Posts tagged with "medicinal"

The Benefits of Medication-at-Home

Taking medication is not without risks, especially for the elderly. Drug interactions can have unexpected and unintended effects. Side effects can lead to complications. Directions can be misunderstood. The recommended dosage can require adjustments. The list goes on and on.

Traditionally, doctors and other medical professionals had close interaction with the elderly patients whom they treated in assisted living or rehabilitation facilities. They were readily available for fielding questions and could quickly address issues related to prescription medications.

Today, however, medical models are changing. Many elderly patients are turning to the “aging in place” concept of medical care. This model empowers those with chronic medical conditions to receive appropriate care in their homes rather than at an assisted living or rehabilitation facility.

The aging-in-place model offers a host of benefits, including better affordability and the ability for patients to stay more connected to their social circles. However, it also creates a distance between patients and their doctors that is much greater than they experience in care facilities. Because of this distance, patients have less available guidance from doctors when it comes to managing their medication.

Supporting aging-in-place with medication-at-home

To fill the gap created by the aging-in-place model, the world of healthcare is turning to an innovative method of medication management that is referred to as “medication-at-home.” This new model for patient care looks to pharmacists to provide an enhanced level of care for their patients. It looks to the clinical expertise that pharmacists bring to the care continuum as a key resource for patients who are looking to use medication safely and effectively while aging-in-place.

Appreciating the important role that pharmacists play in this new health landscape requires understanding how often pharmaceuticals are prescribed to the elderly. In 2010, studies showed that 87 percent of US adults 65 years-of-age or older used at least one prescription medication. By 2019, that number had grown to 89 percent. Elderly patients who do not use prescription drugs have come to be the rare exception.

It should also be noted that aging in place may soon be a necessity rather than an option. The aging population in the US is leading to what some are calling an assisted living crisis. Those in the 65 and older category comprise approximately 46 million Americans today. By 2050, that demographic is expected to nearly double. As the number in need of care continues to increase, finding space in assisted living facilities may prove to be an overwhelming challenge, leaving home care as the only available option.

Providing expert medication oversight

For those experiencing aging-in-place, the medication oversight that the medication-at-home model provides is essential. Polypharmacy, which is the term used to describe the use of multiple medications, is a reality for most elderly receiving medical care. Figures on polypharmacy show that among those 65 or older, an estimated 44 percent of men and 57 percent of women take five or more medications.

Pharmacists have the expertise that is necessary to provide medication reconciliation for those who are taking multiple prescription medications. This process involves pharmacists reviewing the entire listing of medications that a patient is taking to determine overlaps or possible adverse reactions that may result from combinations of drugs.

In an assisted living setting, doctors would have access to the full slate of medications that patients were using. With aging-in-place, patients may receive prescriptions from a variety of doctors, including their primary care physician and other specialists. Pharmacists may be the only ones who have the complete picture of the medications that aging-in-place patients are taking.

Pharmacists are also uniquely positioned to provide essential guidance to patients as they begin with new medications, such as those that might be prescribed after a hospital visit. Studies show that 20 percent of hospital readmissions are medication-related. Among those, 70 percent were considered preventable. When pharmacists step in to assess how new medications might interact with what a patient is already taking, as well as to provide clarity on the proper procedure for taking new medications, unnecessary hospitalizations can be avoided.

Medication reconciliation is an ongoing part of the medication-at-home process. It begins during the onboarding process and is assessed on an ongoing basis. Rather than simply filling and billing prescriptions without oversight, medication-at-home elevates the process to the level of clinical pharmacy care. As a result, aging-in-place patients receive the same attention to detail that they would receive from caregivers at an assisted living or rehabilitation facility.

Supporting healthy adherence

To experience the full benefits of their prescriptions, patients must adhere to the prescription guidelines. If they fail to take the right dose at the right time under the right conditions, the medical benefits of the medication can fail to be realized. Lack of adherence is thought to be one of the biggest risks for patients who are taking medications in an aging-in-place setting.

The medication-at-home model can provide significant adherence support to patients. One solution it provides is medications that are synchronized to one fill day and cycled into a continual fill date. This takes the confusion that can result from refills off of patients and the caregivers who support them. By packaging medications in date and time stamped pouches, patients have a much easier time of adhering to their medication schedules.

