This explosion of interest happened for good reason. Whether for skin conditions or pain in muscles and joints, CBD topicals work, according to anecdotal reports of consumers who swear by them. How did CBD creams, lotions, and salves suddenly become the next must-have hemp-derived cannabinoid product? It didn’t happen overnight. 

Topically applied cannabis products have a very long history. Understanding that history can help a consumer become better informed as to what products might be right for them.

A brief history of CBD topicals

In the ancient Near East, cannabis-infused topicals like myrrh were popular for centuries. But these products did not make it into modern Europe, and over time the knowledge of their value was lost. 

The rediscovery of cannabis topicals began in 2003 in Nova Scotia, Canada. That’s where an engineer named Rick Simpson gave the world Rick Simpson Oil. Also called RSO for short, it’s a topical preparation made from full strength cannabis with high levels of THC. 

Rick Simpson wasn’t the first person to apply cannabis topically, but he soon became the face of it for the contemporary western world. From his work making RSO, a rush of imitation topicals flooded the medical marijuana market in states where that is legal. 

When the Farm Bill passed in 2014, that led to a rush of CBD topical products across America. The first round of CBD topical products were salves and balms. They were oil based, blended with bees wax, and they left a greasy residue after use. These CBD salves had their supporters. But they weren’t good enough. 

A few years later, when it became clear that the 2018 Farm Bill was going to legalize hemp for good, the CBD market took another leap forwards with lotion made from CBD isolate. You have likely heard that products made from CBD isolate are not as effective as full spectrum CBD. And that is true, according to research conducted in Israel. But CBD lotion made from CBD isolate was a step in the right direction. 

Full spectrum CBD lotion— the truest expression of CBD topicals — took some time to develop. It didn’t happen overnight. It took patience and timing to emulsify full spectrum hemp distillate into a water-based lotion. Once this process has been mastered, like we did at Cornbread Hemp, then CBD lotions become elevated even further. 

Types of CBD topical

There are two reasons why people use CBD topicals: skincare, and deep tissue relief. These two types of concerns are ideal for CBD topicals for these three reasons: 

CBD topicals for skincare are perfect for people fighting skin conditions or inflammation.

1. CBD topicals attack the problem at its source; 
2. Most of the cannabinoids from a topical preparation do not enter the bloodstream; 
3. Topicals start working immediately.

CBD topicals for skincare are perfect for people fighting skin conditions or inflammation, or for people whose hands are raw and chapped from excessive hand washing. For these types of issues, a water-based lotion is far superior than a salve. That’s because a salve’s oily residue can stay caked on a person’s problem skin, while a lotion absorbs easily. 

For those looking for relief from aching muscles and joints, CBD topicals are also a popular option. Formulations for these topicals are different, and often contain a secondary ingredient like menthol to help the CBD penetrate deeper into the tissue.

A buying guide for CBD topicals

When shopping for any CBD product, consumers should be skeptical. The CBD industry does not deserve consumers’ trust yet. But there are some things to look for to give you confidence that a CBD brand is looking out for its customers. 

What to look for to know you’re buying a quality CBD topical product: 

1. QR codes on the packaging that link to lab reports are a must;
2. The lab report should test for potency to ensure the same level of CBD as the packaging clams, as well as a full panel of safety tests to ensure the sample is free from pesticides, heavy metals, solvents, and etc. 
3. The fewer ingredients the better, but with lotions this isn’t always possible. Look for lotions that are free of parabens. That’s a good indicator the lotion is a premium product. 

Why we love Kentucky hemp in our topicals

What state grows the best hemp in America? The same place that has grown America’s best hemp since 1775 — Kentucky. For nearly 250 years, hemp has grown in Kentucky when it was legal, and even when it wasn’t. Hemp has been growing naturally in Kentucky for a very long time, and for good reason. 

What makes Kentucky so special as a hemp-producing state? It’s grown with the same water that makes Kentucky bourbon the best whiskey on Earth, and from the same soil that makes Kentucky racehorses the fastest in the world. And by sitting on the 37th parallel — the same line of latitude that runs through the Hindu Kush mountains — Kentucky receives the perfect light cycles for cannabis plants. 

These factors make Kentucky a perfect micro-climate for cultivating hemp, on par with the hemp grown in Oregon and Colorado, but more sustainable at scale.

That’s why a brand like Cornbread Hemp is an attractive choice for consumers looking for CBD topicals they can trust. Made entirely from hemp grown in Kentucky, and blended into lotions that are paraben-free, Cornbread Hemp’s CBD creams prove they are trustworthy. 

Want to experience Kentucky hemp? Use promo code MOH15 for 15% off at CornbreadHemp.com. We’ll bring you the best hemp products that Kentucky has to offer, right to your doorstep in just a few days. Cornbread Hemp’s CBD lotions are a perfect companion to their USDA certified organic CBD oils, which are also some of the best CBD products on the market. 

The post CBD Topicals: A Closer Look At Topical CBD & Why People Use It appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

Already a popular part of their lineup, Populum completely reformulated this CBD topical recently. The new formula is now vegan and free of parabens, a common preservative which can be bad for human health and the environment. They sent us a sample of the new Cold Therapy and we’re happy our experience was fantastic.

Our reviewer reported that Populum Cold Therapy Hemp Rub is one of the most soothing ointments he’s ever tried. This topical gives you an immediate sensation of cooling with the menthol within the rub and a nice easy-to-apply texture from the aloe in it as well. Other soothing ingredients include chamomile and arnica. All-in-all the application of the Populum Cold Therapy Hemp Rub is easy and provides instant relief!

