CBD OIL

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

Image Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/pen-colored-pencil-learn-patience-5112463/

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.

Who they are:  South Florida resident Laura Fuentes had worked in pharmaceutical compounding for 20 years. In 2013, her dear friend Arby Barroso asked her about CBD. They experimented a little and noticed major improvements in well-being. Although “determined to bring its potential to more people,” the industry was young. There were obstacles at every turn. But the duo persisted. Today, Green Roads is among the most reputed CBD companies in the nation with thousands of verified reviews.

Third-party laboratory tests are a QR scan away. The reports are comprehensive and easy to read. In the words of Fuentes, “As a pharmacist, I look at our end users as ‘patients’ not customers.” The relatively large company considers customer service its “heart and soul.” That’s a comforting thought.

Why they’re unique: Green Roads is a legacy brand in the CBD industry. They didn’t jump on the bandwagon–they helped start it. Adherence to high quality and customer service has preserved the company’s popularity for years.

What products they have: Oils, various topicals, capsules and softgels, edibles, coffee, and bath bombs. Products are rated as mild, moderate, or mighty depending on CBD dose. Easy peasy!

The hot-selling Original Blend tincture is offered as broad or full spectrum in the three dose ratings: 300 mg (mild), 750 mg (moderate), and 1500 mg (mighty). The broad spectrum version comes with the option for mint or apple-kiwi flavors. Glycerin and oils–MCT, hemp seed, and sunflower–form the base. The pet tinctures nix the glycerin and add “love” to the formula. No animal testing and vegan options!

Other big sellers and staff favorites are the capsules and softgels. Sound plain? Think again: Relax comes with GABA and 5-HTP, superstar supplements in their own right. Sleep replaces those with another proven favorite–melatonin. That’s in addition to 25 mg CBD isolate per capsule/gel.

The most unique product at Green Roads is probably the hemp flower coffee, which combines Colombian beans and American hemp. Coffee connoisseurs, brace yourselves for Founder’s Blend, French Vanilla, and Hazelnut. If that’s not tantalizing enough, consider that Green Roads uses a “closely guarded method to create a CBD coffee experience unlike any other.”

Amy H. was quite pleased with the broad-spectrum oil: “This has worked very well for me. The dosing syringe is easy to use. The third-party verification that it has no detectable THC is essential to me.”

Allison E. left this feedback on the Founder’s Blend coffee: “This coffee tastes great and reduces the jittery feeling I get from normal coffee. Everyone who has tried it asks me for some when they come over.”

Bonus: The company’s rewards program may be the most robust in the industry, with points awarded for purchases, social media, and referrals.

Acne is the most common skin condition; factors causing or worsening it include stress, hormonal imbalances, genetics, medications, diet, and high stress levels, to name a few. Most people get acne at differing degrees, including mild, moderate, or severe. Acne commonly grows where oil glands can be found–the neck, face, chest, and back–and treatments can involve antibacterial creams, oral antibiotics, and cleansers.

CBD & Acne Management

Cannabidiol (CBD) is widely used in skin care products as a natural way to clear acne. CBD, or cannabidiol, is an active component of hemp plants. If you are worried about getting “high” from CBD oil, you can put your mind at ease. CBD is non-intoxicating and allows you to reap benefits of the hemp plant.

Our skin has its own endocannabinoid system (ECS).[1] CBD helps reduce inflammation, which can greatly help alleviate this major symptom of acne. Clinical studies have also shown that CBD molecules reduce the formation of sebum.[2] Excess sebum is one of the causes of acne. Aside from that, CBD oil also has antibacterial properties, which reduce the risk of getting or aggravating acne.

CBD & Other Skin Problems

Psoriasis. Aside from acne, CBD, as a tincture, also helps alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease where your skin cells have an accelerated growth cycle. This presents itself as reddish eczema, and can be found in the elbows, knees, and the edges of your scalp. Sometimes, it can be found in nails and palms. CBD may help relieve psoriasis flare-ups.

Due to CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties, it can help calm swelling during a psoriasis flare up. It also inhibits the growth of keratinocytes, the primary cells found in our epidermis, or the skin’s outermost layer.[3] Fewer keratinocytes means a more muted skin cell growth cycle.

