CBD OIL

Who they are: California natives Jennifer Galvin and Kelly Stoll know a thing or two about massage therapy: they are the proprietors of Vital Body Therapy, a “beloved” orthopedic spa in Santa Cruz. We’re talking teams of therapists and 50,000+ clients. Dedicated to natural wellness, the dynamic duo launched CBD products from their kitchen. The products were a hit–Vital Body Therapeutics has since grown to a 5,000 square foot facility.

Popularity aside, products are still hand-made. Glorious. Each is designed to “target inflammation and pain.” Certificates of analysis are available but only report cannabinoid potency. With proof of non-detected THC, the company asserts “no psychoactive effect or risk of failing a drug screening.” That’s a tough claim to make these days, so we encourage you to reach out to the company if you have further questions about testing results.

But here comes the sun: the hemp is grown with organic practices and most other ingredients are certified organic. There’s also “solar infusion,” or extraction of herbs in oil under sunlight. Little darling, I feel that ice is slowly melting.

Why they’re unique: What’s better than a day at the spa? A day at the spa with CBD, of course. Vital Body Therapeutics delivers it in bottles!

What products they have: One tincture and an array of topical infusions: pain relief cream, balm stick, body oil, bath soak, and massage cream. The tincture packs 1,200 mg CBD but it’s the mixing with certified organic turmeric that’s intriguing. Topical bonus ingredients are even more impressive.

The relief cream draws together the likes of arnica, ginger, comfrey, St. John’s wort, thyme, devil’s claw, chamomile, and holy basil. This super squad of spa heroes works together with 200 mg CBD or, for extra strength, 800 mg. They’re certified organic with a mission to fight aches and pains. The on-the-go CBD balm delivers this lineup but as a convenient roll-on. Lad in distress over here!

Vital Body welcomes dandelion and rosehip oil to the healing party with CBD body oil. Lavender, juniper berry, and cedarwood essential oils mingle with 250 mg CBD to soothe and delight the senses.

Spa owners and massage therapists shouldn’t miss the massage cream. It brims with the aforementioned ingredients and offers up to 7,200 mg CBD under one lid. This stuff is made for professionals with “grip, glide, absorbency” and a “delicate scent.”

Eleana W. left this feedback on the body oil: “This product truly is vital for me. I suffer from arthritis and this product (as well others I’ve tried here) are simply making my life more livable. This one makes my skin so soft while adding relief, so I really appreciate that.”

Julie wrote about the massage cream (extra strength): “We carry this in our salon. People are amazed at how quickly it works.”

Bonus: The company offers a free sample of massage cream!

Who they are:  Bluebird Botanicals is a “world-leading manufacturer” that helps set the bar for quality in the CBD industry. The Colorado-based company was founded in 2012 by Brandon Beatty, an apothecary employee, who recruited a “ragtag team of talented individuals” at a time when CBD was still fringe.

The company boasts an impressive array of quality certifications. Bluebird is a Certified B Corporation^®, indicating that it meets the “highest standards of social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability.” They are Good Manufacturing Practice compliant and scored 100% on a third-party audit in 2019. Then there’s US Hemp Authority^® certification for “high standards, best practices, and self-regulation.”

The batch database allows anyone to look at comprehensive third-party lab testing. Oh, and Bluebird gives back. Recently, this included a $100,000 donation to help feed children. And their assistance discount program is available to low income or disabled individuals, veterans, students, teachers, and civil servants.

Why they’re unique: Plenty of CBD companies consider quality but few prioritize it above all else. That’s the Bluebird difference.

What products they have: Bluebird’s main draw is its array of oil tinctures. Classic is the simplest option with 250 mg full-spectrum CBD per ounce in hemp seed oil. Complete includes raw extract and steam-distilled terpenes to maximize the entourage effect. This one comes in organic extra virgin olive oil. Signature takes things in an unconventional direction with organic black cumin seed oil and frankincense extract. These three musketeers are offered in a sample pack. Each is also offered in a concentrated form with 6 times the normal amount of CBD–1,500 mg per ounce.