Populum offered us free products in return for our honest opinion. Read more about sponsored content on the Ministry of Hemp.

Of course, our appreciation for Populum products goes deeper. We love the care they put into every step of creating and presenting their CBD products.

CBD products ‘for the people’

Ad Populum: A Latin phrase meaning ‘for the people’ is not only the inspiration for CBD company Populum’s name, but also the backbone of their core company values.

For Populum, they believe in destigmatizing the hemp plant. Populum seeks to be so transparent with their products, company and process that they help change the conversation around hemp. This helps push back against the current “CBD gold rush,” where consumers can easily get confused choosing between 1000s of products.

Their values are on display from the moment you receive the product, which arrives in simple but tasteful packaging. It’s what’s inside that really stands out.

Populum includes a copy of the third-party lab tests for every product you order, and a how-to with instructions on interpreting them. Many consumers know the importance of third-party lab results. Empowering buyers to actually understand them shows is going a step further.

Populum even has a risk-free 30-day trial on all their CBD products for first time users.

Populum Cold Therapy Hemp Rub Official Review

---

• Highlights: Populum Cold Therapy Hemp Rub is a great way to relieve muscle pain and joint aches from a company that you can fully trust. The cooling provides immediate relief while the CBD goes to work for long term relief. New formula is vegan and free of parabens.
• Strength: 100mg of CBD per 3 oz tube
• Price: $45.00
• Special Offers: Subscribe to Populum products for a 20% discount.
• Customer Service & Shipping: Fast, friendly customer service. Populum offers free shipping on all orders.
• Texture & Scent: This rub comes out of the bottle in a thin paste texture with a medicinal menthol-infused scent. After use there is very little residue left on your hand and it absorbs quickly into the skin. 
• Ingredients: CBD oil / Full-spectrum Hemp extract in Water, Isopropyl alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf extract, Propylene Glycol, Menthol, Dimethyl isosorbide, Carbomer, Chamomilla Recutita Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide.
• Other: A generous 30-day money back guarantee is available for first-time customers.

On May 11, 2020, Ministry of Hemp conducted our own lab test of Populum Cold Therapy Hemp Rub using Analytical 360, our trusted lab. Download test results here. We didn’t test for residual solvents due to false positives caused by the presence of isopropyl alcohol, a normal and safe ingredient in this topical.

Populum uses Colorado-grown hemp in all their products. One of our Top CBD Brands, we also love Populum Lavender + CBD Face Oil.

The post Populum Cold Therapy Hemp Rub: Fast Pain Relief In New Vegan Formula appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

If you’ve paid attention to skin care trends over the past year, you’ll know that CBD is exploding in popularity — and for good reason. CBD, a natural compound derived from the hemp plant, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Many skin care companies are now recognizing this potential and have started to add CBD to their product lineups. This is more than just hype. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties can be useful outside our bodies, just like they help many people’s overall well being when taken internally.

One of our Top CBD Brands, Populum took heed of CBD’s beneficial skin care properties and recently launched its newest product that combines moisturizing oils with 250mg of hemp-based CBD and lavender essential oil.

Populum Lavender + CBD Face Oil does not disappoint. It is uniquely formulated to do all the things you’d expect from a face oil, as well as provide all the benefits of CBD. And it has a calming floral scent that helps you to feel relaxed and at ease. 

We loved using this after washing our face in the evening. And it can even be a sweet, soothing start to the morning routine. After a couple weeks, our reviewer noticed some reduction in the size of some blemishes. And our skin was consistently soft. We love using the oil on our hands too.

Hemp and lavender are a perfect match for your skin

What stood out to us most about Lavender + CBD Face Oil is the lovely lavender aroma. It is reminiscent of a fresh field of lavender and mixed with a grounding hemp scent. It instantly put us in a relaxed mood.

Many people are wary of face oils due to the “greasy” feeling some give. This one absorbed quickly and actually left our skin soft the next morning. The CBD and lavender in this product are mixed with hemp seed and grapeseed oil, both of which are noncomedogenic oils. That means they’re good for your skin and won’t clog your pores.

It’s best to use after cleansing your face. To use, we simply dropped a few drops in our palm and rubbed our hands together. Then, we massaged the oil all around the face. A little goes a long way. It’s great to get a drop each under eye as well. It also feels nice on the neck and hands. It is best when used consistently and best for folks who enjoy floral, earthy aromas.

Here’s what we loved about Populum’s Lavender + CBD Face Oil: 

• Lavender + CBD Antioxidants: In addition to the great benefits of hemp CBD, lavender has antioxidant properties which can help protect against free radicals.
• Soothing Scent: Populum Lavender + CBD Face Oil has a calming floral scent that helps you to feel relaxed and at ease.  It’s the perfect way to end a busy day and help you relax before falling asleep.

Populum’s clean beauty promise

Regulation of the skin care industry is even looser than the supplement industry.

Companies are not required to test skin care products before going to market. According to the FDA’s website, “the FDA does not have a list of tests required for any particular cosmetic product or ingredient,” and the FDA does “not require cosmetic products and ingredients, except for color additives, to be approved before they go on the market.”

Just like the CBD industry, it is the responsibility of the skin care company to “ensure that their products are safe and properly labeled,” according to the FDA. While the FDA does require cosmetics to provide ingredient labels, many companies include ingredients such as “fragrance” which can be a catchall for ingredients not listed on the label.

This means that consumers must be especially vigilant when choosing skin care products. We appreciate the transparency Populum brings to the table. Populum, like all the best brands we work with, go much further than regulations require, carefully sourcing only the purest, safest ingredients.

