How CBD Could Change Your Skin Care Routine

CBD is becoming increasingly recognized for its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and antioxidant properties when taken internally. However, recent research suggests that this same therapeutic potential translates to the skin too.

This might be why CBD is now available in lotions, creams and skin care products everywhere. And with both high-end and budget skin care companies incorporating CBD into their products, making it available to a wider audience, the buzz around CBD won’t die down soon.

There are tons of claims being made about the different benefits of CBD for skin and how amazing it is. Is it true? Let’s take a look.

How Does CBD Work for Skin?

The largest organ in the body, the skin functions as a barrier against environmental factors, which include sun exposure, toxins and harmful organisms such as bacteria and fungi. Of all the body’s organs, the skin also contains the highest amount of the cannabinoid receptors.

These cannabinoid receptors form part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which acts as a kind of auditing system within the body, and is responsible for regulating a wide range of essential physiological functions. These include processes such as inflammation, pain regulation, immune system responses and even the amount of oil the skin produces.

This is also why CBD works so well for the skin—its ability to stimulate and affect the cannabinoid receptors in the skin. Simply put, the healing, soothing and calming effects of CBD when it comes to skin is because of its ability to directly influence and regulate the endocannabinoid receptors present in the skin. 

How CBD Helps with Specific Skin Conditions

How does this translate to specific skin conditions and how does CBD work to help with each?

Acne

Acne may have different underlying causes, but some of the main culprits are an increase in the secretion of sebum couples with a bacterial infection of the Propionibacterium acnes (P. acne) bacteria. This results in swollen, red bumps on the skin that are often inflamed and painful. 

Cystic acne, which is caused by infection and inflammation deep in the skin, is said to be more responsive to treatment with CBD. Numerous studies have now shown that CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. 

In addition, CBD has also been shown to be involved in the production of skin lipids—in effect having the ability to work preventatively against the initial formation of acne. Data from various clinical studies indicates that CBD effectively regulates, balances and reduces the formation of sebum in the skin’s sebaceous gland, in turn reducing the major factor involved in the formation of acne.

Anti-aging

Scientists now believe that free-radical damage is one of the major players in aging—especially the skin. Free radicals are atoms that have lost an electron and are caused by a variety of environmental factors such as smog, dust, cigarette smoke, and the sun. In an attempt to fix themselves, free radicals attempt to grab electrons from atoms in the skin, causing damage to the skin’s DNA, which results in accelerated aging of the skin.

Antioxidants are the best defense against free radical damage, with research indicating that they help fight against free radicals and reduce the signs of skin again. With CBD’s antioxidant properties, CBD-infused anti-aging creams have the potential to visibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles, skin dullness and redness characteristic of aging skin.

Sensitive Skin and Dermatitis

Sensitive skin is more prone to redness and irritation, and more likely to develop skin conditions such as dermatitis. Dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that’s caused by contact with an irritant, resulting in red, itchy or burning rashes.

CBD is also known for its powerful soothing, calming and normalizing effects on the skin. Because of this, CBD could be able to help minimize and reduce the redness and irritation often characteristic of sensitive skin types. In addition, the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD could also help reduce the symptoms of dermatitis.

Eczema and Psoriasis

Eczema and psoriasis are a type of chronic autoimmune diseases for which there is no cure. Both conditions are characterized by itchy or painful patches of dry flaky skin caused by excess skin cell production and division.

Treatment is usually focussed on symptom management and involves a combination of medicinal and lifestyle changes. However, CBD is increasingly becoming a popular option for relieving the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis. Studies are showing that CBD could have the ability to slow down skin cell division, in effect tackling the root cause of eczema and psoriasis.

What to Look for When Buying CBD Skin Care

Because the CBD skin care industry is relatively new, it is unfortunately also still largely unregulated. Therefore, if you are considering using CBD in your skin care, there are a couple of things to look out for before spending your hard-earned dollars. 

Price-Potency Ration

Effective, potent, pure and high-quality CBD extracts takes time, effort and money to create. Price is often a good marker. It’s worth investing a bit more money. Try to steer clear of products claiming to have a high concentration of CBD for very little money. Chances are that product is subpar and from unregulated CBD sources.

Purity

Look for products that contain pure CBD and are refined several times. When it comes to CBD for skin, the purer the better, as other compounds present in the hemp plant do not have the same therapeutic skin care properties.

Third-Party Testing

Dig a little deeper and see whether the company has lab tests available on their website. If not, contact their customer services department to request a copy. Any reputable CBD company should be able to provide an independent lab result showing the quality and purity of the CBD used in its products.

The post How CBD Could Change Your Skin Care Routine appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2WJIX8m

Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s Documentary Looks at Both the Promising and Controversial Sides of CBD

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, a neurosurgeon, is most recently known for his documentary series on the cannabis industry. On Sunday, he introduced the fifth in that series, Weed 5: The CBD Craze, on CNN by addressing how much the industry has evolved since his first documentary, WEED 1 aired in 2013.

In it, Gupta attends the World CBD Expo, visits the Stanley brothers of Charlotte’s Web in Colorado again, and re-tells the story of Charlotte Figi, “patient zero” of the CBD craze. He briefly looks at the countless CBD products available at the expo, from balms and lotions to bath bombs and pet products.

“It’s been more than six years since our first investigation into medical marijuana,” Gupta begins. “Since we first introduced you to an ingredient in the cannabis plant. Then, it was a word few could even pronounce: cannabidiol, or CBD. Now, it’s part of our daily dialogue, and it’s ignited a multibillion-dollar industry. That got us wondering: Has it gone too far?”

Gupta, CNN’s chief medical correspondent, then went on to explore the ubiquity of CBD. He cited statistics such as the fact that two in three Americans now know what CBD is, with one in seven using the cannabinoid. He explained the 2018 Farm Bill so viewers could have a better understanding of the complex legal side of CBD, before turning to the fiscal side of things: CBD was a $591 million market in 2018, Gupta says, a number that is projected to reach $22 billion by 2022.

What exactly prompted Gupta to produce this CBD documentary for CNN?

“CBD is everywhere,” he says. “It’s a word most people didn’t know when we first reported on cannabis more than six years ago in WEED 1. Many people wonder if what’s in the stores is safe and effective. It felt like we had to weigh in now.”

The Risk Posed by Unethical Companies

After addressing the national craze CBD has ignited, Gupta focuses on the controversial side of things.

“Many [people think] because it’s non-psychoactive, it’s safe – [they’re] thinking, can’t hurt, might help, why not?” Gupta says. “Because CBD is not regulated, the products are not required to go through safety testing or even prove they are authentic. While CBD itself is generally safe and non-psychoactive, there are unscrupulous players taking advantage of people. We went out to investigate if the craze had gone too far. And what we uncovered was surprising, to say the least.”