Other additions to the tincture family include Immune Support with vitamin D₃ and 250 mg CBD. If full spectrum isn’t your thing, they have an isolate tincture on tap (1,500 mg per bottle).

Lotions come in three varieties: Essential, Sport, and Silk. Each has 700 mg CBD per 3.4-ounce tub with varying combinations of ingredients like jojoba, carrot, and mint oils. Bluebird also offers soft gel capsules but they are not suitable for vegans because the capsules contain gelatin. High-purity isolate is available as well. Basic companion oil and capsules for pets seat the full-spectrum extract in organic virgin hemp seed oil.

Bonus: Bluebird is a well-established global wholesaler. And automated subscriptions save 15%!

Although the cannabidiol (CBD) industry is experiencing phenomenal growth, the lack of federal guidance for ingestible products remains an obstacle. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released draft guidelines that are a precursor to future regulations that will hopefully provide the industry some direction to create safe and reliable cannabis products for consumers.

We spoke with Derek Thomas, vice president of business development over at Veritas Farms, a Colorado-based fully-vertically-integrated full-spectrum hemp oil producer, for some input on this FDA guidance.

CBD H&W: Why are FDA guidelines necessary for an already up-and-running cannabis industry?

DT: Due to the lack of federal regulations, [the industry] is very fragmented. Different states have different regulatory stipulations and procedures and quality control procedures, and, in some cases, different labeling standards.

For a fledgling industry, it’s very onerous; it’s very challenging.

[Also], the bigger picture here is for the consumer. Consumers deserve to know what’s in their products. They deserve to know that there is a national framework for what quality is and what an acceptable level of safety is.

The lack of FDA regulation creates a lot of uncertainty for chain retailers as well. Retailers just do not feel comfortable carrying ingestible products yet. And who can blame them? The last thing they want is unwanted FDA attention for selling ingestible CBD.

CBD H&W: Do you feel the cannabis industry should have a high level of participation in the formation of these guidelines?

DT: FDA is aggregating opinions, and they’re doing what they can, but they’re not out in the field everyday growing crops and manufacturing in extraction facilities, and they’re not out selling it. So it’s absolutely critical for the industry to ensure they are communicating what is best for the industry.

CBD H&W: Without federal guidance, what do players in the industry such as Veritas Farms and other businesses look to for guidance to achieve high standards?

DT: It really depends on where you want to zoom in. Take labeling for example. We look at what different states are requiring and then aggregate it into a best practices. We also look at…previous new health and wellness or supplements [and] what types of regulations and standards they were held to. In some ways, it’s black and white, and, in some ways, it’s a bit of a guessing game until you get further guidance.

What it really comes down to is, in every step of commercialization, you have to, again, consider all of your fifty markets across the country, and have to anticipate what a federal regulatory hurdle might look like.

We have a very good in-house legal team that we lean on constantly. We also have an out-of-house legal team.

CBD H&W: Is there anything you personally feel should be emphasized in the upcoming federal regulations?

DT: The biggest concern goes back to consumer transparency and safety. So, I think regulations that are going to elevate both of those are critical. So that’s things like a cohesive testing apparatus nationwide and some type of standard for the reporting of the tests.

We thank Derek for his insights and hope too for more clarity soon.

Image Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/snack-food-candy-sweets-colorful-983092/

Image Credit: Mayasherizl

Opportunity abounds in cannabis markets across the US. In 2018, investors poured $10 billion into the industry. Excelsior College, one of the oldest nonprofit distance education providers in the US, is now offering a Graduate Certificate in Cannabis Control to prepare students to meet the need. This three-course, nine-credit certificate takes an interdisciplinary approach and covers topics like interstate commerce, regulatory compliance, and risk assessment.

Cannabis industry workers include dispensary owners, growers, public sector employees, and more. Finding educational information explicitly targeting this group can be challenging. Another stumbling block facing potential cannabis workers is the need to learn laws and compliance measures that differ state by state. Nevada’s cannabis market is not identical to California’s and vice versa. Without federal guidance, states are left to craft their own rules.

“Since Cannabis is still a Schedule I drug at the federal level and states have taken different paths toward legalization, there are policies at various levels that must be adhered to in order to remain compliant,” notes Gretchen Schmidt, the faculty program director of Criminal Justice and Paralegal Studies at Excelsior.

