How CBD Has Changed the Way We Look at Hemp

The CBD industry has reached a significant milestone since the Farm Bill has passed. With new products continually being introduced, the CBD oil market is well on its way to becoming a billion-dollar industry. Many people who have turned to CBD have embraced the compound as part of their daily regimen. But things weren’t always so transparent when it came to the origin of this compound. In this article, we’re going to look at how CBD has changed the way we look at hemp.

Introduction: What Is CBD?

Every living mammal on this planet shares something in common– we all have an endocannabinoid system. This extensive regulatory system regulates virtually everything that keeps us functioning. 

The ECS is responsible for regulating mood, pain, cognitive functions, and so much more. Our bodies naturally generate cannabinoids in small quantities; in turn, these neurotransmitters stimulate the receptors to support the aforementioned bodily functions. Now you might be wondering, what role does CBD play in this situation? CBD acts as an extra supply of cannabinoids. To put it simply, when you take CBD, you’re providing your body with additional support.

Difference Between CBD and THC

CBD and THC are not the same thing! Although hemp and marijuana are both members of the cannabis family, the two are very distinguishable from each other. Hemp has an extremely low THC content, whereas marijuana contains a substantial amount of THC  (25%). Also, hemp is cultivated very differently than marijuana.

But, back to CBD. The compound is primarily extracted from hemp and is sold as pills, gummies, oils, and more. THC is the main intoxicating compound in marijuana that gives users a high sensation, and it is generally consumed by smoking. Both THC and CBD interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system; however, they have vastly distinct effects. 

Another notable difference worth taking into consideration is legality. The legal concerns for both CBD and THCs are continually unfolding. Under federal law, all forms of marijuana are illegal, but hemp-derived CBD is not. At the state level, things get a little murky. Many states have passed laws making marijuana legal, and many states have passed laws making hemp-derived products legal. But the laws are constantly evolving. Hemp might be illegal in your state today, and a week from now, a bill might make it legal for purchase and consumption. 

Misconceptions of the Past

1. Hemp is just another crop we shouldn’t waste our water on.

Hemp myth! Unlike corn, wheat, or rice, cultivating hemp uses significantly less water. In fact, growing hemp would save approximately 9 million liters of water. In addition, hemp also absorbs five times more CO2 from the atmosphere than trees- a HUGE benefit for the planet! That being said, it’s easy to see why hemp is amongst the fastest growing crops on earth.

2. Hemp gets you high.

If you have been following, you can answer this question. Because hemp contains such low amounts of THC, our bodies process it faster than it can be absorbed. To put it simply, there is no way a person can get intoxicated on hemp. 

CBD Industry in 2019

The CBD rush is here, and things are moving incredibly fast. CBD market analysis shows that the CBD market will register a 44.1% CAGR in terms of revenue over the next five years. As for the global CBD market size, it will reach $20 billion by 2024. Despite the lack of research and regulations, the market will continue to experience substantial growth and will experience an influx of players as more and more companies are beginning to recognize the immense potential of the market.  

The Future of CBD

CBD has already achieved the impossible for an unregulated compound. Despite the impressive numbers, the future of the CBD industry is still unclear as legality issues, and lack of regulations still remain. Before you try to go shopping for CBD products, get informed. Find out what your state’s laws are saying, ask questions to your doctor and friends, and read reviews. 

Looking for quality CBD products but don’t know where to find some? Try Green Roads– they offer the highest quality tinctures, gummies, and capsules on the market. Their focus on the purity and potency of the ingredients and their exclusive formulations are all part of their commitment to our customers. If you have any questions regarding CBD in general, don’t hesitate to contact them.