Gupta met with Jay Jenkins, a teenager who was hospitalized due to a tainted CBD oil product called YOLO. A similar issue was seen in Salt Lake City, Utah, where several people were also hospitalized due to YOLO. Gupta says lab tests showed this product did not contain CBD but rather a synthetic cannabinoid. 

He then met with a family similar to Figi’s: The Wilson family. They moved from New Jersey to Colorado in order to get their daughter, who suffered from seizures, access to CBD. Unfortunately, CBD didn’t work for her seizures the way it did for Figi’s.

The Need for More Regulation in the Industry

The lack of regulation in the CBD industry poses problems, Gupta says. In one research study, for example, researchers tested 84 CBD products. Over three-quarters were improperly labeled.

“The product you are buying at your local store or online is not regulated,” Gupta says. “It’s not tested for safety and efficacy. The buyer should know that and take precautions.”

Gupta then explored the regulatory side of CBD by taking a trip to a small town in the U.K. where a company called GW Pharmaceuticals produces Epidiolex, a pharmaceutical product used to treat seizures that is derived from cannabis.

Here, Gupta addressed one major area of concern in the world of CBD: Is it better for companies to go the pharma route or the supplement route with their products? The pharma route has more oversight and regulation, of course, but nearly all CBD companies are going the supplement route in order to keep up with rising consumer demand. Gupta mentioned the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s ever-changing role related to CBD, citing their increased involvement in coming down on fraudulent companies as of late. 

Shortly before wrapping up, Gupta took a look at the promising side of CBD. There are myriad potential benefits to using the product, in particular when it comes to helping addicts manage pain without the use of opioids. More research, however, is needed in this area. There is a paucity of research on CBD, Gupta says, with only five studies examining its potential therapeutic benefits.

Gupta ended by addressing one major question: How can consumers be discerning when purchasing CBD products? He encouraged people to read the ingredients label on their CBD product carefully and look for a certificate of analysis from the company.

The post Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s Documentary Looks at Both the Promising and Controversial Sides of CBD appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2VbeD5K

The Latest in a Cannabis Documentary Series Focuses on CBD Exclusively

CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s fifth documentary on the cannabis industry, WEED 5: The CBD Craze, will premiere this Sunday, Sept. 29, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CNN.

The hour-long film will focus exclusively on CBD and the emerging industry. Gupta published an op-ed ahead of the film’s release. He argues that lack of regulation in the marketplace can be harmful to consumers.

“Without the respect of being treated like the medicine it is, or reasonable regulation when it is purchased as a supplement, CBD has been hijacked by unscrupulous actors peddling crooked, corrupt and contaminated products,” Gupta writes. “They’re making a quick buck and disappearing into the ether without a trace.”

He cited a JAMA study that shows 69 percent of a group of 84 CBD products purchased online were inaccurately labeled.

“The legitimate vendors of CBD, who took the time to ensure consistency, safety and quality, are now sadly lumped together with the dishonest and dodgy ones, leaving the consumer confused about where to turn,” Gupta adds.

According to a CNN spokesman, WEED 5 will follow Gupta as he travels around the country to learn about the CBD industry. The film includes footage from New York City, Utah, Colorado, Virginia and South Carolina, the spokesman says.

Gupta also provides updates on families he met during his previous WEED documentary projects, including a 12-year-old girl named Charlotte Figi, who uses a CBD-rich extract known as Charlotte’s Web to treat her seizures.

“Make no mistake: Cannabis is a medicine,” Gupta writes. “Over the last six years, through countless articles and essays, and now five documentary films, my team and I have made that case and we have provided the proof. At times, it can heal when nothing else can. Denying people this substance represents a moral issue just as much as a medical one.”

The post The Latest in a Cannabis Documentary Series Focuses on CBD Exclusively appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2ntquPU

These 5 Professional Athletes Swear By CBD—Here’s Why

The CBD industry is hot—even professional athletes are jumping in. On September 5, a group of athletes including Olympic champion Gabby Douglas announced Motive CBD: a new line of CBD products to help athletes train, perform, and recover from intense physical activity.

“Motive was created by athletes for athletes and our goal is simply to keep people active and pain free,” said Corey Poches, founder and CEO of MotiveCBD. “We provide a line of consistently-tested CBD products, formulated to fit any routine, that help athletes of all ages, shapes and sizes recover from sports-related conditions.”

MotiveCBD is far from the only athlete-endorsed CBD brand. Olympians Lolo Jones and Kerri Walsh Jennings, both of whom are preparing to compete in the 2020 Olympics, have partnered with cbdMD.

In 2018, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) removed CBD from its list of prohibited substances. This decision corresponded with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s decision to craft regulations for the sale of CBD. WADA continues to prohibit the use of “cannabis, hashish, marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids.” A reasonable observer would suppose that WADA’s regulations are similar to the FDA’s—defining CBD as the byproduct of a cannabis plant containing .3 percent or less of THC—but the regulations are not definitive.

These are just a few of the names and faces that believe in the potential of CBD.

Gabby Douglas, Olympic gymnast: uses CBD for pain relief

“My experiences in using CBD have led me to believe that I could have been more pain free throughout my gymnastics career if CBD had been allowed,” Douglas said. “I am glad that athletes across all Olympic sports will now have the opportunity to use these products and hopefully experience their benefits.”

Kerri Walsh Jennings, Olympic beach volleyball player: uses CBD for sleep

“As a mother, I’m a big fan of sleep,”Walsh Jennings said. “Implementing cbdMD’s CBD PM into my routine has improved my sleep and I definitely see a change in my overall well-being.”

Lolo Jones, Olympian athlete in track and field and bobsled: uses CBD to increase recovery speed

“I’ve always worked hard to take care of my body and be in the best shape possible, Jones said. “I’ve integrated cbdMD products into my daily routine, noticed the change in my recovery speed, and am proud to partner with them to educate others about my experience.”

Teal Stetson-Lee, professional cyclist: uses CBD to treat injuries and sore muscles

Stetson-Lee wrote on her personal blog back in 2017 about her decision to partner with 

Reno-owned KYND Cannabis Company and the MYNT Dispensary. She called herself “the first ever professional athlete, cannabis ambassador in Northern Nevada.” Recreational cannabis use became legal in Nevada in 2017.

“Most professional athletes who have come out as advocates for cannabis do not do so until after their careers are over, for fear of immediate repercussions,” wrote Stetson-Lee. “That is exactly the reason why I feel the need to take this stance, while I am still in the prime of my competitive professional career.”

“As an athlete, the CBD tinctures and creams are extremely useful for injuries and sore muscles,” she added.

Judith Hagger, professional triathlete: uses CBD as a muscle relaxant“

The muscle relaxant was the main thing for me, particularly after my more intense training sessions, said Hagger, who partners with CBD company Spirit of Hemp. “I also found my sleep improved massively—I was able to really relax and recover through deeper sleep.”