A focus on compliance measures and regulations form the backbone of Excelsior’s program. Students should be well versed in the law to succeed in cannabis-related endeavors. Ten years ago, legal recreational cannabis didn’t exist in the US. The industry was limited to a handful of medical markets. But industry expansion has been rapid and not without growing pains. However, new and better policies continuously emerge.

“Compliance with local and state regulations are a minimum requirement to succeed in this space. But they are also important because sound regulation works to the benefit and wellbeing of all stakeholders. Compliance with local and state regulations helps demonstrate good faith effort to do what is right for the protection of humans,” says Schmidt.

“This is particularly important as cannabis becomes legal in more places, and the stigma around the plant begins to fade. Demonstrating how you will be keeping the community safe from a product that is still illegal at the federal level takes a deep understanding of policy and compliance.”

One of the program’s advantages is that it offers a breadth of scope–it’s not centered on a particular state or locale. Instead, students examine the variations between state and even international policies. For example, in a course titled “Implications of Legalization of Cannabis: Policy and Compliance,” students discuss 2018’s Farm Bill and the effect that it’s had on the cultivation and sale of hemp.
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The cannabis world is so diverse that students from various backgrounds can find value in Excelsior’s certificate.

Schmidt explains, “We think this program would be attractive to individuals in a wide variety of fields related to the legal cannabis industry and its regulation…individuals currently employed in the space, from seed to sale…people interested in learning more about how to enter the sector as an entrepreneurial opportunity…professional fields that can provide ancillary services to the sector…among others.”

Students can complete the program in six months. The credits earned are applicable toward any of the school’s master degree programs. In fact, in Spring 2021, Excelsior plans to launch concentrations in Cannabis Control for the Master of Business Administration, Master of Public Administration, Master of Science in Health Sciences, and Master of Science in Criminal Justice.

Right now, the Graduate Certificate in Cannabis Control certificate consists of three eight-week courses. However, the school is open to the possibility of expanding the program.

“We are still early in providing education in this space but the interest from prospective students has been really good,” Schmidt says.

“And, we know that this sector is dynamic and changes rapidly, so we can envision providing timely training and education on-demand as we move forward…There also might be opportunities to expand at the undergraduate level too.”

 Image Credit: StockSnap

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Co-founder Roy Lipski leads California-based Creo in collaboration with Genomatica

SAN DIEGO, CA – September 29, 2020 – Creo, an ingredient company with a platform for producing rare cannabinoids, such as CBG, announces its official launch today. Creo, who is  partnered with biotech industry-leader Genomatica, has been developing fermentation-based cannabinoid production technologies since 2016. Creo was co-founded by science entrepreneur and CEO, Roy Lipski, and leading professor of bioengineering, Dr. Ramon Gonzalez.

Creo has the technology to deliver a reliable, high-quality and consistent supply of rare and novel cannabinoid ingredients at commercial scale. With its launch, Creo’s customers will gain access to new ingredients that support their development of innovative products for people everywhere. Samples are now available.

“As early as 2015, we recognized the untapped potential of biotechnology to make cannabinoids better,” said Lipski. “Now working alongside our technology partner Genomatica, we’ve built a strong IP position, developed our core technology, and are ready to move to commercial scale.”

Creo’s brand is built on three core pillars: sustainable innovation, access to abundance and being a trusted partner to customers. Creo’s promise of greater sustainability is why it makes its cannabinoid ingredients using one of the world’s oldest natural processes – fermentation. Fermentation requires less water, energy and land than the plant-based approaches typically used to extract cannabinoid ingredients.

“We are fully committed to Creo in the field of cannabinoids and have strong confidence in their team and the market opportunity,” said Christophe Schilling, co-founder & CEO, Genomatica. “We believe in positive disruptors and are proud to stand by Creo at its launch, and to bring the power of our proven technology innovation engine.”

Creo is backed by both institutional and private capital, with Genomatica being one of the largest shareholders in the business. To date, Creo has received close to $50M in equity investment. Creo has built a strong portfolio of patent applications related to its technology and process, and has high confidence in its freedom-to-operate.

