With all the leaps and bounds cannabis has ushered into the health and medical industry, recent reports of vaping related deaths have spawned worries of a ‘vaping epidemic’ in the US. While investigations are underway, a lot of scrutiny and debate surrounds the issue. 

The growing allegations surrounding vaping-related deaths in the States have swept up the cannabis industry and people in general. In a New York Times article, a second person from Oregon has died after reportedly becoming sick from vaping a THC product from a local dispensary.

The main issues surrounding vape related illnesses and death come from a lung infection affecting more than 200 people this summer alone. Federal authorities from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration are currently investigating the toxin or substance responsible for the deaths and illnesses. 

CBD intricately connects to innovation in numerous ways, and when you consume new products, you can be confident that they won’t inadvertently cause a psychoactive effect, as CBD is a non-psychoactive substance.

It should also be prudently understood, according to the CDC, 480,000 people in the United States alone die every year from cigarette-related illnesses, with another 88,000 annually from alcohol. That being said, there are plenty of healthy alternatives to vaping.

Alternatives to vaping

In 2019, cannabis consumers enjoy the widest array of possible cannabis use in history. With each alternative comes a unique set of benefits and rituals that will help lead to your new favorite way to consume cannabis.

While vaping is too new of a technology to have long studied health risks and benefits, many of these alternatives have been on the market for several years; and have an in-depth track record of how they affect your health.

Also, with delivery services being the hottest crave right now, all the best marijuana delivery services have many of these products readily available. GrassDoor, located in Los Angeles, is known for its speedy delivery and top-quality products in the marijuana delivery service industry. 

Marijuana or Hemp Flower

You could be thinking: can it get any more obvious?

Probably not, but often in today’s age we get entrenched in our daily habits. You know the saying –– stop and smell the roses? Well, stop and smell the cannabis flower. Flower by far offers cannabis buyers marijauna’s versatility more than any other alternative to vaping.

As being a flower, you are in full control of designating how you want to ingest marijuana. If you’re using a vape pen, you only have one method: bring the pen to your lips, push a button or two and inhale. Opting for cannabis flower over vaping  offers you the whole spectrum of ways to enjoy your marijuana.

You can proceed to glass, roll it in your favorite paper or use it to enjoy edibles. Cannabis is one of the most innovative industries, so we can sometimes get caught up in ‘the next big thing’ or the hottest new craze. Take a minute to get back to your roots and pay homage to where it all started. Remember, there’s nothing better than being able to see the actual product in your hand. And in 2019, Cannabis has come a long way. At GrassDoor alone they offer 40 different Hybrid and Sativa–Indica strains. Break it up, pack it in or roll it up and exhale knowing exactly where and what you’re puffing into. 

Edibles

For a lot of us, the first thing we think about when we consider consuming edibles is the patented bag of special brownies your friend brings over to your basement shin-dig. Now, edibles have reached a whole new zenith in the cannabis market. It really becomes a journey for your tastebuds and everything that comes with altering your state of consciousness.

Before, you would eat a cookie hoping you didn’t (or did, depending on who you are) get an uneven dosage. But now, milligrams are measured distinctly and to the T. Not to mention there exists an almost infinite array of edibles from Tic-Tacs to gummies to lemonade pouches and cannabis-infused butter. Edibles also provide a great option for discreetly consuming cannabis or for individuals who generally dislike smoking.

Edibles as an alternative to vaping provide you with a deeply physical and robust cannabis experience that generally lasts much longer than any vaporizing pen. Edibles also offer you a fun and personal marijuana experience, pairing your favorite flavors and snacks with your favorite strains of cannabis.

Maybe you love rice-crispy treats or are not the biggest fan of brownies. Unlike a pre-packaged vaporizer pen, now you get to be in charge now to start your edible journey. Just remember, know your dosage.

Pre-Rolls & Blunts

Sometimes it’s best to let someone else do the hard work for you. Pre-rolls and blunts, like edibles, offer packaged, ready-to-go products that can alter consciousness. Pre-packaged vaporizer pens provide uncertain effects on the user.

Unlike a pre-roll and pre-rolled blunt, you can’t take a look at the size and weight of the pen and know how it might affect you. Prerolls and blunts follow a pretty obvious maxim; the bigger they are, the more cannabis you will feel and consume. Size doesn’t equate to vaporizer pens in this fashion. Often the sleek and smallest ones hit harder than the larger ones without any way of knowing if you’re a casual cannabis consumer. Pre-rolls fiercely compete in the cannabis market, driving companies to offer larger, superior options to earn your loyalty. The top cannabis delivery services offer diverse options for joints and blunts enthusiasts.

Pre-rolled products minimize mess, let you buy desired quantity worry-free without 3.5 grams for 5 joints. Now you can take a trip or take a hike without taking a risk. 

THC Concentrates

THC concentrates are exactly what these THC Vapes have inside them. So, why not be in charge and cut out the middle-man? Typically known as resin or shatter, THC concentrates offer a whole new level of consuming cannabis. When you consume THC concentrates instead of a vaporizer, the key difference is that it’s pure without added oils.

Major news outlets cite synthetic vitamin E oil in vape-pens as the main cause of deaths and illnesses. Ensure your safety with the same cannabis effect by opting for THC concentrates that do not require a vape pen. For seasoned consumers, we suggest THC concentrates; those comfortable with potent hits and their resulting effects.

To use THC concentrates, you need a dab rig, torch, and they cost around $50 per gram. Perfect for high-tolerance cannabis users, offering a powerful one-hit finish to end the day.

CBD (Cannabidiol) Products

Sometimes, we need to remind ourselves that not everyone consumes cannabis products to get stoned. There are plenty of medicinal benefits to smoking and consuming CBD.

So much so all the best delivery services and cannabis shops are full of CBD creams, edibles, and even CBD cigarettes. A CBD cigarette, for example, can be a wonderful aid in helping someone to quit smoking tobacco. CBD creams can give people much-needed relief from arthritis pain that their vaporizers previously provided. CBD innovatively links and assures that consuming new, non-psychoactive products won’t involuntarily get you stoned.

Finding alternatives to vaping isn’t hard

There are many safe cannabis consumption alternatives that provide what you love, without vaping’s current risks. For the most part, it seems clear the vaping epidemic has really only affected a micro-population of cannabis users.

