healthy and nourishing and may help with a wide range of health conditions and complications. If you’re caring for horses, this should be something that you look into using this year.

 

Other important things to know about CBD 

To finish up this blog post, we always recommend consulting with your veterinarian before starting a CBD regimen with your horse to optimize benefits.  Ensure that you source your CBD product from a company that produces high quality products free from impurities. When starting to add CBD to your pet’s diet, start with a small dosage and, over time, increase doses to reach the desired effect that enhances the quality of life.

CBD may negatively interact with existing medications. If your horse is already being given medication for conditions like arthritis, for example, you may want to consult with a vet before giving them any CBD products.

A final point to consider with CBD animal care is that CBD products have not been fully legalized in many locations in the world. More and more states and countries are seeing the benefits of CBD products as time goes on, but it is still not accepted everywhere. Thus, it’s vital to make sure that you check your local laws before purchasing any products. We have a helpful article here that talks about where CBD is currently legal at the time of its publication.

Overall, CBD products are incredibly beneficial and may have a wonderful impact on your beloved horses. It’s important to research the products beforehand and to use them mindfully. If you are interested in seeing the quality of testing done on all Panacea products, you are welcome to come to check them out here.

 

How Panacea Life could help you today

As you may see, there are a large number of benefits to expect from using CBD products to support and care for your equine friends. Healthy CBD usage may support joint health to help with age-related movement disorders and exercise fatigue and promote mental calmness. This is particularly great for horses who travel due to shows, or horses that work in stressful environments.

Equine CBD products may be immensely beneficial, but it’s important to make sure that the products are safe and organic. As we noted in earlier blog posts, synthetic products have been proven to be harmful, and it’s a risky game to buy unverified, unchecked products for both you and your horse. Do your research, and only buy from companies that you trust.

Additionally, if your horse begins to show any signs of reacting poorly to the CBD product, make sure to stop using it, and seek a professional’s input immediately. Side effects and poor reactions are very rare with CBD products, but they’re worth being aware of. This is especially true if the horse in question is on medication, as reactions may occur. 

Generally speaking, CBD equine products are incredible. They may benefit the horse in many ways and are much more natural and organic than any synthetic medicines on the market right now. This is why we’re so proud to offer our own equine products in our collection.

The newest product in our line of CBD pet products is our Panacea Pets Equine CBD tablets. These 75mg CBD hemp oil tablet contains 50mg of natural CBD and is a perfect way to increase your horse’s health. They’re pure, potent, and entirely THC free- take a look here to find out more about what this great product could do for you.

Of course, it’s not just equine products that we offer. Whether you’re looking for delicious CBD gummies, helpful tinctures, or something else entirely, Panacea Life will have the perfect product to help you feel healthier and happier.

If you’d like to find out more about what we could do for you, we’d be more than happy to speak to you and make some recommendations on what products would suit your personal needs the best. You may email us at [email protected] to find out more, or fill out the contact form on our website to speak to a member of our team today.

The Word Bioavailability Keeps Coming Up. What is it?

Cannabidiol or CBD products are growing more and more popular all over the world. The compound is emerging in areas of psychotherapy and having multiple health benefits. 

In fact, you may find CBD ingredients in your ice cream or even in your daily tea and coffee! It is definitely an innovative and growing industry that is rapidly expanding. We may nowadays find CBD in our food, drinks, snacks, skincare, and a lot more!

CBD is a primary constituent of Cannabis Sativa L. What is fascinating is the nature of CBD is completely non-psychoactive. Meaning it will not get you “High” the way that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) will. While Hemp does contain both CBD and THC, manufacturers work to separate out the two chemicals so that the product you’re using is primarily CBD-based.  

However, you’ll occasionally hear about the word “bioavailability.” Even Panacea Life bottles have the word on the back, so what does that mean, and how does it work?

What Is Bioavailability?

The term bioavailability is commonly used in the world of medicine. This refers to the absorption and metabolism of a substance when introduced in the body. In order for any substance to have an effect in the body, a specific concentration must be achieved in the bloodstream and body.  

Drug bioavailability specifically assesses how much and at what rate the drug gets absorbed into your bloodstream. 

Now you must be wondering why do cannabis users need to care about bioavailability? 

It is very important for regular as well as new users of cannabis or hem products to understand bioavailability to not only choose the right products to consume, but to understand the effect of bioavailability on dosages of the product.   A better understanding of bioavailability allows users to understand how much hemp oil needs to be consumed and how long the effects will last as well as why some products or dosage mechanisms will not be effective.  

CBD and THC Bioavailability

As the use of CBD oils and tinctures increases rapidly, the real questions are- How much CBD is safe? What’s the best way to take it? And how much is the right amount? 

It is extremely important to know the correct amount of CBD that should be taken for it to be an effective compound in your body!

Similarly, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a compound present in cannabis that tends to give you a slight buzz. It’s important to note that while there are minuscule amounts of THC within CBD products listed as “Full-Spectrum,” the amount is so small that it would be almost impossible to achieve “getting high.”  

Bioavailability of CBD Oil Drops and THC

When we talk about the best way of consuming CBD, this is where we wander into the bioavailability territory. CBD oil is now directly used in many food products. In addition to this, it is also used topically for different kinds of benefits. 

As the use of CBD Oil Drops grows more and more, the question arises regarding its bioavailability. Questions regarding what is the right dosage, and how should you consume it in the first place? 

There are many ways you may utilize CBD. For example, topical products like lotions, balms, or other applications to the skin, while others are more comfortable with ingesting CBD oil drops in different types of drinks like tea, coffee or chewable gummies!

Let us discuss some of the different forms of ingesting CBD and their bioavailability!

Inhalation Bioavailability

This refers to products that you inhale with these substances absorbed in your lungs. There are several ways through which people may inhale CBD or THC. This may be done through a vape pen or a vaporizer. This may not be the most effective way to intake your CBD and does have serious side effects. Multiple reports recently indicate regular vaping can lead to death.

Inhalation of CBD products produces an almost immediate uptake into the body with a bioavailability of to 34% to 46%.  However, inhaling CBD does not produce lasting effects as the CBD concentration in blood decreases rapidly. It’s a quick hit and doesn’t do much for long run effectiveness.

Once inhaled, the CBD is immediately absorbed in the bloodstream. Then it tends to hit the naturally existing endocannabinoid receptors in your body. 

So while inhalation is an option, it is not supported by Panacea Life as too much indicates the method is possibly more harmful to one’s health than good. 

Sublingual Bioavailability

Similar to inhalation, there is another way of ingesting CBD oils. The sublingual (placement under the tongue) bioavailability of CBD shows promising results as well. 

For sublingual dosing, a person takes two to three drops of the substance and holds it underneath the tongue. This is more of an oral form of ingesting CBD oil. Studies show when ingested, CBD has a bioavailability of around 13% to 19% in the body, while some results may show a rate of up to 35% in certain cases.  

The word sublingual literally means under the tongue. When you add the drops, it absorbs into the sublingual gland and enters the bloodstream and starts to take effect. 

This delivery mechanism might not have as rapid onset as inhalation but provides a fairly quick onset with effects first being observed in about five minutes with full effects at 20 minutes.   

Oral Bioavailability 

One of the more popular ways people now consume CBD is oral. There are many new products that people may incorporate within their daily lives, which helps them consume CBD. 

There is CBD oil that you may add in your food or have directly, and there are other types of CBD foods like CBD tea, coffee, snacks, desserts, fitness drinks, and more.

CBD oil remains one of the most potent forms of ingesting the compound. People prefer oral ingestion simply because it isn’t as complicated. You may do it in your daily routines without any hassles. 

It is just like having your daily food and drinks or perhaps taking your daily vitamins. Although as easy as it is, oral delivery of straight CBD oil is not very bioavailable CBD products are least effective when ingested. 

Studies show that the oral bioavailability of CBD is around 10% to 20% or even as low as 6% in certain case studies. While this amount may seem low in the context of this article, it is, in fact, a wonderful way to be introduced to CBD as a product if you have never experienced it before and want something that will impact your system at a lower rate to try it. 

The question arises, why is the bioavailability so low as compared to other methods? The simple scientific explanation is first that CBD is not absorbed well in the intestine, then everything that is absorbed in our digestive tract first goes to the liver where 75% of the CBD absorbed is metabolized.  This results in the small percentage of intact CBD reaching your bloodstream. Panacea Life Sciences does use methods to increase the bioavailability to help CBD to be better absorbed and partially protected from liver metabolism. This is why Panacea products will feel more effective than competitor products.   

In simple terms, much of the CBD consumed is either lost to the liver or the intestines.  The CBD that does enter the system will provide a prolonged effect. Studies show that CBD consumed orally remains detectable in the body over four hours after ingestion Oral ingestion is a great and convenient route of administration for beginners to try CBD as it does not tend to have a massive impact on the body in one go. 

Topical Bioavailability 

There is another way of consuming CBD, which is topical. Up until now, we have talked about either inhaling the compound or orally ingesting it. However, people quiet often forget one of the most effective methods, which is through the skin. 

Our skin is one of the largest organs of our bodies. It is covered with pores that may absorb different compounds in your bloodstream through its tissues.  Our skin contains many different receptors, which also includes endocannabinoid receptors. When applied topically, CBD is most likely to affect these receptors and provide benefits relating to skin health.  If CBD is mixed with compounds that carry CBD across the skin barrier to enter the bloodstream. CBD is used in several different creams, pain relief ointments as well as skincare and cosmetics for both its direct effect on skin function but also to deliver CBD to the bloodstream.  

CBD administered to the skin has low bioavailability and takes longer for the CBD to accumulate in the bloodstream using this method.  The user has to be aware of where exactly to apply the topical cream. Our skin is porous but does not allow all compounds to pass through. That is precisely the job of the skin! It acts as a barrier between different pollutants, bacteria, and germs that surround us daily. 

Any CBD cream or ointment needs to be applied to the correct place and liberally so it may sink in through the skin and actually take effect within our bloodstream. There are studies done on CBD suppositories that show a much higher bioavailability than orally ingested types. The rectal area is much more sensitive and porous as compared to the skin on the rest of the body; this is also why it 25% to 50% more effective than other routes of administration. 

CBD suppositories have an average bioavailability of 13.5% and with a fairly quick absorption rate. In addition to suppositories, there are several other ways of topically applying CBD. 

With more and more research and development in the field, people now use CBD patches, creams, serums, lotions lip balms, cosmetics, anti-aging skincare, and a lot more. While the effect might be not as quick as its counterparts, it may be felt within a few minutes of the application. 

Is it possible to increase the bioavailability of a Substance? 

It is now established that with all these different forms of consuming CBD, there are different effects on the human body. However, the question remains- may we increase the bioavailability of certain methods? 

