Now that the pandemic has forced many us into digital life, it won’t be surprising if you find yourself exploring a lot of articles about CBD. We bet you’ve covered almost all topics, including the dosage, do’s and don’ts, and of course, the benefits many have claimed. But were you aware of where it comes from, how it is grown and harvested? This article might be a great source of knowledge for you!
CBD’s popularity has risen and steadily growing alongside studies about it. As it steadily becomes an acceptable part of alternative and medical treatment, it is imperative to cover its origins and manufacturing process. According to this critical review from the World Health Organization, right cannabidiol products are directly related to the soil type and temperature the hemp grows in. At the same time, CBD significantly affects the quality with too much precipitation. Your company’s farm or source should be adequately prepared with little to no rain all year round.
What Is Cannabidiol?
Cannabidiol is another official name of CBD, usually used professionally. This is a phytocannabinoid originating from cannabis plants, but it is especially abundant in hemp rather than marijuana. While the latter has less than 10%, the former has a staggering 40%, making hemp the primary choice for cannabidiol-derived products. There is also the fact that THC has become a no-no when it comes to CBD oils, pre-rolls, and edibles.
Marijuana is known to have a lot of THC content. THC stands for Tetrahydrocannabinol, another phytocannabinoid that induces psychoactive effects when metabolized by the body. Because it is illegal in most states, many companies like Cheef Botanicals have opted to remove THC altogether to avoid unnecessary incidents for their customers. Not only that, but companies that uphold gold standards have their 3rd-party lab tests available for public view all the time
It doesn’t mean those who put THC in their formula are in the wrong, however. Some manufacturers want to induce the entourage effect, which is brought about by the synergistic relationship between cannabinoids (like CBD and THC). Studies show it doubles (some claim triple) the therapeutic effects on the body. Other than that, the FDA has issued that the maximum amount of THC a CBD product should be less than 0.3%.
How Is Hemp Grown For These Products?
In 1937, growing hemp was illegal under the Marijuana Tax Act and officially became an illicit national substance and marijuana during the 1970’s Controlled substance act. This has stopped studying, researching, and using hemp for many alternative treatments, medicinal, or recreational purposes. Referencing this site: https://www.brookings.edu/blog/fixgov/2018/12/14/the-farm bill-hemp-and-cbd-explainer/, it became officially legal to grow, but only industrially. Though there was no restriction with the growth methods, it only restricts movement according to the law.
Today, sourced farms are usually company-owned or sourced for cannabidiol-derived products. Usually, these farms that are jointly related to the company grow quality hemp compared to just sourcing one. Being able to own the source means the company can directly control the quality, efficiency, and taste of their hemp, thus creating consistent products. Farms are usually in humid areas, and adequate soil moisture is preferable until the seeds turn into young saplings.
How Is It Manufactured?
There are a few ways to manufacture CBD from hemp, and one of them is CO2 extraction. CO2 extraction starts by putting a solid piece of CO2 into a chamber with the hemp material. Afterward, through a maintained pressure, the substantial portion of CO2 turns into a liquid and stays in that state of matter, slowly taking in the oil, flavor, and components from the plant. This process is being done by Salt Leaf Hemp, a CBD product manufacturer.
Then, after the hemp has turned into oil, it is extracted into a third chamber. There, CO2 turns into gas and leaves behind the oil, ready to be infused. Liquid solvents can also be used, but the issue with this method is impurities. Like butane and hexane, some solvents can alter the formula and add other chemicals in the oil. It can also tinge the substance into a greenish-color. Because CO2 does not carry impurities with it and is an easy method to use, many companies prefer it.
Meanwhile, it is also essential to be aware of the source as there are some manufacturers who still prefer pure marijuana. You need to read the CBD’s label and see if its products do comply with the manufacturing standard.