Developing and Optimizing a Cannabis Cultivation System

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In this article, Philipp Matzneller, Co-Founder and Senior Consultant of Sostanza Global, talks about cultivation system development and optimization.

Developing and optimizing a Cannabis Cultivation System
November 2021, by Philipp Matzneller, Co-Founder and Senior Consultant of Sostanza Global

The commercial cultivation of crops in controlled environments has substantially improved in the past 30 years - new technologies, cultivars, and cultivation systems have increased the yield and quality of horticultural crops. Cannabis cultivation has been clouded in secrecy for decades, and growers have been limited in openly exchanging experiences, performing research, and accessing advanced technologies. Sadly, the body of cultivation knowledge on cannabis is nowhere near that of other commercial crops.

After legalization in several countries, the size of commercial cannabis facilities vastly increased, and growers had to expand small-scale cultivation systems to quickly meet demand. Some systems scaled successfully, while others required significant work to obtain good results. Most cultivators would agree that it takes several crop cycles to dial-in the cultivation process in a new facility or validate a new practice. Understanding how to trial, scale, and implement cultivation practices and technology is key to a cannabis grower's success, especially with such a small amount of reliable cultivation information to pull from.

Here are some general steps that I always consider when setting up or improving a cultivation system:

1. Developing a cultivation system

There is a long list of factors to consider in selecting a cultivation system: Growing media, nutrition, crop work, planting density, pest management, regulations, genetics, location, labor, water, and equipment for environmental control among others.

The first consideration should always be the target product, expected output and your available resources. If you plan to sell premium smokable flower, a high-tech indoor facility will increase your likelihood of success and reduce execution risk. On the other hand, indoor facilities require a high capital investment and cost to operate. If you are producing cannabis for extraction, cultivating in a low-tech greenhouse with reduced inputs is probably sufficient.

Resource cost and availability will dictate certain choices. If labor is a limiting factor, selecting a high-density planting system, which involves intensive crop work (i.e., pruning and defoliation), should be avoided. Using high-intensity artificial lighting and a high-tech environmental controls system will probably reinforce selecting high-turnover hydroponic systems. It is also key to consider how each of these factors influence each other.

2. Understanding your cannabis cultivation system

After the build-out comes the joy of growing your first crop. Unfortunately, as any experienced grower will tell you, few systems work out as intended. Cultivation procedures, and equipment need to be dialed in during several crop cycles to obtain the desired outcome.



Cultivation systems are complex and require a fine balance between a lot of factors for plants to thrive. Typically, a sub-optimal factor such as irrigation frequency, air temperature, nutrient status, or pest pressure will negatively impact plat health, reduce yields, or diminish cannabinoid content. Whichever aspect of the cultivation system is most out-of-line, or the limiting factor, will be the greatest detriment to a successful crop. For example, if the irrigation frequency is too high (over-watering) and root-zone oxygen levels become consistently low, growth rates will be limited, and root-born pathogens will thrive. Even if the other growing conditions are finely tuned, it won’t help until the limiting factor is first addressed. As you grow your first few crops in a new system, it is key to continually identify and correct these limiting factors beginning with those that are most impacting your crop.

Data collection during this period is enormously helpful to identify issues and make informed improvements. High-quality environmental sensors combined with labor tracking and the regular measurement of growing conditions like media Electrical Conductivity (EC) and pH, leaf tissue nutrient content and pest pressure provide the foundation for systematic identification of the strengths and weaknesses in your cultivation system.

3. Optimizing your cultivation system

After several crops worth of data you can establish a baseline of your inputs, such as labor, fertilizer, power consumption and growing media then correlate them to outputs such as yield and quality.

Now, when changes to the cultivation system are made, you will have this baseline for comparison. Having a baseline emphasizes the need to properly document any changes that are made and enables a data-driven approach to decision making.

Conducting small-scale trials is a good way to introduce new cultivation practices in your facility. When trialing different types of crop work, growing media, planting densities or genetics, it is usually easy enough to find a small area to run side-by-side comparisons. It can be more difficult to run small scale trials for environmental factors, pest management and irrigation strategies because more space is needed. In these cases, consistent data collection from each crop is key so that entire crops can be compared to each other.

I strongly believe that understanding and optimizing a cultivation system using a systematic, data-based approach is key to the success of a cannabis grower. If a business isn’t constantly improving and can’t keep up with improved technologies, there is little hope for success in the long run.

About the Author

Dr. Philipp Matzneller is a co-founder and senior consultant at Sostanza Global, a company that provides design, technical, operational, and strategic consulting in the cannabis industry. He was the Senior Scientist of cultivation at MedReleaf and Director of Applied Cultivation after Aurora Cannabis acquired the company. Under his guidance, a team of a dozen scientists and assistants across multiple facilities collected data and conducted experiments that resulted in a substantial increase in yield and quality of the production. Previously, Philipp worked in the ornamental greenhouse industry and as a research associate conducting climate impact studies. He holds a BSc and MSc in Agriculture from the University of Bologna (Italy) and a Ph.D. in Agroclimatology from the Humboldt University of Berlin.

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Third Party CBD Lab Testing in Canada & Why It’s Important for the Cannabis Industry

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Third Party CBD Lab testing in Canada is the topic for today. Read on to learn more about testing and what exactly labs are looking for.

Why Third Party Lab Testing is Important for the Cannabis Industry of Canada

One test can ruin a career. That’s the worry that runs through the minds of many in Canada. Even hemp-derived CBD oils can contain trace amounts of THC. If the contained amount varies even slightly from the amount reported, it could trigger a positive test.

Canada is one of the few places in the world that has legalized CBD and cannabis. One of the great tragedies of this, though, is that many confuse CBD with THC. Unlike THC, CBD is NOT a psychoactive compound. CBD oil, in the absence of THC, is perfectly safe.

However, if brands routinely produce CBD products that are overweight on THC, it could ruin the industry’s reputation. Because of this, accuracy is essential. But, for some companies, the desire to make money overrides common sense.

To get their CBD products on shelves, they may conduct in-house lab testing. This approach presents a real problem, as profit pressures may trump accurate labelling. When shopping online, due your due diligence. Comparison websites in Canada such as cbdcanadaselect.ca only feature the best CBD products that are lab tested.

Without a doubt, third-party lab testing is vital.

cdb oil
Has your CBD been third party tested?

What is Third-Party Lab Testing?

Third-party lab testing refers to analysis conducted by laboratories with no connection to the testee. With no conflict-of-interest, these firms can provide believable, unbiased results.

Without third-party labs, producers force purchasers to take a leap of faith. The presence of a third-party establishes certainty, making it easier for skeptical customers to purchase a CBD product in Canada.

Why is Third-Party Lab Testing Important?

Third-party lab testing is key to consumer trust in Canada. In-house testing is inherently biased, thanks to the profit motive. Because of this, the Canadian government mandates the listing of CBD/THC content on CBD products, as well as third-party lab testing.

Even in the absence of such regulations, most companies would still pay for third-party lab reports. The reason is simple: third-party lab firms have no financial stake in a product’s success. If a valid third-party lab report is present, buyers can be confident in the accuracy of a CBD product’s numbers.

As long as a testing firm uses principles grounded in the scientific method, there is no reason to doubt their figures.

cbd test lab

How Does a CBD Lab Test Work?

The scope of third-party lab tests in Canada can vary widely. Some producers, wanting to save money, will only scan for cannabinoids like CBD and THC.

Other producers will cast a wider net when submitting CBD products for a third-party lab report. By getting data on lesser-known cannabinoids and terpenes, they can get greater insight into their product’s properties.

These producers may also request reports on the presence of any impurities. This way, they can make improvements to their process. In subsequent reports, they can show consumers their CBD products are free of any harmful by-products.

Lab techs in Canada use numerous methods to analyze a cannabis/hemp product. However, High Performance Liquid Chromatography, or HPLC, is the most common form of analysis.

How do testing firms undertake HPLC? They start by taking a sample of the hemp/cannabis product and immersing it in an ethanol solution. When ready, lab techs then force the ethanol solution through a pressurized tube. The inner surface of this tube is coated with a material that attracts specific molecules.

By observing how long it takes for individual particles to reach the detector, they can deduce volumes of specific compounds. Below, we’ll expand further on what third-party lab techs look for when they examine CBD products.

Cannabinoids

When testing any hemp/cannabis product, cannabinoids are the first thing laboratories in Canada look for. In particular, they seek to verify THC and CBD levels. Most importantly, they ensure THC is low enough to avoid psychoactive effects. And second, they establish the CBD potency of a submitted product.

They also report on the presence of lesser-known cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, and CBC. Like CBD, these compounds lack the psychoactive properties of THC. But, as scientists study them, their effects are becoming better understood.

For this reason, the makers of full-spectrum CBD products pay for a complete report of all cannabinoids. This way, they can show consumers that they are getting a full dose of cannabinoids. This is important for many CBD producers, as some scientists believe the presence of multiple cannabinoids can trigger a process known as The Entourage Effect.

CBD is one of many beneficial molecules found in Cannabis.

Terpenes

There’s more to a CBD product than its cannabinoids. They also contain terpenes, which are organic compounds produced by most plants. In particular, hemp and cannabis are chock full of these aromatic substances.

In all, scientists estimate more than 20,000 terpenes exist in nature. As researchers study them, they are learning about the beneficial effects they may have on human health. Because of this, the creators of many CBD products in Canada pay for terpene analysis.

In doing so, they can demonstrate the presence of superstar terpenes like Myrcene, Linalool, and Pinene. These substances have a variety of protective and curative properties. Some have potent anti-inflammatory effects, while others may elevate mood.

By listing these terpenes on their CBD products, owners can elevate its value.

Contaminants

The CBD products industry is currently in a “gold rush” phase. While many CBD entrepreneurs have committed to building quality products, others are out to make a quick buck.

Those in the latter camp may grow hemp/cannabis using pesticides and insecticides. If they don’t take care when growing, harmful bacteria/fungi can take root. If heavy metals like mercury have infected the growing soil, hemp/cannabis plants can absorb them. And, when cheap companies in Canada extract CBD, they may leave solvents like hexane or butane behind.

Reputable companies in Canada are aware of these corner-cutting measures. Thus, to set the consumer’s mind at ease, legit CBD producers have their products tested for these contaminants.

Who Does CBD Lab Tests in Canada?

As the cannabis and CBD industry have exploded, so have the number of testing labs in Canada. Currently, almost 150 testing labs, located from coast-to-coast, take cannabis and hemp samples. On the Government of Canada’s website, you’ll find a list of labs sanctioned by the Feds.

When you click on the link above, the website lists labs by name. For easier reading, we recommend sorting by province/territory. To do this, click on the arrow in the “Province or Territory” column. Many labs are busy, so be patient in your search.

canada cbd

In the Cannabis Industry, Trust Is Paramount

Nobody likes being taken for a fool. That’s why rules and regulations exist – to protect the consumer. The government of Canada has sanctioned third-party labs for cannabis and CBD testing.

This way, customers across Canada can be confident that their CBD oil does what the label says. The more trust the CBD industry builds up, the faster it will grow. Undoubtedly, third-party lab testing will play an indispensable role in that quest.

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Best Automatic Joint Roller for Cannabis and Hemp

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In this article, Growers Network the best affordable automatic joint roller on the market. Read on to see how the Mini-Rocketbox from STM save you time and money, as well as increase productivity in your operation.


Do you want to learn to grow your own cannabis? Check out Growers Network University HERE!

While there will always be a place for hand-rolled joints, hand-rolling in a commercial facility is a thing of the past. While it remains an art form, manually rolling or hand-packing cones just isn’t competitive in the growing marijuana and hemp markets. Though it might reduce upfront expenses, growers will find that the cost will quickly become infeasible as production scales up. Let’s explore this.

Imagine you've hired a world record hand joint roller to make your joints. Insanely fast and able to roll a single joint in under 5 seconds, it seems like this would be plenty of speed for operation, since unhindered, an ultra-talented roller will be able to produce a couple thousand pre-rolled joints a day. But is that a lot? It seems like it, right?

The truth is that the number of pre-rolled joints produced and sold is going to depend on the producer’s size, market share, ability to keep up with demands, etc. For a small operation producing only a handful of joints per day, producing pre-rolls by hand probably makes sense, but what happens when we scale up to hundreds or even thousands of joints per day?

Though certainly a useful skill, hand-rolling won't make you competetive.

There will come a time when paying someone upwards of fifteen dollars an hour to process joints is no longer cost-effective. One single full-time joint roller will cost a business $600/week in this scenario, which again, may sound very reasonable depending on a facility’s needs. However, as demands increase, it makes less and less sense to continue paying an employee to do something a machine can do much more efficiently.

When is it time to think about an automatic cone filling machine? In our hypothetical case featuring a world-record caliber roller, it happens as soon as the demand exceeds the number of pre-rolls a facility can produce by hand. A facility’s choices at this point are: overtime pay, additional rollers, or finding a quality pre-roll machine. Equally important, brands looking to obtain a competitive advantage could benefit from upgrading to a machine that can begin to produce more high-quality, consistent pre-rolled joints.

While purchasing a piece of equipment can be a daunting leap of faith, a pre-roll machine such as the Mini-RocketBox PLUS+ from STM can pay for itself in a matter of days or weeks, depending on your production volume.

Why the Mini-RocketBox PLUS+ over the competition? Check out the table below and see for yourself.

Mini-RocketBox vs. Futurola Knockbox 3 at a Glance


STM Mini-Rocketbox Futurola Knockbox
Rolls per Cycle 143 pre-rolls per 45 sec 100 pre-rolls in 2 min
Daily Capacity 11,000 pre-rolls per day

5,000 pre-rolls per day
Versatility Great for small runs, infused joints and start-ups on a budget great for small runs
Customization Variable adjustable dial (Low, Medium, High) Not applicable
Lifecycle/Reliability 10 years
Durable and Reliable
Stainless Steel		 A few months to 2 years
Plastic/foam constructions
Warranty 1 year parts and labor Limited
Training Full library of Training Videos & Materials No training
Price $6000 $5000

Want to see the RocketBox in action? Check out their scene from the Kings GardenCanna Cribs episode!

The Mini-Rocketbox by STM

Not only does the Mini-RocketBox pre-roll machine outperform the best hand-rollers in the world, it outperforms the next best machine on the market, able to fill and pack 143 cones in 45 seconds or up to 11,000 joints per day, but the advantage doesn’t end there. Here’s a quick breakdown of the advantages of purchasing the Mini-RocketBox PLUS+:

  • 10x more productivity over hand rolling & up to 4x’s faster than its closest competitor
  • Exclusive access to in-depth training videos, pre-roll tips & tricks
  • One-year warranty on parts and labor
  • Customizable settings
  • Lowers labor costs & overhead

How does it compare to the original RocketBox?

The Mini-RocketBox mimics the same advanced metering system of STM’s larger model and features everything people loved about the RocketBox, just smaller and less feature-rich.

Exclusive RocketBox Technology
Using the same proprietary technology that gave birth to RocketBox, STM’s “mini” creation is on par with its giant counterpart when it comes to producing high-quality, evenly packed pre-rolls that allow for superior consumer experience.