Creo’s first product is CBG. Due to its scarcity (typically <0.5% by weight), up until now, customers have struggled to access the benefits of this important non-intoxicating cannabinoid.

“As the cannabinoid industry continues to grow, Creo is entering the marketplace as a true innovator, with a focus on our customers and their needs,” said Shuchi Sarkar, CMO, Creo. “Creo will be known for its reliability, with our products independently tested by Eurofins, one of the most respected third-party labs.”

For more information, visit www.creoingredients.com.

Creo’s Leadership Team Background

Roy Lipski, CEO, is an entrepreneur with a background in, and deep passion for, biotech. He has led growing technology companies based on cutting-edge science for more than 20 years. Prior to forming Creo, Roy successfully founded several other pioneering technology companies, including Infonic, an early AI software business, and Oxford Catalysts, a publicly listed renewable fuels technology company.

Alastair James, Executive Director, brings a breadth of experience ranging from building start-up ventures to holding senior positions at some of the world’s largest financial institutions. Prior to his role at Creo, Alastair was a Managing Director at UniCredit in London and New York, most recently in the role of business manager of the global Rates business, a $500 million-plus trading operation.

Shuchi Sarkar, CMO, is an accomplished marketer with more than 25 years of broad experience at world-leading technology companies including HP, Compaq, Motorola and Ogilvy Advertising. Prior to joining Creo, she was the Global Head of Marketing for HP’s digital printing business and the recipient of many industry awards including EFFIEs, Cannes Lions, “Innovative Marketer by Economic Times”, and “WIM Digital Marketer of the Year 2017”.

David Brinkmann, VP Manufacturing, is a chemical engineer with 40 years of experience in process development, technology transfer, engineering design, operations management, techno-economic modeling and technical leadership in the bio-process industry. He has successfully developed, scaled up and managed fermentation and downstream processes for a wide variety of bio-based products and organisms.

 

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About Creo

Creo is an ingredient company that produces rare and novel cannabinoids using the age-old natural process of fermentation, coupled with cutting-edge technological innovation. Founded in 2016 and based in California, Creo’s mission is to enable the creation of cannabinoid products that help people everywhere while doing less harm to the planet. Creo’s technology partner and major shareholder is industry-leading biotech firm Genomatica. To learn more, visit www.creoingredients.com.

About Genomatica

Genomatica is harnessing synthetic biology to remake the world of everyday products and materials through the power of clean manufacturing. The company is developing more sustainable, higher-performance key ingredients for everyday products, using plants and waste rather than fossil fuels or other non-sustainable sources like palm oil. Genomatica has already commercialized ingredients to make better plastics, spandex and personal care products, and is working on nylon, household cleaners and more. To learn more, visit www.genomatica.com.

Image Source: https://creoingredients.com/

The limited precision of cannabis treatment is a recurring sticking point in studies that have explored its medical potential. Different modes of cannabis intake come with different limitations, such as a delayed time of onset or low bioavailability, which can cause differences in effects, as well as health risks. Such limitations can result in a disagreement among physicians in the reliability and efficacy of cannabis as a legitimate treatment option.

But a group of researchers recently showed promising results by way of a novel method of dose delivery. A metered-dose inhaler can be used to control temperature to efficiently aerosolize and decarboxylate tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and convert it into its active analogue tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) without reaching its point of combustion and the health hazards that come with it.[1]

Researchers who studied this inhaler wrote, “the device engages automatic thermal and flow controllers that ensure the delivery of cannabinoid aerosol to the lungs, independent of the inhalation pattern of the individual patient.”[1]

A randomized, three‐arms, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over trial evaluated the effect of the inhaler on pharmacokinetic measures (how the device affected cannabinoid levels in the body), pain relief, cognitive performance, and safety. A small group of patients (twenty-five) with chronic pain were treated with a single inhalation of THC (0.5mg or 1mg) or a placebo (non-active substance).[1]