In addition, the medication-at-home process also facilitates the same type of multi-dose medication packaging that is made available at onsite care facilities. This method, which is proven to increase success rates with medication adherence, places all of the medications that must be taken at the same time in the same packaging, removing the need for patients to institute their own organization methods.

To further support the medication process, pharmacists can coordinate delivery services that ensure patients have what they need when they need it. Throughout the entire process, the medication-at-home team stays in contact with the patient to provide coaching, counseling, and whatever other reassurances are needed.

Reducing healthcare costs

Finally, medication-at-home facilitates a solution that makes effective healthcare much more affordable for elderly patients. By 2028, out-of-pocket costs for facility care are expected to total more than $266 billion. Aging-in-place dramatically reduces those costs. By leaning on the historically underutilized expertise that pharmacists bring to the healthcare puzzle, medication-at-home makes aging-in-place and the benefits it brings to patients a viable healthcare solution.

– Lindsay Dymowski is President of Centennial Pharmacy Services, a leading medication-at-home pharmacy, and co-founder and principal of The Centennial Group, a pharmacy management company supporting community pharmacies and health systems. Combining her over 15 years of pharmacy experience with her entrepreneurial spirit, Lindsay knows exactly what drives successful pharmacies, launches collaborative provider programs, and gets the attention of payers – and it’s not dispensing medications. It’s how well you can support an organization’s goals to better health outcomes with patient-centric pharmacy care.

The Differences between CBD and THC

It is no longer news that cannabis and marijuana are becoming more and more legalized across countries and all over the world. This is especially due to the discovery of their numerous medical uses and health benefits.

Two of the main natural ingredients in marijuana are CBD, cannabidiol, and THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol. The two compounds, although similar, have many differences.

Cannabis Vs. Hemp

Cannabis or Marijuana refers to the dried seeds, flowers, leaves, and stems derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant. Hemp is technically different from Marijuana, although they are both plants belonging to the same family.

The defining difference between both is the amount of THC present in each one. Marijuana typically contains more THC than Hemp, while Hemp contains more CBD. Usually, any cannabis sativa plant with about >0.3% THC will be referred to as Marijuana, and those with <0.3% THC are considered Hemp.

Medical Marijuana

Medical marijuana refers to using the marijuana plant or the chemical substances in it to manage certain illnesses or conditions. Marijuana contains over a hundred different chemicals called cannabinoids. Each one has its own effect on the body.

CBD and THC are the main components of marijuana employed in medicine and are the two most widely studied by researchers. The most prominent difference between them is that THC is the psychoactive substance in marijuana that produces the “high” people feel when they take marijuana recreationally. It generally has more side effects.

On the other hand, CBD is a safer ingredient isolated from cannabis without any of the intoxicating effects of THC and has more tolerable side effects. It is also the dominant substance used in medical marijuana, while THC is only used minimally.

THC

Tetrahydrocannabinol is one of the many compounds isolated from marijuana. It is the major chemical responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana and acts much like other cannabinoids by binding to receptors in the brain. It produces its euphoric effects or what is known as “high” by stimulating the cells of the brain to release dopamine.

Some of the adverse side effects of THC include memory loss, loss of coordination, reddened eyes, and sometimes an increase in heart rate.

Based on chemical structure, THC can also be present in different forms; we have delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC. Delta 8 THC is said to produce milder psychoactive effects, unlike its Delta 9 counterpart.

Delta 8 THC is used to manufacture products that have medicinal use like; relief from pain and insomnia to reduce anxiety, and manage inflammation.

It should be noted that delta 8 THC products have not been approved for safe use, but some of these products, which come in the form of gummies, flowers, tinctures, and vapes, are on the market for their proposed benefits by several companies. These products may be explored by a simple online search like delta 8 gummies near me.

It is advised that to use THC-infused products, you should have a doctor’s prescription. This is especially important if you are already on some other medications, as they can have some counteracting effects.

CBD

Cannabidiol is one of the phytocannabinoids isolated from cannabis sativa plants. Unlike THC, CBD has no psychoactive effects like hallucinations or delusions.

It is largely considered safe to use and has been used in the formulation of many beneficial products like oils, pills, or lotions. Also, it has been suggested to have benefits varying from treating anxiety and epilepsy to managing diabetes and some neurological disorders.

CBD has been approved for developing a pharmaceutical product known as Epidolex used in managing seizures.

