People all over the world are talking about CBD; newspapers, magazines, your doctor, your neighbor, and even your mother.
CBD — or cannabidiol — is one of over 110 cannabinoids [1]. THC — or tetrahydrocannabinol — is a different cannabis compound that causes the high associated with consuming marijuana. But by itself, CBD won’t get you high. You can inhale it as a vapor, or apply it to your skin, and one of the most popular intake method is an edible oil — since CBD is naturally soluble in fat.
Hemp CBD – What is it?
There are so many misconceptions, even from industry professionals, published books, and so-called professionals jumping on the CBD wagon.
Cannabis is a plant species and includes all aspects of the plant. Strains of cannabis that gets you high are called marijuana, and strains that are grown for industrial use and do not get you high are called hemp.
The international definition of hemp was born in 1971. It was developed by a Canadian researcher and scientist named Ernest Small.
Simply put, cannabis strains that contain only traces of THC (less than 0.3%) are called HEMP. They most of all the medicinal properties of the cannabis plant but do not make you high like marijuana, which has a THC content of more than 0.3% [2].
Myths about CBD Hemp
Now that you know what CBD hemp is let’s dig into some hemp myths.
If you are considering trying a product related to hemp (oil, cosmetic gum, etc.), it is necessary to separate fact from fiction.
1. Hemp CBD oil makes you high
As mentioned above, hemp contains only small traces of THC, the standard is 0.3%. It is such a negligible amount, under no circumstances, will make you high. This does not mean that you can pass a drug test though, there is a possibility it may show up even though the THC content is really low.
2. Hemp and marijuana are identical
No, that’s not true. Although hemp and marijuana come from the same plant called Cannabis Sativa, strains grown for industrial purposes are called hemp while strains grown for their psychoactive properties are called marijuana.
3. Hemp is only suitable for epilepsy
Hemp oil can indeed help people with epilepsy, but its properties are not limited to this medical condition alone. According to research published on NCBI, hemp oil is known to be effective against high cholesterol, high blood pressure [3], insomnia, various anxiety disorders [4] and sometimes in some cases of cancer.
How to Choose the Right Hemp CBD?
Hemp comes in a variety of forms. These days, you can buy hemp oil, hemp cream, chewing gum, and even pet products on the market.
Unfortunately, they are not all made in the same way. What distinguishes good from bad is the quality and laboratory standards under which they were developed.
1. Check for Growing Standards
It is important to check growing standards if you want to ensure that all your hemp products are made of naturally extracted hemp. The consumption of butane molecules extracted by heat extraction is one thing, and the ingestion of products treated with pesticides and several other chemicals is another.
In an effort to reduce costs, hemp cultivators can expose their cultivation to cheap chemicals and pesticides to kill pests and other foreign accents. Although this may sound like a good thing, hemp, unfortunately, has a unique ability to absorb all the minerals and chemicals in its surroundings. The absorption of harmful chemicals not only will have a negative impact on its wellness-promoting chemical properties but may also lead to severe health problems to the consumer.
2. Research the Manufacturer
If you are considering buying a hemp product, always choose a product from a reputable manufacturer who follows all medical standards and is known for its quality products. In addition, check the percentage of ingredients on the back of the package to make sure you are buying exactly what you need.
Due to the growing popularity of the CBD and hemp, many questionable manufacturing companies with an unknown track records are now offering a range of products. Always stay away from these companies because neither they are up to the task, nor will they provide you with any guarantee of a refund in case you are dissatisfied with their product.
How to Use Hemp CBD?
Application and benefits of hemp products vary depending on the product you’re using. If you’re using an oil or cream, then they can be used topically. Hemp oil can also be used for dressings, sauces, smoothies and can be applied on baked goods among many other things but do not confuse this with hemp seed oil.
Skin health
Hemp CBD oil is known to be nutritious and beneficial to the skin. Not only are they rich in vitamins, but also in fatty acids, which helps the skin to maintain its natural radiance. In addition, according to a study conducted in 2014 [5], hemp is found to be rich in fatty acids and helpful oils both of which are known to protect the skin against inflammation, oxidation and the distinct signs of aging.
Take a bottle of hemp oil or mix it with coconut oil and start applying it to your face before going to bed. Many people who have used it believe that you should notice a significant change in the blemishes and skin tone after 1 to 2 weeks of regular use.
Brain health
According to a study published at NCBI [6], hemp extract contains active compounds such as polyphenols that are known to protect the human brain against inflammation.
If you are interested in improving your brain health, all you have to do is take any edible product made from hemp extract.
Acne
Creams and face wash with hemp salves are known to be effective against acne. According to this study [7], CBD helps to reduce sebum production, thus helping to control and prevent further acne outbreaks.
If hemp was recommended to you by your physician, then it is recommended you follow the protocol or guidelines on the back of the label.