Either way, things are always evolving very fast in cannabis. Stay vigilant for anything harmful to your health; be aware of potential adverse effects. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy these alternatives as much as we do.

The post Healthy Alternatives to Vaping: What To Do Instead Of Vaping appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

The National Mental Health Institute estimates 4.4 percent of adults in the United States will be given a diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) in their lifetime. Adults with BPAD experience the highest rate of impairment among psychiatric patients; an estimated 82.9 percent suffer from severe disablement.

Bipolar affective disorder and its variants can be treatment resistant, which may explain the high rate of disability. Anecdotal evidence, supported by preliminary studies, suggest that cannabinoids have the potential to improve the symptoms of BPAD in some individuals by regulating the endocannabinoid system.

WHAT IS BIPOLAR AFFECTIVE DISORDER?

Bipolar affective disorder is a mental illness that causes significant changes in mood, motivation and energy. A process known as cycling, which involves periods of euphoria (manic episodes) followed by hopelessness (depressive episodes), is a hallmark of the illness.

There are four variants of bipolar affective disorder: bipolar I, bipolar II, cyclothymic disorder and bipolar spectrum disorders. The severity and frequency of symptoms are used to determine which variant is diagnosed. Bipolar I is the most severe form of the disease.

SYMPTOMS OF MANIC EPISODES

Manic episodes, sometimes referred to as mania, are characterized by exaggerated self-esteem, insomnia, racing thoughts and abnormal speech, inability to focus, and impulsive behaviours. True manic episodes only affect those diagnosed with bipolar I disorder. However, patients with other variants of BPAD experience hypomania, a less severe form of mania.Mania, although considered the “high” stage of BPAD, can cause disastrous consequences. Many manic episodes result in hospitalization, psychotic symptoms or grave impairment (e.g., risky behaviour leading to legal trouble). Untreated manic episodes can develop into psychosis.

SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSIVE EPISODES

Depressive episodes mimic a severe form of depression known as major depressive disorder. Symptoms can include feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. Additional traits of depressive episodes are changes in sleep patterns and appetite, trouble concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and suicidal thoughts or attempts.

This cycle of bipolar disorder is the “low” point of the disease. Like mania, depressive episodes vary in severity depending on which variant of bipolar disorder is present. In mixed episodes, patients with Bipolar I disorder exhibit signs of both mania and depression.

CONVENTIONAL TREATMENTS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER

Prescription drugs used in conjunction with psychotherapy can help alleviate symptoms of BPAD in most patients. However, bipolar affective disorder can be treatment-resistant, making it difficult to manage in some people. Treatment-resistant BPAD is cause for concern, as up to 50 percent of individuals diagnosed will attempt suicide at least once in their lives.

Medications prescribed for BPAD include anticonvulsants, antimanic drugs and antidepressants. Use of antidepressants alone can lead to the onset of mania or rapid cycling. People often take mood stabilizers or anticonvulsants to negate these possible side effects.

The only pharmaceutical shown to have a consistent, positive effect on suicide rates in bipolar patients is lithium. However, newer research has shown there may be a possibility to control BPAD through manipulating the endocannabinoid (EC) system. These are the neurotransmitters responsible for binding cannabinoid proteins to receptors.

ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM DYSFUNCTION AND BPAD

The endocannabinoid system, discovered in the mid-1990s, is comprised of two receptors, CB1 and CB2. Cannabinoids, a type of compound found in both the human body and cannabis plants, bind to these receptors to alter brain function. The body naturally produces neurotransmitters called endocannabinoids, while cannabis plants contain phytocannabinoids.

Postmortem studies have found that brains of patients diagnosed with mental illness, including BPAD variants, show abnormalities in the endocannabinoid system. A similar study, conducted using brain slices from mice, showed dysfunctional CB2 receptors inhibited the release of serotonin, suggesting a healthy EC system helps to regulate mood.

An investigation of endocannabinoid gene variants in 83 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), 134 with BPAD, and 117 healthy control participants found two marked differences in the patients afflicted with MDD and BPAD. The researchers found abnormalities in the CB1 receptor (CNR1) and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) genes of the ill participants when comparing them to the control group.

REGULATING THE EC SYSTEM WITH PHYTOCANNABINOIDS

Because of the distribution of endocannabinoid receptors throughout the brain, many of the areas they affect overlap with regions thought to be responsible for BPAD, along with other mental illnesses. Studies have shown patients with specific abnormalities in the CNR1 gene are at a higher risk of being resistant to pharmacological treatment, leaving them more vulnerable to the effects of bipolar affective disorder.

For these patients, phytocannabinoids could provide a way to manipulate the EC system and regulate the level of chemicals traditionally targeted by pharmacological medications. As always with hemp and cannabis research, these studies are still preliminary. Researchers will need to conduct more research to prove whether CBD and other cannabinoids can help treat bipolar affective disorder.

Anandamide and THC

Anandamide, called the bliss molecule, is naturally produced in the body and is similar in molecular structure to THC. Both anandamide and THC bind to CB1 receptors, altering areas of the brain responsible for memory, concentration, movement, perception, and pleasure.

FAAH genes are responsible for activating anandamide; indicating people with FAAH gene mutations may not have the appropriate levels of anandamide in the brain. Supplementing brains deficient in anandamide with THC may help restore chemical balances. Theoretically, this could alleviate cycling between manic and depressive phases.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

Cannabidiol has been shown to inhibit serotonin reuptake in rats, suggesting it repairs abnormalities in CB1 receptors found to inhibit release in mice. If CBD functions the same in human brains, it could provide an alternative to conventional antidepressants, especially for individuals with treatment-resistant BPAD.

A randomized clinical trial found CBD reduces abnormal brain function in regions associated with psychosis, implying it may have therapeutic effects on symptoms associated with the manic phase of BPAD. If CBD regulates both depressive and manic symptoms, it could help treat individuals who do not react well to lithium.

Other Cannabinoids

Cannabis is a complex compound, made up of over 500 chemicals. Cannabinoids suspect over 100 of these compounds. Limited data exists on chemical effects, excluding CBD and THC, due to insufficient studies determining their reactions in the EC system.

Among cannabinoids that have already been isolated, CBG and CBCV seem to show a potential for treating mood disorders, such as depression. Further study may help isolate more of these chemicals and determine what effect they have on the EC system.