Just four carefully-sourced ingredients

This is the perfect face oil for people who love a short ingredient list. Populum Lavender + CBD Face Oil only has four ingredients: non-GMO hemp oil, lavender oil, hemp seed oil, and grapeseed oil. 

Each ingredient was specially curated for its beneficial properties. Full spectrum hemp extract offers all the trace cannabinoids and terpenes that are naturally occurring in hemp plants that support skin health. Antioxidant-rich lavender helps is a natural skin care ingredient with centurie of use, not to mention a calming floral scent that helps you to feel at ease. Even the hemp seed oil and grapeseed oil are nourishing to your skin.

Populum verifies the quality of their CBD skin care products through third-party lab-testing. This means that they send their products to an independent company to test for things that should be in the product as well as things that should not be in the product. A paper copy of the lab tests is included with every order, which is an extra step that few brands take.

Populum Lavender + CBD Face Oil Official Review

---

• Highlights: Populum Lavender + CBD Face Oil is sweet, earthy, fast absorbing and helps us relax while freshening our skin.
• Strength: 250 mg Full Spectrum Hemp per 1 oz bottle
• Price:  $79.00
• Special Offer: Use code MOH20 to get an exclusive 20% off your first order.
• Customer Service and Shipping: Fast, friendly customer service. Free shipping available.
• Independent Test Results: Online and included with every order.
• Scent & Texture: This oil smells floral and earthy and has a smooth, silky texture.
• Ingredients: CBD oil / Full-Spectrum Hemp extract with Grapeseed oil, Hemp seed oil, Lavender Oil.
• Other: Populum offers a 30-day guarantee for first time buyers of any product in their catalog. If you try this oil and don’t like it, you can return it.

Populum uses Analytical 360, our trusted third-party lab. Download test results for Populum Lavender + CBD Face Oil, from November 15, 2019.

Populum, one of our Top CBD Brands, uses only hemp that’s carefully sourced in Colorado. We also love their CBD capsule and their anxiety and pain-relieving Zen Pets pet treats.

The post Why Populum Lavender + CBD Face Oil Should Be Part Of Your Nightly Routine appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

If you’re a frequent gym-goer, you might experience muscle & joint pain as an after-effect of your workouts. The CBD topical from Vitagenne just might be the cool fix to your minor aches and pains. 

Made for the individual who lives an active lifestyle, Vitagenne CBD Cooling Cream stands out from the rest. Made via a C02 extraction method and consisting of 99% pure CBD isolate, this cream is perfect for cooling your joints and muscles after a hard workout. Added camphor and menthol, along with organic botanicals, help this product work fast.

Vitagenne paid us a fee and offered us free products in return for our honest opinion. If you purchase a product from one of these links, we’ll receive a percentage of sales. Read more about sponsored content on Ministry of Hemp.

Read on to learn more about Vitagenne and see our full product breakdown of this CBD cooling cream.

Built with empathy, Vitagenne wants to promote wellness for all

Vitagenne is a wellness company focused on promoting better living. They aim to do everything with empathy and compassion towards their customers and the world. They especially hope CBD products can help people reduce their dependence on opiates and other addictive pain relievers.

All Vitagenne products begin with Kentucky-grown hemp, closely following the state’s strict growing guidelines. This also takes advantage of Kentucky’s high quality soil and long growing season, allowing growers to create especially bountiful hemp plants. Their attention to detail and dedication to transparency continues through to the finished product. Vitagenne is certified through the U.S. Hemp Authority and provides third-party lab results for all products.

All in all, the Vitagenne CBD Cooling Cream is a great product to battle against the little aches & pains athletes or any active person experiences from constant activity. Our reviewer reported an immediate effect on joints & muscles after application. In comparison with other creams and rubs, the cooling effect is superior and this topical smells really good too! We especially found this topical to be a blessing for reducing knee and back strain when we applied it after a shower.

Vitagenne CBD Cooling Cream Official Review

---

• Highlights: Vitagenne CBD Cooling Cream is a light-feeling formula that combines the instant relief of menthol and camphor with the healing power of CBD. It’s great for applying before, during and after workouts.
• Strength: 300mg per 100ml bottle (also available in 750mg strength)
• Price: $54.99 – $79.99
• Customer Service & Shipping: Fast, friendly customer service. Free shipping available.
• Independent Test Results: Online.
• Scent & Texture: The light texture is perfect for quick application. This CBD cooling cream has a noticeable menthol scent, mixed pleasantly with the other added botanical ingredients.
• Ingredients: Hemp-derived CBD isolate in Aqua, Methyl Salicylate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Menthol, Cinnamomum Camphora (Camphor) Bark Oil, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Organic Tapioca Starch, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Organic Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Organic Arnica Extract, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Citric Acid.
• Other: A generous 30-day money back guarantee is available for unsatisfied customers.

On October 11, 2019, Ministry of Hemp performed our own lab test of this CBD supplement, using a third-party lab. Download test results here.

Vitagenne makes all their products from Kentucky-grown hemp. They also make CBD oil, CBD capsules, and a special sleep blend. A discount is available for subscribing to products. A CBD assistance program is available to veterans and first responders.

The post Vitagenne CBD Cooling Cream Relaxed Our Sore Muscles After Workouts appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

The Hemp Luxe team bring decades of experience in the wellness market to creating their CBD products. The creators founded the Mustard Seed Market & Cafe, a local chain of Ohio-based natural grocers. That real world experience is evident in this carefully grafted CBD topical. Our skin smelled great, felt soft and, most importantly, it worked great on muscle aches.

Hemp Luxe paid us a fee and offered us free products in return for our honest opinion. If you purchase a product from one of these links, we’ll receive a percentage of sales. Read more about sponsored content on Ministry of Hemp.