The post These 5 Professional Athletes Swear By CBD—Here’s Why appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2mm13iF

Here’s What We Know About CBD for Period Relief

Ask around your friends or family members and you probably won’t be surprised that many who experience a monthly period also experience the wide variety of not-so-pleasant side effects: cramping, headaches, sore muscles, tender breasts, joint pain, bloating, diarrhea, trouble sleeping and more. 

For a number of years, the generally accepted way to handle these symptoms was to pop a Midol while clutching a hot water bottle. Thankfully, times have changed, and with more and more people understanding the potential pain-relieving power of CBD, many are finding actual relief from typical menstruation symptoms.

My own relationship with menstruating has (excuse the pun) ebbed and flowed throughout my life. After getting my period for the first time at age 12, I went through monthly bouts of intense cramping, sore back muscles, and nausea so bad that I would occasionally miss a day of school. I started birth control pills at 15 to help with the worst of the symptoms, but didn’t catch a break until after I gave birth and my period stayed away for a glorious 18 months postpartum. Unfortunately, it returned with a vengeance and a host of similar side effects, only this time I had more tools in my arsenal to help combat them, including CBD. 

“I absolutely see it as a viable treatment option,” says Katie Stem, CEO of Peak Extracts. “CBD can be useful in treating pain, inflammation and smooth muscle spasm, all of which are present during the experience of menstrual pain and discomfort. In addition, CBD often has a calming or anti-anxiety effect, which can be useful for the emotional side of PMS.”  

It might feel a bit overwhelming—especially when CBD seems to be everywhere—to find what works for you. First, take stock of your symptoms and then, with the guidance and approval of your doctor, decide which type of treatment you’d like to try, and if you’d prefer something topical, oral, or both. Stem, who has a background in health and science, prefers oral methods for faster, more potent relief.

“In my experience,” Stem says, “inhaled or oral use tends to be more beneficial, as menstrual pain is typically referring from deep in the abdomen. Tinctures, chocolates or other edibles will have an onset of about an hour, and will last four to six. Vape pens will have an immediate onset, but not last as long. Some people swear by topical application over the abdomen for cramps, and it’s certainly worth a try to see if it works for you. There aren’t a great deal of suppositories on the market, but I have heard great things about vaginal suppositories as well, which is sort of a hybrid between topical and internal use, as CBD is absorbed by the vaginal mucosa.”

Cramps, Aches and Pains

When you menstruate, your body releases hormones that cause muscles in your uterus to contract. These contractions can cause painful and uncomfortable cramps and back pain, a symptom that more than 90 percent of women with periods experience. CBD may be able to help combat this pain at the source. The cannabinoid has muscle-relaxing properties, easing the tightness of your uterus and, in turn, your discomfort. 

In addition to your uterus, CBD could benefit other areas that experience soreness during your period. From tender breasts to joint pain, the influx of hormones during this time can lead to aches throughout the body. The inflammation-reducing properties of CBD may provide noticeable relief for these areas. CBD also works on your vanilloid receptors (receptors in your brain that regulate pain), which can help ease the pain you feel. 

You can either rub a CBD topical into your sore spots, or take an oral dose of CBD. If you’re like me, you’ll go for the double shot of topical and oral.

Try: Moonlight Herbal Belly Balm; New Highs Tincture 

Mood Swings

The influx of hormones before and during a period can often cause a rollercoaster of emotions, making feelings like anxiety, sadness, or even anger feel extra heightened. CBD has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety, and we know it interacts with the limbic system (responsible for regulating our feelings), so taking some internally, such as a tincture, in the days leading up to your period and throughout it could help combat the extreme emotions that we can experience. For a brief pick-me-up, a topical application can be useful, especially when combined with calming essential oils.

Try: White Fox Tranquility Tincture; The Healing Rose Relax & Restore Roll On Blend

Nausea and Bloating

Stomach woes can be a monthly symptom for many, resulting in bloating, queasiness, and diarrhea. CBD has been shown to help alleviate stomach issues by regulating our bowel movements, which can be especially needed during menstruation. Also, by reducing inflammation in the bowels, CBD can help reduce bloating and feelings of nausea. Although topicals can help, oral via tincture or even inhaled CBD oil via a vape pen could help target these symptoms faster. 

Try: DRAM’s Gingergrass Drops; KURED Relax OG Kush CBD Vape Oil

It is important to note that everybody’s endocannabinoid system is unique, so the way one person reacts to a certain serving size may be different than someone else. Start with a low dose and work your way up until you find what works for you. Also, make sure that the CBD product you are using is high quality, as this will provide better results. 

Stem notes that there’s some evidence that in high doses CBD can compete for liver enzyme activity, which can be a concern for folks on other medications that are metabolized by the liver. “If you are on prescription medication it’s a good idea to consult with a physician or pharmacist about possible interactions,” she says.

The post Here’s What We Know About CBD for Period Relief appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2NVHB82

18 Hemp Crops Were Destroyed in Hawaii for Exceeding Legal THC Levels

Farmers across the nation are jumping into the hemp business. According to Farm Journal’s AgPro, legal hemp farms in the U.S. have quadrupled during 2019, compared to 2018 numbers.

Still, confusion over the legalities of hemp versus cannabis cultivation reigns.

In Hawaii, more than half of local hemp growers’ crops have been destroyed over the past year, according to an AP report, due to unlawful amounts of THC. All of the growers are participants in Hawaii’s first industrial hemp pilot program.

Hemp and cannabis issues are inextricably linked, given that both products are derived from the same cannabis sativa plant. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has defined “hemp” as the product of the cannabis sativa plant, containing less than .3 percent THC. Higher derivations of THC legally define the plant as “cannabis.” This definition has proved problematic for hemp producers across the country.

The cultivation of legal hemp is particularly challenging in Hawaii. Shelley Choy, Hawaii’s hemp program coordinator, explained to AP, “It’s honestly expected and fairly routine in the sense that it is really hard to grow a plant that is 0.3 percent or below, and it is also really difficult in Hawaii because we have a really unique climate and photoperiod [hours of sunlight] as compared to other states.”

Recreational use of cannabis is not legal in Hawaii, though the legislature recently voted to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of cannabis (the possession of 3 grams or less of cannabis will be punished with a fine of $130 beginning Jan. 11, 2020). Current law in Hawaii makes the possession of recreational cannabis punishable with a fine of up to $1,000 and potential jail time.

The islands’ reticence to legalize recreational cannabis is noteworthy in light of the state’s cannabis culture—no fewer than 40 cannabis strains are named in honor of the Hawaiian Islands. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, some of the most potent cannabis (in terms of THC concentration), is grown outdoors in Hawaii.
Hawaiian legislators have shown definite interest in legalizing recreational cannabis, but have thus far failed to make the move to recreational cannabis.