USING CBDS & OTHER CANNABINOIDS FOR BIPOLAR AFFECTIVE DISORDER

CBD rarely causes adverse reactions. Both conventional methods of treatment and using cannabis derivatives as treatment carry risks. The most dangerous side effect of any treatment for BPAD is the potential worsening of symptoms.

Those with bipolar disorder symptoms or previous diagnosis should consult a medical professional before treatment changes. Even those who present with treatment-resistant variations of the disease can benefit from traditional methods (such as psychotherapy).

Regulating the EC system through phytocannabinoids may provide a way to alleviate symptoms in those with treatment-resistant BPAD. Preliminary data requires validation, but cannabinoids show promise as a BPAD treatment in additional human trials.

The post CBD For Bipolar Disorder: Can Cannabinoids Help Treat Bipolar Affective Disorder? appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

Over the last few years, CBD (cannabidiol) has become a darling of the natural health world. And with minimal side effects, no addictive potential, and a long list of health benefits, it’s not hard to see why this cannabis extract has become almost as famous as its cousin, THC.

But you might be surprised to learn that CBD and THC are not the only cannabinoids available out there. As CBD’s popularity grows, interest in cannabinoids has ignited, setting the stage for researchers to explore the therapeutic potential of other cannabis compounds.

One cannabinoid that’s attracting a lot of interest is CBG (cannabigerol). It seems to have plenty of health benefits to offer, but how does it stack up against CBD? In this article, we’ll compare these two potent cannabinoids and cover everything you need to know.

A PRIMER ON CANNABINOIDS

Cannabinoids seem almost too good to be true. After all, cannabis, and specifically CBD, has been praised for its ability to relieve pain, reduce seizures, lower anxiety, improve sleep, and more. But there’s actually a simple explanation for why cannabis has so many potential health benefits: the endocannabinoid system.

The endocannabinoid system refers to receptors found throughout the body, and these receptors help regulate physiological processes such as pain, mood, sleep, digestion, and more. Cannabinoids like CBD, THC, and CBG bind to these receptors, interacting with these different areas of human health.

Hemp is the best source for CBD, as it contains much higher concentrations than psychoactive cannabis (“marijuana”) (though this can vary by strain). On the other hand, you’ll find only trace amounts (1 percent or less) of CBG in the cannabis plant, although hemp strains can be cultivated to be higher in CBG. Young cannabis plants tend to be higher in CBG than mature plants, because CBG breaks down into other cannabinoids — including CBD and THC — as the plant ages.

COMPARING THE BENEFITS OF CBG AND CBD

Both CBD and CBG are non-psychoactive, meaning they won’t get you high. They’re both all-natural, have minimal or no side effects, and offer a wide range of health benefits.

Like CBD, the benefits of CBG are vast due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system. For example, a 2015 study found CBG potentially effective at treating bladder dysfunction, while a 1990 study found that CBG can lower glaucoma-related pressure. CBG also has neuroprotective properties, may protect against colon cancer, and shows promise as a treatment for irritable bowel disease (IBD). It’s also an appetite stimulant with anti-inflammatory benefits and antibacterial properties.CBD has been used to reduce pressure from glaucoma and reduce tumor growth, overlapping with some of these benefits. Like CBG, CBD exhibits neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits and has even been utilized for spot treatment of acne. CBD has shown effectiveness in treating anxiety disorders such as OCD, GAD, PTSD, and SAD. Perhaps most famously, CBD also can reduce epileptic seizures and alleviate pain associated with fibromyalgia, arthritis, migraine, irritable bowel syndrome, and more.

While researchers haven’t studied the effects of combining CBD and CBG, it is known that the entourage effect is produced when different cannabinoids are combined. Combining cannabinoids enhances the effects of each cannabinoid. This effect has been well-studied relating to the relationship between CBD and THC; for example, both CBD and THC are more effective at reducing pain when taken together.

Researchers need to conduct further studies to determine if combining CBD and CBG enhances the shared benefits for glaucoma, cancer, and inflammation.

WHAT TYPE OF CBD OIL CONTAINS CBG?

If you’re looking to get the most out of your cannabinoids, and/or take multiple cannabinoids at once to experience the entourage effect, look for full spectrum CBD oil products. The cannabis plant extraction yields this CBD oil type, containing all cannabinoids and terpenes, including THC, CBD, CBG, and more.

Full spectrum products can vary widely in cannabinoid ratios due to the strain of cannabis used.  Harder to control response. React differently based on batch, type, or brand of CBD oil due to variances. Full spectrum CBD oils contain traces of THC. Not enough to get high but may show up on a drug test.

For pure CBD or THC-free options, choose isolate or broad spectrum CBD products. Broad spectrum = full spectrum + processing to remove THC, keeps other cannabinoids and terpenes. Meanwhile, processing isolate CBD oil removes all cannabinoids and terpenes except CBD, resulting in a pure CBD product.

CLOSING THOUGHTS ON CBD VS. CBG

As our knowledge of cannabinoids continues to grow, so will our understanding of their uses and benefits. Although CBD is certainly the front runner, CBG shows a lot of promising uses. We anticipate a promising future for CBG and are eager to explore more about this remarkable cannabinoid.

Questions? Be sure to reach out!

The post CBD vs CBG: Comparing The Many Benefits Of CBD & CBG appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

As it dominates headlines, sparks controversies, and finds its way onto menus in coffee shops across the country, you could even say that CBD is on track to becoming as well-known as its cousin, THC.

With all the focus on CBD, it’s easy to forget that there’s over 100 other cannabinoids out there, of which CBD and THC are only two. And among all of these naturally occurring cannabis-derived compounds, many have their own powerful therapeutic benefits that are on par with CBD. So with that in mind, which cannabinoid is next in line for its time in the spotlight?

Our nominee: CBN, short for cannabinol. In this article, we’ll dive into what CBN is, what its benefits are, and how it compares with CBD.

A QUICK PRIMER ON CBD AND CBN

Just in case you’re new to the world of cannabinoids, CBD is one of the primary compounds found in the cannabis plant (which includes both hemp and marijuana). CBD can make up anywhere from 1 percent to 25 percent of the plant, and in most strains, it’s the second most dominant cannabinoid next to THC. While THC is best known for its psychoactive properties, CBD won’t get you high; rather, its skyrocketing popularity is based entirely on its wide range of therapeutic benefits. Many consumers are touting the benefits of using CBD gummies and edibles for daily stress and anxiety, while others use the oils, balms and capsules for ailments like muscle pain, insomnia, and depression.