Superior Performance.
Producing 143 pre-rolls in 45 seconds or up to 11,000 pre-rolls per day, the Mini-RocketBox has set the standard high with the level of automation its exceptional engineering has bestowed it with, making it second to none in the market today.

Durable & Bulit for Commercial Use
Just like its parent pre-roll machine, the RocketBox, this mini version is definitely built to last as it’s constructed from stainless steel and aluminum materials to ensure that it lives up to STM’s reputation of consistently delivering to meet customers’ satisfaction.

Food-grade Materials
To eliminate any cross-contamination or unwanted reactions and impurities on your cannabis products, it is imperative that all processes in the production including packaging into pre-rolls are kept clean, sterilized, and safe—to ultimately ensure the integrity of your deliverables.

Renowned Customer Support
Each customer who purchases a Mini-RocketBox gets full access to STM’s exclusive Client Portal, filled with training videos and FAQs to get your team up and running in no time.

Versatility
The STM Mini-RocketBox pre-roll machine can fill up to 1.2 gram joints, is great for small batch runs and can even be utilized to produce infused joints.

Read enough? Click here to check out the Mini-Rocketbox now!

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7 Reasons You Should Start Consuming CBD Oil for Sleep

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In this article,You will learn about the top reasons to take CBD to help you sleep. Whether it is pain, anxiety, or general insomnia, CBD can and does help.

Did you know that 27% of Americans face a great deal of trouble falling asleep? Shockingly, more than 1 in every 4 Americans develop insomnia every year.

And if you aren’t able to sleep at night, chances are that your doctor might have prescribed you one of those over-the-counter toxic sleep aids, with dozens of side effects that might be doing you more harm than good. In addition, these pills can be pretty addictive.

So, what’s the solution here? Simple! It’s time you started consuming CBD oil for sleep. And trust me when I tell you, it works. And that’s exactly what we will be taking a look at here.

In this blog post, we will be shifting our focus towards the 7 reasons why you should consume CBD oil for sleep. Before, we begin, let’s take a quick look at what CBD is all about.

CBD Oil For Sleep: What You Need to Know

According to a recent Consumers Report Survey, nearly 10% of Americans have reported that they used CBD to help them deal with their sleeping disorders. And the majority of them said that it did wonders for them. Throughout history, people have been using cannabis, due to its wide range of health benefits.

Dating back to 1500 B.C., Hindu texts have indicated the use of CBD oil for inducing sleep to be effective. And if you don’t already know what CBD really is, here’s a short and sweet answer just for you.

Cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD, is a chemical compound derived from the cannabis plant. And the thing is, it won’t get you high, which isn’t the case with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC.)

As stated by Mayo Clinic, sleeping disorders can be a result of any of the following reasons:

  • Mental Health Disorders like depression, anxiety, PTSD
  • Consuming too much caffeine, especially during the night
  • Certain physical conditions
  • Medication
  • Environmental factors like an uncomfortable bed or loud noise

One of the reasons why CBD is quite effective in inducing sleep is due to the fact that it acts on the receptors throughout the body called the endocannabinoid system.

This system can affect different physiological processes like the immune system, pain receptors, sleep/wake cycles, and hormone levels.

In short, we can conclude that if you are facing trouble sleeping, CBD is a safe and natural option to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Note: CBD is a completely safe and non-addictive alternative to those pharmaceutical pills and has shown great promise for the ones having issues falling asleep.

In the next section, we will be taking a look at the 7 reasons why CBD oil has proven beneficial for sleep.

7 Reasons You Should Consume CBD Oil for Sleep

Listed below are the points we’ll be taking a look at here:

  • Reduced Anxiety
  • Relaxed Muscles
  • Pain Relief
  • Pregnancy Symptoms
  • Helps Deal with Somnolence
  • Say No to Nightmares
  • Helps Deal with PTSD

Let’s take a look at each of the points one at a time.

Reduced Anxiety

One of the most common reasons most Americans face trouble sleeping is anxiety. According to a study, nearly 40 million adults in the US are affected by anxiety disorders.

Consuming CBD will help you deal with your anxiety disorders effectively. That's because it helps in regulating cortisol, which is a stress hormone having a significant impact on the non-REM sleep cycles. The results of large series case reviews claim CBD to not just help with anxiety disorders but even improve sleep quality.

Relaxed Muscles

Movement disorder is another one of the reasons behind insomnia.

And that’s where CBD comes in. CBD consumption has been proven to be a promising treatment for movement disorders. It has helped reduce the tremors as well as hypermotility in Parkinson's disease patients. Reduction in muscle tremors may help you deal with insomnia, especially if you are dealing with Parkinson’s & Huntington’s disease.

Pain Relief

Chronic or acute pain might be one of the reasons why you aren’t able to sleep. And if you are struggling with this problem, say hello to CBD.

It may be an effective alternative to those toxic pharmaceutical pain relievers. One of the reasons why we hate consuming those toxic pills is due to the fact that they can cause severe side effects.

Consuming CBD will help you deal with your pain without the healthy side effects, which isn’t the case with those over-the-counter sleep aids. Once the pain is dealt with, you won’t face trouble falling asleep.

Pregnancy Symptoms

Pregnant women have been reported to struggle with getting restful sleep, as a result of different factors, including:

  • Stress
  • Nausea
  • Pain
  • General Pregnancy-Induced Insomnia

Even the World Health Organization (WHO) has not been able to find any adverse health outcomes caused by CBD.

However, not a great deal of research has been conducted on pregnant women. Hence, if you are pregnant, I’d advise you to get in touch with your doctor, before you start consuming CBD oil for sleep.

Helps Deal with Somnolence

Depending on the time of the day and individual, CBD has a dual effect. That’s because it regulates a person’s body’s sleep/wake cycles. And that's the reason it's considered to be helpful in promoting relaxation during the night hours and wakefulness during the daytime.

It’s no secret that daytime sleeplessness, insomnia as well as somnolence can negatively impact your productivity as well as your ability to have a good night’s sleep. Upon administration of CBD during the daytime, you will be able to promote alertness, ultimately helping you fall asleep at night peacefully.

Say NO to Nightmares

How many times have you got out of your bed all scared and sweaty, as a result of a nightmare? It’s common. But it can negatively impact your sleep quality. And trust me when I tell you, if you are having regular nightmares, you need to start consuming CBD oil for sleep.

People suffering from REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder, commonly referred to as RBD, along with increased nightmares and restlessness, a good night’s sleep might seem like a dream. According to research, CBD has been reported to lower the side effects of RBD, helping people deal with their sleep disorders.

Helps Deal with PTSD

If you are dealing with PTSD, chances are that you might not be able to sleep peacefully at night.

It’s known to cause sleep disturbances as well as REM cycle issues.

Various studies have concluded CBD oil to be quite effective for sleep problems related to PTSD.

Not only will it help you deal with your anxiety disorders relating to PTSD, but it will even play a major role in reducing the anxiety-induced REM sleep problems.

Conclusion

Imagine feeling better. More importantly, imagine being able to sleep.

Here’s a famous quote about CBD oil I personally love: “I’ve got 99 problems & CBD oil solved like 86 of them.”

Using CBD oil for sleep and self-care is one of the most powerful ways to create a change and care for yourself. And if you seriously want change and are looking forward to having a good night’s sleep, I’d advise you to purchase CBD oil without any second thoughts.

But the thing is, there are tons of options you’ll come across on the Internet. So, which one should you go with?

TruPotency’s one of the well-recognized brands that I personally look up to while buying CBD products. With data algorithms, laboratory testing as well as a world class Advisory Board of MDs and scientists, they lab test as well as analyse each one of their products that they sell.

Their Advanced CBD Oil packs tons of uplifting terpene d-limonene which will contribute towards relieving your stress and improving focus. In addition, consuming this advanced CBD oil regularly will help you have good night’s sleep and feel more productive.

You may find additional details on their website. So, what are you waiting for?

CBD Oil’s here to help you win your sleep back. Order yours today.

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CBD FAQ

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a non-intoxicating compound found in the cannabis plant with broad therapeutic potential. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids.

Cannabinoids, which can be either made by plants (phytocannabinoids – phyto pertaining to plants) or produced naturally by the body (endocannabinoid – endo is short for endogenous, meaning originating in the body), are chemical compounds that interact with the body’s own endocannabinoid system. This system is known to manage homeostasis and regulate many bodily processes.

Scientist and physicians are leading many studies on the effects of CBD for a broad variety of conditions including chronic pain, insomnia, PTSD, anxiety, epilepsy, dementia, cancer, and more. Plenty of preclinical research and a fair amount of clinical studies have shown that CBD has strong anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, anti-depressant, anti-psychotic, anti-tumoral, and neuroprotective qualities.

Will CBD make you high and is CBD addictive?

Simple answer is NO. THC is the main culprit in cannabis that causes a “high”, although there are other cannabinoids that will cause intoxication and euphoria. If you are sensitive to THC, there are many products that are made with 99%+ pure CBD that should be void of any amount of THC that would cause this effect.

Another important point is that CBD is NOT addictive. This might make CBD a potential alternative to opioid medications, like Oxycontin, for pain relief. CBD has reduced negative effects, like addiction while maintaining pain relief. CBD is though to even be beneficial for withdrawal from other drugs, like heroine.

Are CBD products legal in all 50 states and what is the difference between hemp and marijuana?

According to the federal government yes, as long as they are derived from hemp, not marijuana, and contain less than 0.3% THC. You do not need a medical marijuana card to buy or use hemp-derived CBD products. One caveat is that some states, like Nebraska and Idaho, have different state laws and only allow CBD if it has no THC (0.0%). Laws are changing everyday, so double check with your state laws to be safe.

What is the difference between hemp and marijuana?
Although both hemp and marijuana are Cannabis, there are significant differences between them both chemically and legally. Cannabis as hemp is federally legal and is defined as having less than 0.3% THC, with higher amount of CBD (usually about 5-15%). Cannabis as marijuana is federally illegal and is typically cultivated to produce very high amounts of THC, sometime upward of 25%.

All consumer CBD products you see on the market come from legal cannabis as hemp, which contain very little THC, but high CBD.

HOW DO I TAKE CBD?

One of the most popular types of CBD are CBD gummies. CBD gummies are in the “edible” or “ingestible” category. These are eaten just like the non-CBD gummies, but you probably shouldn’t eat the whole bag of the CBD variety. These are popular because of their tasty, fun form factor. Not all CBD gummies are created equal though. Other ingestible CBD products include CBD capsules, some tinctures, tablets, chocolates, beverages, suckers, and more.

CBD tinctures are one of the most popular types of CBD products. A simple CBD tincture is often only two ingredients, CBD isolate or a full-spectrum high CBD extract and a carrier oil (commonly fractionated coconut oil called MCT oil). You use these by placing them under your tongue for a short time and then swallowing. It is recommended to hold the oil under your tongue for about 1-2 minutes. This is because the CBD can be absorbed through blood capillaries under the tongue. You can also just swallow the tincture if you would like. CBD tinctures are often also flavored  tastier experience.

Topical CBD products are a great way to apply CBD to a targeted area for direct effect. This category includes CBD lotions, CBD creams, CBD facial serums, and more. Topical CBD lotions and similar products are applied just like you would use a hydrating lotion for rough skin or cooling pain relief cream to a sore area. If you are having skin irritation or joint pain, you just rub the topical CBD onto the affected area.

Transdermal patches are a great way to get sustained release of CBD throughout your day for lasting relief. Similar to lidocaine and nicotine patches, CBD transdermal patches are designed to enhance the penetration of CBD so that it can get through your skin and into your bloodstream. CBD transdermal patches are placed on an area with a of arteries and veins, like the wrist, and stay on for up to 8 hours. Discrete, travel friendly, and ease of use make transdermal patches a great choice for CBD oil based products.

There are many more form factors, but the above just highlights some of the popular types. You can also find vapes and hemp flower for those who inhale, suppositories, shampoo, lip balm, and even pillows. Some of these have more therapeutic value than others (still scratching my head about the pillow).

HOW DOES CBD WORK?

Overall, the way CBD actually works is abundantly confusing. There is actually little classical cannabinoid receptor (CB1 and CB2) activation like many other cannabinoids, most notably THC. CBD does act on the endocannabinoid system, just in a somewhat unique fashion. One way is to inhibit an enzyme that breaks down endocannabinoids, thereby enhancing your natural endocannabinoid tone. CBD also acts through a variety of other receptors including GPR55, various TRP channels, PPAR-gamma, and more (even opioid receptors involved in pain). As Science progresses, we will undoubtedly start to create a more full and accurate picture of how CBD work, but for now, if you find relief with CBD, then it does not really matter that we do not know how it works.

Tylenol (acetaminophen/paracetamol) is taken all over the world everyday and we still don’t understand how it works. CBD is in the same boat. We are not 100% sure how it works, but we do know it works.

DO CBD topicals actually WORK?

CBD topicals have proven effective for a broad variety of issues, such as chronic pain, dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, acne, skin cancer, and more. Many individuals swear by them.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? FULL SPECTRUM, BROAD SPECTRUM, ISOLATE?

  1. Full Spectrum: Full spectrum CBD is an extract that contains all compounds found naturally occurring in the plant, including terpenes, essential oils, and other cannabinoids. The full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and essential oils extracted from the plant work together to magnify the therapeutic benefits of each individual cannabinoid. This is commonly referred to as the “entourage effect“.
  2. Broad Spectrum: Broad spectrum CBD is a bit of a mix between Full Spectrum CBD and CBD Isolate. Like Full Spectrum CBD, the other compounds found within the plant are preserved in the extract; however, like CBD Isolate, THC is completely removed.
  3. Isolate: In scientific terms, an isolate is the purest form of a compound, which is produced by singularly extracting that compound from its environment and isolating it from all other compounds. With that being said, CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, which is produced by removing all other compounds found in the plant including terpenes, flavonoids, plant parts, and other cannabinoids.

How much CBD should you take?

Many people wonder how much CBD they should take and unfortunately there is probably not a great solution for the exact amount. One complication is that everyone’s biology is different and will respond differently to the same compounds. Think about caffeine, some people cannot even have a sip of coffee without getting the jitters, while others need a double shot of espresso to get the morning started. There are even websites, similar to 23andMe, that will analyze your genetics then come up with a theoretical “best” THC to CBD ratio based on your particular genes. So a “one size fits all” is probably not realistic.

However to give an example of what is used, Epidiolex (the FDA approved version of CBD for seizures) can be used at 5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight (mg/kg)  twice a day. So what does that mean? A 155 pound person is about 70 kilograms, so 5 mg/kg would equate to 350 mg CBD twice a day. Now this is pure CBD for a very specific disease, so it probably does not translate well to other disorders, but highlights the safety levels. 

There is also something called the entourage (or ensemble) effect, whereby various cannabinoids and terpenes can work synergistically to enhance the effects of each other. So using a combination of other cannabinoids and terpenes in conjunction with CBD can reduce the amount of CBD you need.

Will I pass a drug test if I take CBD?