The post 18 Hemp Crops Were Destroyed in Hawaii for Exceeding Legal THC Levels appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2A9ET6N

How This Publicly Traded CBD Company Is Preparing for the Future of a Multi Billion-Dollar Industry

CBD Spotlight: Kara Harms Finds Comfort

How CBD Could Help You Live as Young as You Feel

Getting older happens. And although the second half of our lives can be extremely rewarding, it also comes with its own set of issues. As time ticks by, we start experiencing a loss of vitality, little aches and pains become more persistent and pronounced, and for some, more serious health concerns become a reality.

Many older adults require prescription medications; others are taking over-the counter medicines, vitamins and other supplements to find relief from a variety of health concerns. But, with cannabidiol (CBD) getting federal legalization across the U.S., there are a growing number of seniors turning to this non-psychoactive cannabinoid to find relief.

According to a recent study by Remedy Review, 9 percent of seniors 54 and older have tried CBD for health reasons. Of those who have tried it, 51 percent said their quality of life improved, and 89 percent reported that they would recommend it to a family member or friend. The same study found that the most common health complaints spurring seniors to use CBD was for issues relating to inflammation, chronic pain, poor sleep, arthritis and anxiety with 78 percent of CBD users saying they were very satisfied with the results. 

So let’s take a look at CBD usage and the associated benefits and side effects for health-related issues older adults commonly have to deal with.

CBD for Chronic Neuropathic and Inflammatory Pain

Chronic pain is roughly grouped into two categories: neuropathic and inflammatory pain. Neuropathic pain is largely caused by the release of a neurotransmitter called glutamate. Glutamate is responsible for activating neurons in the glutamenergic system, a major excitatory neuronal pathway, which cause sensations of pain. 

One of the main reasons seniors experience pain relief when using CBD is because of its potential to suppress α3 GlyRs receptors, the main mechanism responsible for chronic pain. In addition, CBD may also restore the balance of endocannabinoids such as anandamide and FAAH, which are thought to play a role in blocking pain signals. Moreover, CBD activates the CB2 receptors, which suppress pain processing.

Inflammatory pain is similar to neuropathic pain but is caused by immune responses to things such as environmental stressors, toxins and infections. And unlike neuropathic pain, which is limited to neural pathways, inflammatory pain can present itself throughout the body.

As with neuropathic pain, CBD acts as an analgesic for inflammatory pain through its interaction with the glutamenergic system. However, CBD also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it specifically suited to inflammatory pain. CBD has the ability to decrease the activity of the enzyme cyclooxygenase, inhibiting the release of prostaglandins, which is the main reason the body triggers an inflammatory response. CBD also has the added benefit of fighting inflammation and its associated oxidative stress by exerting an immunosuppressive effect on the cells that play a role in inflammation.

CBD for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

Neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease is thought to be associated with oxidative stress causing a loss of neurons in the brain and is believed to underlie the subsequent decline in cognitive and motor function these patients experience. In addition, scientists also implicate a range of mutant genes and environmental toxins, though the underlying mechanism is not completely known.

It’s important to understand that CBD cannot cure dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, but it may be able to help improve the health outcomes of these patients by:

• helping to reduce neuroinflammation (brain inflammation)
• working as a neuroprotectant (protects against neural damage)
• helping with neurogenesis (the process by which new neurons are formed in the brain)
• modulate the expression of Alzheimer’s Disease-related genes.

CBD for Bone Health

Erroneously associated with menopausal women, osteoporosis and low bone mineral density affects both men and women. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) half of all adults 50 and older are at risk of breaking a bone and should be concerned about bone health.

As we grow older, bone mineral density loss occurs silently and progressively, with bones becoming more porous and fragile over time. Scientists have found that a key contributor to a decline in bone density and health is related to an endocannabinoid deficiency in the CB2-receptors, which are present in osteoblasts, osteocytes, and osteoclasts that make up bone. Moreover, research has not only shown that CBD has the ability to target the receptors responsible for bone health, but that it may actually help enhance with the healing of fractures as well.

CBD for Sleep and Mood Conditions

Many seniors also have to deal with other types of lifestyle and psychological conditions ranging from difficulty with sleeping to anxiety and depression.

For example, many older adults report changes in their sleep patterns as part of the normal aging process. As people age they tend to have a harder time falling asleep and more trouble staying asleep than when they were younger. This often leaves them feeling tired during the day. CBD has been shown to help with sleep difficulties in a number of different ways.

Similarly, according to a Harvard Medical School report from 2019, generalized anxiety disorder is one of the most common mental illnesses affecting older adults, 60-plus. But, because older adults are more prone to the side effects of benzodiazepine medications—most typically prescribed for anxiety—it’s also very difficult to treat. CBD is a great alternative treatment option for anxiety without the side effects normally associated with prescription medications.

Although aging once evoked images of wheelchairs, old age homes and pillboxes filled to the brim with prescription drugs, CBD has the ability to change this perception. Thanks to this little cannabinoid, an increasing number of seniors are now experiencing improved quality of life, finding relief from a variety of symptoms: everything from chronic pain to sleep quality. And with CBD’s favorable safety and side-effect profile, for many seniors it may become increasingly appealing.

Aging adults everywhere can benefit from CBD oil. However, as with any other new treatment option, it is always best to speak to your treating physician or a medical professional before embarking on this journey.

The post How CBD Could Help You Live as Young as You Feel appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2ZS6TKP

Recipe: CBD Pumpkin Brownies

Who doesn’t love a brownie? Chocolate cookie goodness in fudge-y cake form! These brownies are not your average brownies: the base is pumpkin puree, which is loaded with fiber and tons of antioxidants, plus the almond butter is a great source of protein, which makes these brownies nutritionist-approved. 

Makes 12 brownies

• 3/4 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 3/4 cup almond butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 6 personal servings CBD of your choice
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (optional)
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat an 8×8 pan with an oil or butter of your choice and line the bottom and sides with baking paper. Using a stand mixer, combine the pumpkin puree, almond butter, cocoa powder, maple syrup, baking soda, salt, egg, CBD and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until well combined. Fold in the chocolate chips. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let sit for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan using the parchment paper to lift. Either let them cool completely or enjoy right away!

The post Recipe: CBD Pumpkin Brownies appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/3085I66

Could CBD Treat Cancer? Here’s What the Science Has to Say

Among the many diseases that cannabidiol (CBD) shows promise as an effective treatment, cancer is probably one of the most far-reaching. There are two ways in which CBD can help cancer patients: First, it slows and in some cases even stops the growth of cancerous cells (treatment and prevention); and second, it helps to deal with the symptoms of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy (symptom management).

There have been many studies focussing on CBD for the treatment of various cancers. And although researchers are still exploring the exact mechanisms with regard to CBD’s effects on cancerous cells, the results are promising. 

Here we explore the effects of CBD on cancer and how it may help ease the side effects of cancer treatments.