Yes, it is quite possible to enhance or augment your experience by creating your own ideal dose of CBD. Over time, you will notice what your body is most suited to and may make adjustments accordingly. It is also recommended to take on with proper physicians and researchers to know more about the right doses and methods. 

There might not be a true universal dose. There are multiple factors in play here, with a sample’s age, weight, and body chemistry, all reacting in their own way.  With topical CBD, while the bioavailability is relatively low, you should talk with a physician regarding the areas you apply the creams as well as the amount you tend to use every day. 

Moreover, you may refer to the company instruction as well. You may find an effective dose by reading the dosage charts that come along. Some companies recommend a pea-sized amount, while others prefer it if you apply it heavily. 

However, most of them recommend an amount as big as the tip of your index finger. In this case, the potency of the CBD cream also needs to be taken into context. The higher the potency, the more careful you need to be on how much you tend to apply and where. 

Bioavailability provides everyday users as well as CBD producers on how to efficiently use CBD to its full potential. 

How does Cannabidiol (CBD) make you feel? What are the effects?

CBD seems to be on everyone’s minds. With the recent legalization of industrial hemp products in December of 2018 across the United States, hemp-derived CBD popularity as an organic dietary supplement has grown.

Despite this, many still do not understand “what does CBD do“. Some are concerned that because CBD comes from Hemp, that it will cause the user to become intoxicated. There are others who just want to know what they’re getting themselves into before they try it.

So, let’s alleviate those worries and answer those questions.

What even is CBD?

CBD is shorthand for Cannabidiol. It is a compound found in plants that part of the Cannabis family, the famous members of this family being Marijuana and Hemp. You’ve more than likely heard of another compound found in these plants, Tetrahydrocannabinol (you probably know it better as THC). THC is the compound that creates the intoxication that is more commonly associated with Cannabis. CBD does not have that same effect.

Most of the plants in the Cannabis family have CBD in them, but the compound is most often extracted from Hemp than Marijuana. The concentrations of CBD differ between these two plants. Marijuana tends to be richer in THC and not as much in CBD. Hemp, on the other hand, tends to have more CBD than THC.   Hemp, by definition, must have less than 0.3% THC. Most CBD products are made using Hemp since oil extracted from it is going to have much lower THC concentrations than CBD oil taken from Marijuana (this is also because Marijuana is not legal in all states, while Hemp is). Products made from hemp-derived CBD are federally legal, which is why you will see these products for sale in a large number of stores.

As mentioned before, CBD has risen in popularity as an option for things like anxiety and as pain management aid. This is because CBD oil is easily made into tablets, edibles, and lotions, among other things. This provides people with a variety of options for use. What do those tablets, edibles, and lotions do to help people without causing intoxication?

 

How does CBD work?

The human body has what’s called the Endocannabinoid system, which regulates many of the body’s functions that include pain perception and cognitive functions.  This system consists of what is referred to as Cannabinoid receptors; the most common of the receptors are called CB1 and CB2. The receptors are found throughout the body and have an effect on things like memory, appetite, mood, and pain.

THC creates a high by directly binding with the CB1 receptor, creating a change in the cognitive functions the receptors are in charge of.  The effects of THC will depend on the location of the CB1 receptor in the brain. This explains why certain brain functions may be impaired (e.g., memory) or may be enhanced, which often happens with appetite. CBD, on the other hand, does not directly bind with the receptors but does interact with them. It also interacts with about 70 other receptors and enzymes in the body. These receptors may affect many brain functions that include increasing serotonin and dopamine production. In this way, CBD does not cause intoxication, but it does promote a sense of well-being through positive interaction through specific receptors.  

Now that we’ve laid out that CBD doesn’t intoxicate you, what does it actually feel like?

 

How does CBD make people feel?

All human beings are unique. Not everyone reacts to the same things in the same way. CBD is no different. You and a friend may try the products derived from the same hemp strain at the same concentration, and you may still have very different experiences. However, there is a general consensus as to how CBD usually feels.

Most who use CBD report that it usually gives them a sense of calm. CBD helps them relax, and as a result, it may help with sleep. Others claim that the feeling of calm they get provides them with focus, clearing their mind, so that they may get things done. With the boost in serotonin that CBD may provide, some report that it makes them feel more positive, that it puts them into a better mood.

Many CBD users and experts say that the feeling of CBD, when used in reasonable amounts, is not overpowering. Many reports that the calm feeling that CBD gives them is a gentle one. It is not overwhelming or intense, as the effect of THC may be.

CBD comes in several different forms and concentrations. These differences may mean a distinct feeling. Some CBD formulations are reported to be better as a sleep aid, while others may work to better support joint health and flexibility. There are CBD users who have even reported that how you use the compound (as in, taking it orally or using a CBD lotion) makes a difference. Those who use CBD lotion may find relief from muscle soreness, but they do not necessarily seem to feel the same uplifting mental effects as those to take it orally might. Those who take tinctures also report noticing the effects much faster than those who use edibles.

Whether you use Full-Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum, or CBD isolate will also cause different feelings. Full-spectrum is CBD oil that keeps all of the other compounds that came with the CBD at the time of extraction, including THC and terpenes (which give Cannabis plants their smell and flavor). This is CBD oil in its simplest form since these compounds all come straight from the plant. Other versions of CBD require more processing. Full-spectrum CBD oil may not be a legal option for you, depending on your state’s Cannabis laws, and whether your job involves drug testing for controlled substances since this version tends to have slightly higher concentrations of THC.

Broad-Spectrum CBD is similar to Full-Spectrum. It also includes most of the compounds that are extracted with CBD. However, the main difference is that Broad-Spectrum filters out the THC. This form allows the benefits and effects of the other compounds without the worry of THC intoxication or testing positive for THC. It is essentially the middle ground between Full-Spectrum and CBD isolate. 

CBD isolate is exactly as it sounds, isolated, no other compound exists with it. The CBD chemical compound that has been isolated from everything else in the extraction process. It is the most processed version of the compound. This kind of CBD product is not as likely to be as strong as the other. Full-Spectrum and Broad-Spectrum may provide what is often called the “entourage effect.” This means that the other compounds found in Full-Spectrum and Broad-Spectrum may help increase the effects of CBD. The compounds build on each other, potentially making each stronger than it would be on its own.

Most CBD oils do contain a little bit of THC. However, they usually have too little THC to actually intoxicate you (most are legally not allowed to contain over 0.3%). At the same time, in states where marijuana is legal, it is possible to find CBD products with enough THC to cause a high. Of course, those CBD products will give you a much different feeling than any other. This feeling will lean closer to the one that THC would provide, being much more intense than CBD on its own.

There are multiple factors that affect how CBD makes someone feel. Many of them have more to do with the product and how it’s made (as described above), there are factors that are more to do with the person taking it. Things like genetics or how much you weigh may change the feeling of CBD, even making it feel like nothing. Those who deal with these differences may need to take more or less CBD than most people to get the gentle, relaxed feeling they’re going for. There are some medications that may also change the effects. Even your diet and lifestyle might change things.

 

What are the side effects?

Like with most things, there are some people who do experience negative side effects with CBD. These effects are generally things like fatigue, mild nausea, and dry mouth. While they are side effects that aren’t all that pleasant, they are not very serious either. These are also usually experienced by people who take CBD at very high concentrations, though they may not be experienced by everyone. Most report side effects fading and even going away entirely after reducing the concentration and/or frequency at which they take CBD.

Be sure to talk to your doctor before you start using CBD products. If you are taking other medication, it could dull the intended effect of the medication or cause unwanted, unexpected side effects. Be cautious in your dosing. If you notice any major, worrying side effects, stop your dosage, and talk to your doctor.

 

What does all of this mean?

To sum all of this up: CBD will not make you high or cause any real impairment or intoxication. However, it may have a relaxing effect and/or possibly even put you in a good mood. Users report a gentle feeling of calm without any real change in cognitive abilities.

So, if you are worried or just curious about what your CBD product may make you feel, you may go ahead and relax before the CBD even gets a chance to try and do it for you.

 

Sources:

https://www.bustle.com/p/how-will-cbd-affect-me-experts-say-youll-feel-something-17014776

https://www.healthline.com/health/does-cbd-get-you-high#summary

https://www.wellandgood.com/good-advice/how-does-cbd-oil-make-you-feel/

https://weedmaps.com/learn/cbd/what-does-cbd-oil-feel-like

Let’s Talk Topicals: CBD Lotion

CBD topicals have become incredibly popular for a variety of reasons. These creams, lotions, and salves allow for localized applications. People are using topicals to increase skin health, reporting a decrease in pain sensation, a decrease in blemishes, and even to decrease scarring.

However, these creams and lotions have a few nuances of which would-be users should be aware. If you’re looking into CBD topicals (or if you have already started using them and aren’t feeling the relief you’d expect), this guide will help you better understand what these topicals are, what dosage you need, and what you might feel.

What Exactly Are CBD Topicals?

As noted at the beginning, CBD topicals are creams, lotions, and salves. Manufacturers infuse these products with cannabidiol, a cannabinoid compound found in the Hemp plant.

Cannabidiol is a substance that has garnered a significant amount of attention in previous years due to a growing body of research that suggests there are health benefits to using it. In particular, one of the unique advantages is that it has been reported to reduce pain. Researchers have also found evidence that it is a potent anti-inflammatory.

Both of these properties make CBD an excellent candidate for potentially multiple skin health benefits.

Given that CBD has the potential to act as an anti-inflammatory solution, it makes a great alternative to support a variety of health benefits.

By mixing CBD with lotions, salves, and other things that you rub on your body, you may put most of the CBD in one place, which has the potential to reduce inflammation in that particular area. The CBD you put on your skin via these salves stays where it is applied and permeates the skin.  CBD doesn’t cross the skin into the blood stream normally. If there is a compound in the topical, commonly called a dermal driver (menthol and DMSO are two examples) that escorts CBD across the skin barrier, then it is possible to have CBD enter the bloodstream.  

It is worth noting that you should not discontinue any current medications your physician has prescribed to start a CBD regimen. It would be best if you viewed CBD as a supplemental substance that you may rub on to provide increase skin health. While the research into CBD’s potential benefits is ongoing and is incredibly promising, the FDA has not cleared it as a replacement for the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of any diseases.  

What Dosage Should I Take of CBD Topicals?

When people start using these topicals, the biggest question they often have is: how much do I apply? The answer to that is a little more in-depth than you might initially think.

CBD topicals come in two different versions. Manufacturers infuse these topicals with CBD Isolate, or they put Full-Spectrum cannabinoids in them. These different types of topicals may have very different effects. Topicals with CBD Isolate only contain the CBD cannabinoid and nothing else from the cannabis plant. On the other hand, full-spectrum CBD lotions contain multiple different cannabinoids. 

Some people find that these cannabinoids work together in harmony to provide maximum benefit. Other people may find that CBD Isolate works best for them in regards to their condition. There’s no hard rule on which type of topical is better. Your best bet is to try multiple versions until you find one that you like!

