CBD has experienced exponential growth over the past few years. And with this growth, we’re seeing more and more clinical research confirming its many health benefits and advocating its powerful medicinal properties.
But despite its growing popularity and clinic research, CBD still remains shrouded in mystery for many individuals. So, what makes CBD different, and how is it supposed to be used? We answer some of the most frequently asked questions to get you started on your journey with CBD.
Where does CBD come from?
CBD is derived from hemp, the fiber and seed part of the Cannabis Sativa L. plant. Many civilizations have been cultivating hemp for industrial purposes for thousands of years. It's a hearty crop that proliferates in a variety of different soil conditions. There is no need for pesticides and it requires far less water making it environmentally friendly.
Because hemp is so easy to grow and highly valuable, it quickly earned the nickname "cash crop." Historically, industrial hemp was the desired fiber used to manufacture rope, canvas, and paper. It was even used in the production of clothing until cheaper synthetics were discovered.
Is Hemp legal to grow and consume in The United States?
Until recently, it's been illegal to grow hemp in the United States. However, it was not illegal to consume. In the 1970s, cannabis became contraband. As a result, hemp, unfortunately, became heavily regulated, which meant if you wanted to purchase CBD oil, you had to buy it overseas.
Other countries like China never slowed production. In 2004, the U.S. lifted some restrictions and allowed businesses to import hemp products. China was one of the biggest suppliers. Still, other countries like Australia and Canada legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp widening the resource pool.
In 2018, the Farm Bill was passed in the U.S., which officially legalized the production of hemp as an agricultural commodity while removing it from the list of controlled substances.
What exactly is CBD?
As we mentioned above, CBD is derived from industrial hemp, the fiber and seed part of the Cannabis Sativa L. plant. It is a hard, resinous material and must be diluted in a suitable carrier oil to make it usable. Here at NexxGen, we use a high-quality virgin and cold pressed hemp seed oil as the carrier for all CBD/phytocannabinoid hemp extracts. Our extract contains at least 85% CBD along with other beneficial cannabinoids. The hemp seed oil (our carrier oil) also has several terpenoids and omega fatty acids to enrich and enhance the health benefits of all NexxGen products.
How does CBD work?
CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System. The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a group of receptors found in the body and the brain. They help with processing memory, emotion, motor condition, and cognition amongst other things. The ESC works in tandem with CBD to keep the body in homeostasis.
To put that into perspective, let's talk about cortisol. Cortisol is a stress hormone. It's introduced to the body to help us react quickly to "dangerous" situations. When our bodies are in this fight or flight mode, some endocannabinoids are released into the body to help us make sense of the information. We can manage stress and get a better perception of the problem. Over the years, scientists have discovered that our bodies benefit from interacting with cannabinoids like CBD to help manage the homeostasis, thru the above-mentioned receptor modulation, and continue to improve things like stress response.
What are The Benefits of Taking CBD?
Because of hemp's robust properties and the natural inquisitive nature of humans, it wasn't long until humans began extracting CBD from the hemp plant. CBD has enormous therapeutic potential. Many scientists and health professionals quickly realized this potential and used it to treat a wide range of conditions such as anxiety, diabetes, Crohn's, multiple sclerosis, and more.
Additionally, clinical studies have shown CBD has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Because of the ability of CBD to reduce inflammation, it can be used to treat a wide range of maladies.
What is the best way to consume CBD?
Administration of CBD would depend on your goal. Fortunately, different CBD products offer a variety of consumption methods, and the decision can be made based on personal preference. Topical ointments provide targeted pain relief, inhalation is an effective way to consume CBD at higher amounts, and oral ingestion is a beginner-friendly way to start taking CBD as you can add a few drops to your food, drinks, or take it directly by mouth. All of our NexxGen Oils and Sprays can be ingested orally or sublingually providing you convenience and the highest quality and purity.
Is CBD Natural?
CBD is a natural product. Due to the regulations we mentioned before, the importing of CBD could be tricky. It was hard to know the origins, source of the hemp plant or the extraction process. A lot of research needed to be conducted to prove grade and quality.
Fortunately, now that the Farm Bill has passed, American farmers can cultivate the plant offering a better production process for consumers. When purchasing CBD oils or other CBD products, be sure to carefully read the label to identify whether or not they are made from organic ingredients as NexxGen uses. All of our NexxGen products are also third-party tested to the highest of standards to ensure superior quality and consistency.
Will CBD Get Me High?
This is a question we get asked almost daily. The answer is, no. CBD alone will not act as a psychoactive or make you high. Products labeled "full-spectrum" often contain small amounts of THC (an active psychoactive ingredient in marijuana). CBD products like our at NexxGen, are certified “broad spectrum” CBD/phytocannabinoids that contain zero amount of THC, meaning you won’t experience any sort of “high” feeling.
What do I look for when purchasing CBD oil?
Quality and purity should be the most important factors when purchasing CBD oil. Without the assurance that you are investing in a high-quality product, you can't rely on the oil to deliver the full benefits.
At NexxGen, we are committed to producing the highest grade and quality CBD oils and sprays by using a whole plant CO2 extraction process, that is solvent-free. That means you are getting the finest CBD without additives or preservatives. Because of the new legislation allowing cultivation, we offer broad-spectrum CBD made right here in America. All of our products are grown, extracted, and compliant under the Department of Agricultural Industrial Hemp Pilot Program. For more information about our extraction process and quality visit our About Page, and click below to shop our range of products.
We hope this information clears up any misinformation and helps get you started on your journey with CBD. Click here to view our full range of products and experience the NexxGen difference today.