CBD for Treatment and Prevention

Although most experiments on CBD and cancer concentrates on laboratory and animal experiments, some human clinical trials exist. From this body of research, scientists believe that CBD could help treat various types of cancer via the following mechanisms:

1. Apoptosis and Necrosis (Cell Death)

Researchers postulate that the main reason CBD may help treat cancer is because it has the ability to kill tumor cells through two mechanisms: cell apoptosis and cell necrosis. In a 2011 study, scientists found that CBD may work similarly to chemotherapy through a complex interplay between tumor cell death and the destruction of the tumor cells in CBD-treated breast cancer cells. Similarly, in a 2014 review, scientists found that in both in-vitro (outside the body) and in-vivo (inside the body) studies, CBD reduces the viability of tumor cells by “programming” these cells to kill themselves off (apoptosis), while at the same time causing a toxic environment that leads to traumatic cell death (necrosis). 

2. Autophagy (Cell Disposal)

Another way CBD may help treat cancer is by speeding up the disposal of dead tumor cells via a process known as autophagy. CBD seems to increase an activator called caspase-3 that moderates cell death and helps with the breakdown of the dead cancer cells. Simply put, the CBD may not only kill cancer cells, but it may also help with the dismantling of the dead cells and make their elimination from the body easier. 

3. Antimetastatic Effects

Cell division is an important mechanism, helping to renew and restore our bodies. However, when it comes to tumors, this mechanism is what makes tumors grow and spread to other tissues. Scientists have long tried to target cell division (amitosis) of cancer cells as a therapy to treat cancer. They have now shown that CBD has potential antiproliferative effects, halting the cancer cells ability to metastasize . Similarly, in another study, scientists found that CBD also targets GPR12, a protein that may be involved with pathological conditions such as metastatic cancers. 

4. Angiogenesis

CBD may also reduce tumor size by starving tumors of their blood supply through a process known as angiogenesis. Several studies have now shown that CBD has the ability to inhibit the growth and migration of tumor cells while simultaneously killing them off through various pro-angiogenic signals. Moreover, unlike other types of aggressive cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, CBD targets only cancer cells and does not appear to affect normal cells.

5. Decreasing LD-1 expression

CBD has also been shown to significantly decrease Id-1 expression, the gene thought to be a key regulator of the metastatic potential of several types of cancers. This implies that CBD not only helps to potentially prevent and treat cancer, but that it can particularly help control aggressive tumors through the down-regulation of aggressive tumor growth.

CBD for Symptom Management

For many cancer patients, treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can be even more debilitating than the disease itself. Side effects of these treatments include nerve and muscle pain and inflammation, nausea and vomiting as well as mood changes. There is a growing body of evidence that shows that CBD could help complement cancer treatment in several ways.

1. Pain and Inflammation

For many patients, one major issue is dealing with the pain of both cancer and its treatment. Tumors can put pressure on internal organs, cause nerve injury and result in inflammation that causes pain. Similarly, because of the way conventional cancer treatments affect both cancer and healthy living cells, these can also cause severe pain and inflammation. CBD has been shown to help reduce inflammation and provide widespread pain relief in cancer patients without diminishing nervous system function nor chemotherapy efficacy.

2. Mood

Many cancer patients often become stressed, anxious and depressed. Not only are cancer patients facing a potentially life-threatening situation, but they also have to deal with the fallout their disease has on their day-to-day lives, the lives of those around them, as well as the debilitating symptoms and side effects. CBD is believed to help reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

3. Increase Effectiveness of Chemotherapy

Research into CBD and cancer indicates that it may be a complementary therapy that not only help patients cope with symptoms and side effects, but it does this without interfering with the efficacy of other medical treatments. However, a recent study found that, especially for chemotherapy-resistant glioblastomas, CBD can actually increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy. In a similar study on triple negative breast cancer (TNBC)—an aggressive disease with limited therapeutic options—researchers showed that CBD activated TRPV2-increased chemotherapy drug uptake and potentiated toxic activity in these breast cancer cells.

Using CBD for cancer is generally not accepted as an alternative treatment option for cancer, however, the limited research does show positive results for the therapeutic abilities of CBD for cancer. As with any other treatment, it’s crucial to consult your oncologist or treating physician before starting CBD. 

It’s also important to use high-quality CBD—and do so regularly—to experience maximum potential benefit. Similarly, because of the cumulative effect of other cannabinoids (known as the entourage effect), a full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD product could be beneficial. Serving guidelines have not been studied specifically, scientists have found that 1 mg / kg of body weight per day of CBD could be effective for chemopreventive effects. If relief is not felt at this serving, the amount of CBD can be increased by 10 mg per day until desired effects are achieved.

The post Could CBD Treat Cancer? Here’s What the Science Has to Say appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2zOym1g

Recipe: 30-Minute Hemp Snack Balls

I’m always looking for easy, on-the-go snacks that I can have for a light breakfast or to hold me over in between meals. My criteria: it has to have protein and fiber and, most importantly, taste good. Although these certainly are not my prettiest creations, they taste delicious and have tons of healthy benefits—especially with the added boost of a high quality CBD product added into the recipe.

30-Minute Hemp Snack Balls 

Makes about 30 balls

• 1 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup hemp seeds
• 1 cup dates, pitted (about 10 large dates)
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons almond butter (or nut butter of your choice)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 10 servings CBD of your choice
• 2 tablespoons toasted shredded coconut for topping

Pulse the pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, dates, cocoa powder, almond butter and CBD in a food processor until well-combined (approximately 50 seconds). The texture will be crumbly. Shape the mixture into teaspoon-sized balls with your hands. Add the coconut to a flat surface or a plate and roll the balls in toasted coconut. Place them into the fridge for 30 minutes. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

The post Recipe: 30-Minute Hemp Snack Balls appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2ZB9V6U

Recipe: Hydrating CBD Smoothie

Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your body. From brighter skin to improved brain function, even weight control, it’s obvious we need adequate fluids to maintain our health. Sometimes, you need more than just water, which is why electrolytes are so important.

Here’s a hydrating smoothie recipe I created to help your body keep doing what it needs to do. I’ve boosted it with hydrating vegetables such as cucumbers, and added electrolyte-rich fruits and coconut water to keep it cool and refreshing. The addition of CBD is like the icing on a healthy cake. 

Makes 1 smoothie

• 1/2 cup cucumber, peeled and sliced
• 1 banana, ripe and frozen
• 1/2 an avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh mint
• 1 medium lime, juiced (approximately 2 tablespoons of juice) 
• 1 cup coconut water
• 1 personal serving of CBD
• Ice (optional) 

Add all the ingredients, blend and enjoy.

The post Recipe: Hydrating CBD Smoothie appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2ZdbwQ0

Synthetic CBD Can Be Dangerous—How to Tell if You’re Buying the Real Thing

With the explosion of products containing hemp-derived CBD in the last few years, many less-than-honest players found ways to flood the market with “CBD oil” that is a modern-day equivalent of snake oil—not necessarily dangerous but definitely ineffective. In some cases, a bottle labeled as CBD oil is just a few crushed vitamins and supplements mixed with olive oil. 