Another thing to consider when thinking about dosage and effectiveness is how concentrated the CBD is within the lotion. If you are using a cream with 500 mg of CBD per 4 oz, then that’s going to require a lot less to feel the same effects as a salve with 100 mg per 4 oz. 

With that all said, most creams work if you apply them like you would any other lotion. Don’t use more or less than you would typically use for moisturizing effects. Rub the cream in well so that way it penetrates the skin. If you don’t feel any effects, don’t be afraid to apply more until you reach the comfort level you’re looking for. 

Of course, don’t apply so much that you make your skin feel greasy or oily. If that happens, then you won’t have a desirable feeling!

How Long Do the Effects Last?

After applying the CBD topical, you will typically experience positive benefits for approximately 4-6 hours. After that point in time, the body has absorbed most of it, and you’ll need to put more on to reduce the pain again.

As with most substances, the more you rub onto your skin, the longer – usually – you will be able to feel effects. Of course, everyone is different, so you may find that a small amount works out better for you than a larger one!

What Are Common Types of CBD Topicals?

If having these topicals sounds appealing to you, you’re in luck! There are many products available for consumers on the market. 

Lotions

You may rub lotions with CBD all over your body. These lotions serve two purposes: First, they provide CBD directly to affected areas. Second, they moisturize your skin, which keeps it feeling good – especially in the dry winter months!

If you are looking at CBD to help moisturize your skin, then a lotion is likely the best solution for you. In addition to providing the benefits of cannabidiol, it will also protect your skin from additional dryness and soreness. 

Bath Bombs

If you’re looking to have a soak after an intense workout to soothe muscles, the bath bomb topical is for you! Add these to your bath routine and enjoy the potential anti-inflammatory properties in the tub. 

CBD has the potential to be particularly useful for these types of situations as muscle soreness is due, in part, to inflammation. When you work out, you damage these muscles. They become inflamed as part of that damage, and they heal stronger than before. When you work out, much of the soreness that comes afterward is due to that inflammation. 

By adding a potent anti-inflammatory to your tub, you may help your body heal faster and be able to exercise again more quickly. CBD can, therefore, be an excellent part of an intense workout routine.

Salves

Salves usually contain relatively high concentrations of CBD, thereby providing one of the most efficient ways to target specific problem areas. Other types, such as bath bombs and lotions, are much more spread out.

It’s worth noting that salves often contain other helpful vitamins and minerals to promote skin health. For example, some balms may include vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that has positive benefits for skin health. Antioxidants work to protect your body against the damaging process of oxidization. When that happens, cells sometimes release free radicals. These small molecules will wreak havoc on your system and damage other cells. As you might guess, any compound that is an “antioxidant” prevents this process from happening in the first place. 

CBD is also a potent antioxidant, which means that users of these balms will receive a bonus. If the lotion or cream that you are using has vitamin E, not only are you getting the antioxidant properties of the vitamin E, but you’re also getting them from CBD as well. In this respect, CBD enhances many of the products you already know and love for skin health and beauty.

May I Take CBD Orally as I Am Using Topicals?

CBD lotions and creams provide skin health benefits, but isn’t that also what taking CBD by mouth does? 

If you want some of the other potential health benefits of CBD, it is perfectly safe to take CBD orally as well as apply a topical CBD product at the same time. When taken orally, CBD may provide a whole slew of possible benefits, including supporting joint health, promote mental calmness, and improve immune function. If you want those benefits, you may take CBD oil sublingually while also using topicals. They may both work together to provide pain relief as well as other potential health benefits.

Some who use topicals and oils are worried that it might be possible to take too much CBD and possibly overdose on it. This fear is next to impossible to realize, however. You can’t overdose on cannabidiol. Taking extreme amounts of it may give you some less-than-desirable side effects, but you won’t be able to overdose on it. Most users who have taken too much CBD report feeling sleepy or have diarrhea.

Using A CBD Topical Is Safe, Easy, And Has Lots of Benefits

Using a topical that has CBD in it is a safe and quick way to possibly promote skin health and restore immune balance. 

Manufacturers also produce many types of topicals, so you may pick which ones work for you. If you want something to help you relax and unwind, a bath bomb might be right for you. On the other hand, if you want something to moisturize and protect your skin, a CBD lotion might be perfect. If you’re looking for CBD to relieve your pain symptoms, then a balm might be the best choice. No matter what outcome you want, there’s a topical on the market that will fit your goals.

Cannabidiol has become one of the most sought-after health products in recent years for good reasons – it is versatile and may have lots of health benefits. The full availability of CBD topical products further reinforces just how powerful this substance truly is!

Could Cannabidiol (CBD) Be a Boon for PTSD?

CBD products have been revolutionizing healthy lifestyle, beauty, and pet care in the last few years. There are a number of incredible products that have been born in recent years, such as infused makeup, serums, and tinctures. They have all been made with the intention of helping people to feel healthier and happier within their own skin.

One area of the world that’s starting to be truly disrupted by CBD products is mental health care. 

If we were speaking about mental health a decade ago, there would be little to no positivity surrounding this conversation. People with mental health conditions have faced a lot of stigmatization and discrimination over the years.

Thankfully, the stigmatization of mental health problems has been disappearing over the last few years. Nowadays, there are so many more support systems and products in place to help people who are battling mental health issues. It’s truly refreshing to see how many people are fighting against stigma and reaching out to support those who are in need.

In this blog post, we’re going to be looking at the relationship between anxiety disorders and CBD usage. More specifically, we’re going to be analyzing how CBD products may help ease the mental strain that people with PTSD go through. We’ll be looking at what CBD is and what it may do, the effect it may have on PTSD, and any negative effects to be wary of.

One of our main driving forces behind Panacea Life is our community. We are fiercely proud of the fact that we offer high-quality products that may help to ease the pain of people who fight mental health conditions, and we are excited to be able to bring you this in-depth dive into the world of CBD mental health care today.

What is CBD?

To start off with, what exactly is CBD?

CBD is short for cannabidiol, and it is one of the many natural compounds that may be found within the cannabis plant. As this helpful Panacea article notes, there is low to no THC present in CBD products, which means that it is not psychoactive, and as a result, it cannot get a user intoxicated as cannabis can. While you may see some THC in “Full-Spectrum” CBD products, it is less than %<0.03.  This low amount of THC will not get you high. 

What does CBD do?

There are a number of key benefits to be aware of when it comes to using CBD. It is an entirely natural, organic compound that may be found in a huge variety of products. Whether you’re looking for a beauty product, something to help with stress, or to assist with pet care, there will be the perfect product for you.

But what exactly does CBD do?

CBD has been described as an anti-inflammatory.  Inflammation is associated with many health conditions, including deteriorating joint health, neurodegeneration, and poor skin health.   As Medical News Today points out, many people are trying CBD products as an alternative to prescription or over the counter medications to alleviate pain.  

As mentioned above, CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties. This ties in with the previous point about supporting joint health, but it is also related to possibly improving skin health. 

CBD is believed to have a whole host of other benefits,  including neuroprotective qualities. Sativex, a 1:1 mixture of CBD and THC, is an approved drug for multiple sclerosis patients experience muscle spasms and the pain associated with these events.  Epidiolex, a pure CBD product, has been approved as a drug to treat rare forms of epilepsy. As more research is conducted, CBD and other hemp extracts may prove to promote mental well-being.   

These are all fantastic benefits to consider, of course. However, the main benefit that we are here to discuss today is the soothing mental effect that CBD may have on the mind. 

How may CBD be used to manage PTSD?

One of the main things that CBD products are used for are to promote mental well-being and a sense of calmness. As there is no THC present in CBD, and CBD does not have psychogenic activity, products will not exacerbate anxiety or panic disorder symptoms THC, the psychogenic component in cannabis may increase anxiety in people with existing disorders, so using cannabis products that do not filter out THC down to very low levels has not been suitable for people with anxiety.

CBD is a great tool to use for generating a sense of calm, as noted by this NCBI report. To be more specific, it’s brilliant for helping to ease the constant anxiety that conditions like PTSD may bring with no side effects unless taken at extremely high doses.

PTSD patients may deal with constant anxiety or stress, some may experience intense flashbacks or nightmares, and some may deal with related phobias like agoraphobia. Whatever the symptoms are, each case of PTSD is related to intense trauma and may cause ongoing mental distress for the person in question.  

CBD products may possibly be helpful for people needing to restore mental balance. Taking gentle and natural CBD products may help to produce a sense of calm and to help people manage their anxiety triggers in a much more holistic fashion. The overall aim behind CBD products in this area is to improve the quality of life for people battling their mental health issues.

This isn’t the only way that CBD may benefit people with PTSD. Minimizing constant anxiety and stress may also have significant effects in other areas of life, including sleep. People with PTSD often suffer from poor sleep quality, but having a calmer hold on their anxiety levels may lead to a better night’s sleep both in terms of quality of sleep and duration.  Having a good night’s rest assists people, both those with PTSD and other forms of anxiety, top have a more positive mindset.

Generally speaking, CBD products may have a wonderful impact on mental health and well-being. People with PTSD may find great relief in using CBD products, as they may help promote calmness, improve sleep quality, and reduce stress levels too. However, the only way to know if it works for you is to try a little CBD at first and work up to a level of CBD threshold that makes you comfortable. It is worth mentioning that for some people, CBD will promote health benefits immediately. For others, the full benefits may not be felt for a week of taking CBD daily.  If you or someone you know is dealing with PTSD, it could be worth your time to look into CBD products today.

What other disorders might CBD be able to help?

Of course, it’s not just PTSD that CBD products may help with. There are a number of other disorders and conditions that researchers are exploring how CBD may help with including: 

An important point to bring up here is that CBD products are not substitutes for prescribed medical treatments or supplements. If you are unsure about whether you may take CBD products alongside your existing medication or in the place of something that you’ve been prescribed, please make sure to consult a medical professional.

Are there any negative side effects to be wary of with CBD?

Generally speaking, CBD products are very well tolerated. There are little to no side effects being reported at the time of writing unless doses taken are in excess of 10 mg/kg per day, an extremely high dose.  Most people report positive health benefits that include joint support, mental well-being, and skin health.  

However, to make this a fair blog post, it’s important to go over any potential negative side effects that taking CBD might bring about. It is rare to see negative side effects arise with CBD products, but they do occur in some people- so it is absolutely worth talking about them anyway.

It is important to know that some side effects may occur physically when taking CBD. These are rare and are not widely reported, but it is important to mention them anyway. Some people have reported experiencing fatigue, changes in weight and diet, and diarrhea, too, as this helpful Healthline article points out.  Note that as mentioned above, these side effects are experienced by a small percentage of people when taking very large doses of CBD products.

Overall, CBD products are incredibly positive.