CBD has some mild side effects, usually due to interaction with other medications the user may be on. Examples of these include dry mouth, reduced appetite, low blood pressure, and drowsiness, but these are rare and usually well tolerated by the body when they occur.

CBD was first isolated from cannabis sativa in 1940 by Roger Adams. Later on, a series of tests were performed by scientists on test animals, and in the 1970s, a cannabis tincture was allowed for medicinal purposes. Since then, more research has been conducted, discovering several uses of CBD and other cannabinoids obtained from cannabis.

Although CBD and THC are different, they largely have the same chemical composition; two oxygen atoms, twenty-one carbon atoms, and thirty hydrogen atoms. However, the main difference in structure lies in each individual atom’s spatial arrangement. CBD is also known to contain trace amounts of THC

CBD also binds to receptors in the endocannabinoid system; these receptors are abundant in the brain and are capable of modulating body activities such as sleep, wakefulness, memory, mood, metabolism, pleasure, perception of time, thinking etc.

As CBD and THC products continue to increase in popularity for their benefits, it is important to learn about these two substances before usage.

Can Medical Marijuana Relieve Menstrual Cramps?

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Menstrual cramps can be debilitating, and those who face this problem know how painful it is. Some women suffer so much pain that they dread even the mention of menstruation.

Over the years, there have been discoveries of many different treatments for menstrual cramps. Primarily, the treatment options have been limited to various types of painkillers, and this is where medical marijuana is being touted as an effective solution for menstrual cramps.

Medical marijuana is attaining a growing preference to manage severe pain as well as chronic pain. Anyone with a legit marijuana med card can procure medical marijuana, provided it is legal in their place of residence.

What do studies suggest?

Statistical data and research have shown that pain caused by various conditions, including endometriosis, can be managed using medical marijuana. It gives confidence that the treatment can also be beneficial for cramps and pelvic pain associated with menstruation. The first thing that needs to be kept in mind is that marijuana is a complex mixture of more than 100 different types of compounds that are known as cannabinoids. These are absorbed by the body when either they are eaten or inhaled. These go directly to the brain and produce different kinds of reactions within the body. The body has got cannabinoid receptors to which naturally occurring compounds called endocannabinoids attach. Cannabinoids can attach to these receptors. The endocannabinoid system has shown significant involvement in the role of regulating pain and inflammation. Among these 100 different types of compounds, the two most well-known are THC and CBD. THC or Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol produces the typical high feeling associated with cannabis whereas, CBD or Cannabidiol doesn’t.

The most important thing about the efficacy of any treatment is research data. Modern medical science dwells on the premises of research data. It further validates the use and effectiveness of any treatment on the same. Needless to say, marijuana was not considered as a forerunner in the case of medicinal use, and thus proper research data is not widely available. Having said this, it is worth considering that marijuana has been used for a long time in gynecology. Sir John Russel Reynolds, who was the personal physician of Queen Victoria, used to prescribe hemp tincture to the queen to alleviate her menstrual cramps back in the late-19th century. The process by which medical marijuana may be able to control menstrual cramps is ill-understood. The pain and cramps during menstruation are caused by the release of certain inflammatory compounds called prostaglandins. When excessive amounts of prostaglandins are produced it causes severe pain. The usual treatment for menstrual cramps is the prescription of NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The NSAIDs work by blocking the production of prostaglandins. They do it by binding with COX receptors in the brain and other tissues. In the case of cannabinoids like THC and CBD, there is no such interaction with COX receptors. So, they do not have any effect on the production of prostaglandins. They are known to stimulate the production of the hormone dopamine. Dopamine hormone is also known as the “feel-good” hormone. They also reduce the inflammation in nerves and the joints.

How does it work?

The ability of THC or CBD in increasing the production of dopamine and reducing inflammation in nerves and joints shows efficacy in the reduction of chronic pain conditions like neuropathic pain and rheumatoid arthritis. The inability of medical marijuana to affect the production of prostaglandins has clouded the minds of researchers and doctors as to how they may be beneficial in the management of menstrual cramps. There is one concept that the euphoria or high of THC may affect nullifying the sensation of pain to some extent. However, the effect of CBD is unknown.