CBN is a bit different from CBD for a few reasons. The content in cannabis tends to be pretty low – 1 percent or even less — but external factors such as exposure to oxygen or heat can change it over time. Specifically, as cannabis ages, its THC content breaks down into CBN. Additionally, while CBD has zero psychoactive properties, the same can’t be said for CBN; that said, its psychoactive properties are very, very mild, so you’d likely need to take a massive dose of CBN to feel any sort of high.

CBN, although it may be new to you, researchers identified it as one of the very first cannabinoids ever and successfully isolated it for the first time in the 1930s. In fact, before discovering THC, researchers considered CBN to be the cause of the psychoactive effects of marijuana.

BENEFITS OF CBN AND CBD

Scientists have had CBN on their radar for a long time, but they have conducted very limited research on its use, especially when comparing it to the wealth of information available for both CBD and THC. That said, what we know so far about this cannabinoid is promising.

One of CBN’s biggest benefits is that it’s a strong sedative, making it effective as a sleep aid and anti-anxiety drug. According to Steep Hill Labs, CBN’s relaxing effects are comparable to the pharmaceutical diazepam, while a 1995 study on mice found that CBN can increase sleep time as well. Furthermore, taking CBD alongside CBN enhances its effectiveness for sleep. CBD has received praise for its ability to increase REM sleep, reduce nightmares, and treat sleep disorders such as insomnia and sleep apnea.

Aside from sleep benefits, both CBN and CBD are potent anti-inflammatories with powerful pain relieving properties. Again, taking both cannabinoids together appears to make these benefits even more effective. Both CBN and CBD can also relieve pressure related to glaucoma, and both have antibacterial properties, including against antibiotic-resistant MRSA. Among other benefits, CBD is a powerful treatment for epilepsy and anxiety disorders, and CBN shows promise as an appetite stimulant as well.

WHAT TYPE OF CBD OIL CONTAINS CBN?

If you’re looking to get the most out of CBD and CBN, you’ll want to pick up some full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD oil, as these types of CBD oil contain both compounds. Full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD oils are similar, with one crucial difference: THC.

Full spectrum CBD oil contains all the cannabinoids and terpenes that were extracted from the cannabis plant, including CBD, THC, CBN, and a variety of other compounds that vary depending on the strain. Broad spectrum CBD oil, on the other hand, goes through additional processing to remove all traces of THC, while keeping all other cannabinoids intact.

The “entourage effect” makes full spectrum CBD oil a popular choice. Taking each cannabinoid together enhances the benefits. This includes THC and CBD, CBD and CBN, and so on. Meanwhile, broad spectrum CBD oil is ideal for those who desire the benefits of full spectrum CBD oil, but who can’t have any traces of THC.

CLOSING THOUGHTS ON CBD VS CBN

As you can see, CBN shows a lot of promise for a wide spectrum of issues.

We believe, that just like CBD, it can be quite powerful for pain relief, sleep troubles, and anxiety. When you take CBN with CBD, you often experience even more potent benefits.. Researchers are likely to conduct much more research into the benefits of CBN and other cannabinoids in the near future, considering all the attention CBD has received lately.

And who knows – maybe CBN will start showing up in coffee shops next, right alongside CBD. We’ll be keeping an eye out for it!

The post CBD vs CBN: Differences, Benefits, And Uses For Two Potent Cannabinoids appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

Maybe you’re just curious about the differences between the two. It’s easy to assume that these two compounds are similar since they both come from the same plant. But while they can both play an important role in managing chronic pain, CBD and THC are very different substances, and each one works differently in the body.

In this article, we’ll explore how these two popular cannabis compounds work to relieve chronic pain — both separately and together.

The Basics of THC and CBD

CBD (short for cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) belong to a group known as cannabinoids, and they are derived from the cannabis plant – either hemp or psychoactive cannabis (“marijuana”). There are over 100 different cannabinoids, but CBD and THC are the most dominant substances in cannabis, making them responsible for most of the effects that marijuana is famous for.

Both CBD and THC work by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which refers to a group of receptors in the body that regulate various physiological processes, including pain, digestion, mood, and sleep. Cannabis is well-known for its versatility, helping people worldwide with problems like insomnia, PTSD, and pain – and it’s all because these endocannabinoid receptors are involved in so many different bodily functions.

By far, the most notable difference between CBD and THC is that THC causes a high, while CBD does not. CBD’s lack of psychoactive effects is one of the reasons it has become so popular as of late. In fact, CBD can counteract some of THC’s psychoactive effects (like euphoria and anxiety). This is why high-CBD strains of cannabis are often popular for pain relief since they allow one to keep a clear head.

THC is also associated with more side effects than CBD, although these tend to be mild and are temporary. Some well-documented side effects of THC are dry mouth, red eyes, and hunger. Most people who use CBD report little to no side effects, with sleepiness being the most common, especially at high doses.

CBD Benefits

Research has established that CBD is an effective anti-inflammatory, with strong evidence that it can relieve pain from inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. For example, a 2017 study concluded that CBD can reduce osteoarthritis-related pain and inflammation, and prevent nerve damage.

Other studies support CBD for the relief of neuropathic pain and incision-related pain. CBD’s effectiveness at relieving different types of pain has led to its popularity among people with conditions such as fibromyalgia, IBS, multiple sclerosis, and cancer.

THC Benefits

Although there is plenty of research supporting the use of cannabis for pain relief in conditions like Crohn’s disease, chronic migraine, and fibromyalgia, less attention has been paid to the specific benefits of THC. The few studies that are available tend to be small and show conflicting results.

A recent study in Neurology found THC is effective for alleviating chronic nerve pain. A larger study, involving 177 cancer patients, found that while THC was not effective at reducing pain, the patients who took a CBD/THC combination had their pain reduced by over 30 percent when compared to placebo. Another double-blind study supported this conclusion when using THC for post-surgery pain. Meanwhile, a 2017 study found both THC and CBD, when taken alone, were effective for reducing chemotherapy-related pain in mice.

The same study also discovered that when combined, previously ineffective doses of CBD and THC could relieve pain. The entourage effect enhances the pain-relieving properties of CBD, and this relates to an important benefit of THC.