However, when taking any substance or supplement for health, it is important to make sure that you’re taking them mindfully. Try to always know what you’re putting into your body and understand how it might interact with your existing mental health state or conditions.

What else should you know before taking CBD?

Something that’s important to note when taking any form of CBD product is that CBD has not been fully legalized everywhere. It’s unfortunate, but not every state in America or every country in the world has accepted how beneficial CBD products may provide multiple health benefits.  

Therefore, it’s vital to make sure that you always research the relevant local laws and national laws to make sure that you won’t get into any issues when purchasing or consuming CBD products. Hopefully, we’ll be able to see the acceptance of CBD move even further across the globe as we go into the year 2020.

Another important thing to note before taking CBD products is that synthetic products may be very harmful, in some scenarios. This report from the Centre for Disease Control & Prevention showcases the devastating effects that synthetic cannabis and CBD products may have.

This simply means that it’s important to know exactly what you’re buying and to research the company in question before you purchase from them. A good CBD and Hemp provider will be entirely transparent when disclosing their ingredients and processes, so make sure to check them out online before you spend any money with them. If you’re interested in looking over all the documentation for testing Panacea Life has on their products, you’re welcome to look at them here.

Taking a Look at Panacea Life

CBD has been proven to have a multitude of benefits for to produce mental calmness and general well-being.  

People with PTSD may find benefit from using CBD based products. There are many different products available that people may experiment with to help with their mental health and happiness, ranging from edibles and candies to tinctures and oils.

It is worth reiterating the point that CBD users should make sure to research their chosen products and companies before buying and using anything. Additionally, it is so important to double-check that CBD products are legal, according to laws in the user’s location.

In regards to mental health care, in particular, consulting with a medical professional, whether CBD might interfere with an existing medication is absolutely essential. Side effects and bad reactions to CBD products are rare, but they do need to be considered. CBD is a very positive product overall, but it’s important to consume it mindfully.

Furthermore, it’s important to remember that, while CBD is fantastic, it is not a replacement for any existing mental health medication or other important supplements. If you’re planning to introduce CBD into your life, it would be wise to get a consultation with a medical professional to help you get it sorted in the healthiest way possible. 

Are you looking for somewhere to get high quality, organic CBD products? Want to find out more about how they could benefit you or your loved ones? Make sure to check out our full range of products today. We’re proud to offer everything from CBD gummies to high-quality soft gels, and we’re sure that you’re going to love them. 

Additionally, if you have any questions about our CBD products or how they could help you, we’d be more than happy to help you. To get in touch with a member of our team, you may send an email to [email protected] today. Alternatively, there’s a contact form available on our website where you may ask questions or give feedback on whatever you need to talk about. 

How to Know If CBD is Safe for Me?

It’s likely that you’ve heard of or read about Cannabidiol (CBD) recently. In the past few years, CBD has hit the mainstream, and now it seems like you may find it almost anywhere. There are many potential health benefits of using CBD, but we’ve found that most people seem to have more questions than answers. The most common inquiries we get include, what is CBD? What are the effects? How much should I take? How do I know if CBD is safe for me? If you have found yourself asking these same questions, then this article is for you. Here we will explain exactly what CBD is, the dosage, side effects, and safety concerns. Keep reading on to learn more.

What is CBD?

CBD is short for Cannabidiol, which is a naturally occurring compound that is derived from the Cannabis Sativa L. plant. This plant and its uses have a very long and rich history that spans thousands of years. Even though the Cannabis Sativa L. plant (otherwise known as Hemp or Marijuana) had been used for its many healing properties and as material for clothing, housing, and more, it was swiftly banned in the early 1900s. Many myths and public disinformation were widespread, and by the 1930s, it was made federally illegal.

CBD-rich strains of Marijuana had been used medicinally for many years. However, it wasn’t until 1998 that Geoffrey Guy, MD, co-founder of GW Pharmaceuticals, started pioneering the use of CBD. Guy was sure that he could grow CBD-rich plants and create an extract with little or no psychoactive effects. He was successful, and eventually, other medical Marijuana labs picked up on this trend and started developing CBD-rich strains. This would eventually lead to the production of CBD compound on its own with little or no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which creates the psychoactive effects in Marijuana. Rest assured that CBD still offers many positive benefits just without the altered or “high” effect.

What are the Effects of CBD?

CBD may provide a relaxing, stress-reducing, and anxiety-reducing effect. It may help to clear your mind, help you feel more at ease, and possibly reduce chronic pain symptoms. There has also been promising research that CBD may help with depression. When users take CBD, they usually report improved mental well being, feeling happier, more social, and calmer. Since there is no THC in CBD oil extract, you may enjoy these benefits without any mind-altering effects. Also, if you’re concerned about work, drug tests only look for THC when it comes to the Cannabis sativa plant. 

What are the Health Benefits of CBD?

CBD has been and is currently being extensively studied for its many health benefits. Here is just a sample of some of the incredible things CBD may be able to help with:

How Do I Know if CBD is Safe for Me?

With all of the incredible benefits, CBD offers, you may be wondering how do I know if CBD is safe for me? Well, the answers are found within the many studies listed above. CBD oil extract is completely natural and has been shown to be well tolerated and safe in a number of research studies. The only reported side effects of CBD oil extract have been drowsiness, changes in appetite, diarrhea, and dry mouth at very high doses in a small number of users. The likelihood of side effects is less than if you were to take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

It should be noted that CBD may interact with some medications such as blood pressure medications.   If your medication has a warning on it about not ingesting grapefruit or alcohol with it, then you should exercise caution in taking CBD supplements. Talk to your doctor or a healthcare professional first. 

 

CBD is Safe for You to Use & Offers Many Benefits

CBD has been used in one form or another for thousands of years. Due to a ban on the plant that made it possible (Cannabis Sativa L.), it was kept from the public for a long time. Thankfully, the bans are now being lifted, and CBD is being studied frequently and is now available for mass consumption. The benefits of CBD include promoting mental well being, better mood, reduced stress, and feeling calmer. It has even been shown to reduce acne and may improve your overall heart health!

One of the best things about CBD is that it is all-natural and has been shown to be safe to use. Very minimal side effects have been reported, and some of this may be due to taking too much. It is suggested that you start with the recommended dosage on whatever CBD product you buy. You may always increase or decrease the dose as needed. Find what makes you feel most comfortable and relaxed. If you’re on any medications that may interact with grapefruit such as blood thinners, make sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements like CBD.

CBD Drip: What is it & How Does it Compare to Tinctures?

There’s no denying that CBD has become quite popular in recent years. Volumes of additional research is continually being released, showing the powerful health benefits that CBD drip contains.
Various medical studies from 2019 have been published showing how cannabidiol (CBD) may be able to aid those seeking relief from a number of ailments:

CBD is one of the fastest-growing natural health and wellness trends in health, giving Cannabis a new name. What was once seen as “the evil weed” Cannabis, more specifically industrial hemp, is now viewed in a more positive light. CBD from Hemp contains a myriad of reported health benefits and is able to help those struggling with various ailments. CBD, unlike recreational Marijuana, doesn’t contain the mind-altering “high” effect that Marijuana has, making it even more popular. 

When the CBD market first took off, the main method of consumption was through a concentrated oral solution containing CBD oil.  These solutions are typically referred to as tinctures but typically differ from tinctures in that the CBD oil is not solubilized in alcohol.  In addition to “tinctures” there are now dozens of CBD consumption methods available offering users a wide variety of options depending on their needs. 

Today, we’ll look at two of the most common CBD products: CBD tinctures and CBD drips. We’ll explain what they are, how to use them, the pros and cons, and how they compare so you may make an informed choice about which one is best for you. 

What is CBD?

First things first, what is CBD?

CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is a naturally occurring compound found in both Marijuana and Hemp.  Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa L.) that is characterized by its low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, <0.3%. CBD is one of over 113 different chemical compounds (called cannabinoids) in Hemp. CBD is well known for its reported therapeutic properties and has grown in popularity as a natural health alternative in recent years. 

Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), its famous cannabinoid cousin, CBD isn’t psychoactive. This means that CBD won’t make you high, as THC would. 

CBD is manufactured by extracting the compound from the Hemp plant in a concentrated form. It is then consumed most commonly through CBD oils and edibles to help reportedly relieve a number of symptoms associated with pain, depression, anxiety, epilepsy, inflammation, and insomnia. 

The Confusing World of CBD Product Names

CBD research started in earnest in the 1980s.  Although the CBD market has evolved dramatically over the past ten years, it is relatively new and growing rapidly.  Due to this rapid growth, there are various CBD product names and definitions that may cause confusion. 

As popular as CBD has become in recent years, there is still some misinformation and confusion about how to consume CBD products. 

CBD Common Names & Aliases

While there are a number of different ways to consume CBD products, here are a few of the most common forms, along with their various nicknames. 

Every CBD product has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s best to make sure you research each one thoroughly before making a decision.

CBD Isolate vs. Full-Spectrum CBD vs. Broad-Spectrum CBD

Once you pick your CBD product, there’s another major consideration you’ll have to make. Should you choose CBD isolate, Full-Spectrum CBD, or Broad-Spectrum CBD?

 

By understanding the different types of CBD products, you will be able to pick the one that best suits your unique preferences. Let’s dive into the differences between CBD drip and CBD tinctures. 

CBD Drip vs. CBD Tincture Overview

CBD tincture refers to any liquid CBD oil product designed specifically to be taken orally. You may take CBD tinctures in the form of drops underneath your tongue (sublingual) or spray them in your mouth (CBD sprays). 

In the CBD world, CBD tincture and CBD oil are used interchangeably as they mean the same thing.  CBD drops is another name for the product. By definition, a tincture would have the CBD oil dissolved in alcohol for oral delivery. 

CBD drip refers to any liquid CBD product designed specifically to be used in a vaporizer. Other aliases include CBD vape oil, CBD e-liquid, CBD vape juice, CBD distillate, and CBD e-juice. 

CBD Drip: A Small Overview

We’ll start with CBD drip or CBD vape oil. 

Typical vape oil, or e-juice, is crafted by using a thinning agent with the CBD extract. It’s usually made from vegetable glycerin, propylene glycol, and natural flavorings. In the case of CBD drip, a healthy dose of CBD is added to create a CBD product crafted for vaporizers. 

CBD drip is made thin enough, so it flows easily through vape pens or e-cigarettes. The liquid is heated to the point of vaporizing and then inhaled through the end of the vape pen.

CBD drip should not have any other additives, which means the ingredients are non-toxic. Even though CBD drip is made to be used in vaporizers, you could technically ingest it orally as you would a CBD tincture without any nasty side effects. However, just because you may ingest it orally, doesn’t mean it’s the best way to consume it. 