Unfortunately… it depends. Yes you will pass your drug test if you use only CBD (with a caveat). Most drug tests can distinguish between THC and CBD and their metabolites, but some low cost tests (like basic chemical reaction drug testing kits for the field and some antibody testing) can trigger false positives. Most legitimate testing labs will be able to distinguish between THC and CBD and their metabolites using a technology called mass spectrometry (mass spec or MS for short). The other caveat is that full spectrum products will contain some THC in them. Depending on the levels, this could also cause a positive reading on a drug test. You can however find  many CBD isolate and CBD broad spectrum products that have had THC removed from them.

When does CBD start to work and how long does it stay in your system?

What we know from current data is that there is a lot of variability in study to study and from person to person. Tinctures are one of the most popular forma of CBD. Generally, CBD taken orally (by mouth, including other ingestibles like CBD gummies) tends to take about two to four hours to reach maximum levels in your blood and the elimination half-life has been reported anywhere from two hours up to 24 hours from a single use and two to five days for chronic oral administration. Your body also seem to absorbed more CBD when taken with a meal, particularly a high-fat meal.

One major vairable is that everyone’s biology is slightly different and will not respond in the exact same way to the same compounds. Using caffeine as an example, some people that take even a sip of coffee get the jitters, while others need their daily pot of coffee to get through the day. Some of this is tolerence, but a lot of it is genetics. There are even websites, like popular genetics genealogy websites, that will analyze your genetics then come up with a theoretical “best” THC to CBD ratio based on your particular genes. THis indicates that CBD and cannabinoids are not “one size fits all”.

Sublingual administration is close to ingestibles in terms of absorption. Here a tincture is placed under the tongue and help in place for one to two minutes. This is thought to slightly increase the amount of CBD absorbed because of the high amount of blood vessels under the tongue. So, the effect might start somewhat quicker than a capsule  or CBD gummies, but some of the tincture will ultimately make it to your stomach. 

Many other types of administration can drastically change how your body processes CBD. Topicals are mostly beneficial for the skin disorders, but many people find muscle and joint pain relief as well. Topical CBD tends to start working fairly quickly (5-30 minutes) and can last for a fair amount of time (many hours). Inhalation (vaping and smoking) will act the quickest because your lungs are the closest to a direct link to your blood stream, besides a direct venous or arterial injection. Also a consideration is that quick into the bloodstream usually means quicker out of the bloodstream. That mean the effects will start taking place within 1-5 minutes and the half-life is thought to be much shorter (around 2-4 hours) that ingestibles (capsules, gummies, tincures). 

How is CBD made and isolated from the cannabis plant?

Making  CBD is very similar to techniques used in the medical marijuana industry. First, you must grow and harvest the hemp (cannabis) plant. After the hemp plant has been harvested, CBD along with other cannabinoids and beneficial plant compounds are extracted using a number of different methods. Two popular methods are CO2 and ethanol extraction, but other methods such as hydrocarbon (e.g. butane and/or propane) or solventless (e.g. rosin press) extraction can also extract the beneficial organic compounds from the cannabis plant. This extract can be used as is or can be cleaned up and be further processed to purify each of the cannabinoids and terpenes separately, which are then used to mix together in desired ratios.

What is the difference between CBD oil and hemp seed oil?

CBD oil is often referred to as “Hemp Oil” and the names are often used interchangeably.  This can be an issue, becasue a cold-pressed hemp oil derived only from the seeds of the plant that does not contain CBD exists. It is important to understand the difference between hemp oil made from seeds that contain no CBD, and hemp-based oil made from the cannabis plant that does contain CBD.

There are many deceptive products that will tout “Cannabis Sativa” on the label, but the ingredients only show hemp seed oil. Hemp seed oil is basically void of any CBD.  Seek clearly labeled amount of CBD in milligrams(mg). This indicates the amount of CBD in the product and dosing often times as well.

Also keep in mind, Amazon’s policy prohibits the sale of any CBD or cannabinoid products, but there can be a lot of shady marketing there to make you believe you are getting a quality product.

Is CBD Safe and Will CBD interact with my other medications?

Using common wellness dosing of CBD (often only 25 or 50 mg, but up to about 200 mg a day) it is unlikely that significant drug interactions would occur. However there is some possibility, especially as dosing amount rise, and there is more danger with some medications than others, like blood thinners. CBD and other cannabinoids can potentially interact with many pharmaceuticals by inhibiting the activity of cytochrome P450 (or CYP450). These CYP450 enzymes are found in the liver and account for the breakdown of a majority of pharmaceuticals on the market. People who use certain medications that require very tight blood level control (like blood thinners and other heart medication) should talk to their doctors.

What is CBD good for?

There are many potential benefits of CBD and it may be useful to treat:

  • Chronic Pain
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Epilepsy & Seizures
  • Insomnia
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Chronic Anxiety
  • Inflammatory Diseases
  • Cancer
  • Huntington’s Disease
  • Eczema and Psoriasis
  • And more…

    Although most of this research is preclinical in nature, the major evidence seems to be most strong with CBD reducing pain and inflammation, relieving anxiety symptoms, and alleviating nausea, although there is much research ongoing.

    DOES CBD HELP SLEEP/INSOMNIA?

    Currently there are many studies being done on whether CBD can help you sleep better and combat insomnia. A medical study published in 2019 called “Cannabidiol (CBD) in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series” looked at whether CBD can improve sleep and/or reduce anxiety (one of the common factors contributing to insomnia). The study surveyed 72 subjects, with 47 experiencing anxiety and 25 experiencing poor sleep and/or insomnia. The subjects were each given 25 milligrams (mg) of CBD in capsule form each day. In the first month, 79.2 percent of the subjects reported lower anxiety levels and 66.7 percent of subjects reported better sleep and reduced insomnia.

    Research published in the National Institutes of Health found that administering 160 mg of CBD to subjects reported sleeping significantly more than those who took a placebo. Another study in the Journal of Pharmacology found that CBD increased sleep time in rats.

    Best Cannabis LED lights for 2 X 2 Grow Tent

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    In this article, we talk about the best LED grow lights for your small cannabis grow.

    Are you new to growing cannabis plants indoors? Or maybe you’re an experienced grower, but want to replace your traditional cannabis grow lights with LEDs? Either way, we got you covered with our picks for the 7 best cannabis LED lights!

    LED Grow Light

    LED (Light Emitting Diodes) lights are a more durable, eco-friendly way to mimic the sun for your indoor plants. These lights don’t use gas, contain zero lead & mercury, have a long life, and produce low amounts of heat. What’s not to love, right?

    For these reasons, many people are swapping out their current grow lights with LEDs. As manufacturers become more innovative, LEDs are becoming less expensive and more energy efficient. If you feel drawn to exploring the LED options out there, then check out this article. We’ll go into detail about the best LED grow lights for a 2’ x 2’ tent.

    Note: Looking a grow tent too? Here are a few to consider:
    Plant House Indoor Grow Tent 2'x2'x67"
    Gorilla Grow Tent Shorty 2'x2.5'
    Gorilla Grow Tent LITE LINE 2'x2.5x5'7"
    Gorilla Grow Tent 2'x2.5'

    Can any LED light be used as a Cannabis grow light?

    Not quite. Cannabis LED grow lights take into account the power supply needed for plants and have a full spectrum of lights. Also, they have built-in fans to cool down the lights, and some are dimmable, while others are easily adjustable. All these design specs make LED grow lights more suitable for a grow space than ordinary LED lights.

    Before you go out and buy an LED grow light for your grow tent, check out our awesome cannabis LED light recommendations first.

    Top 7 Cannabis LEDs for 2 x 2 grow tents

    Quick look at top LED grow light models for 2’ x 2’ tent:

    1. Best overall: California Light Works SolarSystem 275 (200w)
    2. Best bang for your buck: HLG 225 Elite (225w)
    3. Best light for one plant: HLG 65 V2 (65w)
    1. California Light Works SolarSystem 275 LED Grow Light

    cannabis LED
    This lightweight LED grow light weighs a little over seven pounds and is 40% more energy efficient compared to its non-LED competition. Its ability to mimic natural sunlight makes it perfect for all stages of a plant’s life, including seedling, vegetation, and bloom.

    The reason this guy takes the number one spot is not due to it’s price, because it’s the most expensive of all the lights, but it’s also engineered by a company based in Southern California with a long history of LED lighting technology. This isn’t your typical overseas import that will fail after 2 years. The California Light Works SolarSystem uses some of the most state of the art LEDs available with a great heat dissipation design giving it the best output (umol/Joule 400-700nm for the scientist out there) of 2.4. The next closest model is the HLG 225 at 2.2.

    If you decide to add on the SolarSystem Controller, you have the ability to adjust the heat settings based on the growth phase. However, the controller isn’t mandatory, so if you don’t use it, be sure to switch the flip on the light to “manual mode.”

    Another key feature of the SolarSystem 275 is that you’ll never have to change the bulb. It powers on for 50,000 hours or more. And if anything happens to the bulb, California Light Works has you covered under its 5-year warranty. Additionally, installing this light is simple and maintenance is a breeze.

    Product Specifications

    • Power: 200W
    • Efficiency (umol/Joule 400-700nm): 2.4
    • Voltage: 90-277 VAC
    • 2 channel dimming
    • 50,000 lifetime hours
    • Water-resistant built-in fan runs for 50,000 hours
    • 8.5 in x 8.5 in x 4 in
    • 5-year warranty
    • Price: $489

    Buy Now!
    2. Horticulture Lighting Group HLG Elite 225W LED Grow Light

    marijuana grow light

    The 225W Elite LED grow light by Horticulture Lighting Group (HLG) can replace a 315W light and still give the same output but with less overall heat. This light is custom designed, highly efficient, small and compact, yet can cover a lot of space, making it a perfect LED for a 2’ x 2’ grow tent.

    It operates on a fixed spectrum at 4000k but has added 630 and 600 red and deep red LEDs to achieve the full spectrum. The HLG Elite is the type of light you can use during propagation, vegetation, and all the way through harvest.

    The reason the HLG 225 takes our number two spot is the combination of great light output, high quality LED diodes and a great price at under $300 to your door. It looks like it has a funky haircut, but that’s its heat sink making the diodes run more efficiently.

    Product Specifications

  • Power: 225W
  • Efficiency (umol/Joule 400-700nm): 2.2
  • Voltage: 120-277 VAC
  • Flowering footprint: 2 ft x 2 ft
  • 12 in x 10 in x 4 in
  • 1-year warranty
  • Price: $299
    • Buy Now!
    3. California Light Works SolarXtreme 250 LED Grow Light

    cannabis LED

    The SolarXtreme 250 cannabis LED light draws 200 watts of power and is suitable for spaces up to 9 square feet. So a 2’ x 2’ tent or a 3’ x 3’ tent is a great fit with this light. Given its full spectrum capacity, it’s a light you can use for vegetation through flowering.

    One feature that stands out about California Light Works SolarXtreme 250 light is a brand new technology called COB, or chip on board. This gives a great output, but at a lower cost compared to traditional LEDs.

    Product Specifications

    • Power: 200W
    • Efficiency (umol/Joule 400-700nm):Unknown
    • Voltage: 120
    • 8.5 in x 8.5 in x 4 in
    • Weight: 8 pounds
    • Thermal Management: Active
    • Warranty: 3 Years
    • Price: $249
    Buy Now!
    4. Horticulture Lighting Group HLG 100 V2 LED Grow Light



    Horticulture Lighting Group's (HLG) 100 V2 LED is a full spectrum white light quantum board. It’s ultra-thin and lightweight, weighing only a few pounds, but is daisy chain compatible. Given its slim size and weight, they do really well in a grow tent with low heights. You have the option to choose a 3000k or 4000k. The 3000k is great for flowering, while the 4000k is ideal for veg.

    The light has 95 watts of power, making it possible to replace a 300W CFL or 220W T5. In addition, this LED grow light has a passive cooling design and gives enough coverage for a 2’ x 2’ grow tent. But, it also works well in a 3’ x 3’ tent for the vegetation phase.

    Product Specifications

    • Power: 95W
    • Efficiency (umol/Joule 400-700nm): 2.4
    • Voltage: 90-264 VAC
    • LED: 192 pcs Samsung LM301B
    • Flowering footprint: 2’ x 2’
    • 12.8 in x 11 in x 0.25 in
    • Price: $149
    Buy Now!
    5. KIND LED K3 Series 2 XL300 Grow Light

    cannabis grow light
    As one of the best LED grow lights on the market, Kind’s K3 XL Series has a 12-band spectrum that can support your plants from seed to harvest. This includes a blue, red, yellow, orange, white, and green spectrum that contributes to the full-spectrum feature. The blue light is ideal for the vegetative phase, while the red light is beneficial during flowering.

    Furthermore, this light has secondary optical lenses that provide 200% more penetration to the lower canopy to improve your overall yields. Plus, these lenses contain UV light to stress the plants, which in turn promote more resins, oils, and richer terpene profiles. Lastly, the Kind LED grow light works with any wall timer, is easy to use, and comes with lifetime professional grow support.

    Product Specifications

    • Power: 170W
    • Efficiency (umol/Joule 400-700nm): Unknown
    • Voltage: 100-240
    • Full spectrum
    • More than 50,000 lifetime hours
    • Weight: ~15 pounds
    • 15.75 in x 13 in x 3.25 in
    • 3-year warranty
    • Price: $395
    Buy Now!
    6. Horticulture Lighting Group HLG 65 V2 LED Quantum Board

    cannabis LED

    The Horticulture Lighting Group (HLG) 65W LED quantum board comes in a 4000k spectrum and is designed for vegging and clones. Or you can use it as a supplemental light, or for a small plant in a 2’ x 2’ grow tent. It has 120 pcs Samsung LEDs and draws 65 watts of power, which is equivalent to a 150W metal halide.

    This grow light serves a niche market of providing light to cover clones, seedlings, or during the vegetative state in a 2’ x 2’ grow tent. It doesn’t have enough power to promote flowering unless you’re growing in a 2’ x 1’ space. Finally, the HLG 65 V2 doesn’t generate much heat build-up and installation is very simple. Plugin two connections and boom, you have light.

    Product Specifications

    • Power: 65W
    • Efficiency (umol/Joule 400-700nm): 2.4
    • Voltage: 90-264 VAC
    • LED: 120 pcs Samsung LM301B
    • Veg Footprint: 2’ x 2’
    • System efficiency: 165 Lm/Wt
    • 11 in x 9.5 in
    • Price: $99
    Buy Now!
    7. Kessil H350 LED Grow Light 350 Magenta

    grow light

    The Kessil H350 LED Grow Light has 90 watts of power and can cover 3 feet in diameter when the light is suspended 24 inches above the canopy. Its Magenta spectrum is suitable for all growth cycles, but it does have a higher red spectrum light ratio to encourage optimal flowering.

    Kessil’s H350 has a very bright light beam that penetrates the layers of the plants, providing equal coverage while minimizing hot spots. Also, its dense matrix array and 60-degree beam angle make this possible. Moreover, the technology incorporated by Kessil, like the fans, heat sinks, and thermal plates, ensure the light stays cool.

