Cannabinoids

As the hemp industry rises, legislation is trying to keep up with the changes of this industry. The marijuana industry wants to engulf it into dispensary sales. Hemp is federally legal, sort of and marijuana is state by state, with many laws to really confuse the shopper. In this post JPotter Health would like to try to inform as best we can where this is legally and where it seems to be going. The US House Agriculture Committee has recently passed an amendment to the 2024 Farm Bill, aiming to redefine hemp to address a 'loophole' formed by the 2018 Farm Bill. This proposed change may ban hemp-derived cannabinoid products like delta-8 THC and THCA, sparking a significant debate on cannabinoid regulation. While the bill still has a legislative journey ahead, its potential impact on the $28 billion gray market and the future of the US hemp industry is considerable. Despite efforts to 'close the loophole,' lawmakers could choose to maintain current regulations or delay decisions.

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp by defining it as containing no more than 0.3% THC, inadvertently fostering a booming market for CBD and hemp-derived products. These products are now widely available, thanks to the bill's vague language and the botanical similarity between hemp and cannabis. The 2024 Farm Bill amendment proposes a stricter definition, limiting hemp to "naturally occurring, naturally derived, and non-intoxicating cannabinoids," potentially banning popular products like gummies and edibles.

Contributing to the debate, a DEA official clarified in a May 13 letter that the legal threshold for hemp includes delta-9 THC and related cannabinoids like THCA. THCA is a non-intoxicating precursor to THC that becomes active when heated. Although THCA products contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, they are often sold outside licensed cannabis markets. The DEA's clarification asserts there is no loophole, arguing that THCA does not meet the legal definition of hemp. This stance has intensified debates within the hemp industry. While the DEA plans to finalize this policy, a federal appeals court in 2022 upheld exemptions for delta-8 THC from DEA regulations, leaving hemp-derived products in a legal gray area.

Amid federal uncertainty, states have taken varied approaches. States like New York, Washington, Oregon, and Colorado have moved to ban hemp-derived cannabinoids, while others, such as California, Michigan, Maryland, and Connecticut, limit sales outside regulated cannabis channels. Meanwhile, Minnesota, Louisiana, and Virginia are crafting laws to regulate these products within the hemp-derived market. This ongoing state-level regulation highlights the complex landscape surrounding hemp-derived cannabinoids amidst federal policy discussions. 

As pet owners, our furry friends' health and well-being are of the utmost importance to us. With the growing interest in alternative treatments, one compound has been gaining attention for its potential therapeutic benefits: cannabidiol (CBD). In this blog post, we will dive into the scientific validation of CBD for managing diseases in dogs and cats, as presented in the Annual Review of Animal Biosciences (Vol. 11:227-246, 2023). 

Understanding CBD:

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce the "high" associated with marijuana use. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors in the body, which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes.

Validating the Biological Effects:

Extensive research has been conducted to explore CBD's potential therapeutic effects. Studies have shown that CBD exhibits anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and anti-anxiety properties in both humans and animals. Additionally, CBD has been found to have an immunomodulatory effect, potentially aiding in managing autoimmune diseases in pets.

Efficacy in Managing Specific Diseases:

1. Epilepsy and Seizures: CBD has shown promising results in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs and cats, especially those suffering from difficult-to-treat epilepsy.

2. Arthritis and Joint Pain: CBD may alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis in pets, improving their mobility and overall quality of life.

3. Anxiety and Stress: CBD has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing anxiety and stress-related behaviors in animals, making it a potential tool for managing behavior and separation anxiety in pets.

Ensuring Safety and Quality:

It is crucial to note that not all CBD products are created equal. Quality control and proper sourcing are essential when choosing CBD products for your pets. Opt for products that undergo rigorous third-party testing and are derived from organically grown hemp. Additionally, consulting with a veterinarian experienced in cannabinoid therapeutics is recommended to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure compatibility with any existing medications.

The scientific validation of cannabidiol for managing diseases in dogs and cats is an exciting area of research. While more studies are needed to fully understand its potential, CBD has shown considerable promise in various aspects of pet health. As responsible pet owners, it is our duty to stay informed, consult with professionals, and choose high-quality products to ensure the well-being of our beloved four-legged companions.

As anxiety continues to rise in our society, many people are searching for natural remedies to help manage their stress. CBD has become increasingly popular for its potential to ease anxiety without the long list of side effects associated with other medications. JPotter Health has witnessed firsthand the positive effects of CBD on anxiety, and a recent publication in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association confirms these experiences. The study found that CBD consistently improves clinical outcomes in anxiety disorders with minimal adverse effects. However, further research is needed to determine the optimal dosage, administration method, and dosing strategy for CBD in anxiety management. At JPotter Health, we take CBD seriously and only recommend thoroughly vetted and safe products. If you'd like to learn more about CBD and anxiety from an expert, contact us for a consult with our coach. We offer a range of modalities, including CBD, to help combat anxiety and help you achieve the life you desire.

Discovering the true contents of CBD products can be challenging in an industry lacking regulations. With CBD being added to everything from oils to lotions, it's important to know how to choose the right product. First, look for a company that utilizes third-party testing and makes the results available to consumers. The lab report should provide information on the cannabinoid content. Understanding the different types of products, such as isolates, broad spectrum, and full spectrum, can help determine which one is right for you. Additionally, checking for the absence of pesticides, molds, heavy metals, and solvents in the lab results ensures a safe and high-quality experience.

In a blog post titled "How to Read a Lab Report for CBD Lotions, Oils and Tinctures," the author emphasizes the importance of understanding lab reports when choosing CBD products. With the CBD industry lacking regulations, it's crucial to find reputable companies that conduct third-party testing. Lab reports provide valuable information on CBD and THC content, allowing consumers to make informed decisions.

The first step in evaluating a lab report is to check the amount of CBD in the product, as higher potency indicates a more potent product. The next consideration is the level of THC, which should not exceed 0.03%. Additionally, consumers should be aware of the three types of CBD products: isolates, broad-spectrum CBD, and full-spectrum CBD. Isolates only contain CBD, while broad-spectrum products include minor cannabinoids and no THC. Full-spectrum CBD contains CBD, THC, minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, offering potential therapeutic benefits through the entourage effect.

Lab reports also provide information on the presence of terpenes, as well as the absence of pesticides, fungi, molds, heavy metals, and solvents. By understanding these aspects of lab reports, consumers can navigate the CBD market more confidently. If you want to learn more about CBD and find the right product for you, the blog post offers a link to schedule a consultation with CBD Coach, Jackie Potter.