 

CBD Drip May Not Be the Best Option

While vaporizing, or “vaping” CBD drip has been shown to offer quick delivery of CBD to the body, the positive benefits from CBD  does not effectively last very long with this delivery method. 

Vaping CBD drip has also shown to help those quit smoking cigarettes. A 2013 study at the University College London looked at the possibility that vaping CBD drip could help someone addicted to smoking quit their addiction. 

Out of 24 smokers test patients, 12 were given a placebo, while 12 were given a vaporizer that contained CBD. Throughout the study, smokers were told to use their vaporizer whenever they had the urge to smoke cigarettes. They weren’t told to stop smoking or cut down on their intake. 

After the study, the 12 who had taken the placebo reported no changes in the number of cigarettes they smoked. However, the 12 smokers that received CBD saw a 40% reduction in the number of cigarettes smoked. A follow-up study also found that some maintenance in reduction among participants. 

Vaping benefits may come at the price of deleterious health effects.  Recently there have been numerous reports in health risks associated with vaping, especially products manufactured without proper quality controls and testing.

Potential Risks of CBD Drip

CBD drip could offer a quick and effective alleviation of a range of different symptoms, but as mentioned above, there are still some risks that come along with the method. In most cases, while vaping has been shown to be a safer alternative to smoking, the CBD vaping industry is a relatively new market, and researchers are still trying to determine the safest way to consume CBD. 

In recent years new observations about immune cells being compromised or increased susceptibility in the lungs for pneumonia have started cropping up in consumers utilizing vape pen CBD drip, or CBD vape oils are designed to be used in vape pens or e-cigarettes. There is evidence that vape pens and e-cigarettes may cause reduced flexibility or stiffness in the lungs of some individuals, which is something to take note of.

There have also been a number of recent reports of vape related lung injuries throughout the United States, which has been a growing concern around the safety of using vaping products. 

Based on the research regarding the safety concerns of using CBD drip in a vape pen or e-cigarette, we don’t recommend its use unless absolutely necessary in the short term to transition off of cigarettes or Marijuana. There are a variety of other CBD products that have not shown any risk of impacting the lungs like CBD tinctures, capsules, soft gels, creams, and edibles, which are much safer. 

If you do plan on using CBD drip in a vaporizer, you should do thorough research on the company you choose to purchase from. Ensure the products have been carefully lab tested by a third party. You should also make sure you consult your doctor if you intend to use CBD drip in a vaporizer. 

CBD Tinctures

CBD tinctures are the “traditional” form of using CBD to provide potential relief. They combine concentrated, extracted CBD with a carrier oil like coconut oil, Hempseed oil, or olive oil  Using a CBD tincture has been widely reported to be an effective method for taking CBD, approximately twice the amount that is absorbed by oral capsules.

Manufacturers commonly extract CBD from the Hemp plant by incubating hemp flowers in high-proof grain alcohol to allow the hemp oil to be solubilized, then the alcohol removed through heating this extraction process allows for the hundreds of other active compounds found in Hemp plants to permeate in the alcohol before being removed. 

Another form of CBD extraction from the Hemp plant is through the use of carbon dioxide (CO2 extraction). This process involves incubating the hemp flower with CO2 that has been converted to liquid through high pressures and low temperatures.  Similar to alcohol extraction, the hemp oil is solubilized into the liquid CO2. The CO2 is then allowed to evaporate into a gas, similar to dry ice, and the gas captured for future extraction. This leaves a CBD extract that does not have any residual solvents concentrated CBD extract is then placed in a carrier oil along with natural flavors to be easily absorbed in the body by taking it orally. 

CBD tinctures are most commonly ingested by placing drops under the tongue (sublingual) for quick absorption into the bloodstream, providing rapid relief. They may also come as a CBD spray that may be sprayed into the mouth, though these are less common. CBD tinctures could also be used as an ingredient in many cooking and baking recipes. 

While CBD drip may technically be used for either vaping or ingesting orally, CBD tinctures don’t work the same way. CBD oils are only meant to be taken orally. CBD oils should never be placed into a vape pen or e-cigarette. Attempting to vaporize CBD tinctures could be harmful and will also likely result in damaging the vape pen or e-cigarette. 

Health Benefits of CBD Tinctures

CBD tinctures have been a very popular form of CBD simply because it’s the easiest method for taking CBD. It doesn’t require any heating or any tool and may be consumed in seconds. Plus, it’s either tasteless or a minor flavoring is added for a pleasing experience. 

It could also be consumed at home or on the road. But what are the health benefits?

Since CBD tinctures contain high concentrations of CBD, they may relieve symptoms in as little as thirty minutes after ingestion without having to consume a high volume of the product. According to a number of studies, here are a few of the ways CBD tinctures could provide relief:

While CBD has been shown to be non-addictive, it’s interesting to note that CBD tinctures may help reduce addiction to Marijuana, along with a variety of other addictions. 

CBD Dosage

CBD tincture dosage is quite simple. While each CBD tincture may have different levels of CBD in them, each bottle of CBD oil should state the total amount of CBD in the bottle and state the CBD quantity per dropper, making it easy to measure how much you’re taking with each drop of oil. 

Possible Risks of CBD Tinctures

CBD tinctures are derived from CBD extract and combined with a carrier oil, and possibly natural flavorings, meaning there should not be any toxic properties when manufactured by a responsible and ethical company, such as Panacea Life Sciences. Since the tincture is simply ingested, not vaporized or smoked, there hasn’t been shown any risk of lung injury. 

While research has shown CBD tinctures to have little if any side effects, it’s always best to ensure you know where you are getting your CBD tincture from. Just like CBD drip, you should always ensure you are choosing a trusted brand that has done third party lab testing. 

You should also ensure you know which type of CBD you are purchasing when buying a CBD tincture. Since you could buy either CBD isolate, Full-Spectrum, or Broad-spectrum CBD, there is a chance THC could be in your product. Remember, CBD isolate, and Broad-Spectrum CBD don’t contain THC. Even though Full-Spectrum contains less than 0.3% THC and won’t make you high, it may cause a positive result in a drug test for Marijuana.

It’s important you consult with your doctor before using any CBD products. It is especially important to communicate with your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including pharmaceuticals or supplements, to see how the different medications may interact with one another. 

Final Thoughts

CBD has quickly become one of the most powerful natural health alternatives over the past few years. Every year, more people are looking into it to see if it will aid a variety of ailments from sleep disorders, anxiety, insomnia, pain, and even epilepsy. 

As the CBD market continues to grow, more CBD products and variations are being created to offer different forms to take through various methods. 

So, which one is right for you?

Overall, using vaporizing CBD with a CBD drip will provide the quickest form of relief of any method of CBD consumption. Studies have shown that it may be effective at helping those addicted to cigarettes or Marijuana transition out of their addictions. 

However, inhaling vapor using a vape pen or e-cigarette may pose a serious risk of lung injuries as recently reported in the United States which means it isn’t risk-free. 

On the other hand, CBD tinctures have stood the test of time as the simplest and most user-friendly method of ingesting CBD. Since tinctures do not require any heating or any devices, you could use tinctures any time within seconds. 

At the end of the day, you should always ensure you research the various methods, products, and companies to ensure you are picking the right type of CBD. And always remember to consult your doctor before using CBD products. 

Reference Links:
Anxiolytic Effects of Repeated Cannabidiol Treatment
Clinicians’ Guide to Cannabidiol and Hemp Oils
Pharmacological and Therapeutic Properties of Cannabidiol for Epilepsy
Cannabidiol reduces cigarette consumption in tobacco smokers
Vaping may disrupt immune cells in the lungs
Lung Injuries Associated with Use of Vaping Products
Cannabinoid Delivery Systems for Pain and Inflammation Treatment
Cannabidiol Oil for Decreasing Addictive Use of Marijuana

What is the Best CBD Oil

The Cannabidiol (CBD) industry is one of the fasted growing industries all over the world. The hemp plant has many uses ranging from fiber for various materials to health products through the extraction of CBD oil. CBD stands for Cannabidiol, which was discovered all the way back in the 1940s. Ever since then, this compound is thriving for its many uses and effects.  

The average CBD oil contains 40% of the plant’s extract, which is a vital component of medical Marijuana as well. Its benefits are recognized by the World health organization (WHO).

 

Is CBD Oil Legal?

Many people question the legality of CBD before deciding to incorporate CBD oils and edibles into their daily lives. The legal status of hemp-derived CBD has been confusing but is starting to reach complete clarity as a legal substance used for health benefits.  In the United States, CBD laws may differ from state to state. All 50 states have their own laws regarding its legality. 

On the Federal level, CBD is still a part of the list of controlled substances as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is determining how these products will be regulated. However, Industrial Hemp products and more specifically, CBD,  legality is expected to evolve as Congress recognizes these products are widely used by consumers and has set deadlines for the FDA to set regulations. Marijuana is currently legal in 11 states for over the age of 21.

After the Farm Bill act of 2018, it is expected that more state laws will favor the growth, production, and consumption of CBD and Hemp products. In addition, as production and growth become commercial, so will the research and development. 

More and more people are educating themselves about the benefits of CBD and hemp oil. However, there is much to do to understand full health benefits, proper research on its effects, chemistry, and how people may incorporate cannabinoids into their daily lives. 

 

How Is CBD Oil Made?

Let’s have a look at how CBD oil is made. Firstly, the CBD extract comes from the Cannabis plant. Due to the high concentration of CBD in extracted oil, the hemp oil is diluted with carrier oils such as coconut MCT oil to an appropriate dose.  

This oil may be hemp seed oil, which is made from the seeds of the Cannabis plant, olive oil, or perhaps lighter coconut oil. Hemp seed oil does not contain CBD, so by itself will not provide the benefits of CBD. This is a common misconception.

Carrier oils dissolve the CBD very well and create the perfect concoction for ingestion and topical use. These oils are used for health and wellness all over the world. 

 

The Best CBD Oil You May Get on the Market

If you are considering purchasing a CBD oil to use for yourself, there are many fantastic options on the market. Panacea Life takes especial pride in producing the highest quality products. Apart from CBD tinctures, the oil and its benefits are available in soft gel and edible forms as well. These are simpler in integrating into everyday life as both opt to either avoid tasting CBD terpenes outright, or mask them is a delicious taste.

It may get difficult to decide what brands have the best to offer, as well as assessing features like affordability and quality. However, as long as the company you’re looking into has transparency on their testing on the quality of their product, it is usually the strongest indicator of product condition. All of our product testing results are available for review here.

Here are our top 3 list of best CBD products out there. This may help you to start incorporating the compound in your daily life. 

 

The Panacea Pure CBD Oil drops offer its users one of the best formulas on the market. It has a 99% CBD concentration. It is one of our more popular products. 

The CBD tincture contains hemp-derived CBD, so there is no doubt about its purity. It contains coconut MCT oil as the carrier, which is suited to a wide array of people and provides additional health properties.