There are new THC products available in the market that are available to buy, we have done Delta-8 gummies and Delta-8 carts reviews on the website. Which is a version of THC which is currently legal to buy in the US.

How CBD and THC Work Together: The Entourage Effect

Although CBD and THC are the most dominant compounds in the cannabis plant, they aren’t alone. There are dozens of other cannabinoids and terpenes that work together to provide different synergic effects. For example, the third most dominant compound in cannabis, cannabichromene (CBC) has shown anti-inflammatory benefits similar to those of CBD.

The entourage effect refers to the benefits that one can experience by ingesting multiple cannabinoids together, including CBD and THC. In short, while CBD and THC have their own powerful benefits, they tend to be more potent when combined – especially when it comes to pain relief. An analysis of 18 studies on cannabinoids for multiple sclerosis pain found that the combination of THC and CBD was slightly more effective for pain reduction than CBD on its own.

The entourage effect is why CBD products fall into 3 categories: full-spectrum, isolate, and broad-spectrum. Full-spectrum CBD products incorporate all the cannabinoids and terpenes that extraction included along with CBD. On the other hand, isolate CBD products remove all traces of these other substances, resulting in a product that is pure CBD.

Some people have better success using full-spectrum CBD products for pain relief because of the entourage effect. However, due to the variety of cannabinoids and terpenes, full-spectrum products can be somewhat unpredictable in their effects. Those who can’t tolerate any traces of THC, or need to avoid it due to drug testing, often prefer Isolate CBD products.

Legalities and Limits of THC In CBD Products

The majority of CBD products you’ll find on the market today are made from hemp, which by law can contain up to a maximum of 0.3 percent THC. This means hemp-derived, full-spectrum CBD products are likely to contain low amounts of THC. CBD oils made from marijuana instead of hemp have a higher percentage of THC. Dispensaries tend to restrict these products for legal reasons.

Closing Thoughts on CBD vs. THC

As you can see, there isn’t a simple answer for whether CBD or THC is better for chronic pain. Both compounds bring their own benefits to the table, and in regard to chronic pain, there is evidence that they’re more effective when taken together due to the entourage effect.

Either way, it’s clear that cannabis has plenty to offer for chronic pain patients, and cannabis products can vary widely in effectiveness. So if you don’t have success with one product, don’t give up; try something new, whether it’s a different blend of cannabinoids or a different potency.

The post CBD vs THC: Comparing Two Potent Cannabinoids appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

We founded our new company in January of this year. We hope Anavii Market will become the most trusted retailer for premium verified CBD oil products in the nation.

Currently the CBD market is filled with questions and consumers don’t have all the proper information to make educated choices on which brands and which products to choose.

Most people seeking CBD for its many benefits have experienced the CBD dilemma: people want to try this “miracle” supplement, but get frustrated when trying to select the best quality CBD oil brand on the market. It is not surprising that this occurs, because this industry is unregulated, allowing bad actors to thrive.

Anavii Market was established to counteract the quality control issues in the growing hemp CBD oil market. Read on to learn more about our story and why a trusted CBD marketplace is so important for consumers.

INACCURATELY LABELED PRODUCTS SOLD AS CBD ENDANGER CONSUMERS

70% of CBD products mislabeled or misbranded, lacking stated CBD content or containing undisclosed ingredients. Consumer protection needed The CBD industry has a problem: 70% of products mislabeled, leaving consumers disappointed and overcharged.

These mislabeled products contained naturally occurring CBD and other cannabinoids, but did not contain the quantities marketed on the brands’ labels.

To make matters worse, in early 2018, reports sprang from North Carolina and elsewhere of consumers purchasing CBD oil products laced with synthetic cannabinoids. Better known as synthetic marijuana, K2 or spice, synthetics can cause major health concerns. These instances have sparked controversy in the growing CBD oil market, where quality hemp-derived CBD companies have been working hard to legitimize the industry.

These problems inspired us to start an online CBD marketplace where consumers could shop with confidence.

ANAVII MARKET: AN ONLINE CBD MARKETPLACE WITH ONLY TRUSTED PRODUCTS

We started Anavii Market to counteract the quality control issues in the growing hemp CBD oil market.

Anavii Market ensures the best CBD oil by requiring manufacturers to complete an application before representing their brand. This application requires proof of third-party laboratory testing within the five major areas of concern (phytocannabinoids, microbiologics, residual solvents, heavy metals, pesticides/herbicides) as well as information regarding batch record processes and recall procedures. Anavii Market also ensures the products they sell are only federally legal hemp-based products and are not derived from hemp’s cousin, marijuana.

Once we approve the brands, Anavii Market sells them through our transparent, informative website. We offer clear information regarding the cannabinoid spectrum, extraction method, source of hemp, and more. Some of the brands Anavii Market carries include: Ananda Hemp, Plus CBD Oil, Palmetto Harmony and Green Remedy. These brands and others combine to provide a unique mix of ingestion methods. Customers can find tinctures, salves, capsules, patches and even suppositories.

MEET THE INNOVATORS BEHIND THE CBD MARKETPLACE

Creating Anavii Market is the culmination of a decade’s work to legalize and improve access to hemp. Annie Rouse, a U.S. Fulbright Scholar who studied hemp in Canada, and Jason Amatucci, founder of the Virginia Industrial Hemp Coalition, co-founded Anavii Market. After we spent over a decade with research and legislative reform in our respective states, Kentucky and Virginia, we decided to partner on a mutual entrepreneurial dream — a one-stop shop for quality American-sourced hemp.

We are making large strides to improve this industry, and our hearts are in the right place. We’re ensuring that bad players just trying to make a fast buck with poor-quality mislabeled products do not taint the emerging hemp industry.

Instead we focus on the good actors verifying that the consumers have positive experiences with up-and-coming hemp products, while providing sustainable growth to the industry that we both care for deeply.

Many people who use CBD are seeking balance and wellness in their life and many struggle with stress. We don’t want to add to that stress when it comes to trusting the products they are purchasing.

Our company’s motto is “the products we sell are the products we know.” We always want the customer to know that they can trust Anavii Market when it comes to their hemp derived CBD oil and wellness needs.