The safety of using medical marijuana is something that is debated quite often. The reason behind this is long-term researches are yet to provide any decisive conclusion on this. Most people assume that the use of marijuana for a long time is safe. However, the National Institute of Drug Abuse advises against arriving at any such conclusions because such consequences of using marijuana over a long period are still unknown. It is a fact that medical marijuana products like CBD oils, extracts, and tinctures are still sold as a form of alternative medicine. Thus they sometimes do contain unknown ingredients. The dosage list on the product may also not be accurate many times, owing to the product being sold as an alternative therapy. Considering all these factors, medical marijuana in its inhaled form should not be used by the following people as per the advisory from NIDA or the National Institute of Drug Abuse.

People who are not yet 25 years old.
People who have a history of psychosis or strong evidence of others in the family suffering from the ailment.
If there is a history of cannabis use disorder. This may be a current issue or may have happened in the past as well.
If the person is known for engaging in substance abuse.
Any person who suffers from either cardiac diseases or pulmonary disorders.
Any woman who is either pregnant or is planning pregnancy.

One more thing that women need to keep in mind is there is no conclusive research done on the effect of cannabis as far as pregnancy is concerned. Thus it is in the best interest of women who are of reproductive age to avoid cannabis altogether. There is no proven impact of cannabis on the fetus. But, the fetal brain does possess cannabinoid receptors. Hence, the use of cannabis by the mother may impact the child’s mental development in later years. The last thing that pregnant women must remember is that overuse of cannabis when they are pregnant may increase chances of pregnancy loss through the overstimulation of cannabinoid receptors in the lining of the uterus.

Through the discussion, it is evident that the use of medical marijuana may have helped in the reduction of menstrual cramps and pain. However, the risk associated must be considered carefully. Overall, marijuana has been known to be relatively low risk and thus may be consumed in moderation. Effects should be monitored carefully to understand how helpful it is in reducing the problems.

Cultural history of marijuana

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One of the most controversial and talked about topics over the course of recent human history has been marijuana and its consumption. It has been the topic of debate for a number of years now as it was always considered a drug that could be potentially dangerous to a person’s health, much like any chemical drug might do.

All of this controversy led to the recreational use of marijuana being banned practically worldwide, and the medicinal use only available to those who were absolutely desperate for it. Today, many states in America have legalised both just the medicinal use and even the recreational use as well, making the market grow insanely and be massively successful. This has led to exciting new inventions for those with an interest in the marijuana culture, like vaporizers, electric grinders, or even electric dab rigs. While people may know these basic facts, they might not know the actual cultural history that comes surrounding marijuana, so if you want to learn more, here is some information about the cultural history of marijuana.

Ancient times

Marijuana, also known as weed, cannabis, or pot, has an incredibly long history that could consider it to be an ancient drug. Most countries and cultures didn’t intend to grow the plant and make use of it in order to feel a high, but rather for medicinal purposes. It is said that it was most likely to have been discovered somewhere in Asia all the way around 500 BC.

Earlier hemp plants are known to be native to Asia and are slightly different to the cannabis plants that we make use of today that have been specially grown with different strains to feel different and more intense highs. Typically, beyond its medicinal use, hemp fibre was used to make paper, clothes, and ropes and even provide food from the seeds.

It has also been seen to have been used ceremonially with the graves of shamans in both Siberia and china having burned cannabis seeds in them, dating all the way back to 500BC

The 19th century

Moving forward with technology and research, in the early 1800s an Irish doctor who was studding in India discovered that marijuana extracts would help people with severe stomach pain and nausea who were likely suffering from cholera. Throughout the 1800s these extracts were sold by doctors and pharmacies all over Europe and the USA as treatment but there were problems that had been noticed.

Through further research is was discovered that the source of the problems was THC, a chemical compound within the marijuana plant that has psychoactive properties. Before this discovery, marijuana was considered a miracle plant that as curing people of all sorts of ailments.

The 20th century

Moving in to the 20th century, this is when things started going downhill for the marijuana industry with the Marijuana tax Act being imposed in 1937 as a way to heavily tax those who sell, are in possession, or use marijuana and ultimately ban the product. Later on in the 1900s there was a big stigma placed around the use of marijuana classifying it as a drug in the same category as that of heroine, LSD, and cocaine, all of which are chemical that can be harmful to the body.

With every single part of the marijuana plant now being illegal, some people lost their means of natural medication and had to go through a lengthy process and fight in order to get the right to at least have marijuana for medicinal purposes. To this day, some places will still only allow people to buy marijuana from dedicated dispensaries and only if they have a medical marijuana card allowing them to do so.