The oil is offered in four different concentrations of 300mg, 900mg, 1500mg, and 2700mg depending on what kind of strength you require from CBD.  Our customers have reported that higher body weights and the severity of health conditions being addressed will require higher concentrations of CBD to be consumed.

People who are new with CBD oil should select lower concentrations of CBD and test it out to see how it reacts with you. 

Gradually as your comfort level with the compound increases, you may increase concentrations until you achieve your desired health goals.  The various concentrations of products offered by Panacea allow you to tailor your CBD regiment to your health condition and affordability.  

All of Panacea’s products are tested extensively to ensure that the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) level is below 0.3%, so are not only legal hemp-derived products, but will not produce a psychoactive effect produced by Marijuana.  Each bottle carries up to 30 mls or 30 1 ml servings. People may choose to take these products during the day or night. The dropper bottle makes it super easy to use for anyone. 

The cool thing is, it also comes in 3 different flavors. Users may pick between Vanilla, mixed berry, and the natural coconut oil/CBD mix. 

The formula is known for its premium ingredients that are tested and certified by professionals. There are also THC free broad-spectrum products that you may directly ingest. 

 

If you aren’t one for ingesting oil or perhaps tasting it, then you also have the option of daily Hemp soft gels. These are soft tablets like the name suggests, which are much easier to take without having an after taste in your mouth. 

There are two options of soft gels: Full-Spectrum, which means that they have 0.3% of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or the Daily Free line that is THC-Free. As mentioned above, every product Panacea makes meets the industry requirements for THC levels, making it perfectly legal to both purchase and use.  

Users may select from a range of potencies of 15mg, 40mg, or 75mg. The 40mg is the company standard, which most daily users tend to purchase, while if you are looking for something with extra strength, then 75mg would be recommended. 

For new users, the soft gels come in a much lighter concentration of 15mg, which you may gradually build up from. 

All of Panacea’s hemp oils are derived from organically grown hemp from Colorado.   All ingredients, such as peppermint and coconut oils, are qualified as pure through testing. These not only make great carrier oils but also help with the overall taste or devoid of the natural hemp taste. The outer coating is made from safe Bovine Gelatin. 

Each bottle contains 30 soft gels that may last you two weeks. However, monthly shipment options are available if you wish to have a regular shipment made to you.

 

Cherry Bomb CBD Gummies 

While gummies are not CBD oil, these are a great and delicious way to ingest your daily dose of CBD without having to take soft gels and tinctures directly. 

These awesome gummies offer you a pleasant flavor as well as your daily dose of CBD. Each gummy carries 20mg CBD, which is a quick and easy way of taking CBD. 

Imagine all of the goodness of CBD packed into one small candy. The product contains CBD isolate, which is 99.9% pure manufactured in house on Panacea Life’s campus facility. This makes the product free from THC as well. 

Panacea’s Cherry Bombs have been made with organic and vegan ingredients making each gummy a daily treat! Each bottle comes with 30 gummies with a 20mg dosage.

 

What’s the Right Dosage for CBD oil? 

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, which in simpler terms means, it won’t give you a ‘buzz.’ CBD has been reported to ease different symptoms and help with your general health and wellness. 

Many users wonder what the right dosage for starting with CBD oil might be. It is recommended to start with a very low potency and test it out for a few days before ingesting it regularly.

Each person has their own body chemistry that may react differently to many ingredients. The best way to find out is to consult with your physician and inquire about the right doses you may start with, especially focusing on the use you are looking for from the CBD oil. 

The dose of CBD will depend on the CBD product you wish to consume.  The strength of CBD products you use will vary between tinctures, soft gels, or perhaps even gummies. Research shows that there isn’t one standard dose recommended for everyone. The dose may vary depending on your body weight, age, ailment, and other factors. This is also a reason why it’s very important to consult your physician before starting with any new dietary supplements. 

 

What to Look For In a Premium Quality CBD Oil

There are many different types of CBD oils on the market. All of them have fancy labels, but how would you know for sure that you are investing in the right formula? Here are some of the features you should be looking for when assessing the quality of the CBD drip oil. 

 

Not all companies put a premium on quality control, meaning that the products may not contain the stated level of CBD or have the needed purity standards to provide you with a safe and reliable product.  Several watch dog companies have randomly selected commercial products and tested CBD, THC, and other impurities with over 70% of products failing to meet stated label claims. It is worth your time to do a quick search on the company’s reputation on developing quality products.

 

Lab testing is extremely important. Tests may show how organic and pure ingredients are. Every good company has lab tested ingredients that create safe and organic formulas. If their ingredients are tested and approved, that means that the formula has gone through several phases of testing before being offered to the end-user.  Look for a QR code on the label that will allow you to check testing records to ensure the product was manufactured with quality and purity.

 

Always make sure you go for a brand that mentions their list of ingredients. This allows the consumer to be much more aware of what the formula contains. It may help avoid allergic reactions and predict whether the oil is suited to your needs or not. Often times the carrier oil might not be your favorite; if the ingredients are listed, you may pick between different oils like hemp seed, coconut, or external flavoring. 

 

The source of ingredients is also a defining factor. The source should be certified, clean, and organically grown hemp and CBD concentrates. This affects the quality of the CBD tincture in the end. 

 

Why Should I Use CBD Oil? 

Here are some of the benefits that many users observed about CBD.  While the world of CBD requires a lot more testing, the general range is that it has the potential to help with alleviating many symptoms of stress and mood disorders.  The easiest way to think about the health benefits of CBD is that this naturally occurring substance is meant to bring your body back into balance.

 

CBD oils may be used for stress relief. They help create a much calmer mood and improve your overall focus. In this previous article, we talk about the different ways CBD impacts your system and how it can affect your mental health.

People have started using CBD oil in coffee and tea before starting off their day. Others have found comfort in the improvement of their sleep cycles, check out Panacea Life’s “PM” our popular Hemp Oil Sleep Softgel.

 

People report CBD oil, helping overall ease anxiety. People use it for panic attacks, mood disorders, and a lot more due to its psychoactive qualities. This provides a holistic approach that helps bodily organs function smoothly as well as provide mental well-being. 

 

CBD oils may not target the exact cause of pain but may help support joint health and exercise-induced soreness.  Most people, at some point in their life, experience discomfort. CBD interacts with your body’s natural endocannabinoid receptors, which are present throughout your body and help bring your body back into balance, promoting well-being.  

 

CBD oil is not just for humans. In fact, your four-legged friends may use it as well. CBD oil for dogs has shown tremendous results for senior dogs. It helps them cope with age-related movement disorders as well. The oil promotes skin health, which in turn makes their fur shiny and healthy. You may get the Panacea CBD oil for your canines as well! Panacea Life has an array of products designed for your dog.

 

CBD Oil Side Effects

Every person has to be careful about the effects it has on your body chemistry. A smart way of introducing CBD to your system is to do it in small amounts and systematically working up the level of dosage. This way, you are able to watch for any potential signs that it disagrees with you.

Some of the side effects that are experienced by people are dry mouth, drowsiness or dizziness, or even changes in your appetite. For some people, CBD tends to focus on their psychomotor retardation, or difficulty falling asleep. 

However, these side effects are not very common amongst everyone who consumes the oil. In fact, it might be a reaction your body has before adjusting to CBD. Whenever you introduce a new compound to the body, it may take some time to function the way it is supposed to fully.

Would CBD Be Helpful for Acne?

If you have ever suffered from acne, you know how debilitating it may be. Everywhere you look, there is a new cream, wash, or medication out for you to use. However, you’ve likely tried a good amount of these in the past already. It could also be possible you’ve avoided all of them in hopes a natural cure would arrive. With the rise in popularity of CBD oils, gummies, and various other remedies, some people have started to ask us about its use for skin conditions such as acne. Would CBD be helpful for acne? Recent studies suggest CBD may positively affect acne, and we’ll explore more about that below. Keep reading on, and we’ll tell you more about CBD, the causes of this devastating skin condition, and why CBD may be helpful for acne.

What is CBD?

The first thing we should talk about is exactly what CBD is. CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant, also known as the Marijuana or Hemp plant. It is a naturally occurring compound in the plant that is known to help bring relaxation, calm, and stress relief when ingested. It should be noted that the psychoactive compound THC in the Marijuana plant, called 9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is what gives the “high” feeling and what would make you fail a drug test. CBD is not a psychogenic substance and will not alter your mood or mental inebriation in that way.

There are two main species of the Cannabis Sativa plant, Marijuana that has elevated levels of THC and the Industrial Hemp plant that is naturally low in THC.  . The hemp plant’s low level of THC makes it ideal for making CBD oil. Don’t get confused by Hemp seed oil, which is made from the cold-pressed seeds of the Hemp plant. While this oil contains a lot of heart-healthy fats, it does not contain any cannabinoids, including CBD and THC.

CBD has been studied for many years, and it’s been found to possess many beneficial health properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and antiseizure activities. CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects are of specific interest in exploring whether this compound will really help improve skin health and alleviate acne.  

The Causes of Acne

Before we get too far in this discussion, it’s essential to understand the general causes of acne. By understanding what causes this skin affliction, it may help us discern why CBD oil may be able to help. Acne is caused by a mixture of excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells that build up and clog pores. The clogged pore inhibits the skin’s ability to clear bacteria, which results in an immune reaction where the body tries to clear the pore and remove any accumulated bacteria.  This results in the red, inflamed bumps, pustule formation, and pain that we associate with acne.  

The best way to prevent this acne from occurring is to keep the skin clean by washing it with a cleaner that kills acne-causing bacteria as well as cutting back on excess oil that clogs the pores. Even when this is done, certain hormones cause the sebaceous glands to overproduce oil. These glands are located under our skin and produce an oily substance called sebum to help keep our skin hydrated. When they are enlarged, they produce an excess amount of oil that clogs the pores (this is especially common during puberty).

Would CBD Be Helpful for Acne?

Now that we know more about the causes of acne, we ask the question, would CBD be helpful for acne? The answer is yes! In fact, researchers posed the same question and published their results in The Journal of Clinical Investigation. Here is what they found:

“Collectively, our findings suggest that, due to the combined lipostatic, antiproliferative, and anti-inflammatory effects, CBD has potential as a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of acne vulgaris.”

To put it more simply, this groundbreaking study found that CBD stopped the overproduction of oil and also had anti-inflammatory effects on the skin and oil-producing glands. This helped prevent the production and reoccurrence of acne is most users.

If you are currently struggling with acne, or have already fought your battle with this condition, you may be concerned with resulting scars caused by the blemishes.  CBD may help minimize skin scarring. A recent study examined whether CBD would treat psoriasis plaques and skin scarring (Bl Palmieri et al. Clin Ter 2019 v 170 ppe93-99).  While this study did not focus specifically on scars caused by acne blemishes, the researchers found that skin scarring was significantly lessened by applying a CBD topical ointment twice daily to their scars for 90 days. After the three months were up, the results showed improved skin hydration, elasticity, and reduction to the appearance of the scars.