    Product Specifications

    • Power: 90W
    • Efficiency (umol/Joule 400-700nm): Unknown
    • Voltage: 100-240
    • 3.8 in L x 4 in D
    • Weight: 4.1 pounds
    • 2-year warranty
    • Price: $185
    Buy Now!

    LED FAQs

    1. How many plants can I grow with a 200W cannabis LED light?

    When using a 200W cannabis LED light, you can grow between 1 to 3 plants. The actual number will depend on the size of your grow tent or space and the strains you want to grow. Indica strains grow wide and bushy, while Sativa strains grow lean and tall.

    However, autos (auto-flowering strains) stay very small and only reach a few feet in height. So, the number of plants you can grow with a 200W LED light depends on these factors.

    2. How high should I hang my LED grow light?

    If you buy a non-dimmable light you’ll need to adjust the height of your cannabis LED lights throughout the various phases of the plant’s growth cycle. Hanging a light too close to the plants can damage them and affect their health. So, always look at the manufacturer’s recommendation to learn how high to place the light above your plant. To get a general idea, here are the estimated heights at different stages of growth.

    • Propagation: 48 inches
    • Vegetation: 36 inches
    • Flowering: 24 inches
    3. How much does it cost to run a LED grow light?

    LED lights are much more efficient than traditional lights (i.e. HPS, T5, CFL, and incandescents), which means you save a lot of money on energy costs. The cost varies depending on the wattage of your grow light and the electricity costs of the state you live in.

    Let’s look at an example together using the following assumptions:

    • Power of your LED grow light: 200W = 0.20 kW/hour
    • State of residence: Arizona
    • Electricity rate in AZ: 12.78 cents per kilowatt-hour (or $0.1278/kWh)
    • Vegetative state = 18 hours of light/day for 70 days (10 weeks)
    • Flowering state = 12 hours of light/day for 56 days (8 weeks)

    Calculations:

    Cost to run light during veg = 0.20kW/hour x $0.1278 x 18 hours = $0.46/day
    Cost to run light during bloom = 0.20kW/hour x $0.1278 x 12 hours = $0.31/day

    $0.46 x 70 days = $32.20
    $0.31 x 56 days = $17.36

    The total electricity cost to run your lights during veg and bloom phases = $49.56

    As you can see, over a 126 day (18 week period), the electricity cost for the light in your grow tent is minimal. Go ahead and add in the extra cost of running your lights during propagation and seedling to arrive at your total light cost from seed to harvest.

    4. What size Cannabis LED light for 2 x 2 grow tent?

    You have many options to choose from that range in size, power, voltage, and capabilities. Some lights are better suited for propagation, seedling, and vegetation, some are great for the bloom phase, while others are made for all phases of the plant’s life.

    So decide if you want one main light or a few supporting lights. Then read through the list of the best LED grow lights that we discussed in this article. At that point, you’ll be able to tell which one(s) fits your needs the most.

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    CBD for Sleep: 5 Reasons Why CBD is the Answer to Your Sleeping Problems

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    In this article, we will talk about sleep problems and CBD. How can CBD help you get a good night's rest.

    Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the two main cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the other main cannabinoid, CBD does not have intoxicating properties, and instead of getting a person ‘high’, it offers a range of health benefits, such as pain relief.

    Recent research shows that CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which helps maintain a state of stability within the body by regulating hormone levels, coordinating the immune system, and also adjusting sleep/wake cycles.

    CBD for sleep is the new rave that we will explore in this article.

    The Effects and Causes of Sleep Problems on Health

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one-third of American adults struggle with sleeping problems. Not getting enough sleep can have extremely damaging effects on quality of life since it leads to a decrease in the ability to perform critical everyday functions.

    Less than seven hours of sleep at night puts an individual at a greater risk of developing chronic health issues, such as:

    • Heart disease
    • Hypertension
    • Stroke
    • Obesity
    • Diabetes
    • Depression
    • Anxiety

    According to an article published in November 2019, insomnia in older adults can lead to several health implications, such as an increase in injury rates, dementia, and delirium. Another study suggested that almost one-third of US adults suffer from occasional insomnia, whereas 10% suffer from chronic insomnia. Another condition that interferes with regular sleep is obstructive sleep apnea, affecting almost 25 million US adults.

    Insomnia and sleeping difficulties can be caused by several reasons, such as:

    • Anxiety
    • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
    • Depression
    • Physical conditions (pain, soreness)
    • Certain medications
    • Caffeine
    • Environmental factors or surrounding (e.g. loud noises, uncomfortable sleeping area)

    To treat sleeping disturbances, most people take pharmaceutical sleep aids such as Melatonin and Benadryl. However, the long-term use of these medications can be harmful, especially for mental health, and more natural alternatives (such as CBD patches, tinctures, drops, sprays) with less or no side-effects are now being considered.

    5 Reasons to Take CBD for Sleeplessness

    Modern research suggests that taking CBD for sleep problems can help achieve a good night’s slumber. With significant scientific evidence supporting claims of CBD and sleep improvement, here’s why you should consider CBD to relieve your sleeping problems.

    1.     Reduces Anxiety and Stress

    As mentioned earlier, CBD helps regulate hormone levels – in this case, cortisol levels, also known as the stress hormone. Cortisol significantly affects non-REM sleep cycles, and a wide-scale series review noted that CBD was beneficial for treating anxiety-related disorders, in turn improving sleep quality.

    A study published in 2019 evaluated whether CBD could help improve sleep and reduce anxiety – 72 subjects, 47 with anxiety and 25 with sleeping problems, were each administered 25 mg of CBD capsules daily. Results showed that after one month, 79.2 percent of the subjects had lower anxiety levels, and 66.7 percent reported improved sleep.

    2.     Relieves Pain

    Chronic or acute pain causes pain-induced sleeplessness; CBD comes as a most welcome alternative. Instead of causing sedation, CBD works by relieving the symptoms of the pain itself, providing relief without any side-effects. CBD can also be very helpful in relieving post-workout muscle pain and soreness.

    A 2018 study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that CBD can help relieve pain. A substantial amount of evidence was noted to support the fact that CBD appeases chronic pain, facilitating sound sleep.

    3.    Pregnancy-induced Insomnia

    Many women complain of sleep disturbances and insomnia during pregnancy as a result of various factors, such as stress, nausea, pain, and breathlessness.

    According to the World Health Organization (WHO), studies found that using CBD to treat related sleep disturbances had no adverse side-effects. As always though, consult with your doctor before taking CBD during pregnancy as this is not as well studied.

    4.     Regulates Sleep/Wake Cycles

    Insomnia and daytime sleepiness can negatively impact both daytime productivity and a good night’s sleep. Interestingly, CBD exhibits a dual effect depending on the time of day it is taken. This is because CBD regulates the body’s sleep/wake cycles, which helps promote wakefulness during the day and relaxation at nighttime. Taking CBD during daylight hours promotes alertness, which results in a more restful sleep during the night.

    5.     Reduces Nightmares

    A study from 2014 involving four patients with Parkinson’s disease demonstrated that CBD also amended symptoms of REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), a condition that causes the patient to act out their dreams, often associated with sleep disturbances and nightmares. A review published in 2017 also showed similar evidence with regards to CBD and sleep disturbances caused by RBD.

    How Effective is CBD and Does CBD Oil Help with Sleep?

    The dosage of CBD to be effective, and the time you take it depends on many factors – weight, body chemistry, and most importantly the nature of your sleeping problems. Most clinical trials evaluating CBD and sleep involved giving subjects somewhere between 25mg -1,500 mg of CBD per day. For CBD oil, a half a dropper per day suffices.

    It’s advised to begin with a low dosage and progressively increase it until you find a mark that works for you. Be patient, results will eventually come!

    CBD Products Available at TRUPOTENCY

    CBD can be administered in many ways –  oils, capsules, and edibles such as gummies. At Trupotency, there are a wide variety of CBD products specially designed to help relieve your sleeping problems.

    ·        CBD Oil for Sleep Problems

    They offer a full spectrum of wide-ranging and fast-acting CBD oils exclusively formulated to induce feelings of relaxation and provide a truly restorative night’s sleep.

    How to use CBD Oil for sleep problems: Shake the bottle well. Place half a dropper or more under the tongue. Wait for 25 seconds and swallow.

    ·        CBD Tincture for Sleep Problems

    These broad-spectrum cannabinoid tinctures contain CBD with additional natural and beneficial components that promote and enhance sleep.

    How to use CBD Tincture for sleep problems: Use a dropper to apply the desired quantity of tincture under the tongue. Wait, and then swallow.

    ·        CBD Tablet for Sleep Problems

    Our exclusive range of dissolvable sleep tablets is a combination of 25mg CBD and 10mg melatonin to provide an enriched night's sleep. They also come in many flavors, such as spearmint, citrus, and strawberry.

    How to use CBD Tablets for sleep problems: Place half or one tablet under your tongue and wait for it to dissolve before bedtime.

    ·        CBD Gummies for Sleep Problems

    Keep Calm Gummies available at TRUPOTENCY to help elevate mood and keep you grounded and relaxed, thanks to a combination of scientifically approved amino acids and CBD.

    How to use CBD Gummies for sleep problems: Take one gummy (one serving).

    Visit TRUPOTENCY today for a safe and natural cure to your sleeping troubles!

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    10 Best Gift Ideas for Cannabis Connoisseurs and Growing Aficionados (2022)

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    CBD FAQ

    What is CBD?

    Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a non-intoxicating compound found in the cannabis plant with broad therapeutic potential. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids.

    Cannabinoids, which can be either made by plants (phytocannabinoids – phyto pertaining to plants) or produced naturally by the body (endocannabinoid – endo is short for endogenous, meaning originating in the body), are chemical compounds that interact with the body’s own endocannabinoid system. This system is known to manage homeostasis and regulate many bodily processes.

    Scientist and physicians are leading many studies on the effects of CBD for a broad variety of conditions including chronic pain, insomnia, PTSD, anxiety, epilepsy, dementia, cancer, and more. Plenty of preclinical research and a fair amount of clinical studies have shown that CBD has strong anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, anti-depressant, anti-psychotic, anti-tumoral, and neuroprotective qualities.

    Will CBD make you high and is CBD addictive?

    Simple answer is NO. THC is the main culprit in cannabis that causes a “high”, although there are other cannabinoids that will cause intoxication and euphoria. If you are sensitive to THC, there are many products that are made with 99%+ pure CBD that should be void of any amount of THC that would cause this effect.

    Another important point is that CBD is NOT addictive. This might make CBD a potential alternative to opioid medications, like Oxycontin, for pain relief. CBD has reduced negative effects, like addiction while maintaining pain relief. CBD is though to even be beneficial for withdrawal from other drugs, like heroine.

    Are CBD products legal in all 50 states and what is the difference between hemp and marijuana?

    According to the federal government yes, as long as they are derived from hemp, not marijuana, and contain less than 0.3% THC. You do not need a medical marijuana card to buy or use hemp-derived CBD products. One caveat is that some states, like Nebraska and Idaho, have different state laws and only allow CBD if it has no THC (0.0%). Laws are changing everyday, so double check with your state laws to be safe.

    What is the difference between hemp and marijuana?
    Although both hemp and marijuana are Cannabis, there are significant differences between them both chemically and legally. Cannabis as hemp is federally legal and is defined as having less than 0.3% THC, with higher amount of CBD (usually about 5-15%). Cannabis as marijuana is federally illegal and is typically cultivated to produce very high amounts of THC, sometime upward of 25%.

    All consumer CBD products you see on the market come from legal cannabis as hemp, which contain very little THC, but high CBD.

    HOW DO I TAKE CBD?

    One of the most popular types of CBD are CBD gummies. CBD gummies are in the “edible” or “ingestible” category. These are eaten just like the non-CBD gummies, but you probably shouldn’t eat the whole bag of the CBD variety. These are popular because of their tasty, fun form factor. Not all CBD gummies are created equal though. Other ingestible CBD products include CBD capsules, some tinctures, tablets, chocolates, beverages, suckers, and more.

    CBD tinctures are one of the most popular types of CBD products. A simple CBD tincture is often only two ingredients, CBD isolate or a full-spectrum high CBD extract and a carrier oil (commonly fractionated coconut oil called MCT oil). You use these by placing them under your tongue for a short time and then swallowing. It is recommended to hold the oil under your tongue for about 1-2 minutes. This is because the CBD can be absorbed through blood capillaries under the tongue. You can also just swallow the tincture if you would like. CBD tinctures are often also flavored  tastier experience.

    Topical CBD products are a great way to apply CBD to a targeted area for direct effect. This category includes CBD lotions, CBD creams, CBD facial serums, and more. Topical CBD lotions and similar products are applied just like you would use a hydrating lotion for rough skin or cooling pain relief cream to a sore area. If you are having skin irritation or joint pain, you just rub the topical CBD onto the affected area.

    Transdermal patches are a great way to get sustained release of CBD throughout your day for lasting relief. Similar to lidocaine and nicotine patches, CBD transdermal patches are designed to enhance the penetration of CBD so that it can get through your skin and into your bloodstream. CBD transdermal patches are placed on an area with a of arteries and veins, like the wrist, and stay on for up to 8 hours. Discrete, travel friendly, and ease of use make transdermal patches a great choice for CBD oil based products.

    There are many more form factors, but the above just highlights some of the popular types. You can also find vapes and hemp flower for those who inhale, suppositories, shampoo, lip balm, and even pillows. Some of these have more therapeutic value than others (still scratching my head about the pillow).

    HOW DOES CBD WORK?

    Overall, the way CBD actually works is abundantly confusing. There is actually little classical cannabinoid receptor (CB1 and CB2) activation like many other cannabinoids, most notably THC. CBD does act on the endocannabinoid system, just in a somewhat unique fashion. One way is to inhibit an enzyme that breaks down endocannabinoids, thereby enhancing your natural endocannabinoid tone. CBD also acts through a variety of other receptors including GPR55, various TRP channels, PPAR-gamma, and more (even opioid receptors involved in pain). As Science progresses, we will undoubtedly start to create a more full and accurate picture of how CBD work, but for now, if you find relief with CBD, then it does not really matter that we do not know how it works.

    Tylenol (acetaminophen/paracetamol) is taken all over the world everyday and we still don’t understand how it works. CBD is in the same boat. We are not 100% sure how it works, but we do know it works.

    DO CBD topicals actually WORK?

    CBD topicals have proven effective for a broad variety of issues, such as chronic pain, dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, acne, skin cancer, and more. Many individuals swear by them.

    WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? FULL SPECTRUM, BROAD SPECTRUM, ISOLATE?

    1. Full Spectrum: Full spectrum CBD is an extract that contains all compounds found naturally occurring in the plant, including terpenes, essential oils, and other cannabinoids. The full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and essential oils extracted from the plant work together to magnify the therapeutic benefits of each individual cannabinoid. This is commonly referred to as the “entourage effect“.
    2. Broad Spectrum: Broad spectrum CBD is a bit of a mix between Full Spectrum CBD and CBD Isolate. Like Full Spectrum CBD, the other compounds found within the plant are preserved in the extract; however, like CBD Isolate, THC is completely removed.
    3. Isolate: In scientific terms, an isolate is the purest form of a compound, which is produced by singularly extracting that compound from its environment and isolating it from all other compounds. With that being said, CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, which is produced by removing all other compounds found in the plant including terpenes, flavonoids, plant parts, and other cannabinoids.