It seems impossible but there are some companies out there selling CBD oil, promising improved health, less pain and the myriad other claims they make, that is actually synthetic CBD oil—no different from the potentially lethal forms of synthetic cannabis sold on the street. 

In November 2018, Consumer Reports (CR) published an article about dangerous chemicals found in popular over-the-counter (OTC) CBD products. Based on testing conducted by Virginia Commonwealth University, CR reported that Diamond CBD, with locations in England and the U.S., sells CBD products made by three popular companies over the Internet that contain a compound called 5F-ADB, which is a synthetic form of cannabis also found in K2 and Spice. 

Drug Overdoses in the U.S. 

The Centers for Disease Control tracked all fatal drug overdoses from 1999 to 2017, and in that time it reported a four-fold increase in ODs. In addition to tracking the number of deaths due to overdose, the CDC keeps tabs on which drugs are responsible for them. Unheard of in 1999, overdoses from synthetic cannabis—both marijuana and CBD—is now keeping pace with ODs from benzos and opioids. Stories abound of swaths of people—most between the ages of 12 and 30—being rushed to emergency rooms, suspected of overdosing on synthetic cannabis.

Mainstream media began reporting more widely about the increase of synthetic cannabis use in 2015, with an uptick between late 2017 and mid-2018 as usage really took off. However, the National Institute on Drug Abuse says synthetic cannabis use dates back to 2008. In fact, it claims 11,406 visits to emergency rooms in the U.S. during 2012 were the result of synthetic cannabis.

What Is Synthetic Cannabis?

Synthetic cannabinoids are created in a lab and bear no chemical resemblance to the cannabis plant. It’s a group of chemical substances that are supposed to mimic the effects of the natural cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. These synthetic products have been cleverly marketed as safe or harmless products, or even as safer alternatives to real cannabis. 

No two types of synthetic cannabis are the same, and in most cases the chemical makeup is unknown. It’s estimated there are hundreds of compounds that can potentially go into creating these synthetic products. To the untrained eye, it’s easy to see how someone could be fooled into believing a synthetic is the real deal. 

Synthetic cannabis is generally a mixture of different plants, spray painted green. Four telltale signs that your cannabis is fake include:

1. The package has what looks like ground-up plant material rather than cannabis buds.
2. You’ll notice a chemical smell. Cannabis—regardless of the strain—has a distinct smell and it smells like something you’d find in nature.
3. Real cannabis has a stickiness to it, thanks to naturally occurring resin. After handling the fake stuff, your fingers won’t be sticky. 
4. Synthetic cannabis is one or two shades of green. Conversely, natural cannabis is green with hints of yellow, red, orange, blue and purple. 

What Are the Risks Involved with Synthetic Cannabis?

Although the goal is to have these chemical substances mimic the effects of cannabis, the synthetic versions are highly dangerous and can cause many serious health issues. Because the list of possible chemicals can vary from one street-level manufacturer to another, the risks also vary and are ever-changing. Some health risks include: 

• Severe anxiety, agitation and paranoia
• Tachycardia (in excess of 100 beats per minute)
• Hypertension
• Muscle spasms and tremors
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe bleeding due to blood not clotting
• Poor coordination/gait
• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Disorientation
• Psychosis
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
• Coma
• Death

In addition to being sold in “flower form,” synthetic versions of cannabis are also sold as e-cigarettes and extracts for vaping, such as waxes and oils. 

Common Names for Synthetic Cannabis

You’re probably familiar with the names K2 and Spice, but there are other names for synthetic cannabis, and they may vary depending on the region. In some cases the street name may be the same or very similar to real cannabis strains:

• 24k monkey
• Ace of Spades
• Amsterdam Gold
• Atomic Blast
• Atomic Bomb
• Berry Blend
• Big Bang
• Herbal Incense
• Blue Berry Yum Yum
• BrainFreeze
• Buzz Haze
• California Dreams
• Cowboy Kush
• Cobra King Kush
• One Love
• Orange Kush
• Pandora’s Box
• PEP Spice
• OG
• Potpurri (sic)
• Purple Diesel
• Purple Haze

Synthetic Cannabis: Just Say No

If you’re concerned about synthetic CBD, check out the below tips before making a purchase. As always, consult your doctor before introducing CBD to your wellness routine. 

Buy from a Dispensary 

The safest way to ensure you’re getting real cannabis is to buy from a dispensary. Dispensaries are required by law to sell extracts derived from cannabis plants. Dispensaries can lose their license to sell cannabis and face huge fines if caught. Manufacturers caught making extracts with anything other than cannabis are subject to prison time—even if no one was harmed. 

Request the Product Lab Report

No matter where you purchase CBD, you have the right to request a lab report. If the company is unwilling to provide one or insists the information is proprietary, that’s a big red flag.

If you or someone you are with has consumed synthetic CBD, don’t wait for symptoms to appear before seeking medical attention. 

The post Synthetic CBD Can Be Dangerous—How to Tell if You’re Buying the Real Thing appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2TLN5Dc

How CBD Changed My Life

5 New CBD Products Worth Trying

Can CBD Treat Anxiety?

When faced with a stressful situation, our bodies respond by releasing a flood of stress hormones. These hormones produce a set of well-orchestrated physiological changes designed to help us cope with perceived threats to our safety and welfare.

Although we don’t normally think of fight-or-flight as a positive response, it’s a vital evolutionary adaptation for self-preservation, which helps us survive, make better choices and be motivated to act.

But the problem is that we’re now living in urban jungles, not wild ones. The threat of being eaten by a wild predator is pretty low. Yet many of us continue to experience a continued fight-or-flight response with persistent feelings of anxiety that can lead to anxiety-related disorders.

Anxiety Disorders and Treatments in the U.S.

In the U.S., an estimated 18 percent of people ages 18 and older, suffer from anxiety-related disorders. That’s roughly 40 million people.

For many, managing this anxiety means taking a cocktail of pharmaceuticals, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac and Zoloft, and tranquilizers such as Valium and Xanax.

Although these drugs can be effective for many, not everyone has a good experience using them. For many patients, the range of debilitating side effects are often worse than the actual anxiety; others simply don’t see much improvement at all. In addition, especially in the case of tranquilizers that fall in the benzodiazepine class of drugs, these medications can be highly addictive, causing a secondary set of problems for many of these patients.

No wonder that many people suffering from anxiety disorders are looking for non-addictive, effective and more natural alternatives such as cannabidiol (CBD).

Cannabidiol for Treating Anxiety

A growing body of anecdotal evidence exists for using CBD to treat symptoms of anxiety and stress. The internet is full of reviews and comments along the lines of, “CBD helps me manage my anxiety” and, “Since using CBD I’m less stressed and anxious.”

However, there is also a growing body of evidence in scientific literature that suggests CBD does show promise as an anxiolytic, the scientific name for any compound that has anti-anxiety properties. 