The results were very much in line with what the scientists had hoped for. The device produced palpable pain relief in a dose-dependent manner while keeping adverse effects, which were predetermined according to expert literature and involved common occurrences like dizziness, restlessness, and headache, to a relative minimum in terms of severity and persistence. Both doses induced an analgesic effect that remained stable over the course of 150 minutes. Cognitive performance also didn’t suffer any consistent impairments.[1]

The bottom line is, the improved precision of this inhaler allows patients to do far more with far less THC, this maximizing its potential. In fact, an additional study showed that this non-combustible method is suitable for use in a hospital setting, widening its applications.[2]

And while these results are very promising, it will also be interesting to see if this inhalation method can be used to help people medicate with other cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD). This study also demonstrates that each new device should be thoroughly evaluated to determine optimal dosing, efficacy, and, of course, safety.

Image Credit: Anke Sundermeier

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References

1. Almog S, et al. The pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of a novel selective‐dose cannabis inhaler in patients with chronic pain: A randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled trial. European Journal of Pain. 2020;24(8):1505-1516.
2. Vulfsons S, et al. Cannabis treatment in hospitalized patients using the SYQE inhaler: Results of a pilot open-label study. Palliat Support Care. 2020;18(1):12-17.

Who they are: Not that Hemp Crate Co. likes to brag…but they are the “#1 CBD subscription service today.”

The company’s three pillars are transparency, organic is better, and education. They stick to third-party testing as a rule. Certificates of analysis can be found via links on the site. Educational information is also available. Established and reputable companies like Lazarus Naturals, BlueBird Botanicals, and CBDistillery form the whole of each box.

Hemp Crate Co. houses brand ambassadors and accepts new partners pending live product trial.

Why they’re unique: Hemp Crate Co. defends its title as a leading CBD subscription service with a wide variety of tested products from well-known companies. Their commitment to quality and transparency is a big deal. Plus, they have subscriptions for pets!

What products they have: Hemp Crate Co. plans to “add new themed boxes,” but in the meantime, there are three styles: Hempa the Explorer, Health & Wellness, and Furry Friends. All are available as either a Starter or Pro package. The Starter boxes are slightly smaller (4-6 products) compared to the Pro boxes (5-8 products).

Hempa the Explorer is for trying “any and everything CBD”–think CBD cotton candy, hand sanitizer, and peach-honey sparkling water alongside a tincture and lip balm. Basically, a CBD free-for-all! Who doesn’t like CBD surprise parties?

On the other hand, Health & Wellness centers on relaxation and natural beauty. This might look more like tinctures, pain creams, bath bombs, sleep spray and infused tea. There are lots of possibilities (and growing) but you get the drift.

Last but certainly not least…Furry Friends! These crates feature topicals, treats, and tinctures for pets. Plus, a few bonus items are thrown in for us humans!

With a little recon, we noticed that a few recipients complained of product repetition or undesirable flavors. The element of surprise can work for better or worse.

 Bonus: Save on shipping with the 3- or 6-month subscriptions!

Use coupon code NEWFRIEND for 15% off any first time subscription or store order

Who they are:  Soular Alchemy is not your typical CBD company. Based in Madison, Wisconsin, the founders, Kristopher Grove and Trevor Polinsky, bring expertise from sound/energy therapy and alchemy. That’s right–Soular is built on an “extensive background in alchemical formulations.”

The spagyric process involves burning leftover hemp biomass, forming crystal salts, and adding the salts back into the extract. Soular’s goal is to bestow new compounds and go “beyond full spectrum” for the most complete tincture possible. Or, more creatively, to give products “their own consciousness” with the “Soul, Spirit, and Body of the plant.”

If this sounds cryptic, rest assured that complete lab testing is a click away. The packaging also reveals terpene and flavonoid counts to direct the user experience.

Several re-brands and product change-ups make the company seem new. While they are not new to the space, personal reviews are lacking. That said, Soular boasts two trade awards for excellence.

Why they’re unique: Spagyric CBD extracts are crafted with contemporary alchemy.

What products they have: Soular Alchemy offers a lineup of tinctures with bonus ingredients to target specific conditions. The Classic comes in 5,000 mg–no more, no less. Like the other tinctures, it comes in organic coconut oil.