The post Online CBD Marketplace Provides Trust & Verification In An Unregulated Industry appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

Part of a series of specialized sprays from All Natural Way, this sleep spray adds beneficial ingredients like valerian and melatonin to hemp. This CBD product has a mild peppermint flavor with a faint undertone of chocolate, and only a slight medicinal aftertaste. When sprayed in the mouth, it leaves a slight oily feeling behind which a sip of water easily removed. We tried this spray for several nights before bed. It seemed to help us fall asleep faster and sleep deeper through the night.

All Natural Way 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 our full disclosure statement.

All Natural Way is taking what they’ve learned as an experienced vendor of quality CBD products to create their own line of great supplements. Read on for our full review of All Natural Way CBD Sleep Spray.

CBD OIL MEETS MELATONIN AND OTHER SLEEP INDUCING INGREDIENTS FOR DEEPER Z’S

CBD oil is already known for the ability to promote better sleep, but this sleep spray creates an even more powerful combination.

Melatonin is one of the most well-known sleep aids, helping supplement the body’s own stores of this naturally occurring hormone created by the pineal gland. It’s most used to prevent insomnia, or delayed sleep. Valerian is also well-known to act like as a safe, mild herbal sedative. The spray’s other powerful ingredients, GABA and magnesium, are also believed to reduce anxiety and relax tense muscles.

We appreciate All Natural Way’s dedication to transparency when it comes to their CBD products. The bottle is clearly labelled with each ingredient, including the strength of each supplement. An independent lab tests each batch of All Natural Way CBD products, with results available to customers on request.

ALL NATURAL WAY CBD SLEEP SPRAY OFFICIAL REVIEW

• Highlights: All Natural Way CBD Sleep Spray combines full spectrum hemp extract with herbs that encourage restful sleep, with a refreshing minty taste.
• Strength: 500mg per 30ml bottle (plus additional herbs)
• Price: $74.99
• Specials: Use coupon code MOH10 for 10% off your order!
• Customer Service & Shipping: Fast customer service. Free shipping on all orders.
• Independent Test Results: Available on request.
• Flavor: This spray has a mild peppermint flavor with a mild medicinal aftertaste from the spray’s additional ingredients.
• Ingredients: Full Spectrum Hemp / CBD Oil plus Melatonin, GABA, Valerian Root Extract, and Magnesium Gluconate, in a base of Purified Water, Coconut Oil, Cocoa Derivative, Glycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Sucralose, Xantham Gum and Natural Flavors.
• Other: All Natural Way offers a generous 30-day refund policy.

According to the label, each bottle of All Natural Way CBD Sleep Spray contains about 30 doses. Each dose contains 16.7mg of CBD, 5mg of melatonin, and 5.33mg of Magnesium Gluconate, and 2.66mg of a proprietary blend of GABA and Valerian Root Extract. Some research indicates these ingredients may promote more restful sleep.

All Natural Way Sprays assist with weight loss, pain relief, energy, and stress reduction. They also make CBD oil tinctures and pain cream. All Natural Way makes their products from U.S.-grown hemp. As a marketplace, All Natural Way offers a variety of other high-quality CBD products.

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 All Natural Way CBD Sleep Spray Could Help You Get More Rest appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

Update DECEMBER 12, 2018: The 2018 Farm Bill just passed the U.S. House of Representatives after passing the Senate, including the landmark amendment that will fully legalize industrial hemp at the federal level! The amendment fully removes hemp and derivatives of it from the control of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and opens up massive possibilities for the hemp industry, American agriculture, and health and science to name a few. There was even a partial compromise on the most troubling part of the law, which restricted people with felony convictions from being part of the industry.

Pres. Trump is expected to sign the omnibus bill into law before the year ends, though the timeline is unclear at this time. We’ll have more updates soon!

Update JULY 11, 2018: The current language of the hemp amendment also bans people with felony drug convictions from participating in the hemp industry.

An amendment to the Senate version of the 2018 Farm Bill would fully legalize industrial hemp in the United States.

“This is a big day for hemp,” said Brian Furnish, a hemp grower from Kentucky and president of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable.

The amendment legalizing hemp began as a bill proposed by Mitch McConnell, the Republican majority leader in the Senate. The “Hemp Farming Act of 2018” fully legalizes industrial hemp and all products made from it including CBD oil. Under the new law, the Drug Enforcement Administration and other government agencies would no longer be able to interfere with hemp.

Due to political uncertainty over other parts of the massive Farm Bill, and the lack of hemp related language in the House version of the bill, there are still hurdles ahead before legalization.

2014 vs. 2018: NEW FARM BILL BUILDS ON PARTIAL LEGALIZATION

The United States made industrial hemp illegal for decades until an amendment to the 2014 version of the Farm Bill allowed growing by state-run hemp research programs.

These state-based programs vary, with some allowing only university research and others allowing a limited number of everyday farmers. The U.S. grew about 25,000 acres of hemp under these state programs, mostly in more permissive states like Colorado and Kentucky. However, CBD vendors have faced some legal threats at both the state and federal level. Other government agencies, like the Bureau of Reclamation, have also interfered with growers at times.

HOW THE 2018 FARM BILL WOULD LEGALIZE HEMP

McConnell’s amendment to the 2018 Farm Bill would officially remove hemp from the DEA’s list of controlled substances, ending debate over the legal status of the plant.

All products made from hemp, including CBD oil, would be explicitly legalized as well, so long as they contain less than .3 percent THC (the substance which makes people “feel high” in psychoactive cannabis). State agriculture departments, along with Native American tribes, would be free to regulate hemp just as they do any other crop like corn or carrots.

BIPARTISAN SUPPORT FOR HEMP BUT CONFLICT OVER 2018 FARM BILL

In a historic moment for hemp legalization, the Senate passed the 2018 Farm Bill with the hemp amendment included. Members of both parties support hemp in an unusual display of bipartisan agreement. However, since the House version of the Farm Bill does not include the same amendment, hemp’s future is still up in the air.

Before it can appear before the president for his signature, the House and Senate must form a “Conference Committee” to iron out differences between the two versions of the 2018 Farm Bill. Conferees, appointed from both parties, will meet to debate the final version. Hemp advocates hope that, with McConnell’s enthusiastic support, conferees are likely to back hemp.

Still, “there’s always political conflict in Washington,” Furnish warned.