    How much CBD should you take?

    Many people wonder how much CBD they should take and unfortunately there is probably not a great solution for the exact amount. One complication is that everyone’s biology is different and will respond differently to the same compounds. Think about caffeine, some people cannot even have a sip of coffee without getting the jitters, while others need a double shot of espresso to get the morning started. There are even websites, similar to 23andMe, that will analyze your genetics then come up with a theoretical “best” THC to CBD ratio based on your particular genes. So a “one size fits all” is probably not realistic.

    However to give an example of what is used, Epidiolex (the FDA approved version of CBD for seizures) can be used at 5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight (mg/kg)  twice a day. So what does that mean? A 155 pound person is about 70 kilograms, so 5 mg/kg would equate to 350 mg CBD twice a day. Now this is pure CBD for a very specific disease, so it probably does not translate well to other disorders, but highlights the safety levels. 

    There is also something called the entourage (or ensemble) effect, whereby various cannabinoids and terpenes can work synergistically to enhance the effects of each other. So using a combination of other cannabinoids and terpenes in conjunction with CBD can reduce the amount of CBD you need.

    Will I pass a drug test if I take CBD?

    Unfortunately… it depends. Yes you will pass your drug test if you use only CBD (with a caveat). Most drug tests can distinguish between THC and CBD and their metabolites, but some low cost tests (like basic chemical reaction drug testing kits for the field and some antibody testing) can trigger false positives. Most legitimate testing labs will be able to distinguish between THC and CBD and their metabolites using a technology called mass spectrometry (mass spec or MS for short). The other caveat is that full spectrum products will contain some THC in them. Depending on the levels, this could also cause a positive reading on a drug test. You can however find  many CBD isolate and CBD broad spectrum products that have had THC removed from them.

    When does CBD start to work and how long does it stay in your system?

    What we know from current data is that there is a lot of variability in study to study and from person to person. Tinctures are one of the most popular forma of CBD. Generally, CBD taken orally (by mouth, including other ingestibles like CBD gummies) tends to take about two to four hours to reach maximum levels in your blood and the elimination half-life has been reported anywhere from two hours up to 24 hours from a single use and two to five days for chronic oral administration. Your body also seem to absorbed more CBD when taken with a meal, particularly a high-fat meal.

    One major vairable is that everyone’s biology is slightly different and will not respond in the exact same way to the same compounds. Using caffeine as an example, some people that take even a sip of coffee get the jitters, while others need their daily pot of coffee to get through the day. Some of this is tolerence, but a lot of it is genetics. There are even websites, like popular genetics genealogy websites, that will analyze your genetics then come up with a theoretical “best” THC to CBD ratio based on your particular genes. THis indicates that CBD and cannabinoids are not “one size fits all”.

    Sublingual administration is close to ingestibles in terms of absorption. Here a tincture is placed under the tongue and help in place for one to two minutes. This is thought to slightly increase the amount of CBD absorbed because of the high amount of blood vessels under the tongue. So, the effect might start somewhat quicker than a capsule  or CBD gummies, but some of the tincture will ultimately make it to your stomach. 

    Many other types of administration can drastically change how your body processes CBD. Topicals are mostly beneficial for the skin disorders, but many people find muscle and joint pain relief as well. Topical CBD tends to start working fairly quickly (5-30 minutes) and can last for a fair amount of time (many hours). Inhalation (vaping and smoking) will act the quickest because your lungs are the closest to a direct link to your blood stream, besides a direct venous or arterial injection. Also a consideration is that quick into the bloodstream usually means quicker out of the bloodstream. That mean the effects will start taking place within 1-5 minutes and the half-life is thought to be much shorter (around 2-4 hours) that ingestibles (capsules, gummies, tincures). 

    How is CBD made and isolated from the cannabis plant?

    Making  CBD is very similar to techniques used in the medical marijuana industry. First, you must grow and harvest the hemp (cannabis) plant. After the hemp plant has been harvested, CBD along with other cannabinoids and beneficial plant compounds are extracted using a number of different methods. Two popular methods are CO2 and ethanol extraction, but other methods such as hydrocarbon (e.g. butane and/or propane) or solventless (e.g. rosin press) extraction can also extract the beneficial organic compounds from the cannabis plant. This extract can be used as is or can be cleaned up and be further processed to purify each of the cannabinoids and terpenes separately, which are then used to mix together in desired ratios.

    What is the difference between CBD oil and hemp seed oil?

    CBD oil is often referred to as “Hemp Oil” and the names are often used interchangeably.  This can be an issue, becasue a cold-pressed hemp oil derived only from the seeds of the plant that does not contain CBD exists. It is important to understand the difference between hemp oil made from seeds that contain no CBD, and hemp-based oil made from the cannabis plant that does contain CBD.

    There are many deceptive products that will tout “Cannabis Sativa” on the label, but the ingredients only show hemp seed oil. Hemp seed oil is basically void of any CBD.  Seek clearly labeled amount of CBD in milligrams(mg). This indicates the amount of CBD in the product and dosing often times as well.

    Also keep in mind, Amazon’s policy prohibits the sale of any CBD or cannabinoid products, but there can be a lot of shady marketing there to make you believe you are getting a quality product.

    Is CBD Safe and Will CBD interact with my other medications?

    Using common wellness dosing of CBD (often only 25 or 50 mg, but up to about 200 mg a day) it is unlikely that significant drug interactions would occur. However there is some possibility, especially as dosing amount rise, and there is more danger with some medications than others, like blood thinners. CBD and other cannabinoids can potentially interact with many pharmaceuticals by inhibiting the activity of cytochrome P450 (or CYP450). These CYP450 enzymes are found in the liver and account for the breakdown of a majority of pharmaceuticals on the market. People who use certain medications that require very tight blood level control (like blood thinners and other heart medication) should talk to their doctors.

    What is CBD good for?

    There are many potential benefits of CBD and it may be useful to treat:

    • Chronic Pain
    • Multiple Sclerosis
    • Epilepsy & Seizures
    • Insomnia
    • Parkinson’s Disease
    • Alzheimer’s Disease
    • Chronic Anxiety
    • Inflammatory Diseases
    • Cancer
    • Huntington’s Disease
    • Eczema and Psoriasis
    • And more…

      Although most of this research is preclinical in nature, the major evidence seems to be most strong with CBD reducing pain and inflammation, relieving anxiety symptoms, and alleviating nausea, although there is much research ongoing.

      DOES CBD HELP SLEEP/INSOMNIA?

      Currently there are many studies being done on whether CBD can help you sleep better and combat insomnia. A medical study published in 2019 called “Cannabidiol (CBD) in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series” looked at whether CBD can improve sleep and/or reduce anxiety (one of the common factors contributing to insomnia). The study surveyed 72 subjects, with 47 experiencing anxiety and 25 experiencing poor sleep and/or insomnia. The subjects were each given 25 milligrams (mg) of CBD in capsule form each day. In the first month, 79.2 percent of the subjects reported lower anxiety levels and 66.7 percent of subjects reported better sleep and reduced insomnia.

      Research published in the National Institutes of Health found that administering 160 mg of CBD to subjects reported sleeping significantly more than those who took a placebo. Another study in the Journal of Pharmacology found that CBD increased sleep time in rats.

      7 Great Strains of Marijuana for the Novice Grower

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      In this article, we talk about a few of the best cannabis strains for novice growers. Let's grow!

      Want additional seed resources and deals? Check out the Growers Network Seed Hub!

      Smoking dispensary-bought weed is always great and all that, but there is little to compare with the satisfaction that comes with getting high on your own supply. You might think that growing your own cannabis crop is beyond your capabilities as a horticulturist. However, you might be surprised at just how straightforward growing a cannabis plant can be.

      After all, there is a reason why the cannabis plant is able to thrive in almost every corner of the globe. The plant itself is incredibly hardy and will find a way to survive in most climates. This makes it the ideal candidate for amateur growers with little or no prior experience of growing plants.

      Although female cannabis plants will flower whatever the weather, to grow proper pungent high-grade like you find in the dispensary, you will probably need to get yourself kitted out with a bit of equipment (especially if you live in a colder region that is unsuited to outdoor grows), such as lights and a hydroponic system.

      However, once you have a rig set up, the next most important thing to get your hands on is some high-quality easy-to-grow seeds. To help you in choosing some for your first growing project, we have put together this list of the seven best marijuana strains for novice growers.

      Not sure which strain to choose? That’s fine, there is lots to choose from. For our readers up north, visit some independent review websites for a collection of Canada’s best online dispensaries. There, you’ll be able to find some quality dispensaries to try these strains and more.

      For our USA readers, pay attention to the cannabis laws applicable in your state and shop accordingly. Either way, online is where you’ll find the best selection and of course unbeatable prices. That is, until your first crop is ready of course.

      1. Easy Bud



        2. The clue to how easy it is to grow this strain is in its name. This cross between white Indica and Ruderalis is an expert at growing in colder climates, meaning that it can flourish almost everywhere. It will take around nine weeks for flowers to be ready to harvest after germination. Once cured, the buds contain a mellow 12% THC. The plant is small enough to fit in relatively compact spaces, making it a perfect project for beginners.

      2. Northern Lights



        3. Northern Lights is a strain that probably ranks in the top ten favorite strains of most cannabis enthusiasts. It is also a popular choice among novice growers because of its quick harvesting time of eight weeks and ease of cultivation. A single plant will grow up to 1.6m tall when cultivated indoors and yields flowers that contain approximately 18% THC.

      3. White Widow



        4. White Widow is a hybrid strain (50:50 Indica/Sativa) which is hardy enough to flourish in an outdoor setting. Like all cannabis plants, however, it will yield the most bud when grown indoors under lights. The plant will grow to a height of 60-100cm, and its flowers will take around eight to nine weeks to mature before they are ready to be harvested and cured.

      4. Blue Dream



        5. Blue Dream is a favorite among smokers and growers alike. It makes a great strain for novice growers because it is high-yield and extremely easy-to-grow. The hybrid plant is known to be resistant to the scourge of many first-time grow projects, root rot and powdery mildew. Its herbal taste is complemented by the energetic high given by its 18.5% THC content.

      5. Somango XL



        6. Somango XL is a strain that does especially well in colder weather when compared to other strains. This means that you grow it outside in more adverse conditions, making it perfect for the Canadian climate. Somango XL is Indica-dominant and is known to flower eight to nine weeks after germination. It has a medium-high THC content of 18%, which leads to a powerful body-high.

      6. Green Crack



        7. Green Crack is another strain which is highly suitable to the inexperienced grower. Long popular in the outdoor Californian growing scene, Green Crack is a Sativa-dominant strain which has a citrus aroma and produces an uplifting high. Many novice growers choose this strain because it represents one of the easier Sativa strains to grow (Sativa plants are notoriously tricky to grow. In addition to its quick flowering time and high yield, Green Crack contains 17% THC.

      7. Cinex



        8. If you like your weed to have a high THC content, this Sativa-dominant strain might be one for you to make a grow project out of. Its 22% THC content is nothing to sniff at, leading to an energetic and euphoric high. Cinex grows well when the SCROG technique is employed in smaller grow spaces, and its genetics provide natural protection against mold and mildew. The end result is a plant that is easy to grow and produces high yield buds.

      Conclusion

      Ever feeling like you do a lot of consuming but not so much in the way of producing? Growing your own bud can be one of the most rewarding things that you can do. Watching your babies grow is satisfying in a way that only a seasoned gardener can understand, and you will soon find yourself salivating in anticipation of the first smoke of your plant’s pungent flowers.

      If you are going to have a go at improving your green-fingered credentials, we advise you to try one of the straightforward strains listed above to cut your teeth before you move on to anything more complex. By starting with friendly strains, you’re giving yourself the best chance to succeed at growing marijuana.

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      10 Best Gift Ideas for Cannabis Connoisseurs and Growing Aficionados (2022)

      December 7, 2022

      Developing and Optimizing a Cannabis Cultivation System

      December 14, 2021

      Dealing with Insomnia: How Can CBD Help?

      December 10, 2020

      Your Guide to Sleep and CBD

      December 7, 2020

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      Marijuana Seed Strain FAQs

      Is it legal to ship marijuana seeds through the mail? I don't want to get arrested.

      This varies, so research the laws in your jurisdiction about shipping cannabis seeds through the mail. Most reputable vendors ship discretely and there are no issues.

      What are the best marijuana seeds to buy?

      This depends on your budget, available time to grow, and your level of experience. There are advantages to “regular” seeds as they typically result in a larger harvest but you will have to plan for only half of the seeds being female. Feminized strains will give you nearly 100% female plants, but you pay a little more for the convenience.

      Where can I buy the best cannabis seeds online?

      There are a number of great online seed shops. All of our recommendations come from professional cannabis growers, medicinal patients, personal experience, and customer reviews.

      What’s the difference between autoflower and regular cannabis seeds?

      Autoflower seeds begin to flower according to their age. “Regular” seeds flower in response to a change in the light cycle. Autoflowering strains are “easier” in the sense that you don’t have to switch the light cycle, they just start flowering when they’re ready.

      What’s the difference between regular marijuana seeds and feminized marijuana seeds?

      Feminized seeds have been bred and treated to nearly 100% female. They cost a bit more but you don’t have to worry about throwing out the half of your plants that turn out male.

      Are feminized cannabis seeds worth the price?

      When you buy feminized seeds you can be confident that nearly 100% of your plants will be female. Feminized seeds are definitely worth the price if the idea of sexing your plants and removing the males isn't for you.

      Are some cannabis seed strains easier to grow than others?

      Yes. As mentioned above, autoflowering strains are easy to grow due to their simple light requirement. Some regular seeds are not much more difficult as long as you can control the light cycle. A few other strains, typically regular seed strains, can have very specific nutrient, watering, temperature, and humidity needs.

      What strains are good for growing marijuana indoors? What seed strains are good for growing marijuana outdoors?

      There are many good strains suited for indoor growing and just as many good seed strains for outdoor cultivation. You have to consider the space you’re growing in. Outdoor marijuana strains will grow tall and may not be suitable for you indoor grow. The main consideration when deciding between indoor and outdoor is the amount of space. An “outdoor” strain will grow fine indoors, as long as it has enough room.

      Top 4 CBD Gummies, Tablets and Capsules to Fight Insomnia

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      In this article, you will learn more about sleeping problems along with how CBD can help, and some of the best CBD Gummies and capsules to make sure you get a good night's rest. Bonus facts and tips about sleep at the end.

      Woman laying in bed struggling to sleep

      Staring at your phone? Rolling around? Can’t sleep? You are like the many other Americans who struggle to find a restfulness at night. A press release by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2016 conveyed that more than 1/3 of American adults do not sleep well.

      About 7-8 hours of sleep at night is recommended for adults. If you are getting less than 7 hours of sleep, this can pose greater risks of chronic conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, obesity, diabetes, and mental distress. An article published in November 2019, showed the risks associated with insomnia in older adults. Getting less sleep not only increases injury rates, like falling, but is also correlated with reduced mental health, leading to dementia, delirium, and declining memory in patients.