The other tinctures pack 1,500 mg CBD. Added terpenes characterize flavors, aromas, and effects. For example, Cleanse turns to frankincense extract for pinene, Copaiba for caryophyllene, Blue Mallee for cineol, Bavarian hops for humulene, lime for limonene, and basil for linalool and terpinolene. These are “believed to eliminate harmful bacteria.”

Euphoria is all about the exhilarating blend of cineol, limonene, and linalool. Relief emphasizes terpenes “believed to minimize pain,” namely myrcene from American hops and borneol from Moroccan thyme.

And then there’s Passion (see photo). This must be the most unique tincture with cacao, turmeric, black pepper, and pink pepper extracts. For one, there are natural alkaloids from pepper, including guineensine and piperine. The cacao confers theobromine, another alkaloid. Curcumin from turmeric tops it off with a host of potential benefits. Ultimately, it’s a blend to stimulate the senses. Oh, and with intense pink/purple branding.

Don’t miss the appropriately named Kush with loads of hemp terpenes. There’s also Calm, Soothe, and Rest, with blends designed relax or sedate.

Note that there is no shipping to Idaho, Nebraska, or South Dakota and definitely nothing international; also, no refunds after opening.

 A site testimonial from Logan explains: “I used Soular Alchemy oil this AM and felt all of my stress melt away. I was relaxed and in control of my mind.”

Bonus: If you dig Soular’s vibe, check out their Instagram page: “Mind, Body, & Soular.”

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of more than 140 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD is not the cannabinoid that has the psychoactive effect; that’s THC.

Although it delivers a cannabis experience without a high, CBD has been gaining its own ground lately, especially when it comes to creating a buzz in the bedroom. There’s a wealth of anecdotal evidence from enthusiastic users across the world that CBD lubricants and other intimacy products can be game-changing when it comes to women’s sexual pleasure, and their sexual health.

Revitalising women’s wisdom

Over the past decade, cannabis prohibitions have been easing across the world, including South Africa. What is steadily coming to light is just how the plant and its uses have been systemically distorted and stigmatised to justify its criminalisation in the 20th century.

There are records dating back to antiquity detailing the use of the cannabis plant as a treatment for illness and a tonic to maintain wellness. Cannabis was the medicine woman’s go-to herb for women’s sexual and reproductive health. With its effectiveness in reducing stress and anxiety, inflammation and pain, it was part of gynaecological remedies over a lifetime, from menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding to painful sex; through childbirth to postnatal care; from treating sexually transmitted infections to easing menopausal conditions.

These were historic uses of the cannabis plant, and it is important to note that CBD as a cannabis derivative is not yet regarded as sufficiently scientifically tested for efficacy in treating these ailments today. CBD is not recommended for use by pregnant and breastfeeding moms.

Reclaiming women’s sexual wellness

Physiotherapist and pelvic health specialist Candice Langford, the social media innovator of Nurture Your Vagina, points out that when it comes to women’s sexuality, society remains shadowed by pervasive negative sex messages.

There is, too often, an arid gulf between women’s own presentation of their oh-so-bold 21st century sexiness and the hushed reality of their actual sexual experiences. Langford says, “I created Nurture Your Vagina as a safe space, curated with an intention to enlighten, empower and educate followers about topics relating to pelvic and sexual health – topics that are all too often considered taboo or brushed under the carpet.”

Lube

Langford says: “Lubrication is wonderful, there is no shame in reaching for lube! We know that lube has the potential to enhance sexual pleasure and satisfaction. Lube not only provides a reduction in friction but also an opportunity to connect with your genitalia through different sensations, explore new senses, play, reduce inhibitions and enjoy sexually relevant stimuli. Lubricants also play an important role in managing discomfort or making up for a lack of natural lubrication. In my opinion, lube should be an essential on your shopping list.”

It’s a match made in sexual heaven. The buzz that CBD brings to the lube party is healthy relaxation, heightened pleasure and a boost of genuine sexual wellness that lasts a lot longer than just a single sexy session. Being well-informed about choosing a quality CBD lube product also brings peace of mind that what you’re silkily applying down there is good for you in more ways than one.