A disagreement over Food Stamps is one possible source of conflict. The House version of the bill includes controversial changes that would reduce the number of people eligible for the program. Disagreement over provisions like these could also put hemp legalization at risk.

Though the hemp industry overall enthusiastically supports the hemp amendment, there are a few dissenting voices. Veronica Carpio, of Grow Hemp Colorado, objects to hemp-only legalization bills which allows some growers to profit off the cannabis plant while growers and users of psychoactive cannabis remain in prison.

“No one goes to prison for hemp charges, but lives are ruined over marijuana,” she emphasized.

HEMP LEGALIZATION IS CLOSER THAN EVER TO REALITY

The 2018 farm bill is an omnibus piece of legislation which ensures continued funding for numerous agricultural and social programs. Pres. Donald Trump is almost certain to sign it when it finally reaches his desk.

Hemp’s legalization may come through alternative methods, but Furnish urges supporters to voice their favor.

“Contact your representatives and tell them to support McConnell’s hemp language,” he said.

One easy way to do so is to complete this form on the U.S. Hemp Roundtable website.

The post 2018 Farm Bill Could Fully Legalize Industrial Hemp In USA appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

With low humidity and an abundance of air flow, it comes as no surprise that hemp’s found a way to prosper in the Green Mountain State’s countryside. Joe Pimentel, with his family and team, operate the historic Luce Farm and have found more success than they imagined in the ever-changing, fast-growing hemp industry.

First established in 1820, during our visit we learned how this 206 acre farm transformed from vegetable growing to hemp.

FROM VEGGIES TO A VERMONT HEMP FARM

Years ago, Pimentel began growing vegetables and raising goats due to the lack of easy access to good food. After the farming grew substantially, he moved to Vermont to grow food full time at Luce Farm and truck it down to areas in and around Boston.

“We were always able to sustain, but it was hard,” Pimentel told us. “Veggie farming is hard.”

Pimentel had dreams of restoring this 200 year old farm, but it was impossible to do on just vegetables. So, he began looking into a variety of options. Eventually, he stumbled upon hemp and it stuck. Pimentel recalled:

In 2016, we were hired to grow hemp for an R&D [Research and Development] project. We ended up with eighty pounds of it by the end of the year and we didn’t know what to do with it. That’s when we started playing around with the CBD in our kitchen.

After trying some simple recipes and sharing them with friends, people came back to Pimentel claiming the results were “unbelievable.” Many were new to CBD and what it could offer. Some friends who were taking several Ibuprofen a day reported more relief from the healing properties of hemp.

This is what motivated him to continue with harvesting and making Luce Farm CBD products. Pimentel knew if he wanted to make a business out of this, he had to be confident in telling people the exact amount of CBD they’d receive. As a result, he transitioned to using supercritical CO2 extraction, an industry standard method for producing high-quality CBD.

With a professionally produced, labeled and tested product under his belt, he decided to take his CBD to the place he knew best: farmers’ markets.

HEMP SAVED HISTORIC LUCE FARM

Unsurprisingly, he found himself easily making much more profit than he did off vegetables.

“And then we just ran with the ball, man,” Pimentel proclaimed. “It was evident this was exactly what we needed for our project.”

That project, to preserve this important site, is about to take a major step forward. Luce Farm will soon be added to the National Register of Historic Places, with all the protection that brings. Thanks to Pimentel and the possibilities of hemp, a piece of Vermont history will remain in the serenity of this mountainous landscape.

Luce Farm is a piece of the community that was almost taken away. After operating within the Luce family from 1820 to 1950, the last member passed away just when corporate agriculture was taking control of American farming. A pair of caretakers kept the property preserved, then sold it to the Pimentels a few years ago.

Since Vermont legalized hemp through the 2014 Farm Bill, it’s been making more and more appearances throughout the state. When Pimentel first began growing in 2016, there were less than 50 hemp permits within the state. This year, that number has reached an astonishing 249 hemp permits.

In Pimentel’s words, “That’s a ridiculous amount of growth.”

Different states have different regulations when it comes to growing hemp. Vermont hemp farmers face few barriers under their state’s relatively simple regulations.

“Pimentel informed us that Vermont’s hemp program is awesome.”

Still, Luce Farm has faced legal complications. About 6 months back, Pimentel teamed up with Long Trail Brewery in Vermont to create a CBD-infused beer. It was a winner in terms of sales, moving thousands of cans within a two day period. However, the federal government stepped in and told them they couldn’t mix cannabinoids with alcohol.

The Luce Farm team remains proud of the work they did and hope they can work with Long Trail again in the future when hemp is fully legalized.

BEYOND LUCE FARM: HEMP CAN HELP LOCAL FARMERS NATIONWIDE

Pimentel believes hemp can be a winner for local farmers across the country. Just as when big corporations moved into farming as a whole, he’s noticed big corporations trying to make their way into the hemp industry and take profits away from small family farmers. The more hemp becomes available to the public, the more people are trying to purchase it for cheap.

Moving forward, he hopes small farmers can continue to take advantage of the economic opportunities hemp provides:

I know how hard it is to grow that stuff … We’re farmers first. We want to keep that price high. We don’t want Wall Street coming in and driving the market.

When it comes to getting into the hemp industry, Pimentel advises people to have a plan. Farmers must have prior knowledge of what to do with their harvested hemp.

More personally, Pimentel believes farmers should keep control of their harvest and “fight to keep [hemp] an agriculture product rather than a commodity product.”

This Vermont hemp farm directly uses the crops they grow in their own CBD products, rather than selling the crop to other businesses. They control their output from seed to shelf, and earnings can go right back into preserving Luce Farm.

Like so many other people working in this industry, Pimentel is excited about hemp and its potential to revive American farming.

“I’m a firm believer that every 7-Eleven in America should be replaced by a farm,” he declared. “It’d change a lot of things.”

The post Luce Farm: How Hemp Saved A Piece Of Vermont Farming History appeared first on Ministry of Hemp.

You’ve most likely heard of the hemp-derived compound CBD before. It’s been the talk of the town in the realm of alternative medicine for quite some time and has really developed a reputation as a natural route to the relief of many conditions or their symptoms.

But there are some other herbs besides hemp, that have also been growing in popularity for their therapeutic properties. In this article, we will take a look at kratom and how it really compares to CBD.

Some people claim kratom can be an effective substitute for CBD. But, is this really accurate? On the surface, they may appear to have some common ground. As you begin to dig deeper it becomes more apparent that they’re really quite different.