      A large number of people suffer with insomnia — almost a third of adults in the United States suffer from occasional insomnia and 10% from chronic insomnia. Beside insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder affecting 25 million U.S. adults. Those with high blood pressure or diabetes are some of the major conditions that are correlated with sleep apnea.

      These sleep disorders have a detrimental effect on our quality of life and leads to reduced ability to perform essential daily functions. Anxiety, PTSD, depression, painful physical conditions, medication, and caffeine can all contribute to poor sleep and insomnia. Many people take a sleep aid to combat insomnia, like melatonin, benadryl, and now CBD for sleep has been getting much more attention. CBD, unlike THC, will not get you high, but has been shown to have many health benefits.

      Those who suffer with anxiety and people who have PTSD also tend to suffer from a sleep disorder. There are many studies ongoing, but one case study indicated that CBD oil could be an effective alternative to pharmaceutical medications. Other clinical data also back this up. The use of CBD oil is being considered as a safe treatment for combating anxiety and enhancing sleep in a young patient with PTSD. Similarly, CBD is thought to reduce social anxiety in teenagers, helping them to get better sleep as well.

      Using CBD to treat a variety of sleeping disorders, or other disorders that lead to poor sleep (chronic pain, anxiety, etc.), has gained popularity over the years. NBC reported that a concerning 9 million people used pharmaceutical sleeping pills to find sleep at night. Using many of these drugs can lead to a 35% increased risk for a person to develop cancer. Many people also have side-effects with these pharmaceuticals as well. Now, more and more people are avoiding pharmaceuticals and seeking natural sleep aids, such as CBD based products, to help get a restful night’s sleep.

      As touched on, one of the main reasons people use CBD products besides sleep is for chronic pain. People who experience chronic pain also tend to lose a lot of sleep. CBD is a huge help to many who deal with the chronic pain at night. Treating chronic pain with CBD products can help improve the quality of sleep, and therefore the quality of life, in patients.

      Use of CBD for Sleep

      Problems sleeping continue to drive people to seek natural relief with CBD products. Can CBD products help with sleep? Some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD may indeed help with sleep. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system and effectively causes a relaxed state. 

      A recent review involving patients who experience anxiety or sleep disorders showed efficacy in anxiety-related sleep disorders. A majority of people in this review received 25 mg of CBD in a capsule per day and results showed 79% of the subjects reported decreased anxiety, while about 67% had improved sleep at the end of the first month.

      Cortisol is the stress hormone, which will usually peak in the morning, however people with insomnia tend to have high cortisol levels at night. People with high cortisol levels in the evening have been correlated waking up many times in the night. One investigation found that cortisol levels could actually be reduced if participants consumed 300 or 600 mg of CBD oil. These results suggest that those with high anxiety and cortisol could benefit from CBD.

      Best CBD Products for Sleep

      TruPotency.com helps you choose the right CBD products. They provide a selection of high-quality CBD gummies, capsules, and tablets for sleep and recommend the best ones suited for you. With thousands of products to choose from, looking for the highest quality, safest, and most effective CBD products for sleep can cause you unnecessary anxiety. TruPotency makes it their mission to test different CBD products and brands with independent laboratory partners.

      A quick look at the top 4 CBD Products for Sleep

      Best overall with melatonin: Global Xtracts - Phytocannabinoid-Rich Softgels + Melatonin

      Best overall without melatonin: Medterra Keep Calm Gummies

      Great choice for dissolvable: Medterra CBD+Melatonin Dissolvable tablets

      Great choice for flavor variety: NanoPharm Premium Hemp Oil Gummies

      Top 4 Best Lab Tested CBD Gummies and capsules for sleep.

      Medterra Keep Calm Gummies

      Medterra Keep Calm CBD Gummies

      • 750mg CBD Total
      • 25mg CBD Per Dose
      • THC Free — Yes

      Stay grounded and calm as you slip into a relaxing night with Medterra’s CBD Keep Calm Gummies to center help center mood. Thanks to the power of natural ingredients like L-Theanine and CBD these CBD gummies are a natural way to help with stress throughout your day and to help you relax in the evening.  L-Theanine is  an amino acid that research indicates promotes a natural sense of relaxation and calm. When CBD is combined with the naturally calming L-Theanine is can help increase the relaxation and anxiety reduction for bedtime. Made with nothing artificial, these are also vegan, gluten free, and contain no corn syrup.

      NanoPharm Premium Hemp Oil Gummies

      NanoPharm Premium Hemp Oil Gummies

      • 750mg CBD Total
      • 25mg CBD Per Dose
      • THC Free — Yes

      NanoPharm's gummies are made from all natural, vegan ingredients and utilizes their 99% CBD / THC-Free Oil. These CBD gummies are designed to take the edge off and allow your body to get a full night's rest while activating your endocannabinoid system.

      Medterra CBD + Melatonin Dissolvable tablets

      Medterra CBD + Melatonin Dissolvable tablets

      • 750mg CBD Total
      • 25mg CBD Per Dose
      • THC Free — Yes

      This spearmint flavored CBD tablets for sleep has 10mg of melatonin, which can help you catch some Zzz’s and get that good night’s rest you deserve. Put the Medterra sleep tablet under your tongue and allow it to dissolve. This CBD product for sleep is fast-acting. One of the best products when you want to hit the sack fast. Take this, and you’ll be out in no time.

      Global Xtracts - Phytocannabinoid-Rich Softgels + Melatonin

      Global Xtracts Phytocannabinoid-Rich Softgels + Melatonin

      • 750mg CBD Total
      • 25mg CBD Per Dose
      • THC Free — Yes

      Made from organic broad spectrum hemp oil, this CBD capsule also contains melatonin designed to help you with occasional sleep problems and feel well rested in the morning. In addition, the nanoemulsion delivery system is designed to increase the absorption of beneficial compounds to your body. Because this is made from broad spectrum hemp oil, you will also gain benefits of the "entourage effect" from CBDV, beta-caryophyllene, and alpha humulene to help sore muscles after a workout or a long day at work and relief from upset stomach.

      Bonus Tips and Facts about Sleep

       

      FACTS

      TIPS

      • Stick to a regular sleep schedule.
      • Practice relaxation techniques before bed (e.g. mindfulness and body scanning).
      • Avoid naps during the day.
      • Exercise. This will get your body ready for slumber.
      • Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows. You spend ⅓ of your life in bed.
      • Avoid caffeine after noon and avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and heavy meals before bed.
      • Avoid electronics before bed. Lower brightness and use “night mode” after 7 PM to help your eyes.
      • Manage daily stress. This could be through mindfulness, therapy, journaling, or a number of other techniques along with a healthy diet and exercise.
      • Use the bedroom for only sleep and intimacy. NO TV.

      Editor's Note: Want to know even more about CBD? You can find articles on GrowersNetwork focused on...

      Sleep and Insomnia

      Sleep and Insomnia 2

      Stress and Anxiety

      Quality CBD products

      Mind and Body

      and CBD for Cats

      You can also check out TruPotency, the only online retailer that 3rd party tests every product they sell!

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      10 Best Gift Ideas for Cannabis Connoisseurs and Growing Aficionados (2022)

      December 7, 2022

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      December 14, 2021

      Dealing with Insomnia: How Can CBD Help?

      December 10, 2020

      Your Guide to Sleep and CBD

      December 7, 2020

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      3 Best CBD & Hemp Oil for Sleep and Insomnia, Lab Tested, Doctor Consulted

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      This article will take you through CBD, sleep, and product reviews for products designed for insomnia and better sleep. BONUS: At the end there is an FAQ with a sleep Dr.

      The following is an article produced by a contributing author. Growers Network does not endorse nor evaluate the claims of our contributors, nor do they influence our editorial process. We thank our contributors for their time and effort so we can continue our exclusive Growers Spotlight service.

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      Your Guide to Sleep and CBD

      December 7, 2020

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      Being a human is complicated. Things are never black and white. As you get older, you find sleep tends to rank higher on the list of priorities, and for good reason. As your wisdom grows, you realize that sleep plays a bigger and more crucial role in your physical and psychological health.

      Insufficient sleep and insomnia are becoming recognized as important drivers of decreased wellbeing causing reduced efficiency and productivity, errors, and accidents. Medical studies consistently reveal that people who sleep poorly are at greater risk for a number of diseases and health problems including but not limited to obesity, heart disease, diabetes and general shortening of life expectancy.

      If this realization isn’t enough to make you prioritize sleep and find ways to combat your sleepless nights or insomnia, consider that having adequate, restful sleep boosts your immune system, reduces mood disorders such as depression and anxiety and can help you maintain a healthy weight. That’s right, sleep-deprived people have reduced levels of leptin (the chemical that makes you feel full) and increased levels of ghrelin (the hunger-stimulating hormone). 

      Lack of good sleep has plagued me as an overworked and busy-minded individual, so I set out to talk to a M.D. from Johns Hopkins with experience studying how cannabinoids affect sleep patterns. Because this article mentions specific products, I must leave the doctor’s name out due to University protocols, but he may or may not have given a TED talk on sleep. For purposes of this article, I’ll refer to him as Dr. Peters. Most of the information from Dr. Peters is in the FAQ’s below the list of products. Have questions? Click here to skip to our CBD & Hemp Oil FAQs below.

      QUICK LOOK AT THE BEST CBD & HEMP OIL PRODUCTS FOR SLEEP & INSOMNIA:

      Best Overall CBD Product for Sleep/Insomnia: Double Strength Drops + Sleep by Plant People Co

      Best CBD Product for Sleep/Insomnia with Melatonin: Phytocannabinoid-Rich Softgels + Melatonin by Global Xtracts

      Best Transdermal CBD Product for Sleep/Insomnia: Hemp Infused Nite Nite Patch by The Good Patch

      How I reviewed the best CBD and hemp oil for sleep and insomnia: At the advice of Dr. Peters, we only tested products sold by a research-backed retailer called TruPotency. They blind laboratory test hundreds of CBD based products to verify ingredients and potency, along with ensuring no harmful pesticides, residual solvents or other non-desirables make it into the end products. From there, I received one of each of the products TruPotency sells that are intended for sleep. 

      What led me to review these CBD products for sleep? I’ve dealt with sleep issues all my life. I have been prescribed valium, ambien, antidepressants, allergy medication, melatonin and more to assist with my issues of insomnia and sleepless nights. Of everything I’ve tried, ambien and valium by far worked the best, yet they are medications that really shouldn’t be used long-term and frankly, I’m scared of becoming reliant on them. My holy grail is finding something I can take both to go to sleep and in the middle of the night that can help put me back to sleep without feeling groggy the next day. I tried all the products below for one week each. Here are my findings.

      1. Double Strength CBD Drops + Sleep by Plant People Co

      Overview:

      • Form factor: CBD tincture made from organic coconut MCT oil
      • Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, or Isolate: Full Spectrum
      • Included Cannabinoids: CBD, CBG, CBC, CBN, CBDV
      • Good for: Those who want to get away from melatonin and other common sleep medications. Those who have busy minds. Those who want whole plant extract.
      • Bad for: Those who don’t like tinctures (oil) under their tongue. Those who want THC free product (this has THC, but under the legal limit--it’s legal in all 50 states).

      This turned out to be my favorite CBD product for insomnia overall, though if you asked me two or three days into  using it I would have doubted that it would be my number one choice. This is because I like products to make me feel tired. This product didn’t make me necessarily feel tired. Instead it made me subtly relaxed. What helped was I started the dosage at one dropper (24 mg of CBD) and then changed it to two droppers (48 mg of CBD) on day three. Once I went to two droppers, I noticed I fell asleep about 45 minutes after taking it. I also usually wake up about twice a night either to use the bathroom or just because. In the last five days of using this product I got up only once and not at all two of the nights. 

      I’m curious if it built up in my system over a few days that allowed it to be more effective. Either way, the last five days of my testing consisted of some of the most restful, natural sleep during my total experiment. I woke up feeling refreshed and not dragging myself out of bed. The combination of how benign this product is in terms of ingredients and how good I felt upon waking up granted this the top spot. One important note, I ended up taking about 40-50mg the last three nights and noticed that dosage worked best for me. 

      Reviews from users I found helpful:

      I've been around the block with CBD and really felt the difference in the quality of this product. I especially like the focus and transparency regarding clean ingredients and sourcing. A world of different compared to other stuff out there! - Jeffrey Gordon / Verified Buyer

      I have bad anxiety so I actually take this sleep blend when I feel a panic coming on. It has really helped. Full fledge panic attack I take almost 2 ml. It has saved my a**. It taste delicious. Lemony, I think. This is actually the first CBD oil I have tried that has tasted this good. I told my sister to get this for her anxiety and the first thing she asked, "how does it taste?". She purchased recently. Can you make a 60 ml or even a 90 ml bottle? It is pricey but you get what you pay for. One more thing, I recently lost someone to suicide. I was having a really bad day so I decided to eat an edible. It heightened all my grief, pain and anxiety. I ate too much and it took me over that edge into a really bad high, so i remembered reading if you get too high cbd will take it down. It worked, thank god. - Colleen Diaz / Verified Buyer

      I’ve had chronic insomnia for years and have tried many prescription and non prescription remedies as well as “ sleep hygiene” methods, all with somewhat limited or partial results. The drops plus sleep are a Godsend. I am sleeping deeper and more restfully than I have in many years. I fall asleep easily and if I wake up during the night, I’m able to go back to sleep easily. Thank you for this wonderful product. I have recommended it to friends and family who have sleep issues. - Dorthy Cunningham / Verified Buyer

      2. CBD Phytocannabinoid-Rich Softgels + Melatonin by Global Xtracts

      Overview:

      • Form factor: CBD capsule made from organic hemp
      • Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, or Isolate: Broad Spectrum
      • Included Cannabinoids: CBD and CBDV
      • Good for: Those who prefer a capsule/pill over a tincture or patch. Those who find melatonin useful, but want to increase it’s sleep-inducing effects in a safe way.
      • Bad for: Those who get intense, undesirable dreams when using melatonin.

      The CBD capsules by Global Xtracts come in extremely professional packaging. I could easily see picking this up at a local CVS or Walgreens. They look just like my Advil softgel capsules. I really like that the capsules themselves are relatively small, so easy to swallow. These CBD capsules had a good chance of being my top pick, yet they narrowly take the number two spot for me, and it’s only because I tend to have intense dreams when taking melatonin. That said, this product probably had the most noticeable effect of making me sleepy. 

      The reason it takes the number two spot instead of number one is I woke up in the middle of the night a few times, mainly due to bad dreams. Others may not have this issue, but I can only report on my personal experience. Other than that, this product is probably the most convenient to use of everything tried. I highly recommend these CBD capsules for those who are already comfortable with melatonin because this puts me to sleep better than any melatonin-only product I’ve ever used.