The Best Way to Use CBD for Acne

There are many different types of CBD products that you try for your acne. There are topicals, edibles, tinctures, and even capsules options available. While any of these methods prove helpful, the best way to use CBD for acne is through topicals like creams, balms, and salves. CBD is absorbed readily by the skin. CBD will accumulate in the various types of cells in your skin, including sebaceous glands, to reduce excess oil production and immune skin cells to reduce inflammation.  The best part is, while it reduces the oil in your skin, it may still keep it incredibly hydrated, keeping your skin smooth, supple, and blemish-free.

Use CBD Oil and Topical Creams to Help with Acne

Scientists are was continuing to explore all of the wonderful things that CBD oil has to offer us. One thing that has already been confirmed is CBD’s ability to positively affect skin health. Using a topical cream, balm, or salve containing CBD oil is one of the best ways to help your skin restore balance to help fight acne. Plus, CBD might help reduce the visibility of any old scars while keeping your skin hydrated and feeling amazing.

If you’re suffering from acne and you’re tired of trying product after product that’s only filled with chemicals, we suggest exploring the all-natural route! CBD may help reduce oil production on your face while reducing irritation and inflammation. Other studies have shown that CBD oil may be a promising antibacterial agent as well. Considering CBD is completely natural and only has a long list of positive benefits for your skin, it definitely couldn’t hurt to try it. Many users report clearer skin after only just a few weeks of use.

Reference Links:
Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects
Endocannabinoids enhance lipid synthesis and apoptosis of human sebocytes

What is CBD Water? Is it a Natural Choice for Taking CBD?

There are many products today that feature CBD, and for many good reasons. CBD, which is short for cannabidiol, may have many benefits for human health, including supporting joint health, improving mental well being and, in general, promoting overall wellness. Academic research into these benefits is still in its infancy, but so far, it has results been incredibly promising. Multiple studies are providing supportive evidence for the fact that CBD may have a significant impact on human health.

Due to CBD’s potency and potential, manufacturers have started to add CBD to a wide variety of products. You can find CBD incorporated into oil, tinctures, soft gels, and edibles. More recently, some manufacturers have begun producing CBD water, which, as the name suggests, is simply water with cannabidiol added to it.

At first, this combination seems to make natural sense. Many of the health benefits that come from CBD require regular usage in moderate doses. By adding CBD to water, it helps ensure that people will be able to take CBD with regularity. 

However, while it makes sense on a superficial level, the science doesn’t entirely support people consuming CBD via this method. To understand why this is the case, let’s look at how manufacturers produce CBD water, why it’s not the most optimal intake solution, and what people might want to choose instead.

What Is CBD Water?

CBD water is what the name implies – water with cannabidiol added into it. Manufacturers take regular water, add CBD, then bottle it. They then typically take this finished product and sell it at a significant premium. While a bottle of water might cost a dollar or two at the grocery store, a bottle of CBD water will, on average, run cost $5 or more. 

The process of adding CBD to products is fairly standard. All CBD sold online and at retail outlets comes from Hemp. Hemp is simply a legal designation for a specific subset of cannabis plants that contain less than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive compound found in Marijuana. If the THC amount exceeds 0.3%, then the US government considers it to be Marijuana. Both Marijuana and Hemp contain CBD, but only CBD extracted from Hemp is legal to be sold within most US jurisdictions.

Once manufacturers have extracted CBD from Hemp, the process of creating a CBD product is fairly straight forward. Manufacturers need to first separate all the cannabinoids (CBD is a cannabinoid, as is THC) from the plant itself. To do this, they frequently use either ethanol or carbon dioxide to extract the cannabinoid-rich oil from the plant that will include CBD, THC, CBN, other minor cannabinoids and terpenes (the compounds that give Cannabis its distinctive aroma).  If you are purchasing CBD oil, manufacturers refer to this as full-spectrum oil because it contains a plethora of cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds.

After completing the extraction process, manufacturers will purify the CBD away from other compounds creating CBD isolate.  This is a white powder that is odorless and has a slightly bitter after taste. The process of creating CBD isolate is either through solvent precipitation or another process called chromatography.  Both methods will result in pure CBD in a crystallized form that formulators can dissolve into many products, including water. Manufacturers will then take that CBD isolate, add it to a bottle of water, and sell it on the market as “CBD water.”

The Good and The Bad of CBD Water

At its core, CBD water is not necessarily a poor product. It permits users to take CBD, which has many health benefits. By drinking CBD water, you’re gaining access to some of the beneficial aspects of CBD in a way that is certainly healthy and easy to make into a habit.

The issue with CBD water comes down to two aspects: delivery, quality control, and price. 

While ingesting CBD is undoubtedly always worthwhile, including CBD within water bottles is one of the most inefficient delivery mechanisms for a couple of reasons. CBD is relatively stable; however, it is still possible for many of the beneficial components in hemp oil to break down when exposed to light. The vast majority, if not all, water bottles are transparent and, once they hit grocery stores, people place them under bright lights. This constant light exposure may result in a breakdown of the CBD particles, which decreases the concentration of CBD you would consume, which reduces effectiveness. The second issue is that exposure to oxygen also degrades CBD. Again, within the context of a water bottle, the moment you open the bottle, a rush of oxygen gets to the water. That oxygen will degrade the CBD and, again, result in a less effective product.

Most CBD water is packaged into plastic bottles.  CBD is naturally water-hating (hydrophobic), meaning that it is marginally soluble in water.  This is why CBD water has pretty low concentrations of CBD, typically 10 mg in a 500 ml bottle.  Because of its hydrophobic properties, the CBD in the water will bind to the plastic, significantly decreasing the CBD content in the water you have purchased.  In some cases, the CBD concentration in the water due to this plastic binding issue is reduced to zero!  

The third problem with CBD in water bottles is the price. Manufacturers typically sell these bottles for $5 or more. Often, they contain very little CBD. They might contain at most 10mg in a 500 ml bottle. Research suggests that you need at least 15mg per day to achieve potential health benefits. 

This low dosage to cost ratio makes CBD water a relatively expensive way to consume CBD. Some CBD is undoubtedly better than no CBD, but if you’re looking for maximum effectiveness at a quality price point, then having this compound added to water probably is not the best product for you.

What Are Natural and Manufactured Alternatives to CBD Water?

If you decide that CBD water is not right for you, then you should know that there are many alternatives, including CBD oils, creams, and edibles from which you may choose.

If you’re looking for improving mental well being, then CBD oil or CBD edible might benefit you. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a product to support joint health, then a CBD cream or another kind of topical product is likely the best option.

You should choose a product that will allow you to routinely add CBD to your health regimen. You may bake CBD cookies, for example, but consuming a cookie every day to obtain cannabidiol is not a particularly great long-term strategy. (or perhaps it is if you are a cookie fiend!) 

If you’re looking to start taking CBD daily and want to take it with water (for example, you might want to have your CBD with meals), then one option you might want to consider are soft gels. Much like medicinal pills that you buy for colds and flu or fish oil gels, these pills provide a consistent dose of CBD in a pre-measured format. If you’re looking to take 15mg of CBD per day, then you may consume whatever gels are necessary to achieve that intake amount.

These gels let you take CBD with water but solve both problems of CBD-infused water. Since the soft gels are not clear, and they’re in a pill bottle, the CBD compounds remain intact and don’t have issues with light exposure. Furthermore, since it’s inside the pill, the oxygen of the air never gets to them, so the CBD never degrades that way either.

CBD soft gels are also very cost-effective compared to CBD water. You still may take CBD habitually with water, but by keeping it separate, you wind up with a better overall product.

What Are the Potential Health Benefits of Continual CBD Consumption?

The research into CBD use is still preliminary, however much of it has been incredibly promising. People typically consume CBD one of two ways. Either they’re looking for a needed sense of calm or pain-relief (these people often take CBD by placing it sublingually under their tongue), or they want the long-lasting potential benefits that come with sustained intake. 

Often, people who are looking at taking CBD water or CBD soft gels fall into the latter category. They want the potential health benefits on a sustained basis, not for a short term effect. For people who are considering soft gels, it’s essential to understand what some of those benefits are!

Possibly Reduce Anxiety

Research has shown that CBD may be able to reduce anxiety. One study looked at participants taking CBD for a sustained period and noted that 79.2% of patients had lower anxiety scores by taking CBD. The same study also indicated that 66.7% of patients with insomnia reported better sleep. It is worth noting that many people do not think that CBD is solely responsible for the increase in sleep. Instead, CBD reduces anxiety, which helps people sleep better. If you suffer from Generalized Anxiety Disorder, you likely already know how difficult it could be to fall asleep at night. By reducing your anxiety, you may be able to sleep faster and wake up more refreshed every morning!

Reduce Chronic Pain

There is a relatively significant body of evidence that suggests that CBD is a potent anti-inflammatory. CBD creams are notorious for helping with inflammation. However, taking CBD orally also acts as an anti-inflammatory.

If you have autoimmune disorders (examples of this would be rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis (MS) or psoriasis), then CBD is an alternative to explore to inflammation and provide you with the relief you need.

Neuroprotection

One emerging area of research are the potential neuroprotective properties of CBD. This term essentially means that CBD may stimulate the growth of new neurons and may help reduce damage to the brain. There is some emerging research that CBD may have protective benefits for people who have Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), MS, or Parkinson’s disease. Again, more research will help illuminate how effective CBD is for these diseases, but the initial results are promising.

CBD: A Possible Antioxidant

You may have heard the term “antioxidant” before. Chemicals that enter into the oxidization process in our blood can emit free radicals. These will do damage to our cells and could cause a whole slew of potential issues. If these free radicals cause damage to our hearts, they may cause serious problems (like a heart attack or congestive heart failure). Free radicals have been suggested to cause numerous brain disorders. An antioxidant prevents this process from occurring, which helps keep our hearts and other organs healthy.

When you ingest CBD, it enters into the blood. How much comes into the bloodstream depends on how you take it. Once in the blood, it works is an antioxidant, meaning that it may help stop the oxidization process. By preventing this process, it could help guard your organs and keeps them in better shape for much longer!

It Is Important to Take CBD Regularly

You will not receive many of the health benefits listed above with a single dose of CBD. You won’t receive them even by taking a little bit now and then. Just like with fish oil and other supplements, you likely need to take CBD every day to have these long-term potential health benefits. The occasional dose here and there might make you feel better, but it won’t provide you with the same effect as having CBD regularly.

For many people, taking CBD every day and measuring dosage is challenging to do with the oils. As such, most people turn to alternatives, like CBD soft gels, to take a consistent therapeutic amount each day. Of course, if you’d prefer to use oils or add CBD to edible treats! The key, though, is consistency. No matter how you take CBD, just make sure that you have some every day!