For example, in a 2015 study, researchers reviewed 49 primary preclinical, clinical, and epidemiological studies to assess CBD’s potential as a treatment for anxiety-related disorders. They found that the data supported the notion that CBD is a potentially powerful anti-anxiety treatment when administered as needed—especially for the following conditions:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Panic disorder
• Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
• Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

How CBD Works

To date, most of the research dealing with CBD for anxiety is based on pre-clinical and animal studies. However, an increasing body of data describing the anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects of CBD in humans is starting to emerge, giving scientists insight into how CBD might help people suffering from anxiety disorders. 

Scientists theorize that the anti-anxiety effects of CBD is due to:

1. the way it interacts with the neurobiology of the brain
2. the way it affects serotonin levels
3. because it may have the ability to help regenerate neurons in areas of the brain often associated with anxiety and mood

Neurobiological Interaction

One way scientists believe CBD can help with anxiety is how it interacts with the limbic and paralimbic brain areas—the areas of the brain which are thought to be associated with mood and emotional processing. 

A small double-blind study of 10 participants suffering from social anxiety disorder (SAD) tested this theory by using single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) imaging that measures regional cerebral blood flow patterns in the brain. They found that, after the administration of a single 400 mg dose of orally administered CBD, participants reported a marked reduction in feelings of anxiety. Moreover, the SPECT imaging confirmed their hypothesis showing that the anxiolytic effects of CBD is associated with changes in the functional activity of brain areas implicated in the processing of anxiety.

A similar study looked at how participants with SAD performed in a simulated public speaking scenario after being given CBD. As in the other study, participants also reported reduced feelings of anxiety, and objective anxiety measures such as heart rate and blood pressure confirmed this. They concluded that CBD has the ability to significantly reduce anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort.

Serotonin Interaction

Scientists believe that the neurotransmitter serotonin is one of the major players in mood disorders. This is why medications called serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac and Zoloft are believed to help reduce feelings of anxiety. 

SSRI’s work by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, in turn increasing its availability in the synaptic space. This helps brain cells transmit more of the serotonin signals that reduce anxiety and boost mood.

In an animal study, researchers found that CBD boosts serotonin signaling via the same 5-HT1A subtype of the serotonin receptor that SSRI’s target. What’s more, they even found that CBD may affect serotonin faster than SSRI’s. “The fast onset of antidepressant action of CBD and the simultaneous anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effect would solve some of the main limitations of current antidepressant therapies,” according to the study.

Hippocampal Neurogenesis

The limbic system, which includes the hippocampus, is thought to play a vital role in emotional processing and mood. Brain scans of patients suffering from anxiety often show that they have a smaller hippocampus, and the severity of the symptoms relating to the severity and duration of the disorder. 

Successful treatment of anxiety disorders is often associated with the birth of new neurons (neurogenesis) in the hippocampus. And because of its similarities with SSRI’s, CBD also shows the potential of helping to regenerate neurons in the hippocampus, which leads some scientists to believe this could be one of the mechanisms in which it can help treat anxiety disorders.

How to Use CBD for Anxiety

Because CBD can have some contraindication and doesn’t interact well with certain medications such as certain anti-epileptics and blood thinners, it isn’t a good choice for some. That is why, before using CBD for anxiety, it’s important to speak to your treating physician first.

It’s also important to use a high-quality product and figure out your personal ideal serving size. A study conducted in the ’90s found that servings starting at around 2.5 and going up to 5 and even 10 mg per kilogram of weight significantly increased the anxiolytic effect of CBD. However, CBD at a dose of 20 mg per kilogram was no longer effective, which means that more is not necessarily more. Using a CBD dosage calculator such as this one from ID Weeds or CBD Oil Users can help you figure out the right serving size for you.

The post Can CBD Treat Anxiety? appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2OYjW9j

Supplement Fatigue? These Are the 4 Dailies You Should Know About

No question: CBD is the No. 1 supplement that I recommend in my practice. But it’s certainly not the only one. As a dietitian, my ultimate goal is for my clients to meet all their nutritional needs through food. It’s not always possible, so once we’ve optimized their diet—think lean protein, tons of greens, healthy fats and indulgences when needed—I also like to give them additional support with supplements.

I’ve learned both personally and professionally that too many supplements (pills, powders, tinctures, etc.) will lead to a cupboard of unused products.I’m very deliberate with my suggestions because otherwise it’s overwhelming. I’ve narrowed my list down to four favorite natural supplements. 

1. CBD

My top choice is CBD. I’ve found that most of my clients have positive experiences with a CBD supplement in the morning or evening. I only recommend a full-spectrum, organically grown product. 

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is another supplement I recommend often. This super cool vitamin has been linked to a boosted immune system, healthier bones and even increased brain health. 

Vitamin D is often fortified (meaning added to) certain foods such as milk. It’s also found in egg yolks, canned fish or even through sun exposure. But between the limited food choices and the challenge with getting enough healthy sun exposure (always wear sunscreen!), it’s hard to meet those needs. That’s why I recommend my clients supplement with vitamin D. 

3. Magnesium

I like to think of magnesium as my secret weapon. This awesome mineral does so much for our bodies yet so many people don’t get enough. 

Magnesium is a well-known natural relaxant. It helps calm your mind, relax your muscles and can help with digestive woes. It’s found in bananas, spinach and even chocolate. But, even with those with incredibly healthy diets, I still find that magnesium before bed can be incredibly beneficial. 

4. Probiotic

Last but certainly not least is a probiotic. It seems strange to add bacteria to our bodies, but the truth is that our gut is filled with bacteria. We want to have more “good” bacteria than bad.

Research shows that over 70 percent of your immune system is based out of your gut, so it’s a big enough reason to keep it as healthy as possible. Taking a probiotic doesn’t replace eating foods that are good for your gut, so I still ask my clients to eat good quality yogurts or kefir, kimchi or kombucha.

The post Supplement Fatigue? These Are the 4 Dailies You Should Know About appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2Z6mYvT

5 Industry Insights on the Future of CBD

The CBD category boom has left a wide range of industry experts curious as to the future of business sectors that CBD has the potential to disrupt. Recently, Marijuana Business Daily Magazine debuted the Hemp Industry Daily Conference alongside its annual MJBizCon NEXT, both held in New Orleans from June 12-14, 2019.

Although the Hemp Industry Daily Conference sessions focused specifically on the hemp and CBD industries, MJBizCon NEXT 2019 also offered valuable insights into the fast-growing CBD sector. These insights primarily target business owners and industry professionals, but they also offer CBD consumers a glimpse into where the market, regulations and products are heading.