      Reviews from users I found helpful:

      Phytocannibinoid - Rich Soft Gel Caps are the best sleep aids I have tried to date. When I'm having a difficult time falling asleep, I take two at bedtime and have constantly slept more that 8 + hours. They do not leave you feeling groggy in the morning. I highly recommend! - Tina Thomason / Verified Buyer

      I’m 73 years old. I’m pretty sure all the melatonin stored in my body has left the station, so to speak. These are the new go-to among my friend group. Highly recommend for those baby boomers like me who fall asleep fine, but need help staying asleep. - Mona Friedman / Verified Buyer

      I always have trouble sleeping when I travel. These have helped me while I’m on the road at hotels and motels that don’t exactly hit the spot. Helps me get good sleep on the long plane rides too! - Seth Kaplan / Verified Buyer

      3. CBD Hemp Infused Nite Nite Patch by The Good Patch

      Overview:

      • Form factor: CBD transdermal patch
      • Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, or Isolate: Isolate
      • Included Cannabinoids: CBD and CBDV
      • Good for: Those who want consistent delivery of CBD + melatonin throughout the night. Those who would rather not ingest something orally before bed.
      • Bad for: Those who are bothered by the feeling of a patch (they’re pretty small). 

      This was probably the most interesting product I received. At first I assumed  this product was more of a novelty and couldn’t be as potent as the first two, but Dr. Peters told me that my assumption was false. Transdermal patches actually absorb into the bloodstream better than tinctures and capsules due to being able to absorb directly into the bloodstream, avoiding the first-pass liver metabolism. In fact, Dr. Peters also told me that transdermal patches deliver medication in a much more consistent, metered way. CBD via transdermal patches enters the bloodstream relatively slowly compared to oral methods of ingestion, which can be an advantage for avoiding potential side effects associated with rapid peak levels. 

      I noticed the patch gave me overall similar effects of the Global Xtracts capsules that I gave the number two spot. I fell asleep pretty easily, but did have some vivid dreams. The dreams were  slightly less intense with this product. The patch is very small and discreet. It’s clear, so even if you had it anywhere on your body it would be hard for someone to notice. It sticks well and is comfortable to wear throughout the night . This CBD patch gets the number three spot mainly due to its cost. I think the product is great, but the other products are around $2-4 per serving to sleep (which I think my sleep is easily worth how much I spend on a cup of coffee, or three, assuming I didn’t sleep well, but I digress...), the Nite Nite Patch is $12 per use. I’m sure you can get a discount by buying a lot, but for those without a fair amount of disposable income this may put it out of the running. Probably best for those nights you expect not to sleep well in advance.

      Reviews from users I found helpful:

      I didn't think these would work because usually nothing does but I was completely satisfied with this patch....I usually toss and turn all night but I slept very soundly after using a patch just once. I will absolutely be ordering more of these!

      - Lori Walker / Verified Buyer

      As an essential worker during the COVID19 crisis, the Be Calm and Nite Nite patches have been a lifesaver for me. They've worked so well for me, I've given them to friends to try and they loved them too! - Becky Fullham / Verified Buyer

      I'm 52 & have trouble both falling asleep & staying asleep. I found that if I use the NITE NITE patch, put it on at least 2 hours before bed, it really calms me, helps me get to sleep and stay asleep. I worried that the patch would annoy me but I honestly can't feel it once it's on. I will buy again and have recommended this to all my friends, esp. pre/menopausal friends. - Heather Gordon / Verified Buyer

      CBD AND HEMP OIL FAQS WITH DR. PETERS 

      doctor sitting at laptop in lab coat

      DOES CBD HELP SLEEP/INSOMNIA?

      Currently there are many studies being done on whether CBD can help you sleep better and combat insomnia. A medical study published in 2019 called “Cannabidiol (CBD) in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series” looked at whether CBD can improve sleep and/or reduce anxiety (one of the common factors contributing to insomnia). The study surveyed 72 subjects, with 47 experiencing anxiety and 25 experiencing poor sleep and/or insomnia. The subjects were each given 25 milligrams (mg) of CBD in capsule form each day. In the first month, 79.2 percent of the subjects reported lower anxiety levels and 66.7 percent of subjects reported better sleep and reduced insomnia.

      Research published in the National Institutes of Health found that administering 160 mg of CBD to subjects reported sleeping significantly more than those who took a placebo. Another study in the Journal of Pharmacology found that CBD increased sleep time in rats.

      HOW MUCH CBD SHOULD I TAKE FOR SLEEP AND INSOMNIA?

      Each product comes with directions and dosing instructions. Generally how many milligrams (mg) of CBD for sleep is about 1-6mg per 10 lbs of body weight. For example, for a 150 lb person that would be 15-90mg. That seems like a wide range, and it is. Many different factors determine the minimum effective dose of CBD for you to have the desired effect. In this case, sleep.

      Most importantly, speak to your doctor about how much you can start with, especially if you have any medical conditions. Though it’s a small list, CBD may interact with other drugs, so talk to your doctor to make sure there aren't any drug interactions. 

      It's a good idea to start with a low dose of CBD. Start on the lower end of the dosage spectrum to ensure you don't have any negative reactions. CBD has been found to generally be safe, and occasionally users report changes in appetite, fatigue, and diarrhea.

      Keeping a record of how much you take and how you felt can also be very helpful. If after a few days you aren't feeling much effect, you can slowly up your dosage. If you're taking CBD to improve your sleep, try to monitor these data points:

      1. How long it took you to fall asleep
      2. How many times you woke up during the night
      3. How long you slept
      4. How you felt when you woke up

      HOW TO USE CBD FOR SLEEP

      For what it’s worth, I’m about 145 lbs and find that around 50-60mg is the right amount for me to get the desired effects of restful sleep. I take it approximately 45 minutes before I intend to be asleep. Of course, your mileage may vary.

      One of the most important distinctions you’ll want to make is what form you’d like to try: tincture (oil), capsule/pill, gummy, patch, vape, etc… I recommend using whatever form factor makes you most comfortable.

      WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? FULL SPECTRUM, BROAD SPECTRUM, ISOLATE?

      1. Full Spectrum: Full spectrum CBD is an extract that contains all compounds found naturally occurring in the plant, including terpenes, essential oils, and other cannabinoids. The full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and essential oils extracted from the plant work together to magnify the therapeutic benefits of each individual cannabinoid. This is commonly referred to as the “entourage effect“.
      2. Broad Spectrum: Broad spectrum CBD is a bit of a mix between Full Spectrum CBD and CBD Isolate. Like Full Spectrum CBD, the other compounds found within the plant are preserved in the extract; however, like CBD Isolate, THC is completely removed.
      3. Isolate: In scientific terms, an isolate is the purest form of a compound, which is produced by singularly extracting that compound from its environment and isolating it from all other compounds. With that being said, CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, which is produced by removing all other compounds found in the plant including terpenes, flavonoids, plant parts, and other cannabinoids.

      DOES YOUR ABILITY TO SLEEP CHANGE AS YOU AGE?

      Yes, after you go through puberty and exit your teenage years, most people see a slow gradual decline in the amount of ‘deep sleep’ or ‘restorative sleep’ they get on average per night. One of the best natural ways to combat this is to ensure you expend enough energy throughout the day to get your body tired.

      WHY DOES YOUR ABILITY TO SLEEP PROPERLY CHANGE AS YOU AGE?

      Your ability to sleep as you age is due to many factors, with some people being more influenced by certain factors than others. One important factor is that our bodies slowly produce less and less melatonin as we age. This can lead to issues of insomnia or not getting enough deep sleep. Other issues that come up are aches and pains. CBD can work to reduce anxiety, racing minds and reduce pain which all can assist with treating insomnia. 

      CBD DRUG INTERACTIONS

      Research has shown that CBD is generally safe and has few, if any, minor side effects. That doesn’t mean you can take CBD with all other medications. CBD does have some drug interactions. The concern has to do with how the body metabolizes certain substances.

      Before using CBD, it’s important to talk to your doctor about all of the vitamins, supplements, and prescription and medications you’re currently taking. As a rule of thumb, if a medication says to avoid grapefruit juice, there’s a good chance you shouldn’t be taking CBD with that medication as well. 

      IS CBD ADDICTIVE?

      The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has officially stated that CBD is not addictive. When someone stops using CBD, they do not experience withdrawal symptoms.

      IS CBD A SEDATIVE?

      No, CBD is not a sedative. CBD assists in sleep through reducing pain/inflammation and anxiety/stress. Be relieving those effects, your body more naturally can relax and get restful sleep. This is one of the reasons why users do not feel sleepy or groggy the next morning after using CBD.

      WILL CBD OIL GET ME HIGH?

      No. These products contain little or no THC. The amount of THC in some of the full spectrum products is so negligible that even if you took the entire container (which I do not recommend you do), you will still not get high. CBD is a completely different kind of cannabinoid than THC, and CBD will reduce anxiety whereas THC can exacerbate it.

      CAN I USE HIGH THC PRODUCTS WITH THESE CBD PRODUCTS?

      Yes, you can. For example, if you’re used to smoking cannabis before going to bed, you can safely add any of the CBD products mentioned above to your nighttime regimen. Some users state that the psychoactive effects of high THC products (smoking, vaping, edibles, etc…) are heightened when combined with high CBD products. Alternatively, some users that use high THC products to sleep can lessen their dosage (e.g., smoke 3 puffs instead of 6) when combined with CBD. We have also heard the same effects with painkillers, such as ibuprofen, when combined with CBD.

      DO THESE PRODUCTS REALLY CONTAIN CBD?

      Yes. All products discussed in the above article about CBD and sleep/insomnia have been lab tested to assure you receive 3rd party verified products that are as they are described. More information is available on the retailer's website.   

      WHERE TO BUY CBD OIL FOR SLEEP AND INSOMNIA?

      CBD oil is sold in a variety of retail locations and from online stores. There are high quality retailers and then there are retailers who’re just jumping on the new CBD fad. We recommend TruPotency as they're the only CBD vendor we know who fully blind 3rd party laboratory tests all brands for purity and quality. They also have a scientific advisory board of some of the top cannabinoid academic researchers.

      THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING CBD:

      1. Don't automatically go for the cheapest product. Many inexpensive CBD products are trying to use low quality inputs to cash in on the ‘CBD gold rush.’ Many of these inexpensive products have been tested and found to have a fraction of the amount of CBD advertised on their label. 
      1. See if your CBD has been tested at a 3rd party laboratory. Ideally you want the products tested at an ISO certified laboratory, which has higher standards for quality control. This laboratory report is commonly referred to as a Certificate of Analysis or COA. 
      1. Don't give up! CBD can take some time to show its effectiveness and you may need to increase the dosage. Be patient, methodical and find out what works best for you.

      ARE CBD OIL AND HEMP OIL THE SAME THING?

      Yes and no. People use these terms interchangeably these days but the fact is if you have a full spectrum hemp oil, it's going to contain CBD. Beware products made from only hemp SEED oil. Hemp seed oil contains no CBD and won't be effective for treatment. Predatory companies take advantage of this common confusion. 

      CAN I BUY CBD ON AMAZON?

      No, currently you cannot buy products with CBD on Amazon. Amazon has made it a company policy to not allow the sale of products containing CBD until the FDA releases more guidelines. As mentioned in the previous question, hemp seed oil is allowed to be sold on Amazon since it has no CBD. Many consumers assume hemp seed oil is CBD oil and do not receive any of the expected benefits. This unfortunately causes confusion in the marketplace. 

      MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

      Always consult your doctor before you begin taking a supplement or make any changes to your existing medication and supplement routine. This is not medical advice, but it is information you can use as a conversation-starter with your physician at your next appointment.

      Editor's Note: Want to know even more about CBD? You can find articles on GrowersNetwork focused on...

      Sleep and Insomnia

      Stress and Anxiety

      Quality CBD products

      Mind and Body

      CBD for Dogs

      and CBD for Cats

      You can also check out TruPotency, the only online retailer that 3rd party tests every product they sell!

      Do you have any questions or comments?

      Feel free to post below!

      Top CBD oil for Anxiety – 4 Products to Consider – Review

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      In this article, we will take you through 4 of the best CBD products designed for anxiety. Stress and anxiety are at an all time high during the current COVID pandemic, so everyone needs a little extra CBD and cannabinoids in their life.

      The world has seemingly been turned upside down by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and the deaths associated with COVID-19. With so much uncertainty, many people are worried about the future. People are as worried about tomorrow, next week, and next month as they are next year.

      There are many people hoarding food and other items, like the infamous toilet paper shortages everywhere. People are worried that the virus might affect themselves or their family, especially those caring for the very young, the elderly, or those with certain medical conditions. Many are out of work, whether temporary or permanent, and are struggling financially.

      While Americans tend to have high stress and anxiety levels anyway, this just exacerbates the problem and brings everyone’s stress even higher. So, what can you do?

      Living an overall healthy life can naturally make your body more resistant to stress and anxiety. This means eating healthy foods, exercising, and finding ways to manage stress, like mindfulness, yoga, or other hobbies you enjoy. Even journaling can help. You don’t have to make drastic changes today, but small steps, like adding one fruit and vegetable for dinner or doing lunges and stretching 3 days a week, can get you started in the right direction.

      CBD can be complementary to these lifestyle changes to help you fight stress and anxiety while tackling your day with a sense of calm.  The benefits of CBD are many and fighting cortisol is one of the main ones associated with stress and anxiety.

      Cortisol is known as the stress hormone. Occasional stress is ok,but long term stress and elevated cortisol can be detrimental to your health. This can negatively affect your mood, digestion, sleep, weight, memory, libido, and more. CBD is thought to boost your defense to everyday stressors and reduce cortisol. Cortisol is also known to be exceptionally high in those with anxiety disorders.

      The benefits of CBD are apparent, but which product is right for you? Here, we will highlight 4 CBD oil products for anxiety.

      Plant People Co - Be Calm Hemp Extract + Adaptogens Capsules - 450mg

      These Be Calm capsules have some wonderful ingredients to supplement the CBD. These capsules also contain Albizia (bark and flower), Avena Sativa, Ashwagandha, Schisandra berry, Holy Basil Leaf, and L-Theanine. This combination of ingredients is designed to function as an adaptogen to enhance your feeling of calmness and sense of wellbeing. One of the best choices for capsules out there to help fight stress and anxiety with CBD.

      Verified Purchase - Keri T. - "I love these capsules!!! Using CBD tinctures used to help my my anxiety some, but after I tried CBD paired with the all natural herbal supplements and adaptogens in these capsules I couldn't go back. STRESS FREE ALL DAY!!!"

      Global Xtracts - Phytocannabinoid-Rich Tincture - Orange - 1500mg

      This orange tincture from Global Xtracts is made with Phytocannabinoid-Rich organically grown hemp oil, meaning you get the benefit of the "entourage effect" of the extra cannabinoids and terpenes. Along with CBD you will get the benefits from high levels of the uplifting terpene d-limonene that will help relieve stress and improve focus in addition to helping to ease occasional muscle soreness, and smaller amounts of cannabinoids and terpenes to improve the overall "entourage effect", enhancing the benefits of CBD to fight anxiety. With a light orange flavor, this tincture is pleasant to consume. One of the best CBD oils for anxiety along with our next closely related selection.