Read on to learn more about Hemp Luxe and see our complete review of this Hemp Extract Balm.

Specialized strains of certified organic, Colorado-grown hemp

Since founding Mustard Seed Market in 1981, the creators of Hemp Luxe have almost 40 years experience selling supplements. As a result, they know how important it is to create CBD products from only the finest raw materials.

All of Hemp Luxe products begin with certified organic hemp grown in Colorado without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, fungicides or artificial fertilizers. They use only full spectrum hemp extract and every batch is third-party lab tested for purity and strength.

Even the packaging of this supplement is high quality. Hemp Luxe Hemp Extract Balm comes in a round tin with a secure, screw-on top. It’s easy to slip into a pocket or bag for relief on the go. It’s small enough we plan to bring it on an upcoming plane trip.

The scent is strong but not overpowering, warm and wintry, rich with peppermint and other essential oils like frankincense, pine and clove. Added arnica helps the CBD work against inflammation and pain. Our reviewer has fibromyalgia and this topical was great at easing pain and muscle spasms in his neck and shoulders. Even though we have lots of CBD products available to us at the Ministry, he found himself reaching for this balm time and again.

Hemp Luxe Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract Balm Official Review

---

• Highlights: Hemp Luxe Full Spectrum Hemp Extract Balm quickly became one of our favorite CBD topicals with a great scent and offering powerful pain relief.
• Strength: 700mg per 60ml tin (also available in 225mg and 935mg strengths)
• Price: $29.99 – $89.99
• Customer Service & Shipping: Fast, friendly customer service. Free shipping available on orders over $75.
• Independent Test Results: Available on request.
• Scent & Texture: This topical is a little bit greasy but quickly absorbs into the skin. The balm has a wonderful smell, heavy on the rosemary and other herbal notes.
• Ingredients: CBD oil / Full Spectrum Hemp extract in Organic Beeswax, Organic Olive Oil, Organic Hemp Seed Oil, Organic Arnica, Organic Rosemary, German Chamomile, Organic Peppermint, Organic Pine, Organic Clove, Frankincense, Organic Lavender, Sweet Marjoram.

On September 19, 2019, Ministry of Hemp performed our own lab test of this CBD supplement, using a third-party lab. Download test results here.

All Hemp Luxe products begin as organically-grown Colorado hemp. If you prefer a different topical texture, Hemp Luxe also makes a Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract Cream, along with tinctures, softgels and even gummies.

The post Hemp Luxe Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract Balm Warmly Soothes Away Aches appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

We tried this great cooling topical from Medterra in the 750mg strength and it went beyond our expectations. When our reviewer shared this cream with a friend, it made a serious dent in his chronic back pain. He told us:

“Though it didn’t take away all my pain, the effects were nearly instant. I felt comfortable with my day-to-day activities for the first time in a long while.”

We all have those moments where we sit or sleep in the wrong position for too long. We get out of it only to feel an excruciating pain that lingers with us for hours (sometimes days). If you’re in need of a quick fix to this problem, MedTerra has you covered.

Within minutes of trying MedTerra CBD Cooling Cream, we felt an almost instant sense of relief. Whether you’re suffering from sore muscles or joint pain, MedTerra’s cannabidiol topical stands out among others on the market.

Medterra paid us a fee and offered us free products in return for our honest opinion. If you purchase a product from one of these links, we’ll receive a percentage of sales. Read more about sponsored content on Ministry of Hemp.

Keep reading for our complete review of Medterra CBD Cooling Cream.

A CBD Company Built Around Caring For Others

MedTerra was founded on the belief that CBD can change the world for the better.

They offer CBD products at reasonable prices with frequent sales and discounts. Medterra tests all their CBD products in a third-party lab tries to guarantee quality. They’ve also obtained certification by the U.S. Hemp Authority. All of their products are made from CBD isolate or broad-spectrum hemp extract, so they’re 100% THC free. They’re also made with absolutely no GMOs.

Made with 99.6% pure CBD isolate, there’s a lot to enjoy about MedTerra’s Rapid Cooling Cream. In comparison to other CBD topicals, MedTerra’s offers a cooling sensation immediately after you place it on your body. From our experience, this offered a quick moment of relief even before the CBD started getting its work done. In addition to CBD, this topical is packed with other helpful botanicals, most of them organically-grown.

Admittedly, the cream does have a medicinal smell to it. Though it’s not necessarily an unpleasant scent, it might stand out at a social event. Something to keep in mind if you plan on putting some on before mingling with people.

However, if your main concern is simply pain relief — particularly, muscle and joint relief — then you need to look no further than MedTerra’s topical. For the sake of this review, we used the 750mg which provided powerful results, but this product is also available in a 250mg strength.

Medterra CBD Rapid Cooling Cream Official Review

---

• Highlights: Medterra CBD Rapid Cooling Cream cools down inflamed muscles while offering fast, effective CBD relief.
• Strength: 250mg per 100ml bottle (also available in 500 & 750mg strengths, and in discounted two-packs)
• Price: $29.99 – $64.99
• Customer Service & Shipping: Fast, friendly customer service. Free shipping available.
• Independent Test Results: Online.
• Scent & Texture: This topical instantly cools the skin, and can cause a mild tingling sensation with heavy use. This topical has a pleasant but medicinal scent.
• Ingredients: CBD isolate in Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Stearic Acid (Vegetable Derived), Cetyl Alcohol (Coconut Alcohol/USP), Sodium Hydroxide (Mineral Salt/USP), Vitis Vinifera (Grape Seed) Extract, Aloe Barbadensis (Inner Fillet) Leaf Juice, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Glycerin (Vegetable Derived), Potassium Sorbate (Mineral Salt/USP), Xanthan Gum (Vegetable Derived), Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Menthol (Mentha Arvensis)(USP), Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Ocimum basilicum (Basil) Leaf Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil, Phenoxyethanol.
• Other: Medterra offers a generous 30-day return policy for unsatisfied customers.