Table of contents

• Introduction to CBD
• What is kratom?
• Comparing uses for CBD & kratom
• Side effects of CBD vs. Kratom
• CBD, kratom and the law
• Bottom line: Two very different supplements

An Overview Of CBD

Nowadays, you can find CBD or cannabidiol in many different types of consumables.

You can find it in traditional forms like CBD tinctures or capsules and even more creative products such as CBD coffee. The main role of this compound is to create internal balance, through its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Part of what makes CBD so special is that it’s non-psychoactive, unlike the well-known THC, the main active ingredient in psychoactive cannabis (“marijuana”). CBD can help you improve your mood, deal with anxiety, and even support pain relief, all without experiencing mind-altering effects.

CBD also shows the potential to treat many more serious conditions. As scientists conduct more research, even traditional doctors increasingly support the use of cannabidiol.

What Exactly Is Kratom?

Kratom, also known as “mitragyna speciosa,” is a tree that originates from South East Asia. It grows naturally in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. People from these areas have used kratom for thousands of years. Traditionally, natives of these areas chewed the leaves for their stimulant-like properties. Kratom has a long history of use as an opium substitute and in more recent times has become popular as a recreational drug.

The plant’s main active ingredients are mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7HMG). These two compounds induce their effects by interacting with the body’s opioid receptors. Mitragynine is the chemical thought to be responsible for the therapeutic effects, whereas researchers attribute psychoactive effects to 7HMG. The clinical research on kratom is still very limited. This lack of research also prevents kratom from catching on like CBD.

“Despite a vocal community of supporters, and numerous anecdotal testimonials of effectiveness, these treatment practices using kratom have not been rigorously studied as either safe or effective,” noted Peter Grinspoon, M.D., a doctor who teaches at Harvard Medical School.

CBD vs Kratom: How Each Supplement Gets Used?

CBD has a relatively long list of applications. It’s most commonly used to help with anxiety, sleep disorders, chronic pain, and inflammation.

Although many consume it to feel more relaxed and manage stress-related symptoms, it is also becoming quite popular in the fitness community to help with recovery and pain management. Apart from those practical uses, CBD is also being researched for its potential to treat more severe ailments such as cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, diabetes, and many others.

When comparing CBD vs. Kratom, one major difference is that CBD is non-addictive and appears safe even at relatively high doses, while kratom can pose risks of dependency and other side effects.

Kratom is used mainly to reduce anxiety, relieve pain, and help with opiate addiction. As research surrounding the herb seems to still be in the early stages, no solid conclusions can be drawn as of yet.

Based on user accounts, and the native peoples who’ve grown the herb for centuries, there’s likely some truth behind some of the promoted benefits. Some individuals have claimed it is particularly effective in breaking dependency on stronger opioids like heroin and oxycodone. However, more clinical trials need to be conducted before it can be recognized as a reliable treatment.

CBD vs. Kratom: Side Effects Of CBD And Kratom

CBD is great not only because of its numerous benefits, but because CBD has limited side effects. The versatile cannabinoid is proven to be non-addictive and is still safe to consume even in large quantities. To date, there have been no CBD-related deaths ever recorded. Some mild side effects that may be experienced by users include nausea, dry mouth, and drowsiness.

Kratom, however, starts to a lot look less appealing when we begin to examine the side effects. Although it’s promoted to be a solution to opiate addiction, there is also the risk of becoming addicted to kratom. Frequent use is generally not recommended, as it increases the chance of dependency and also exposes the consumer to other potential risks.

Some relatively common kratom side effects include vomiting, nausea, and constipation. But the list doesn’t stop there, as there are even more severe symptoms that may arise from kratom use such as seizures, psychosis, respiratory depression, liver toxicity, and increased blood pressure. When we consider all these side effects, they could heavily outweigh the benefits.

CBD vs Kratom: Understanding the Legality and Regulatory Frameworks

The 2018 Farm Bill forced the Drug Enforcement Administration to remove hemp-derived CBD from its list of illegal drugs. The bill formally legalized industrial hemp with a THC content of 0.3% or lower as an agricultural commodity, rather than a controlled substance.

In general, CBD is accepted and consumers are generally safe from legal repercussions when using it, especially in extracted form (CBD tinctures, CBD gummies, capsules, etc). Stories of misguided police action against CBD consumers are extremely rare and growing less common all the time.

The legality of kratom remains a bit more undefined. Lawmakers in Tennessee, Indiana, Alabama, Wisconsin, Vermont, and Washington, D.C. passed laws banning kratom. In 2016 the DEA threatened to classify kratom as a schedule I substance. In 2018, the Department of Health & Human Services also called for a kratom ban.

That ban hasn’t happened yet. This may be, in part, because kratom advocates raised a massive public outcry over the impending ban. Even so, the government hasn’t fully backed down.

While we don’t support the war on drugs, users should be aware they could lose access to this supplement with only minimal warning.

“Generally, it’s not a good idea to use something for pain or addiction which is about to become less available and less safe,” Grinspoon noted.

Even the FDA issued a statement warning of kratom’s adverse effects. The FDA attributed 36 deaths to kratom in 2017. In 2018, there was a salmonella outbreak related to kratom products which affected 199 people across several states. The nationwide controversy led to a massive recall, and once again shed a negative light on the herb, which may eventually lead to its restriction on a larger scale.

Final Verdict: Two Very Different Herbs

Just because a remedy comes from plants doesn’t make it automatically safe. Consumers require research and education to use them safely.

While some people compare kratom and CBD as herbal supplements, they’re in two completely different lanes. CBD is a lot more recognized, with a strong backing of user testimonies and scientific research. It’s also extremely unlikely to cause dangerous side effects.

Due to minimal research and a growing list of concerns, the U.S. might ban kratom before it reaches widespread acceptance. As Dr. Grinspoon notes, kratom can’t be considered safe without more research, consumer education, and better quality control. Although some similar issues exist with CBD, the potential consequences are more grave.

While we don’t support the legal prohibition of natural substances, users of kratom must be aware of the risk of dependency and other potentially harmful side effects. While some risks of kratom may have more to do with drug prohibition and tainted products than the plant itself, that should still cause consumers to think twice before starting it.

Kit O’Connell contributed to this report.

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