Dermatitis. CBD also may help with some types of dermatitis. By lowering the production of sebum, tied with its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can help keep flare ups manageable and relieve dermatitis symptoms. CBD also helps moisturize the skin by forming a barrier to prevent moisture loss. This helps keep dryness and irritation at bay.

Conclusion

Unlike prescription medication and some over-the-counter medications, CBD oil has little-to-no serious side effects, though further research is needed. You can use it as a preventive measure, to alleviate itching, pain, redness, and swelling of your skin.

If you combine CBD with a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle, and a good skin care regimen (of which CBD could even play a big part), you may be able to keep some skin conditions at bay. Just make sure that you procure your CBD oil from a reliable source. As always, speak to your dermatologist before starting any new treatment, including CBD.

Heather Smith is the Communications Manager at Sunday Scaries. She’s a composed copywriter and content strategist. She’s also a CBD advocate, promoting a healthy lifestyle free of stress and scaries.

 Image Credit: Erin Stone

Image Source: https://pixabay.com/users/erin_hinterland-17114308/

References

1. Bíró T, et al. The endocannabinoid system of the skin in health and disease: novel perspectives and therapeutic opportunities. Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2009;30(8):411-420.
2. Scheau C, Badarau IA, Mihai LG, et al. Cannabinoids in the pathophysiology of skin inflammation. Molecules. 2020;25(3):652.
3. Wilkinson JD, Williamson EM. Cannabinoids inhibit human keratinocyte proliferation through a non-CB1/CB2 mechanism and have a potential therapeutic value in the treatment of psoriasis. J Dermatol Sci. 2007;45(2):87-92.

You might have heard of a sub-culture of people in Silicon Valley dropping acid regularly to facilitate their problem-solving abilities. Microdosing psychedelics has found a wave of popularity in recent years as it provides hints of a “trip” experience but doesn’t overwhelm the user.

Not to mention, taking small amounts of psychedelics has been found to promote creativity, self-efficacy, energy, positive social interactions, and cognitive performance.[1] To take things further, researchers also found that microdosing psychedelics can reduce symptoms of mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.

Many have taken note of Silicon Valley’s psychedelic technique and also applied it to cannabis. Since cannabis is considered a psychedelic substance by some, it only makes sense that taking small amounts of it may be able to produce a lightened intoxication.

But what about the medicinal side of things?

A study published by the Journal of Pain of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, graded-dose study found that low and medium doses of a cannabinoid formulation known as nabiximols (2.7 mg tetrahydrocannabinol, THC, and 2.5 mg cannabidiol, CBD, per spray) were actually better at treating pain in cancer patients than high doses compared to placebo (inactive substance).[2]

Another paper published by the University of Washington found that lower amounts of THC were more likely to relieve anxiety whereas higher amounts perpetuated anxiety.[3]

While these studies give us insight as to how microdosing cannabis can benefit us, we certainly need more research in order to properly understand the way cannabinoids interact with the body and how it affects individuals differently.

Since cannabis is a substance many people take regularly, it can be difficult to compare to the occasional consumption of psychedelics. Most notably due to the fact that many develop a tolerance to cannabis that makes it difficult to understand whether a microdose will have the same effect on them in comparison to someone who doesn’t use cannabis.

However, when it comes to those who haven’t tried any psychedelic, a microdose may be the proper introduction.

Beyond this, it seems microdosing both psychedelic drugs–such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin (sometimes referred to as magic mushrooms)–and cannabis might have medicinal properties that have, until now, been overlooked. Although there are many different perspectives on dosing both cannabinoids and psychedelic compounds, hopefully greater clarity with come with more research.

Image Credit: Pretty Drugthings

Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/yYplxJnqEsU

References

1. Anderson T, et al. Psychedelic microdosing benefits and challenges: An empirical codebook. Harm Reduction Journal. 2019;16(43).
2. Portenoy RK, et al. Nabiximols for opioid-treated cancer patients with poorly-controlled chronic pain: a randomized, placebo-controlled, graded-dose trial. The Journal of Pain. 2012;13(5):438-449.
3. Stoner, SA. “Effects of Marijuana on Mental Health: Anxiety Disorders.” Available at: https://adai.uw.edu/pubs/pdf/2017mjanxiety.pdf Accessed: October 9, 2020.