2021

2021 has seen the insane growth of the marijuana market practically worldwide. Today, there are states all over the US and countries around the world that have started to legalise the recreational use of marijuana. Now, because we are living in a time where technology is ever evolving and research is more easily done than ever, there are so many new and innovative ways to consume marijuana and so many different accessories available on the market for cannabis lovers to make use of and try out.

There are many different methods of delivery from oral, to inhalation, to even topical. With all this, there are more and more health benefits being discovered almost daily making marijuana a great alternative to modern medicine and for those who would rather be using something more natural.

High Times x RWB

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High Times partners with Red, White & Bloom to rebrand and develop dispensaries in Michigan, Illinois, and Florida

Hightimes Holding Corp., the owner of High Times®, the most well-known brand in cannabis, today announces that it has entered into a series of agreements with Red, White & Bloom, Inc., also known as RWB, with the goal of the branding of High Times dispensaries and development of cannabis based CBD and THC products in the States of Michigan, Illinois and Florida.

RWB and its investee will use the Hightimes™ trademark, logo and brand to rebrand its 18 planned and operational dispensaries as High Times stores. Together, such stores represent more than 20% of the cannabis market share across the state. RWB’S Investee is the leading cannabis company in Michigan, with dispensaries, indoor/outdoor cultivation and product manufacturing established over the last two years. In addition, as a result of the acquisition of Newco, RWB will also acquire the rights to brand retail and medical dispensaries and products in the states of Illinois and Florida, and may utilize RWB’s 3.6 million square foot facility in Illinois for the production of CBD products and whole hemp flower strains for distribution nationally.

In addition to transforming the dispensaries to become High Times branded destinations and launching delivery capabilities in select locations, High Times branded vapes, tinctures, topicals, and edibles will be available within both owned dispensaries and other third party outlets. The company has aggressive growth plans and is entering the market at a time when the retail landscape has been significantly changed.

“High Times is a 46-year-old brand with an immense amount of recognition and credibility across the world,” said Peter Horvath, Chief Executive Officer of Hightimes Holding Corp. “Licensing the High Times name, advising on dispensary operations, and providing input on product development allows the company to drive significant revenue from licensing fees without assuming the complexity associated with owning and operating dispensaries and scaled cultivation and manufacturing facilities nationwide. RWB has built an incredible and expansive retail footprint in a quick time frame that we can strengthen through applying the High Times Brand.”

The Hightimes subsidiary holding the Hightimes™ trademark, logo and brand worldwide sublicensed such intellectual property to a new subsidiary, Newco, for the purpose of using and branding retail and medical dispensaries and products in Michigan, Illinois, and Florida. Under the terms of the agreement, the Hightimes Licensing Company sold RWB 100% of the equity of Newco. In return, the Hightimes Licensing Company will receive $15 million of RWB common shares which are expected to trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange and may receive an additional $5 million of RWB common shares in the future. In addition, the Hightimes Licensing Company expects certain Minimum Guarantee payments during the term of the agreement and any renewal period.

Hightimes Holding Corp. has also recently announced the appointment of CEO Peter Horvath and its planned acquisition of 13 California dispensaries from Harvest Health & Recreation, one of the largest multi-state operators in cannabis. Through these initiatives, High Times intends to become one of the largest cannabis companies in California, and is working quickly to do the same in Michigan, Illinois and Florida.

About High Times

For more than 45 years, High Times has been the world’s most well-known
cannabis brand – championing the lifestyle and educating the masses on
the benefits of this natural flower. From humble beginnings as a
counterculture lifestyle publication, High Times has evolved into
hosting industry-leading events like the Cannabis Cup and the High
Times Business Summit, while providing digital TV and social networks,
globally distributed merchandise, international licensing deals and
providing content for its millions of fans and supporters across the
globe. In the world of Cannabis, High Times is the arbiter of quality.
For more information on High Times visit their website here.

About Red White & Bloom

Red White & Bloom, building on its first mover advantage (through its
investments and pending acquisitions in the states of Michigan,
Florida, Massachusetts and Illinois) is a multi-state operator that
enters markets at scale. The Company’s portfolio (following completion
of the pending acquisitions) will include superior brands and
proprietary product development capabilities, focused on a “house of
brands” strategy in both cannabis as well as hemp-derived products.