Medterra is one of our Top CBD Brands. All their products are made from Kentucky-grown hemp.

The post Medterra CBD Rapid Cooling Cream: Affordable Relief For Sore Muscles appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

Did you know many pro-athletes are now using CBD for recovery?

Whether you’re a pro-athlete, a retired athlete, or someone who spends their nights and weekends pushing their physical potential to the max, you’re intimately familiar with the variety of things that can throw off your game.

Delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), injuries, pain, trouble sleeping, and illness are just a handful of the factors that can get in the way of you and what matters most: being able to recover and perform at your very best. This is why we all spend countless hours learning … How much protein should I get? Should I be intermittent fasting every day? What are the best supplements that I can take to expedite muscle synthesis?

These kinds of questions lead athletes to discover the trendy supplement from hemp that comes from the same plant species as medical marijuana: CBD.

Early research and plenty of stories around the internet suggest that CBD might be a sort of panacea for athletes. From mood regulation to fighting inflammation, this wonder-molecule is being used by some of the fittest people around in the hopes of supporting healing and optimal performance.

What Is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a type of phytonutrient (a compound found in plants that supports human health) found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Specifically, it’s one of around 100 cannabinoids in cannabis. These compounds, which include the well-known mind-altering compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), are unique when it comes to how they interact with the bodies of humans and other vertebrates.

Over the last many years, hundreds of studies have been published on cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD. By interacting with a system in our bodies known as the endocannabinoid system, these phytocannabinoids (cannabinoids that come from plants) can reach cells throughout our bodies, including those in our brains and our immune systems.

Thanks to this interaction, CBD and THC are capable of impacting vertebrate health in many ways. These range from helping with pain and seizures to impacting cognitive function and mood.

Unlike THC, which is the compound that causes you to get high if you smoke weed, CBD is non-psychoactive. This means you can take CBD without feeling “high.”

The Unique Properties Of CBD

To understand how CBD might be able to benefit athletes, it’s helpful to have a foundational knowledge as to how CBD works in the body. Studies have found CBD to be: (Sources: 1,2,3,4,5)

• Anti-inflammation: CBD might be able to reduce inflammation in the body, such as that from chronic inflammatory diseases or injuries.
• Analgesic: This means that CBD can reduce the sensation of pain.
• Antioxidant: Free radicals are molecules that can damage our cells, with damage leading to conditions like cancer. Antioxidants reduce free-radical induced harm.
• Anti-psychotic: This type of compound may be able to help those with mental health conditions.
• Anxiolytic: CBD has shown potential in reducing the subjective feelings and physiological manifestations of anxiety and stress.
• Antiseizure: For some types of seizure disorders, CBD can help to reduce the frequency of seizures.
• Neuroprotective: Neuroprotective compounds protect the health and function of our brains and the resulting cognitive abilities.
• Blood flow enhancer: CBD may be able to boost blood flow, therefore increasing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, including to the brain and muscles.

It’s important to understand, however, that most of the properties listed above have been found in preliminary animal studies, not human clinical trials. While these studies provide clues as to what CBD might do in the human body, more studies in humans themselves are needed to confirm if these benefits carry over.

As researchers continue to investigate CBD, we will learn which of these benefits apply to the human body, and exactly what kinds of effects it can have.

Why Elite Athletes Are Turning To CBD For Recovery

CBD may help speed recovery

There are many times when our bodies need to recover. The most common is after a game or a hard workout, but we also have to recover physically from injuries like concussions or sprained ankles.

The one thing that our bodies need to do to expedite recovery is to slow down an overactive inflammatory response. This is why we do things like ice injuries, get sports massages, and use compression tape.

Because CBD has demonstrated an ability to combat inflammation, it might be able to help us heal faster. This can be particularly important if you are struggling with DOMS, an injury, or when you have back-to-back games that necessitate rapid recovery.

Additionally, the antioxidant and blood-flow enhancing effects of CBD could help to reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress and deliver oxygen and nutrients to healing muscles.

CBD might reduce pain

If you’re an athlete, you understand the constant battle between performance and pain. Much of the pain that you experience is inflammatory pain, which is pain that occurs from microtears in your muscle or from an injury.

The most common way to treat inflammatory pain are a class of drugs known as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). With long-term or excessive use of NSAIDs tied to a variety of health concerns, many athletes do without or try to limit their use.

In animal studies, CBD has demonstrated an ability to reduce inflammatory pain in rats. Because there have been no human clinical trials, it’s up to each of us to determine whether or not CBD helps to relieve pain. You will find many first-hand accounts of people using CBD oil for pain.

CBD may help some people sleep

Getting enough shut-eye is critical when it comes to optimal athletic recovery. It’s during deep sleep that our bodies are capable or diverting resources to allow the healing needed following a vigorous workout.

Anxiety, stress, and sleep disorders like insomnia can hinder sleep. When you’re unable to sleep for any reason, you won’t be able to recover as quickly. Some researchers have hypothesized that CBD might be able to help those with anxiety and sleep disorders sleep better.

A small human study found that CBD helped those with REM sleep behavior disorder, allowing them to sleep better throughout the night. Another study published this year found that CBD helped to reduce anxiety in those in a psychiatric clinic over three months, but the effect on sleep was not as definitive.

