Category: Featured

Written by Alex Buscher, Esq.

Founder – Buscher Law

Perhaps nothing in law and pop culture is more misunderstood than cannabis regulation and policy. The aim of this post is to give the reader the background to make informed decisions regarding the real risks when using cannabis products, especially hemp & CBD products, as well as provide a vision for sensible future regulation.

First, “Cannabis sativa L.” (“Cannabis”) is the actual plant, “Marijuana” is the legal definition for a cannabis plant over 0.3% Delta-9 THC, and “Hemp” is the legal definition for a cannabis plant containing 0.3% Delta-9 THC or less. “THC” and “CBD” are just two of many cannabinoids, which are a family of chemicals found in the cannabis plant. There are hundreds of chemical compounds in cannabis, including terpenes, cannabinoids, and bioflavonoids, all having different properties and effects. 

Marijuana is still a Schedule I substance federally, meaning there is no accepted medical value according to Congress, and it is illegal in almost all circumstances to possess under federal law. States have passed ballot initiatives and statutes contradicting federal law to allow marijuana use intrastate; however, there is not yet an interstate market for marijuana. Medical marijuana laws offer some protection, even from the federal government, because the Department of Justice is not allowed to pursue prosecutions against those complying with state medical marijuana laws. This same protection does not apply to recreational marijuana. 

Hemp was legalized federally in 2018 and many states have also moved to legalize hemp.  Although legal federally, not all states legalized hemp (Idaho), and many states have legalized hemp but don’t allow hemp-derived CBD into food or dietary supplement products (California). Other states have legalized hemp and allow all hemp-derived ingredients in foods (Colorado).

When purchasing hemp products, hemp companies generally take the position that it is the consumer’s responsibility to follow the law, and companies provide disclaimers stating this position. Companies are in a tough position because all 50 states regulate hemp and hemp products differently, which makes it almost impossible to comply on a nationwide basis. Police around the country are still seizing hemp and hemp products as marijuana, and there is no shipping manifest database or other regulation on the horizon which will stop this practice.

It is important to understand that hemp companies claiming it is safe to give CBD to children are putting families at risk. Child Protective Services (“CPS”) has taken children from parents for administering CBD and will likely continue to do so. This is because many people, some of whom are “mandatory reporters,” don’t understand the difference between hemp and marijuana, and because many CBD products can cause an individual to test positive on a drug panel. Teachers, nurses, and other professionals are mandatory reporters in many states, meaning they have a duty to notify the state if they believe a child has been given a controlled substance. Additionally, ERs routinely conduct drug screening when an individual is treated. A positive THC result will also generally implicate a mandatory reporting requirement to the state. If a parent plans to administer CBD medically to their child, it is imperative that child has a state medical marijuana card for legal protection.

The FDA has the opportunity to solve the issue of federal illegality of ingestible CBD products nationally by allowing CBD and other hemp-derived ingredients in food and dietary supplements. Until hemp-derived ingredients are allowed in food, a continuous conflict between state and federal law will exist. There will also be little uniformity in regulation across the states if FDA allows CBD and other hemp-derived ingredients in dietary supplements alone. Additionally, until FDA approves CBD for use in dietary supplements, it is illegal to label any product as such when it contains CBD (or any other hemp-derived ingredient). This is because dietary supplements are entirely a body of federal law and require premarket notification to FDA, or else the product is unlawful. To date, no hemp-derived product has had an NDI (New Dietary Ingredient) notification accepted by FDA. Thus, any hemp company labeling a product as a dietary supplement is breaking federal law.

As you can see, cannabis regulation is complicated, conflicting, and inconsistent. The bottom line is that cannabis derived cannabinoids have huge therapeutic potential and provide many patients with the ability to treat their own conditions, in almost all cases after modern medicine has failed. It is time for the FDA to allow cannabinoids in both food and dietary supplement products with safe regulation, including the following: recommended serving sizes; required testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and mycotoxins; and ensuring current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) are followed.

Take action, call your representatives, and get involved!

Watch our Q & A with Alex Buscher!

If you have any questions about this topic, a Realm of Caring Care Specialist is here to help. Call us at 719-347-5400 option 1, email us at info@realmofcaring.org, or visit our website and sign up for a free client account at www.realmofcaring.org. 

Disclaimer

The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.

The Realm of Caring Foundation is an independent nonprofit with its own governing board. We do not produce or sell cannabinoid products, nor do we receive funds from the sale of other company’s products.

Recent years have seen a boom in skincare and makeup products that incorporate CBD oil. And it’s little wonder–CBD is often marketed as a miracle oil, capable of clearing up acne, turning back the clock on wrinkles, and more. But what is the truth behind the careful branding? Let’s take a look at 3 myths and 3 facts about CBD skincare, so that you can make an informed decision on incorporating CBD into your skincare routine. 