Navigating The CBD Marketplace

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CBD has undeniable skyrocketed in popularity over the last couple of years. The passing of the 2018 Farm bill paved the way of fully legal sales of CBD oil derived from industrial hemp. More and more people are experiencing the incredible powers of this natural plant. We are here to help you learn more about CBD and how to navigate the CBD marketplace. How can you tell which brand is the right fit for you? We have you covered from start to finish in this post.

The Basics About CBD

CBD is one of over 100 different cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant family. Oftentimes consumers relate THC and CBD hand in hand, however this is incorrect. Although they may be part of the same plant family, they have some very different attributes. The most significant being that CBD does not give users an intoxicating “high”. This means that users get to feel the medicinal benefits of CBD without any unwanted intoxicating side effects.

For those looking for a non-intoxicating experience, we recommend using broad spectrum CBD products. This type of CBD has all of the attributes as full spectrum CBD, just without any THC. Broad spectrum products are also great for users who get drug tested and cannot afford to test positive.

We understand that the CBD marketplace can be slightly overwhelming with all of the different terms and options. There are currently over 1000 different brands in the industry, so navigating this space is especially tough. The quality of CBD varies greatly as well, quality is often determined by cultivation practices and extraction methods in the CBD industry. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind when shopping in the CBD marketplace.

Transparency

Trust truly does come from transparency. You want to go with a brand that stand behind their products. Each CBD product you are looking to purchase should have third party laboratory results that are easily accessible and up to date. Our rule of thumb is that the test date should be within 18 months. We also highly suggest staying away from any brand making outrageous claims such as can help cure cancer or arthritis. These companies are going against FDA rules and are simply in the industry for short term monetary gains.

Made in the USA

You want to make sure any CBD product you consume is made from hemp grown here in the USA. Hemp grown domestically is subject to rigorous quality control and growing standards. We urge customers to avoid CBD products that use hemp grown overseas in placed like Germany and China which usually do not have as strict guidelines. Plants grown overseas often times use harsh pesticides and heavy metals, that can be detrimental to human health.

Customer Service

Many consumers are new to the CBD industry so being able to have access to customer service either via email, chat or phone is a must. Also having customer support can help you deal with any issues that may arise.

One company that checks off all of these important guidelines is GoGreen Hemp. GoGreen Hemp has been serving THC-Free CBD oil to consumers since 2016. They have full traceability from seed to sale to ensure “what is on the label is what is in the bottle”. All of their plants are grown here in the USA, and have some of the strictest quality control measures in the industry.

When it comes to first time CBD Oil users GoGreen Hemp recommends either their best-selling CBD Oils or CBD gummies. Below you will find some of these recommendations:

CBD Gummies – GoGreen Hemp CBD infused gummies come in various forms and strength levels. Their strongest edible is their 25mg Peach Rings which are both delicious and effective.

CBD Oil Tincture – GoGreen Hemp CBD Oil Tinctures also come in various strength levels and flavors.

These are just a few of the many THC-free products GoGreen Hemp has to offer. We hope this article has been beneficial and go out there and give CBD a try!

How to Choose the Right Form of CBD

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CBD has become a favored natural treatment for depression, anxiety, insomnia, pain, and even epilepsy. With numerous health claims, there’s still a lot of exploration into the properties of this natural remedy.

If you’re interested in trying CBD, the options can be overwhelming. Here’s how you can choose the right form of CBD for you.

Ingested vs. Topical

One of the main questions people ask when trying to choose the right form of CBD for their needs is whether they should ingest it or use it topically. It ultimately depends on why you’re using CBD.

While applying topical CBD will result in a bit of absorption to the bloodstream, it won’t have the same effects as ingesting it. Topical applications are great for spot treating issues, such as skin disorders or fitness-related muscle pain. Ingesting CBD is better for mental health ailments and overall changes to your system.

Tinctures

Tinctures (AKA, CBD oil) are one of the most common ways to buy CBD. In this concoction, the CBD is blended with a carrier oil to be taken orally under the tongue. When you use CBD oil, you can expect quick results.

Tinctures are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. Many CBD enthusiasts put a few drops in their morning smoothie or use it to make edibles.

Edibles

Rather than making your own edibles, you can buy the premade variety. These are already measured out into a set dose and easy to transport and consume. Edibles come in many forms, from chocolate bars to baked goods to CBD gummy options for kids with anxiety.