Even though there is no conclusive evidence supporting CBD’s role in human sleep, the research so far suggests that CBD doesn’t negatively impact sleep in the healthy population, and that some people might benefit from using CBD for sleep.

CBD might help those with chronic traumatic encephalopathy

Athletic recovery isn’t just about performing well in the next competition. For some, damage that adds up over the years can lead to chronic conditions. This is especially true for retired professional football players, as years of head injuries can take a toll long after they’ve stopped playing football.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a condition caused by repetitive head trauma. The chronic inflammation and neurodegeneration can lead to cognitive difficulties like memory troubles, mood disorders like depression, and eventually, to motor dysfunction similar to that in Parkinson’s disease patients.

In a study that examined the brains of deceases football players, it was discovered that 99% showed signs of CTE. And it’s not only football players, but boxer and those in the military, that are at risk of this disease.

Researchers have found that a combination of THC and CBD can help to treat CTE symptoms, such as psychosis, headache, nausea, and mood difficulties. And some believe that CBD itself might be helpful thanks to its neuroprotective effects.

How Elite Athletes Use CBD Oil

Now that you know why CBD might offer benefits for athletic recovery, the question is, how do they use it?

The most common way to take CBD oil is orally by using a CBD oil tincture or a capsule. Oral CBD is particularly beneficial because it allows for distribution throughout your body, allowing a multitude of possible benefits.

This is contrary to topical CBD, which are products like salves and lotions that are applied directly to your skin. While this type of CBD might prove useful for things like an injury or arthritis, using it alongside oral CBD will allow additional effects of CBD for recovery in other areas of your body.

You can also find smokable CBD products like vape pens of hemp flower. These offer the highest bioavailability (meaning that more of the CBD is used by your body), however, its safety and dosage have not been researched as thoroughly as oral CBD.

What Athletes Are Using CBD Oil?

More athletes are coming out of the woodwork, sharing their experiences with their dedicated fan base. Not long ago, CBD was banned by the World Doping Agency, and thus using it could have gotten professional athletes in trouble. This all changed in 2018.

You will now find elite athletes from all arenas who are supporters of CBD. Some have started their own companies, and many are hard at work furthering the legality and understanding of CBD. These include (among many others):

• Julie Anthony (pro tennis)
• Tatum Bell (NFL)
• Brita Schwerm Bolane (pro volleyball)
• Shannon Briggs (pro boxing)
• Steve Cantwell (mixed martial arts)
• Avery Collins (Ultramarathoner)
• Julian Davidson (pro skater)
• San Juanita Fetuuaho (Rugby)
• Greta Gaines (pro snowboarding)
• Al Harrington (NBA)

As you can see, professional sports players from many backgrounds are coming together to support the use of CBD for elite athletes.

Are You Ready To Start Using CBD Oil?

If you would like to try CBD yourself, the first step is finding a high-quality CBD oil product. Look for a product that offers third party lab-results, also known as a certificate of analysis (COA), that show the quantity of CBD and THC as well as other phytonutrients. All CBD products should be clearly labelled, making it easy to find the full list of ingredients and amount of hemp extract in each product.

Next, you will want to decide between full-spectrum hemp oil (FSHO) and CBD isolate. The general rule is that FSHO likely offers the greatest benefits, but CBD isolates are more cost effective. Additionally, you might want to look for a CBD oil products that contains 0% THC if you do undergo any type of drug testing. Be sure to check with the company that does testing to ensure that a 0% THC CBD oil won’t show up as a false positive.

Remember, most athletes will try an oral product like a full spectrum oil or hemp extract capsules for optimal effect throughout the body. Try starting with a small amount once or twice per day, and slowly increase your dosage until you find what works best for you.

Final Thoughts: Using CBD For Athletic Recovery

With elite athletes standing behind CBD and other cannabis or hemp products for recovery, many weekend warriors are beginning to learn about the potential benefits of this plant compound. CBD might help to speed recovery from exercise-induced stress and injuries, and might help to expedite recovery in other ways as well, such as encouraging restful sleep.

With increased legality, you can now buy CBD oil online or find it at stores throughout many states in the U.S.

The post CBD For Recovery: How Elite Athletes Use CBD For Recovery appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

The answer may not be as simple as you think. Nowadays, there are so many different CBD brands and products that things can really get confusing, especially if you don’t know what to look for. Over the past few years the CBD market has grown at an unprecedented rate. The sheer success of the industry attracted many new entrants into the space, seeking to capitalize on what can potentially be a multibillion-dollar business. And though this CBD craze has contributed to an increase in innovation, it also caught the attention of some shady characters looking for a quick dollar.

So, if you’re considering grabbing some CBD oil for pain relief, you should keep in mind that the space is still mostly unregulated. As such, we need to be very particular with our choices to ensure that we pick a high-quality product and more importantly, one that is safe for consumption. In this article we will provide some guidelines to help you choose only the best CBD products for pain.

DIFFERENT WAYS TO TAKE THE BEST CBD OIL FOR PAIN

The great thing about CBD oil is we can consume it in many different ways. There is no one size fits all, when determining the type of CBD product for your pain relief.

Usually the form of the CBD oil is largely dependent on the intended use.  Here are some of the most common CBD products and their unique properties:

Capsules

Capsules are the most convenient way to consume CBD. If you’re on the go, or perhaps would like to take you CBD oil discreetly, this method may be right for you. Additionally, capsules are great for people who are just starting off, as they provide an exact dosage per unit, and are easy to incorporate into your daily routine.