MYTH: CBD is proven to treat acne 

Some studies have shown that CBD might be effective in reducing the production of sebum, but it’s not yet proven an effective treatment to acne. Although it certainly seems that many of CBD’s properties could help reduce breakouts, more research is needed to state anything definitively. However . . .

FACT: Studies have shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties

CBD can help reduce redness and inflammation, soothing irritated skin and potentially diminishing the visibility of breakouts. While most scientists tend to agree that more studies are needed to determine its effectiveness in treating acne, these soothing properties certainly seem to help with those pesky red spots. 

MYTH: CBD is an effective alternative to sunscreen

Although CBD has recently started to show up in the ingredients of various sunscreens, there is not enough research at present to determine whether it has any real benefits when it comes to blocking UV rays. Dermatologists advise you stick to using sunscreen for now. While pairing CBD alongside regular sunscreen isn’t necessarily harmful, using CBD alone could leave your skin vulnerable to damaging rays. 

FACT: CBD has anti-aging properties

Like many plant-derived compounds, CBD has antioxidant properties, which help reduce various signs of aging. CBD-based anti-aging creams have been shown to diminish wrinkles, dullness, age spots, and discoloration. 

Have you experienced positive results using CBD in your skincare routine? Let us know in the comments!

If you have any questions about this topic, a Realm of Caring Care Specialist is here to help. Call us at 719-347-5400 option 1, email us at info@realmofcaring.org, or visit our website and sign up for a free client account at www.realmofcaring.org. 

Disclaimer

The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.

The Realm of Caring Foundation is an independent nonprofit with its own governing board. We do not produce or sell cannabinoid products, nor do we receive funds from the sale of other company’s products.

At Realm of Caring, we believe that taking simple, natural steps toward a healthier lifestyle can have a massive impact on your overall quality of life. While holistic methods should not replace medical care, they can work in tandem to make traditional treatments even more effective and help you get the relief you need. 

Cannabis is just one tool in your toolbox. Here are 7 steps you can take toward a happier, healthier life.

• Better nutrition

It’s easy to balk at the thought of trying to eat healthier. After all, throwing together a sandwich or warming up a microwaveable meal are a lot quicker than traditional cooking! Thankfully, there are plenty of simple ways to spruce up your diet. Try swapping out white or refined bread for whole grain, practice eating your healthy greens first so that you don’t get too full, and set goals to drink more water each day. 

• Quality sleep

Does quality sleep seem like a thing of the past, exclusive to the preschool nap times of bygone years? It doesn’t have to be! In order to promote more restful sleep, limit activities like exercise, work, and alcohol consumption to earlier in the day. Instead, opt for relaxing activities like taking a warm bath, reading a book, or even watching television, as these can help your body wind down and prepare for a quality night of sleep. 

• Supplements

It might seem obvious, but taking the right daily vitamins and supplements can really boost your health. 42% of the U.S. are deficient in Vitamin D, despite it being one of the most important vitamins for bone health and immune system support. Vitamin D can often be found in supplements also containing Omega-3 fatty acids, which is another nutrient commonly lacking in Western diets. 

• Daily exercise

Finding an exercise routine that works for you can be time-consuming, and often people fall out of the habit after only a week or two of trying to get in shape. But exercise doesn’t have to mean an hour at the gym each morning, or a long jog outdoors. Simple changes like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or doing leg lifts and other easy exercises while watching TV can make a difference. If harsh weather is getting in the way, try walking laps at your nearest indoor mall. 

• Meditation

Meditation is one of the simplest and easiest ways to help your body de-stress, and it can be done from the comfort of your home whenever you please. Just turn on some relaxing music and let your stress slip away. If you’re new to meditation, try a guided meditation video on YouTube. There are countless options, so you’re sure to find something to suit your needs. 

• Yoga and stretching

Practicing yoga offers both physical and mental benefits, making it one of the most powerful tools in your holistic health arsenal! Benefits range from weight loss to improved energy and respiratory health to better sleep! It’s no wonder yoga has become such a popular practice. Many locations offer free classes to seniors or beginners. Find yoga classes near you. 

• And lastly, cannabis

There are countless ways you can incorporate cannabis into your holistic health routine, so you’re sure to find something that works for you. Register at our website for access to countless resources on CBD, medical marijuana, and more. 

Learn More about our Wellness Toolkit

If you have any questions about this topic, a Realm of Caring Care Specialist is here to help. Call us at 719-347-5400 option 1, email us at info@realmofcaring.org, or visit our website and sign up for a free client account at www.realmofcaring.org. 

Disclaimer

The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.

The Realm of Caring Foundation is an independent nonprofit with its own governing board. We do not produce or sell cannabinoid products, nor do we receive funds from the sale of other company’s products.

If you have ever used a cannabinoid therapy, such as CBD, for yourself, you may have also considered using it for your pet. If they have witnessed pain, stress, or discomfort, it is natural to search for a solution that may provide them with relief. As their caretakers, it is our responsibility to provide them with what they need in a way that is safe and effective. In some cases, cannabinoid therapy may be beneficial to them. 