Capsules

Capsules consist of CBD oil in pill form. Many CBD users love the convenience of the capsules and the slower release and sustained effects than they experience with a tincture.

Vapors

Vaporizing and inhaling a CBD isolate is the fastest acting form of CBD. When vaporizing, an isolate is used, which is a powdered version of pure CBD. Some find the instant effect too powerful and overwhelming for their needs.

Salves

Salves are one of the best topical applications of CBD. You can use a CBD salve as a muscle and joint rub, targeting arthritis flare-ups and post-workout muscle soreness. The anti-inflammatory effects of CBD and targeted approach are what make salves so desirable for some. In many cases, using a salve has no effects on one’s mental state, which is excellent for daily use.

Sprays

Sprays are a less common form of CBD. This form of natural remedy is great for people suffering from psoriasis or eczema. The sprays are gentle and soothing without leaving a residue or requiring any rubbing. Some sprays are even used for cosmetic purposes, to reduce redness and fine lines in beauty products.

Roll-On Oil

When looking for the right CBD product for you, you might stumble across a roll-on applicator. This form of CBD uses a roller ball to apply a CBD tincture blend topically. It can be used to treat skin ailments and for targeting tense muscles without leaving a residue.

Choosing a form of CBD is a decision that comes down to needs and personal preferences. Use this guide to help you determine what application could be right for you.

How CBD Oil is made: The Ultimate Ethanol Extraction Guide

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Recent medical research shows that Cannabinoid (CBD) has the potential to ease symptoms of various ailments such as cancer, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis and more. CBD, which is one of the 85 different compounds that naturally occur in a cannabis plant, is growing in popularity for its medical applications.

CBD products act as:

Antioxidants
Antipsychotics
Anticonvulsants
Anti-inflammatories

The users cannot gain these benefits from just buying a hemp plant from a supplier. The compound that offers these excellent benefits must be extracted and transformed into a consumable product by a professional.

Ethanol extraction is one of the best methods to extract CBD oils.

How Ethanol Extraction Process Works

The ethanol extraction method involves introducing a solvent (ethanol) to the hemp plant to extract the cannabinoid. Ethanol then helps dissolves the natural chlorophyll of the hemp plant along with essential oils and cannabinoids. This results in a green-colored CBD oil. A simple filtering process helps remove the green discoloration.

Additional steps after extraction

The CBD extract must pass through a few other processes before it is ready for pet and human consumption.

Decarboxylation

This is the process that helps activate CBD oil. Before this process is done, the extract is still in an inactive form, and the CBD and THC present in the plant haven’t reached their full potential.

These phytocannabinoids are in an acidic state, which is better known as cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA). The elements must pass through the decarboxylation process to make the inactive components active and get a high-quality end-product.

Winterization

Winterization is the process used to remove unwanted fatty acids, chlorophyll, plant materials, terpenes, and cannabinoids found in the CBD extract. This act helps dissolve non-polar substances (such as hash oil) into a polar substance (in most cases, ethanol) at sub-zero temperatures.

The process forces lipids (fatty acids) and waxes from the crude extract to the uppermost part of the mixture. Then, they are removed through a simple filtration process.

Downsides of Ethanol Extraction

Ethanol readily mixes with water which breaks down water-soluble molecules such as chlorophyll. Unfortunately, chlorophyll is one major “undesirable” ingredient. The ethanol extraction method can produce a green, grassy product which is also undesirable.

Some industry leaders like Capna Sytems have invented ways to reduce the need for additional processes during the ethanol extraction method. For example, by using multiple ethanol extractions, they mitigate the presence of chlorophyll among other undesirables.

Why Ethanol Extraction is the Safest Method

According to the FDA, ethanol is the safest method of extraction and is already being used in the extraction of many other conventional medicines and foods.

The main aim of extraction is to produce cannabinoids that are not just pure but also highly concentrated for pet and human consumption. Unlike other methods of extraction, ethanol extraction provides a high-quality end product with up to 99% purity. Also, it is one of the cheapest and most efficient methods available.

How to decarb cannabis to release its psychoactive ingredient

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What is the process of decarboxylation or decarbing cannabis? Learn about the active elements of cannabis.

When you’ve ever thought about how to decarb wax; have you been aware that the cannabis plant in its natural form is not psychoactive? As it naturally grows, there is no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive element of weed, in the cannabis plant.

