Writer / Dee Dee Taylor, Owner of 502 Hemp
Photography Provided
What is CBD?
CBD is the abbreviation for cannabidiol, one of the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. There are more than 113 known cannabinoids that have medicinal properties. The known properties include pain relief, anxiety reduction, reduced inflammation, nerve protection and more.
How could CBD products impact your health?
Your body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS). When cannabinoids, via CBD products, enter the body they interact or “plug into” your ECS. From there, your ECS uses cannabinoids for what your body needs in order to reach homeostasis. If anxiety needs to be addressed, cannabinoids working through the ECS can calm nerves and trigger relaxing biological chemicals in the brain. If pain is an issue, CBD can work with the ECS to calm nerves, reduce inflammation and relieve pain. CBD topicals can work with the peripheral nervous system and ECS through the skin the same way. Cannabinoids in the ECS can adapt to your needs naturally with little to no side effects.
Does it matter where you purchase CBD?
Yes. Not all CBD products are created equal. It’s important to know how the plant is grown, how and where it is extracted, and how it is tested. The hemp industry is still new and there aren’t many rules and regulations enforced. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has some standard rules in the food and dietary supplement manufacturing realm that should be applied to hemp. These include growing hemp organically, using a safe extraction method like carbon dioxide, and testing the hemp for heavy metals and other harmful containments. It’s important that the label matches the milligrams on the bottle.
The manufacturer or processor should also be audit certified via the Current Good Manufacturing Practice regulations enforced by the FDA. This means the facility’s level of cleanliness is above and beyond someone extracting hemp out of their kitchen or barn, and they must keep accurate records of batches and testing samples. There should be a batch number and a certificate of analysis to go along with the bottle you are purchasing. Most companies use a QR code, so you can scan that code and see the test results of the certificate of analysis, usually found on the website. CBD is considered a health food supplement and should be purchased from a respectable and trusted source. Not all online companies are selling quality products. Quality matters when purchasing CBD products.
Does having the organic seal make a CBD product better?
No, the organic seal costs the farmers and manufactures more money. You can tell the hemp is grown organically by the certificate of analysis. You don’t need to pay more money for the organic sticker.
Is it worthwhile to buy locally?
Buying locally made products is better for the local economy, better for local farmers, and better for local processors. Why support another state’s hemp industry when you can keep your purchase local and support Kentucky’s industry?
Is there more to know about CBD?
Absolutely. There are a variety of options and products to choose from. CBD doesn’t just come in an oil. There are capsules, gummies, topicals, edibles and more. There are even different milligram amounts per bottle. One size or serving doesn’t fit all. It’s all about finding the best product for your needs and reaching out to a specialist or expert in the industry for trusted advice. Don’t settle and don’t be taken advantage of by misleading marketing ads or dishonest companies. CBD is an amazing product that can help if it is of high quality. Know your source and know your product. Quality truly matters when buying CBD products.