The most popular form of cannabinoid therapy on the market is CBD tincture (oil). For dogs in particular, CBD has been researched to help with many conditions, including arthritis, anxiety, and seizure disorders. Due to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic therapeutics of the CBD molecule, it may even enhance the recovery time and pain associated with sprains, fractures, and surgeries.

Just as with dogs, CBD may also ease the symptoms of ailments in cats, however, more research is needed to fully understand the benefit and absorption of the molecule that takes place. The fact that cats also have an endocannabinoid system, just as dogs and humans do, may suggest that plant cannabinoids, like CBD, may have therapeutic benefits.

The product you decide to purchase matters. You want to be sure it is a quality product you can trust and that it is consistent and sustainable. Once you have a CBD product for your pet, whether that be a tincture or a treat, it is critical to start with micro-dosing. This means that your pet could be starting off with mere drops of a tincture in a day.

Animals are more sensitive than humans in a number of ways. For example, dogs have been studied to show that the presence of cannabinoid receptors in the brain far exceeds those of humans. This explains why high levels of THC may be toxic for dogs, and further explains the importance of micro-dosing. The best analogy may be to relate THC to Theobromine – the toxic ingredient in chocolate for dogs and cats. Because they cannot metabolize this chemical in the way that humans can, they are more sensitive to the chemical effects as a heart stimulant, blood vessel dilator, and muscle relaxant. Theobromine is found in cocoa, therefore higher levels of cocoa in a product means it to be more toxic to pets. However, there are also low levels of Theobromine found in carob, which is a safe alternative and tolerable for both dogs and cats. 

When searching for products for your pet, you may find ones marketed specifically for dogs. These will likely be flavored to appease dog palates, of low concentration, and contain little to no THC. If the bottle is marked “full-spectrum”, that means all of the hundreds of cannabinoids of the cannabis plant are in the product, including THC, following the federal guidelines of equating to 0.3% or less. A bottle marked “broad spectrum” will contain all of the cannabinoids with the exception of THC. A CBD “isolate” will only consider the CBD cannabinoid. 

In short, when considering supplementing your pet’s diet with CBD; invest in a quality product, start low and go slow, and consult your veterinarian for medical concerns.

If you have any questions about this topic, a Realm of Caring Care Specialist is here to help. Call us at 719-347-5400 option 1, email us at info@realmofcaring.org, or visit our website and sign up for a free client account at www.realmofcaring.org. 

Disclaimer

The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.

The Realm of Caring Foundation is an independent nonprofit with its own governing board. We do not produce or sell cannabinoid products, nor do we receive funds from the sale of other company’s products.

Things are changing in the CBD industry. Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-OR) and Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA) recently introduced the The Hemp and Hemp-Derived CBD Consumer Protection and Market Stabilization Act of 2020, which helps legally regulate the sale of hemp-derived CBD products. This is significant for the hemp industry and consumers alike, as sales and quality of products will be greatly enhanced for the benefit of both consumers and farmers.

Since the start of the booming industry, CBD businesses have had to overcome many hurdles getting their products to the general market. The FDA was failing in legally regulating the sale of hemp-derived products, thus making it confusing and misleading. Because of this, prices have been decreasing, while quality of the products on the market varies across the spectrum with no regulation. Safety and consumer protection are of great concern in the CBD industry, and having this bill will create a standard of regulating products.

Presented on September 3rd, the bipartisan Schrader/Griffith bill ensures that hemp-derived/non-intoxicating hemp ingredients can be put in the market as dietary supplements. Using existing regulatory framework, this bill would require manufacturers to make sure products are safe, labeled accurately, and the companies are using Good Manufacturing Practices. Most notably, this bill would stabilize the hemp industry as a whole, going hand in hand with the 2018 Farm Bill. This would mean a huge boost in the agricultural sector.

This means more than just CBD manufacturers are excited. Dietary supplement organizations such as the American Herbal Products Association and the Council for Responsible Nutrition applaud the efforts of this bill as a necessary part of the supplement industry. For years, supplement organizations have been calling on congress to regulate CBD, as many consumers are looking for quality CBD products in the dietary supplement market. If passed, hemp-derived products in supplements would be deemed as “New Dietary Ingredients” or NDIs.

Though there is a buzz surrounding this new bill, the Schrader/Griffith bill hasn’t been passed yet. With grassroots efforts from the Hemp Roundtable, we hope this bill will pass with flying colors and help millions of people across the US. If interested in supporting the H.R. 8179 bill, please send a message to your representative through their call to action page. 

If you have any questions about this topic, a Realm of Caring Care Specialist is here to help. Call us at 719-347-5400 option 1, email us at info@realmofcaring.org, or visit our website and sign up for a free client account at www.realmofcaring.org.

Disclaimer

The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.

The Realm of Caring Foundation is an independent nonprofit with its own governing board. We do not produce or sell cannabinoid products, nor do we receive funds from the sale of other company’s products.