It is only when it is heated, during a process of decarboxylation that it becomes ‘active’. Heating converts inactive THCA into active THC. Get this bit right and you’re on your way to ‘how to decarb wax’.

But, what if you are not going to burn your weed to get high? You will have to carry out a separate process of decarb by putting your weed in the oven; even before you use it in cannabis edibles.

How does this work? Well, the heat removes carboxyl from the THCA which then transforms into psychoactive THC. The same process is carried from CBDA to CBD.

What’s Best; Decarbed to Raw Weed?

You want to use decarbed cannabis to get the benefits of THC and CBD. However, there are benefits also from the non-active THCA and CBDA. These both have anti-inflammatory properties that can be of benefit for medical purposes.

To enjoy these benefits you need to take your weed directly from the fresh plant. Do not dry or cure them and, if you want to store them for a few days, you can put them in a fridge. You should not refrigerate them for more than a few days, however. So, it is best to mix it up as a smoothie or tea. If you are going to mix it with a tea or hot drink, be careful as decarbing can occur with the high temperature.

As well as THCA and CBDA, raw weed contains terpenes and phytonutrients which are both healthy and provide non-psychoactive benefits. Because of this, they can be used in treating illnesses or ailments in children.

In its raw form, cannabis contains hundreds of non-psychoactive cannabinoids, the most abundant of which is THCA. For this reason, many people prefer actual cannabis to synthetic THC in some medications. These tend to have just delta 8 THC, without the other beneficial elements of fresh weed.

Decarbing not only activates THCA to THC; it also transforms CBDA into CBD and carries out a similar process with other cannabinoids.

What Temperature Does Decarboxylation Take Place In An Oven?

The required temperature for decarbing in an oven depends upon the time you want to spend on the process. It also depends on what sort of flavour you want from your decarbed weed.

Decarbing at lower temperatures for a longer time will preserve terpenes, making your weed smell and taste better.

A common method of decarbing is as follows:

Preheat your oven to 220 – 300F
Break up your weed into small pieces
Spread the pieces onto a baking tray
Heat for 30-60 minutes
Remove tray from the oven
Allow to cool
Grind by hand; with a grinder; or food processor.

Your decarbed weed should now be coarsely ground, but not to a powder. You can now use your THC-laden weed through a variety of consumption methods.

Why MCT Oil Is Used in CBD Products

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Like many people around the globe, you may have heard a lot of good things about CBD oil over the recent years. A rising number of people have come to learn about CBD because of the increased level of interest from the press, the positive results of research and studies, and the changes in legislation that have taken place in various states and destinations.

If you are new to the world of CBD oil products, you naturally want to learn more about the product before you decide whether it is something that is right for you. This includes looking at the benefits of using CBD oil such as combatting anxiety and stress, looking at how CBD oil could help you to improve your quality of life, and finding out more about the different methods of using CBD oil. You may also be interested in specific questions such as why MCT oil is used in CBD products. This is something we will look at a little more closely in this article.

The Role of MCT Oil

The speed at which CBD is absorbed can depend on various factors such as the method you decide to use in order to take CBD oil. There are various different methods you can choose from such as a CBD oil tincture, CBD supplements, and CBD capsules. Naturally, those who use CBD oil products want to make the most of them and one of the things that can help with this is the use of MCT oil in CBD products.

MCT oil can be very useful in terms of increasing the benefits and absorption rate of CBD oil products, particularly when you are using products such as supplements and capsules. So, why is it used in products such as these? Well, the presence of MCT oil helps to boost the bioavailability of the CBD and means that more of the CBD is absorbed into the bloodstream. This then means it increases the benefits, as you will feel the effects of the CBD more quickly.

MCT oil has enjoyed increased popularity over recent years among the health-conscious. They are made up of chains of saturated fatty acids that are known as triglycerides. There are various different sources of MCTs such as palm oil and coconut oil. In fact, MCT oil is often used in dressings, smoothies, and recipes because of the health benefits it offers.

In terms of being used in CBD oil products, MCT oil can help to ensure faster delivery and stronger effects. As mentioned earlier, the rate at which CBD oil is absorbed into the body depends on the method used, and some methods, such as supplements and tablets, can be slower than others. Using MCT oil helps to combat this issue as it becomes a form of carrier for the CBD oil, so more of it gets into the bloodstream.

So, as you can see, MCT oil can play a vital part in CBD products, which is why it is considered a valuable addition to many CBD products.