1. CBD industry growth has surged faster than regulators can keep up with.

The 2018 Farm Bill reclassified hemp as an agricultural product from its previous status as a Schedule I controlled substance alongside other cannabis genus plants. However, according to Michael Bronstein, president of the American Trade Association for Cannabis & Hemp, in his lecture session “Where Are We Now? The Hemp Legal Landscape,” the 2018 Farm Bill did not “legalize” hemp so much as it legalized the regulation of hemp.

This means states can now submit regulatory plans for approval to the federal government to create the framework under which CBD and hemp businesses can legally operate. But the industry and government still have catching up to do to better regulate new and existing CBD products and businesses as the sector continues to boom.

In one major step forward, the FDA held its first-ever public hearing on CBD products on May 31, 2019. There, industry experts, business owners, and CBD users came forth with their research, opinions and case studies. Attendees and FDA regulators discussed why certain regulations regarding CBD should or shouldn’t be put into place as this new regulatory framework takes shape.

2. The industry needs increased more accurate CBD testing and labeling.

Per federal regulations, hemp and its byproducts, including hemp-derived CBD, sold in the U.S. market cannot contain a THC percentage beyond .3 percent. But without proper regulations in place, CBD business owners have struggled with certain ancillary business needs, such as banking and product testing.

Lack of adequate product testing means that products have been flooding the market, but the label claims don’t always match the chemical makeup of the product itself. Although some mislabeling could be mistakes or careless errors, others could be more intentional. And, bottom line, all have the potential to be harmful to consumers if they are unaware of the quantity or quality of CBD and THC in these products.

3. Hemp laws still vary by state, which can impact CBD sales and regulations.

The 2018 Farm Bill paved the way for states to develop their own regulatory framework for hemp-derived CBD production and distribution. But this also leaves business owners and consumers to deal with a patchwork of regulations.

In other words, in one state, CBD regulations may amount to little more than lax enforcement of the federal rules currently in place. One state over, however, CBD retailers may face police raids and seizures of product even though their businesses operate legally by federal guidelines.

Throughout the conference, industry experts voiced concerns that this sort of state-by-state patchwork regulatory system could cause complications for interstate commerce on the business end. As for consumers, patchwork regulations could impact CBD consumption when traveling between states, as one Disney World visitor recently learned the hard way.

4. CBD will impact a wide range of industries, likely inspiring major corporations to jump onboard.

As regulators hammer out legal frameworks, more businesses are joining the CBD push—including major corporations in the food and beverage and consumer packaged goods spaces. Ben & Jerry’s has already announced its intention to develop a CBD ice cream, and retailers Kroger and CVS have announced they will carry CBD products in their stores in select states.

Fear that the industry will “sell out” is a common reaction to corporations joining the CBD movement. But on the positive side, involvement from major companies can bring a host of other benefits to this still fledgling industry:

• Easier and increasingly wide-ranging access to CBD products at retail, both brick-and-mortar and online
• Potentially more cost-effective alternatives, if mass-produced in existing corporate facilities
• An influx of research and development capital into the industry, particularly for startups and corporate incubators
• Increased lobbying influence for state and federal government agencies

As larger companies join the fray, the CBD industry continues to see new problems and solutions arise, while regulators—and consumers—work to keep up.

5. CBD has potential as an alternative treatment option to substance abuse and addiction, including opiates.

Opiates remain a common treatment option for individuals suffering from chronic pain and other ailments, but opiates have also become the leading driver of drug overdoses in the U.S. This has left survivors, victims, their loved ones and caretakers desperate for solutions to this potentially life-threatening addiction.

Born from this need for an alternative, many CBD-related success stories stem from individuals who experimented with and improved their quality of life by replacing opiates and other habit-forming medications with CBD products. Many CBD small business owners perusing the conference’s showfloor attended to gather the data and industry connections they needed to bring their products to market.

The first annual Hemp Industry Daily Conference united CBD industry enthusiasts from around the globe and brought forth an exciting array of industry insights to see CBD well into its bright new future.

The post 5 Industry Insights on the Future of CBD appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2KSLZBT

The Future of Wellness Has Deep Roots in Our Ancient Past

For most of human existence—thousands upon thousands upon thousands of years—people have relied on the Earth’s natural medicines. We’ve used answers from the soil to help ward off disease, fight infection, ease pain and enhance well-being. 

It’s only more recently—in the last couple hundred years, really—that laboratory-manufactured medicines became a go-to source for health. The tide may now be shifting again. Along with a surge in individuals seeking to live more sustainable, ecological lifestyles has come a public awakening to the realities of the modern medical paradigm pushed by Big Pharma.

The response? Plant-based alternatives to pharmaceuticals are rising in popularity. Every day, more people are thinking outside the pill bottle and looking for remedies that are grown rather than manufactured in labs.

These natural answers may prevent health issues, save money and avoid the sometimes negatives effects of pharmaceuticals.

Nutritionists and health experts have been pumping new life into the age-old wisdom of using food as medicine and preventative treatments. Emerging studies of nutrigenomics seek to understand the causal relationship between nutrients and their effect on the human body.

Another attractive aspect of favoring natural remedies over manufactured medicines is cost savings. A recent report from QuintilesIMS revealed patients in the U.S. will increase their spending on prescription medicine by about 4-7 percent, totaling between $580 billion to $610 billion by 2021. Being able to use remedies found in local health food stores will drive savings for many families.

Often, plant-based remedies also come without the laundry list of side effects that often accompany prescription medicine. According to research published by Dr. Donald Light, a fellow at Harvard University’s Edmond J. Safra Center of Ethics, “even properly prescribed drugs cause about 1.9 million hospitalizations a year. Another 840,000 hospitalized patients are given drugs that cause serious adverse reactions for a total of 2.74 million serious adverse drug reactions.” In fact, Light says, prescription drugs have a one-in-five chance of causing serious reactions after they have been approved.

The emerging field of ethnobotany seeks to pioneer new applications for plants to be used in the treatment and prevention of chronic illness and disease. Some of these applications are new discoveries, while others are centuries-old remedies. 

According to a 2016 article in the Journal for Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, “it is estimated that there are approximately 500,000 to 750,000 species of higher plants existing on earth and less than 10 percent of them are examined for their biochemical constituents.” In other words, Earth’s medicinal bounty is only beginning to be discovered.

Experts in the health field and wellness-minded families alike continue to gravitate toward alternative, natural remedies. In November 2018, market research firm Grand View Research reported that “complementary and alternative medicine market size is expected to reach a value of $196.9 billion by 2025.”

What does all of this mean for the future of medicine? Certainly, doctors and researchers are taking a closer look at the impact natural alternatives have on the human body as they pursue avenues toward greater public health. As science evolves, patients can be encouraged to explore their options as health care consumers to select the practices and products that most closely align with their individual needs and lifestyles.

This article originally appeared in the May/June 2019 issue of CBD Snapshot. Never miss a story; subscribe today

The post The Future of Wellness Has Deep Roots in Our Ancient Past appeared first on CBD Snapshot.

from CBD Snapshot https://ift.tt/2YQUHug