      Verified Purchase - Kyle M. - "Big fan of the orange flavor.  Many others I tried were either too plain or tasted too 'earthy'. Also, as a terpene enthusiast, I appreciate the high amount of limonene. I feel it really gives me a more focused feeling, especially when paired with my favorite 'herb'."

      Populum - Advanced Hemp Oil - 1000mg

      This full spectrum hemp oil packs a load of the uplifting terpene d-limonene that will help relieve anxiety and improve focus in addition to helping to ease occasional muscle soreness. Because of the d-limonene, orange oil, and stevia, this oil has a light sweet citrus flavor that make this enjoyable to consume. Enhancing the "entourage effect", this hemp oil also contains, CBC, beta-myrcene, alpha-pinene, linalool, and ocimene to improve relief from soreness and stress. A great CBD oil for anxiety.

      Verified Purchase - Sam T. - "I use some of Populum's other products for my dog and can vouch for their quality. That's why I chose their 1000mg tincture. Great flavor with a  full spectrum blend really helps relieve my back pain throughout the day and I feel much more level-headed as well."

      The Good Patch - Hemp Infused Be Calm Patch - 15mg

      These transdermal CBD patches are designed to consistently release their contents throughout your day for lasting relief. Along with 15mg of organically grown, non-GMO hemp extract, these patches will deliver menthol, designed to help to reduce soreness and to help you relax.

      Verified Purchase - Sara L. - "I put one of these on before my morning yoga session. I can really tell a difference in the extra focus, calmness, and even balance, throughout my yoga practice. The patches last all day, so I use the cooling menthol feeling as a meditation focus point when the day gets hectic and stressful."

      CBD FAQ

      What is CBD?

      Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a non-intoxicating compound found in the cannabis plant with broad therapeutic potential. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids.

      Cannabinoids, which can be either made by plants (phytocannabinoids - phyto pertaining to plants) or produced naturally by the body (endocannabinoid - endo is short for endogenous, meaning originating in the body), are chemical compounds that interact with the body’s own endocannabinoid system. This system is known to manage homeostasis and regulate many bodily processes.

      Scientist and physicians are leading many studies on the effects of CBD for a broad variety of conditions including chronic pain, insomnia, PTSD, anxiety, epilepsy, dementia, cancer, and more. Plenty of preclinical research and a fair amount of clinical studies have shown that CBD has strong anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, anti-depressant, anti-psychotic, anti-tumoral, and neuroprotective qualities.

      Will CBD make you high and is CBD addictive?

      Simple answer is NO. THC is the main culprit in cannabis that causes a "high", although there are other cannabinoids that will cause intoxication and euphoria. If you are sensitive to THC, there are many products that are made with 99%+ pure CBD that should be void of any amount of THC that would cause this effect.

      Another important point is that CBD is NOT addictive. This might make CBD a potential alternative to opioid medications, like Oxycontin, for pain relief. CBD has reduced negative effects, like addiction while maintaining pain relief. CBD is though to even be beneficial for withdrawal from other drugs, like heroine.

      Are CBD products legal in all 50 states and what is the difference between hemp and marijuana?

      According to the federal government yes, as long as they are derived from hemp, not marijuana, and contain less than 0.3% THC. You do not need a medical marijuana card to buy or use hemp-derived CBD products. One caveat is that some states, like Nebraska and Idaho, have different state laws and only allow CBD if it has no THC (0.0%). Laws are changing everyday, so double check with your state laws to be safe.

      What is the difference between hemp and marijuana?
      Although both hemp and marijuana are Cannabis, there are significant differences between them both chemically and legally. Cannabis as hemp is federally legal and is defined as having less than 0.3% THC, with higher amount of CBD (usually about 5-15%). Cannabis as marijuana is federally illegal and is typically cultivated to produce very high amounts of THC, sometime upward of 25%.

      All consumer CBD products you see on the market come from legal cannabis as hemp, which contain very little THC, but high CBD.

      HOW DO I TAKE CBD?

      One of the most popular types of CBD are CBD gummies. CBD gummies are in the “edible” or “ingestible” category. These are eaten just like the non-CBD gummies, but you probably shouldn’t eat the whole bag of the CBD variety. These are popular because of their tasty, fun form factor. Not all CBD gummies are created equal though. Other ingestible CBD products include CBD capsules, some tinctures, tablets, chocolates, beverages, suckers, and more.

      CBD tinctures are one of the most popular types of CBD products. A simple CBD tincture is often only two ingredients, CBD isolate or a full-spectrum high CBD extract and a carrier oil (commonly fractionated coconut oil called MCT oil). You use these by placing them under your tongue for a short time and then swallowing. It is recommended to hold the oil under your tongue for about 1-2 minutes. This is because the CBD can be absorbed through blood capillaries under the tongue. You can also just swallow the tincture if you would like. CBD tinctures are often also flavored  tastier experience.

      Topical CBD products are a great way to apply CBD to a targeted area for direct effect. This category includes CBD lotions, CBD creams, CBD facial serums, and more. Topical CBD lotions and similar products are applied just like you would use a hydrating lotion for rough skin or cooling pain relief cream to a sore area. If you are having skin irritation or joint pain, you just rub the topical CBD onto the affected area.

      Transdermal patches are a great way to get sustained release of CBD throughout your day for lasting relief. Similar to lidocaine and nicotine patches, CBD transdermal patches are designed to enhance the penetration of CBD so that it can get through your skin and into your bloodstream. CBD transdermal patches are placed on an area with a of arteries and veins, like the wrist, and stay on for up to 8 hours. Discrete, travel friendly, and ease of use make transdermal patches a great choice for CBD oil based products.

      There are many more form factors, but the above just highlights some of the popular types. You can also find vapes and hemp flower for those who inhale, suppositories, shampoo, lip balm, and even pillows. Some of these have more therapeutic value than others (still scratching my head about the pillow).

      HOW DOES CBD WORK?

      Overall, the way CBD actually works is abundantly confusing. There is actually little classical cannabinoid receptor (CB1 and CB2) activation like many other cannabinoids, most notably THC. CBD does act on the endocannabinoid system, just in a somewhat unique fashion. One way is to inhibit an enzyme that breaks down endocannabinoids, thereby enhancing your natural endocannabinoid tone. CBD also acts through a variety of other receptors including GPR55, various TRP channels, PPAR-gamma, and more (even opioid receptors involved in pain). As Science progresses, we will undoubtedly start to create a more full and accurate picture of how CBD work, but for now, if you find relief with CBD, then it does not really matter that we do not know how it works.

      Tylenol (acetaminophen/paracetamol) is taken all over the world everyday and we still don't understand how it works. CBD is in the same boat. We are not 100% sure how it works, but we do know it works.

      DO CBD topicals actually WORK?

      CBD topicals have proven effective for a broad variety of issues, such as chronic pain, dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, acne, skin cancer, and more. Many individuals swear by them.

      WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? FULL SPECTRUM, BROAD SPECTRUM, ISOLATE?

      1. Full Spectrum: Full spectrum CBD is an extract that contains all compounds found naturally occurring in the plant, including terpenes, essential oils, and other cannabinoids. The full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and essential oils extracted from the plant work together to magnify the therapeutic benefits of each individual cannabinoid. This is commonly referred to as the “entourage effect“.
      2. Broad Spectrum: Broad spectrum CBD is a bit of a mix between Full Spectrum CBD and CBD Isolate. Like Full Spectrum CBD, the other compounds found within the plant are preserved in the extract; however, like CBD Isolate, THC is completely removed.
      3. Isolate: In scientific terms, an isolate is the purest form of a compound, which is produced by singularly extracting that compound from its environment and isolating it from all other compounds. With that being said, CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, which is produced by removing all other compounds found in the plant including terpenes, flavonoids, plant parts, and other cannabinoids.

      How much CBD should you take?

      Many people wonder how much CBD they should take and unfortunately there is probably not a great solution for the exact amount. One complication is that everyone’s biology is different and will respond differently to the same compounds. Think about caffeine, some people cannot even have a sip of coffee without getting the jitters, while others need a double shot of espresso to get the morning started. There are even websites, similar to 23andMe, that will analyze your genetics then come up with a theoretical “best” THC to CBD ratio based on your particular genes. So a “one size fits all” is probably not realistic.

      However to give an example of what is used, Epidiolex (the FDA approved version of CBD for seizures) can be used at 5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight (mg/kg)  twice a day. So what does that mean? A 155 pound person is about 70 kilograms, so 5 mg/kg would equate to 350 mg CBD twice a day. Now this is pure CBD for a very specific disease, so it probably does not translate well to other disorders, but highlights the safety levels. 

      There is also something called the entourage (or ensemble) effect, whereby various cannabinoids and terpenes can work synergistically to enhance the effects of each other. So using a combination of other cannabinoids and terpenes in conjunction with CBD can reduce the amount of CBD you need.

      Will I pass a drug test if I take CBD?

      Unfortunately... it depends. Yes you will pass your drug test if you use only CBD (with a caveat). Most drug tests can distinguish between THC and CBD and their metabolites, but some low cost tests (like basic chemical reaction drug testing kits for the field and some antibody testing) can trigger false positives. Most legitimate testing labs will be able to distinguish between THC and CBD and their metabolites using a technology called mass spectrometry (mass spec or MS for short). The other caveat is that full spectrum products will contain some THC in them. Depending on the levels, this could also cause a positive reading on a drug test. You can however find  many CBD isolate and CBD broad spectrum products that have had THC removed from them.

      When does CBD start to work and how long does it stay in your system?

      What we know from current data is that there is a lot of variability in study to study and from person to person. Tinctures are one of the most popular forma of CBD. Generally, CBD taken orally (by mouth, including other ingestibles like CBD gummies) tends to take about two to four hours to reach maximum levels in your blood and the elimination half-life has been reported anywhere from two hours up to 24 hours from a single use and two to five days for chronic oral administration. Your body also seem to absorbed more CBD when taken with a meal, particularly a high-fat meal.

      One major vairable is that everyone’s biology is slightly different and will not respond in the exact same way to the same compounds. Using caffeine as an example, some people that take even a sip of coffee get the jitters, while others need their daily pot of coffee to get through the day. Some of this is tolerence, but a lot of it is genetics. There are even websites, like popular genetics genealogy websites, that will analyze your genetics then come up with a theoretical “best” THC to CBD ratio based on your particular genes. THis indicates that CBD and cannabinoids are not “one size fits all”.

      Sublingual administration is close to ingestibles in terms of absorption. Here a tincture is placed under the tongue and help in place for one to two minutes. This is thought to slightly increase the amount of CBD absorbed because of the high amount of blood vessels under the tongue. So, the effect might start somewhat quicker than a capsule  or CBD gummies, but some of the tincture will ultimately make it to your stomach. 

      Many other types of administration can drastically change how your body processes CBD. Topicals are mostly beneficial for the skin disorders, but many people find muscle and joint pain relief as well. Topical CBD tends to start working fairly quickly (5-30 minutes) and can last for a fair amount of time (many hours). Inhalation (vaping and smoking) will act the quickest because your lungs are the closest to a direct link to your blood stream, besides a direct venous or arterial injection. Also a consideration is that quick into the bloodstream usually means quicker out of the bloodstream. That mean the effects will start taking place within 1-5 minutes and the half-life is thought to be much shorter (around 2-4 hours) that ingestibles (capsules, gummies, tincures). 

      How is CBD made and isolated from the cannabis plant?

      Making  CBD is very similar to techniques used in the medical marijuana industry. First, you must grow and harvest the hemp (cannabis) plant. After the hemp plant has been harvested, CBD along with other cannabinoids and beneficial plant compounds are extracted using a number of different methods. Two popular methods are CO2 and ethanol extraction, but other methods such as hydrocarbon (e.g. butane and/or propane) or solventless (e.g. rosin press) extraction can also extract the beneficial organic compounds from the cannabis plant. This extract can be used as is or can be cleaned up and be further processed to purify each of the cannabinoids and terpenes separately, which are then used to mix together in desired ratios.

      What is the difference between CBD oil and hemp seed oil?

      CBD oil is often referred to as “Hemp Oil” and the names are often used interchangeably.  This can be an issue, becasue a cold-pressed hemp oil derived only from the seeds of the plant that does not contain CBD exists. It is important to understand the difference between hemp oil made from seeds that contain no CBD, and hemp-based oil made from the cannabis plant that does contain CBD.

      There are many deceptive products that will tout “Cannabis Sativa” on the label, but the ingredients only show hemp seed oil. Hemp seed oil is basically void of any CBD.  Seek clearly labeled amount of CBD in milligrams(mg). This indicates the amount of CBD in the product and dosing often times as well.

      Also keep in mind, Amazon's policy prohibits the sale of any CBD or cannabinoid products, but there can be a lot of shady marketing there to make you believe you are getting a quality product.

      Is CBD Safe and Will CBD interact with my other medications?

      Using common wellness dosing of CBD (often only 25 or 50 mg, but up to about 200 mg a day) it is unlikely that significant drug interactions would occur. However there is some possibility, especially as dosing amount rise, and there is more danger with some medications than others, like blood thinners. CBD and other cannabinoids can potentially interact with many pharmaceuticals by inhibiting the activity of cytochrome P450 (or CYP450). These CYP450 enzymes are found in the liver and account for the breakdown of a majority of pharmaceuticals on the market. People who use certain medications that require very tight blood level control (like blood thinners and other heart medication) should talk to their doctors.

      What is CBD good for?

      There are many potential benefits of CBD and it may be useful to treat:

      • Chronic Pain
      • Multiple Sclerosis
      • Epilepsy & Seizures
      • Insomnia
      • Parkinson’s Disease
      • Alzheimer’s Disease
      • Chronic Anxiety
      • Inflammatory Diseases
      • Cancer
      • Huntington’s Disease
      • Eczema and Psoriasis
      • And more...

        Although most of this research is preclinical in nature, the major evidence seems to be most strong with CBD reducing pain and inflammation, relieving anxiety symptoms, and alleviating nausea, although there is much research ongoing.

        DOES CBD HELP SLEEP/INSOMNIA?

        Currently there are many studies being done on whether CBD can help you sleep better and combat insomnia. A medical study published in 2019 called “Cannabidiol (CBD) in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series” looked at whether CBD can improve sleep and/or reduce anxiety (one of the common factors contributing to insomnia). The study surveyed 72 subjects, with 47 experiencing anxiety and 25 experiencing poor sleep and/or insomnia. The subjects were each given 25 milligrams (mg) of CBD in capsule form each day. In the first month, 79.2 percent of the subjects reported lower anxiety levels and 66.7 percent of subjects reported better sleep and reduced insomnia.

        Research published in the National Institutes of Health found that administering 160 mg of CBD to subjects reported sleeping significantly more than those who took a placebo. Another study in the Journal of Pharmacology found that CBD increased sleep time in rats.

        Editor’s Note: Want to know even more about CBD? You can find articles on GrowersNetwork focused on…

        Sleep and Insomnia

        Sleep and Insomnia 2

        Quality CBD products

        Mind and Body

        Stress and Anxiety

        CBD for Dogs

        and CBD for Cats

        You can also check out TruPotency, the only online retailer that 3rd party tests every product they sell!

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