Topicals

These can come as creams, lotions or ointments and are absorbed directly through the skin. Topicals give the consumer a means to use CBD for pain relief without having to ingest or inhale anything. They are best suited to focus on specific areas and act faster than edible products, since the CBD is absorbed transdermally.

Tinctures

These are perhaps the most popular type of CBD oil product. Tinctures can be administered under the tongue and are also easy to use in the kitchen, by blending with other oil-based substances. If you’re interested in creating your own CBD-infused food, then tinctures may be the way to go.

It’s also worth considering that tinctures are highly bioavailable through sublingual application, which is great to maximize on the amount of CBD per dosage. Make sure to hold the tincture under your tongue for at least 30 seconds to a minute to get the maximum effect.

Vapes

This is one of the fastest ways to get relief from CBD, since it enters your bloodstream via the lungs, rather moving along the digestive tract. Vaping tends to create a high bioavailability of CBD through this method of absorption. Additionally, it’s a discreet way of taking cannabidiol, since there is no distinct difference between CBD vape oil and others on the market.

It’s important to be aware that a small percentage of users have experienced adverse reactions, due to the presence of contaminants included in some vapes. Check out our Vaping 101 article to find out more.

FULL SPECTRUM OR ISOLATE?

Typically, full spectrum oils are considered to be more effective since they gave you the full range of cannabinoids and terpenes. But, in cases where the consumer may not be permitted to consume even negligible amounts of THC, then isolates are an option.

For overall therapeutic use, full spectrum products certainly have an edge. However, isolates are tasteless so they’re easier to incorporate with meals. They also allow you to manage your dosage of CBD more precisely since there are no other ingredients included.

THE BEST CBD OIL FOR PAIN: OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

Concentration

CBD oil tends to come in different ranges of concentration depending on the brand. The common ones are 250mg, 500mg and 1000mg. For a newbie, the best bet is to start at the lower end of the spectrum. You can increase the dosage as needed, when you get accustomed to the effects. If you find yourself taking higher doses, then higher strength CBD products quickly become more cost-effective.

Realistic expectations

Although CBD is a great option to help with pain relief, it is not a cure or miracle formula. As such, it is important to understand the effects of the compound and how it interacts with your body. One drop of oil is not going take all your body pain away instantly.

Try CBD for a while, and experiment with different products or methods of ingestion. But always ensure that your expectations are realistic.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON CBD OIL FOR PAIN

We hope that these guidelines make it easier for you to find the best CBD products for your pain and therapeutic needs.

It’s absolutely crucial that you choose reputable brands, with high quality items. The form of the CBD oil should be based on the intended use and functionality. Information on any product worth considering,should be easily accessible and in line with the claims of the manufacturer.

With that being said, choose wisely and happy shopping.

The post CBD Oil For Pain: How To Pick The Right CBD For Your Pain appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

I sat in the gastroenterologist’s office at seventeen after a marathon of blood tests, -oscopies, and exams when my GI handed me photos of my intestines and told me I had Crohn’s disease, a chronic form of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation and scarring of the intestine.

That was nearly ten years ago, and now, at twenty-eight, a lot has changed. I survived a major surgery, ventured into the world of biologic treatments, and began to explore CBD after reading that it may help patients with Crohn’s manage their symptoms, namely pain and anxiety.

THE COST OF CROHN’S

For me, Crohn’s had not been a serious problem until last year when it took 3 trips to the ER for doctors to realize that I needed a major surgery. Twelve inches of my small intestine had become inflamed and obstructed over time due to Crohn’s and had to be removed. At the same time, my GI started me on Remicade, a biologic drug infusion. Remicade can range from $1,300-$2,500 per single infusion without health insurance.

The past year has been whirlwind of medical emergencies, huge bills, automated phone calls to customer service agents, and lots and lots of anxiety. What if I somehow lose health insurance? What if I go in debt trying to afford health care? What if my body fails me again? What if I need another surgery? These are the questions that swirl in my head late at night, keeping me from being able to sleep.

During these months, I wrote publicly on social media about having Crohn’s, updating friends, family members, and online acquaintances about my trek through the medical world. I took photos at my infusions and openly wrote about how I was afraid, that it wasn’t easy, and that it was okay to talk about these things. It wasn’t long before several friends and online acquaintances reached out me to share studies and articles they’d found about CBD and Crohn’s symptoms as well as their own personal experiences about using CBD to curb pain and anxiety.

Like the good student I am, I read up on all I could find. Then, after one friend’s encouragement, I applied for and then received my medical cannabis card thanks to the Florida Department of Health. With my card, I could purchase 10 mg CBD capsules from a reputable dispensary.

HOW USING CBD OIL FOR CROHN’S DISEASE HELPS ME

This was the beginning, and I should say that by no means is CBD oil a cure for Crohn’s disease.

Some people come from a totally holistic mindset and think that changing your diet or exercising is all you need to combat Crohn’s, but, in my case, I’ve needed medicine, too. While changing your diet and exercising can reduce some inflammation, it can’t combat what a body with Crohn’s is actually doing, which is producing a surplus amount of TNF-alphas which lead to more inflammation in the body.

Because Crohn’s is genetic and is thought to be an autoimmune disease, no amount of exercise, diet, or CBD oil will cure it. Used as a supplemental method, however, CBD helps to curb what are arguably the worst parts of having Crohn’s: the psychological burden/worry, abdominal pain, and overall anxiety.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND CBD OIL FOR CROHN’S DISEASE

New research is coming out daily on the science of CBD. It’s clear that we are just discovering the tip of the iceberg in terms of how CBDs work and interact with different mental and physical ailments.