CBD Water: There Are Better Natural and Better Alternatives

CBD water is a product that initially sounds amazing until you dig deeper into what it contains and the science behind it. Initially, it seems like a fantastic way to consume some CBD regularly without having to deal with oils, tinctures, and other products. It’s a way to have CBD in the healthiest product you’ll already consume – water!

However, due to CBD’s volatility with light and oxygen and packaging, putting CBD in water is flawed. The natural or artificial light will cause it to break down, and the oxygen will also cause problems. This form of consuming CBD is a fad and marketing gimmick that doesn’t have the same scientific backing that other types of products. 

If you’re looking to take some CBD daily and have a measured dose look into soft gels or tablets. You may take soft gels with water, and they don’t have the same drawbacks as putting CBD directly into the liquid. Alternatively, you may also use oils, edibles, or tinctures. The key is to take it consistently. You simply need to pick the method that works best for you!

Will Myrcene in CBD Make Me High?

If you have an interest in Cannabis, you’ve likely heard a thing or two about Myrcene and its fellow terpenes. You may have even read an article about how the Myrcene in mangoes means the fruit can get you high. Clearly, some of the information out there may not be entirely accurate or even true.

The purpose of this article is to answer a few questions and to clear up some misconceptions about terpenes and their relationship with CBD. Even if you’ve never heard of terpenes or Myrcene, it’s still important to understand what exactly they are what impact they may have. Mainly, you should know if the Myrcene in CBD products could get you high.

Before we answer that question, let’s lay out the basics of Myrcene and the other terpenes.

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are the compounds that give aromatic plants, including Cannabis, distinctive aromas.  Lemons, for example, have a concentration of limonene and other terpenes that gives lemons their distinctive smell.  Cannabis has a complex mixture of terpenes that will vary from strain to strain. Terpenes are produced in the same organelles in the plants that produce cannabinoids including Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In the production of CBD oil, the terpenes and cannabinoids are often extracted together.  When you smell or taste Hemp or Marijuana, it is the terpenes you smell, not the CBD or the THC. There are numerous terpenes that cannabis plants produce such as pinene, humulene, limonene, caryophyllene, and myrcene to name just a few.  

Terpenes are found in pretty much all CBD and other Cannabis-based products. Like the aromatic compounds in other fragrant plants, their main effect is on the taste and/or smell of the product. Some terpenes create a fruity flavor (like Limonene), while others are more on the earthy, herbal side (Pinene is one of these). Terpenes tend to be concentrated in Cannabis at different levels, sometimes with other terpenes. These factors vary from strain to strain, which is why some Cannabis strains smell and taste different than others. One terpene may be more dominant in a strain than others, giving it a different flavor than that of a strain with the same terpenes in different concentrations. 

Cannabis is not the only family of plant with terpenes. They are found in a wide variety of plants, often herbs and fruit. They can be found in plants that make tea. Their main job is to create a scent and/or flavor that shares information about the plant with the world. In some cases, they’re telling certain animals to stay away, or they’re inviting pollinators to come and do their thing. In some cases, they are doing both.

What is Myrcene?

Myrcene is probably the best-known and the most common of the terpenes. It is found in many strains of Marijuana and Hemp. In fact, Myrcene is found as the dominant terpene in about 40% of Cannabis strains. It is also frequently found in household herbs and produce, including lemongrass, parsley, hops, and mangoes. Myrcene lands on the more earthy side of the flavor spectrum, with an herbal taste and smell.

The Myrcene in mangoes is why you may have heard the college dorm room rumor that mangoes can get you high. Let’s dispel that rumor while we’re on it. Myrcene is non-psychoactive.  Since mangoes do not contain any THC or any other psychoactive compound they cannot get you high. The myrcene in the fruit is there to create a mango scent that encourages pollinators to come and pollinate (in case you’re wondering, lemongrass will not get you high either). 

Since myrcene is so common, it is in many CBD products. Those products are usually used by those who are seeking health benefits such as supporting health, or helping with exercise induced fatigue. These people  aren’t necessarily looking for a high. Therefore, it is reasonable that many may want to know the physiological effects of myrcene. 

Will Myrcene in CBD Make Me High?

Now it’s time for the big question, can myrcene get you high?

There are some studies to suggest that certain terpenes can help THC absorb into the body, potentially speeding up the high and maybe even enhancing it. Other studies also propose that terpenes could help trigger one of the body’s receptors that interact with Cannabis, CB-1. This should not be a worry for CBD users, since CBD, unlike THC, does not directly interact with CB-1 or CB-2. Despite these studies, it is still unclear which of the terpenes may create these reactions and by how much.

Some terpenes are suggested to have an impact on the feeling of a high. Myrcene is one of those. It is believed to have a calming effect through pathways and receptors differing from those modulated by the CB-1 and CB-2 receptors. Plants containing myrcene, like lemongrass, have been used widely and are prevalent in herbal, calming teas, like chamomile. Knowing myrcene’s history, the idea of its potential relaxing qualities may not be farfetched. However, one preclinical study exploring myrcene’s biological effects found this compound produced a noticeable relaxing effect only at very high concentrations.  There is no evidence to show that myrcene gets you high like THC. 

One telling factor is that many of the studies and articles dedicated to this question focus on myrcene and other terpenes’ relationship with THC and not CBD. This is likely because CBD itself produces little to no high. Whatever influence myrcene may or may not have on the body’s ability to absorb and process THC, there is no clear-cut evidence that suggests that myrcene has a strong, obvious psychoactive effect on its own. Since most CBD products have little to no THC in them, it is extremely unlikely that CBD users will get a high from the myrcene in their products.

So, back to our main question, will the myrcene in your CBD lotion, capsule, or edible get you high? Short answer: no, it will not. 

Despite what you may have been told by your college roommate, you can eat those mangoes and take your tinctures with ease.

Sources:

https://blog.barleans.com/will-the-myrcene-in-cbd-make-me-high

https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/terpenes-the-flavors-of-cannabis-aromatherapy

https://www.leafly.com/news/science-tech/myrcene-terpene

https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/myrcene/

https://profofpot.com/cannabis-myrcene-mango/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12587690

Talking About Acne and CBD

Acne is no fun. No one likes it, but everyone deals with it at some point on some level. Acne is the most common skin condition for humans. It seems like no matter how far you may be from your teen years, and zits continue to pop up when you want them least. If you struggled with acne when you were younger, there are likely scars left on your skin now.

There may be a way to combat these problems that don’t involve medication or the use of home remedies (after all, who wants to put apple cider vinegar on their face?). There are recent studies that suggest there could be a new, non-invasive treatment for acne and acne scarring: Cannabidiol (CBD).

What is CBD?

In recent years, CBD has grown in popularity. It has been legalized across the United States, and everyone seems to be talking about it. Despite CBD products becoming more prevalent in the market place, there is still a lot of confusion and misconception surrounding CBD. So, let’s clear some of those up.

CBD is a compound found in Marijuana and Hemp. Any plants that are members of the Cannabis family have CBD in them. Many people are familiar with another compound in those plants, Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which can create the high most often associated with Cannabis. CBD and THC are not the same. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a psychoactive impact (meaning, it will not get you high). It is also often used to promote well being.

CBD is usually extracted from Hemp plants, as they tend to have more CBD than THC. Marijuana plants also contain CBD, but they have much more THC than CBD.

Lately, CBD has been the subject of many medical studies to see how the compound can help people in several different areas of health. Now there are promising studies that suggest that CBD could help create and keep clearer skin.

How Does Acne Occur?

Skin is sensitive and can be damaged by the sun, particles in the air, and/or being too dry. To combat this, individual skin cells called sebocytes produce an oily substance called sebum. Sebum keeps the skin from drying out and creates a protective layer over the skin’s pores to keep out dirt, dead skin, and bacteria.

While a certain amount of sebum is required for healthy skin, too much of a good thing can result in dysfunction. The sebocytes can overproduce sebum in response to hormones, bacteria, or other environmental factors. Additionally, when touching your face, you may transfer some of the sebum from your hands to your facial pores. The combined sebum will mix with dirt, dead skin particles, and bacteria on the skin that can result in clogged skin pores. This triggers an inflammatory response as the skin tries to further repair the imbalance a clogged pore causes. The result is a red, inflamed blemish that may evolve into a pustule as white blood cells accumulate while trying to clear the clogged pore. This results in a painful and itchy skin lesion that we call acne.

So, how do you treat it?

Can CBD Fight Acne?

A 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation suggests that CBD oil can inhibit some sebum production, potentially cutting down on clogged pores and inflammation. The researchers found this by culturing human sebocytes and applying CBD to see how they interact. The study showed that CBD could slow sebum production. This is similar to how the well-known acne medication, Isotretinoin (also known as Accutane), works. However, it doesn’t appear to be quite as intense. This could be ideal for people with bad, but not terrible acne.

There are multiple studies, like this one published by Frontiers in Plant Science in 2016, that propose that CBD can be antibacterial and even antifungal. This means that it can possibly help with inflammation caused by bacteria in the pores and further prevent acne.

A more recent study, published in 2019 by the Italian medical journal, la Clinica Terapeutica, tested to see if CBD oil can improve acne scarring. The study used ointment mixed with CBD on the scars of test patients. Serious skin conditions caused these scars. The researchers found that after three months of twice-daily use, some patients saw significant improvement with little side effects. Scarring caused by inflammatory skin conditions visibly appeared to fade.

All of these studies suggest that with regular managed use, CBD has the potential to cut down on acne and possibly clear up acne scarring. While these studies are not conclusive, they are very promising.

How Best to Use CBD to Fight Acne?

The easiest way to get the potential benefits of CBD skincare is to either use a topical cream made with CBD oil or mix the CBD in with a carrier oil, like coconut oil or shea butter. Whichever version you use, simply apply it to the affected area.

CBD can be taken in several different ways, orally being one of the most popular forms, with capsules, tinctures, and edibles all being options. However, it appears that the best way to use it to treat acne is by using it directly on the problem area in the forms suggested above.

It’s best to be conservative in the first use of CBD skincare. Everyone’s bodies are different, and everyone’s skin is likely to have different reactions to new treatments. There are different strains of CBD, and it is sold in varying concentrations. What may work for you may not work on others. Test the amount and type of CBD you use before committing to it. Start your dosage small and work your way up, especially if you have sensitive skin. Find what works best for you.

Be sure to discuss the use of CBD with your doctor and/or dermatologist before changing your routine. Do not stop taking any acne medication without consulting it with your healthcare professional first.

More studies are being done on the potential benefits and uses of CBD all the time. It is likely we will learn more and more about how the compound can help and the best ways to use it.

 

Reference Links:
Cannabis sativa: The Plant of the Thousand and One Molecules
Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects
Clinica Terapeutica