comprehensive guide to cbd
what is cbd?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over 113 different cannabinoids that are naturally-occurring within cannabis sativa. Hemp and marijuana are both members of the cannabis family and have differing amounts of CBD within their chemical makeup. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it has no mind-altering effects. Due to the lack of psychoactivity, CBD offers a great option for people looking for the numerous therapeutic benefits of cannabis products without breaking federal and/or state law and without the high.
The Discovery of CBD and its Medical Value
Cannabis has held medical value for centuries, offering natural treatment for a large scope of conditions. With historical records showcasing the earliest recorded medical use of cannabis dating back to 1400-2000 BC, hemp and marijuana have been a part of our planet and human history for centuries.
American chemist Dr. Roger Adams was able to isolate the CBD compound in 1940 but was unable to determine exactly what he had isolated. CBD research started initially in 1946 when Dr. Walter S. Low began facilitating lab tests on the effects of CBD on animals. These tests resulted in the discovery that CBD was indeed non-psychoactive.
Raphael Mechoulam began significant cannabis research that led to the successful isolation and identification of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. The isolation of this cannabinoid later led to the identification of the three-dimensional structure of CBD. Although CBD was discovered prior to THC, THC has always dominated research due to its psychoactivity until recent years. Mechoulam’s groundbreaking research eventually led to the discovery of the endocannabinoid system and the subsequent endocannabinoids that are naturally-occurring in human biology.
Does CBD Affect Drug Testing?
Drug tests have always been designed to detect THC content, not CBD. CBD inherently will not affect drug testing. It is important to educate your consumers that full-spectrum CBD products that contain less than 0.3% THC can trigger a positive result in drug tests. Broad-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate are THC free. For concerned parties using CBD, it is pertinent to take broad-spectrum or CBD isolate products in order to avoid testing positive.
Some CBD companies have failed to label their products correctly. We urge all of our clients to properly label their products and to always include lab reports so that their customers can have access to definitive cannabinoid content.
When Does CBD Expire?
The majority of finished CBD products have a one-year shelf life. Tinctures and isolates can be stored in refrigerators, but refrigeration is not required. Never store tinctures in the freezer– this may jeopardize the other oils present. CBD isolate can be stored in airtight containers in freezers. Topical CBD products vary based on other ingredients present but typically have a one-year shelf life as well. CBD edibles do have a shorter shelf life, but that’s dependent on the expiration of food ingredients. Storing all CBD products in a cool, dark, dry place, not in direct sunlight is always the best practice for your customers. Expiration ultimately differs from manufacturer to manufacturer, making it important to conduct your own research.
cbd for pets
Every pet has an endocannabinoid system just like you and me. This facilitates the same therapeutic and medicinal benefits for your pets, offering a great alternative to pharmaceuticals. Pets have an even more limited range of treatments, all having serious side effects just like human-grade drugs. With an even larger scope of allergies and toxins, it can be really difficult for pet owners to find natural alternatives for their pets.