The New York Times recently investigated the surge of CBD. Reporters spoke with Dr. Esther Blessing, an assistant professor at NYU’s School of Medicine who said: “CBD is the most promising drug that has come out for neuropsychiatric disease in the last fifty years.”

Dr. Blessing is currently working on a new study that looks at the use of CBD as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder and went on to explain: “The reason it is so promising is that it has a unique combination of safety and effectiveness across a very broad range of conditions.”

In another controlled study forthcoming in the journal PAIN and written about in Forbes, CBD was found to “alleviate both pain and anxiety, two symptoms often associated in neuropathic or chronic pain,” in animal models according to the study’s first author Danilo De Gregorio. This study focuses on how CBD interacts with the specific receptors that deliver pain and anxiety. Ultimately, it suggests CBD can act as a non-addictive, safe form of medicine in the treatment of pain and anxiety.

While many studies are focusing on how CBD interacts with psychological ailments, one study authored by Dianele De Filippis et al. looks at intestinal inflammation. Researchers found that CBD may actually “counteract the inflammatory environments” in patients with Ulcerative Colitis (Crohn’s’ cousin), which can reduce and mediate the amount of intestinal damage. The findings of this study actually suggest that there are benefits from CBD for both Crohn’s and UC patients beyond the moderation of symptoms. This could be huge for the future treatment of Crohn’s and UC.

THE RISE OF CBD FOR HEALTH

The rising popularity of CBD is hard to ignore. CBD is offered in capsule, tincture, gummy form and are even being added to luxury confections by high-end boutique retailer Lord Jones.

Many people are taking to online forums to share how CBD is working for them by reducing their anxiety like one reddit user who wrote: “CBD changed my life for the better.”

Now that CBD is being offered more widely across the country, it’s becoming more accessible to people who are suffering from chronic pain and the anxiety that oftentimes accompanies us on the journey towards remission. While researchers may be on the frontiers of CBD research, it’s clear to see that cannabinoids are proving to be effective in moderating pain and anxiety, allowing people with chronic illness to find, at least, some solace and relief.

The post CBD For Crohn’s Disease: How CBD Oil Helps Manage My Chronic Illness appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

We’ve already looked at CBD cocktails, but you don’t need liquor to enjoy the relaxing benefits of mixing CBD into your favorite beverages.

The most recent beverage trend hitting major coastal cities doesn’t use alcohol as a main ingredient. Instead, the main ingredient is cannabidiol, the non-psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. The most important thing to be aware of when you’re ingesting a CBD drink is how your body reacts to edible CBD. Generally, ingesting CBD orally takes longer to take effect, meaning you’ll be on the safer side sticking to just one drink per hour.

The benefits of drinking a CBD-infused drink include relaxation, reduced anxiety, reduced inflammation, decreased joint pain, better sleep and nausea relief. CBD golden milk takes a drink that thousands of people love and adds the powerful effects of CBD. These kinds of beverages also provide you with a discreet method of ingesting the compound, and deliver a slower onset as opposed to vaping CBD. If you’re looking for a less invasive way to enjoy CBD, we recommend sticking to edibles and drinks.

Read on for our CBD golden milk recipe and some of our other favorite CBD drinks.

CBD GOLDEN MILK RECIPE

This tasty drink provides several health benefits. Turmeric, commonly known as “golden milk” is believed to support our immune system, digestion and even liver function. Served hot, this beverage provides a boost in natural antioxidants, which aid in protecting your heart health and also have the potential to lower your risk of infections.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of water
• 1 inch ginger root
• 1 inch turmeric root or 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of coconut oil
• 1 cup of hemp milk
• 1 pinch of black pepper
• 2 teaspoons of honey
• 2 teaspoons of CBD oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the milk
2. Add all of the ingredients to a blender
3. Pour into a mug
4. Enjoy!

You can store this recipe in the refrigerator.

CBD LEMONADE SPRITZER WITH BASIL

Enjoy a refreshing and calming lemonade spritzer. It’s perfect to make for social events or even as a drink to enjoy with dinner. Fans of spritzers and lemonade will appreciate the invigorating flavors they know and love, all while receiving the benefits of CBD.

Ingredients:

• 6-8 lemons
• 1 cup of sugar
• 5 cups of water
• 1 bunch of fresh basil
• 1 cup of seltzer
• 1-3 teaspoons of CBD tincture

Directions:

For the Simple Sugar:

1. Heat one cup of water and one cup of sugar over medium heat in a small pan
2. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved and let it cool completely
3. Juice the lemons
4. Mix the remaining 4 cups of water, lemon juice, CBD tincture and simple syrup

To Serve:

Place a few basil leaves at the bottom of your glass. Fill ¾ of the way with lemonade, and finish it off with your desired amount of seltzer water. Garnish with a slice of lemon.

FROTHY CBD MILK RECIPE

This easy-to-make recipe puts a twist on a classic warm beverage. If the basic ingredients are staples in your kitchen, you’ll always be able to whip up this CBD treat. With the colder seasons right around the corner, now is the time to master this recipe and serve it to your guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of milk
• 2 teaspoons of CBD oil
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch of sea salt
• 2 teaspoons of honey or sweetener of your choice

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan over low heat, mix the honey, milk, vanilla extract, salt and preferred amount of CBD
2. Use a whisk to blend the ingredients and heat until warm
3. Serve warm, or pour over ice for a cold beverage

DISCOVER THE TOP CBD BRANDS

The market is getting saturated with many different CBD brands. We’ve compared the top brands to help you with your decision. Check it out.

The post Sipping CBD: CBD Golden Milk & Other CBD Drinks appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.