The US pioneer of world-leading CBD lube Foria is steadfast in maintaining that broad-spectrum CBD trumps CBD isolate. Broad-spectrum CBD excludes psychoactive THC but maintains the integrity of the many other natural components of the health-giving cannabis plant such as terpenes and flavonoids. By contrast, the processing of CBD isolate strips away everything else.

What you need to know about choosing your lube:

Langford advises, “Take a moment to read the ingredient list. Consider the source of your product of choice and be mindful of harsh ingredients that may cause irritation.

The WHO (World Health Organization) recommends selecting a lubrication that has a pH 4.5 for vaginal use and less than pH 7 for rectal use. These factors will aid in helping you maintain natural vaginal pH and tissue integrity.”

Lubes are either:

Water based – readily available, toy compatible but require repeated applications and contain additives

Oil based (avoid petroleum based) – not latex compatible, last longer than water based, typically natural and/or organic, can be hydrating..

Silicone based – more expensive, not compatible with silicone toys, lasts the longest, can be used in water, not absorbed and typically pure.

“When purchasing any new item we need to be mindful that we are all different and have different sensitivities to ingredients,” says Langford. “Before using a new lube do a patch test on your inner arm, and then on your inner thigh if you are particularly sensitive. Rub it in for at least 2 minutes and monitor to see if you have any adverse effects.”

Original Article: https://www.iol.co.za/lifestyle/health/so-whats-the-buzz-with-cbd-in-lube-b9ffe31c-800e-4834-a9dc-ef4c239b38f0

Who they are: Hailing from Conifer, Colorado, a group of self-described nerds founded Crappy’s because, quite simply, “Life’s too short to feel Crappy.” To be fair, they are actually chemists. Oh, and they boast 75 combined years of know-how in safety testing and quality assurance. Feel better?

You should–Crappy’s is all about “Feeling Good and Doing Good.” The site mentions charitable efforts and includes certificates of analysis (CoAs). However, the CoAs only cover cannabinoids in the chewable tablets. Then there is the claim that CBD is not psychoactive, which is not technically true (“non-intoxicating” is more accurate). The “nerdy technology” used to design products is also not explained.

But the retro theme is impossible to resist. Want proof? Check out the company’s Instagram page with 10,000+ followers. The company never breaks character, from the site copy to the packaging. The products even have cool names like “Premium Hangover Helper.” Fun vintage vibes? Check.

Why they’re unique: Crappy’s does something that’s still fairly unique in the space. Drum roll please…it’s cannabigerol, aka CBG! And cannabinol, CBN! And what’s this? Terpene blends! That’s right–this is not a one-woman CBD show. At least not in the chewable tablets.

What products they have: Chewable tablets, soothing salve, joint rub, an oral tablet, and assorted lip balms. Diehard fans can check out the branded hat and water bottle.

The chewable tablets exude magnetism. Fade Fighter packs 10 mg CBG and 3 mg CBD per piece (25 per pack); Party Prep is similar. Then there’s Hangover Helper, which fits 15 mg CBG, 5 mg CBD, and 1 mg CBN into a single serving. The goal here, presumably, is disaster management–or maybe just an average day (ahem). The company’s oral tablet is similar to Hangover Helper but is not chewable.

Terpene blends are included in each–which terpenes, you ask? Good question. They are proprietary. In other news, small trial packs (three pieces) are on tap. Yippee!

Crappy’s lip balms are great for SPF 15 but even better for fun flavors. We’re talking Meemaw’s Mints, Dr. Hemper Cola, and Cherry Limeade. For bodily aches and pains, the Muscle and Joint Liniment seats 750 mg CBD in organic cocoa seed butter and coconut oil. Soothe and Repair Salve also contains 750 mg CBD but is designed for skin issues with aloe leaf juice.

An anonymous reviewer had this to say about the chewable tablets: “It’s pretty hard to put into words how much I love these products…There’s nothing better on an afternoon when you need to get some work done. No caffeine jitters, no crash, just an uplifted mood and the focus and drive to get stuff done!!”

Bonus: Free shipping for orders over $25? Yes, please.