Hemp and marijuana products are becoming increasingly more available throughout the United States, especially as more and more states legalize marijuana. As a consumer, it is important to be informed about these products and how they work. So what is CBD and how does it differ from THC?
What is THC?
THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol. According to Live Science, THC is secreted by the resin glands of the marijuana plant. It is this psychotropic compound that causes the ‘high’ associated with using marijuana. THC is found in controlled marijuana-derived substances that are used for medical or recreational purposes.
You cannot legally buy products that contain THC from unregulated businesses and in states where it is illegal. THC containing products are sold in dispensaries and cannot be legally obtained over the internet.
What is CBD?
CBD is another compound associated with both the hemp and marijuana plants. CBD stands for cannabinol and can be distilled into an oil that has many uses. While CBD may be present with THC, it is not the mind-altering agent. CBD by itself has no psy-choactive effects.
Because of CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties, it is commonly used in topical creams, ointments, lotions, and other skin products. It can also be taken orally and has a demonstrated promise as a remedy for chronic pain and symptoms associated with epi-lepsy. Studies continue to emerge with new discoveries regarding the beneficial uses of CBD.
Regulations
Because CBD is emerging on the market, and it is considered a supplement by the FDA, it is not heavily regulated to ensure quality. While the logistics are a little murky, CBD is legal as of the 2018 Farm Bill. According to an article on Medium, CBD that is derived from hemp grown by a licensed grower and contains less than .3% THC is legal to buy and sell. Many CBD vendors have their product tested by a third party to ensure their clients are receiving high quality CBD, and that the THC content is less than the legal limit. When buying CBD products, always look for a COA (certificate of analysis) symbol that indicates the product has been tested.
Skin Care Products
While CBD and THC might be related and found in similar plants, they are very different compounds. They may be present together, but most CBD specific products do not con-tain THC. At Hemp of the Rockies we grow hemp sustainably and use it to create our own CBD skin care products. We provide a COA on our products so that you can be confident that our CBD products are safe, legal, and effective. Try including CBD skin care products in your health care regimen and start seeing the difference it can make for your skin.
