Category: Blog

Eight Years in the Making: Realm of Caring’s Impact Over Time

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date April 7, 2021

Founded in 2013, Realm of Caring (RoC) is an independent 501c3 non-profit organization who serves anyone in need of more information about cannabinoid therapies. Through revolutionary research, innovative education, and life-changing grants, RoC seeks to facilitate and encourage the mainstream acceptance of transformative, plant powered therapies to benefit individuals and families and serve healthcare providers as well as the hemp and cannabis industries. Since becoming a formal non-profit in 2013, RoC has cherished a vision that has remained unchanged: the belief that the quality of life matters.

The impact of RoC knows no bounds. Individuals have been helped globally, in these last 8 years, to find that quality of life through research, education, increasing access to, and one on one support with cannabinoid therapy.

The Observational Research Registry (ORR) with Johns Hopkins University (JHU) has included 4,000 participants over time, providing 5 million data points. These significant findings have paved the way for clinical trials, helped companies to determine how their products are helping people, and informed millions on the benefits of cannabinoid therapy. The first paper based on this research was published in 2020 finding that 77% of users attributed positive effects to the medicinal use of cannabinoids.

The data accumulated over the past eight years has informed quality education. This education has been delivered through many mediums by Realm of Caring to help medical professionals assist their patients, dispensaries responsibly serve their customers, legislation pass at state and federal levels, and consumers make informed decisions about their health.

Realm of Caring has played an important role in helping to increase access of cannabinoid products to customers. One way they are able to do this is through providing grants and products to those who cannot afford the high cost of cannabinoid therapy. Realm of Caring has given away almost $3 million to clients in need since the Realm Cares program’s inception in April, 2015; a number that will hopefully continue to grow over time.

Along with providing financial support, Realm of Caring offers the best resource to those who are looking for success with their cannabinoid therapy – time. Over 350,000 inquiries have poured into the call center and we now have more than 67,000 clients. Over 2 million minutes have been spent on the phones with individuals worldwide, looking for support and resources. This is a service that has been and will hopefully remain available for free. The support services offered to clients include administration suggestions based on published data, pulling information based on peer-reviewed research, and taking the time so each individual may find success. Oh, and let’s not forget that RoC has aided 22 states in passing cannabis legislation!

What Realm of Caring has accomplished so far, could not have been possible without the loyalty and dedication of their donor base. The generosity over the years has contributed more than $10.1 million in contributions and in-kind gifts. Overhead costs are able to remain low with a small but mighty team. An average 82% of the funds contributed go directly to programs and services since inception. This ensures that the majority of the money collected goes straight to collecting and improving research, furthering education, and giving back to the community in financial need.

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

RoC has a handful of initiatives that they know will have a monumental impact on their clients and the cannabis and hemp industries.

Huge data initiative to make sense of and make available the 5 million+ data points and share findings with the community and industry. RoC’s demographics have changed significantly and they believe they are sitting on predictive data that can help determine future trends. The only way to find out is to dig deep. RoC has hired a team of data scientists and engineers to help, and are happy to report that they are 6 months into the most ambitious effort they have ever undertaken. They are interacting with the data on dashboards and have gotten a glimpse at the powerful insights, but this endeavor needs significant investment.

Increasing participation and retention in the second version of the JHU registry that is a better user experience and a shorter, more impactful survey is a goal of RoC in the future. They also need more cannabis and hemp brands participating in this research allowing for more health outcomes and insights on their products. RoC recently brought on a new Research Director to lead this charge.

Roc wants to reactivate and remove the waitlist for the Realm Cares grant program. People are in need more now than ever before. RoC also needs to recruit more brand giveaways like the campaigns they have run with Aspen Green, Charlotte’s Web, and Stratos. Stratos is the perfect case study; they increased their market share of the registry data over 39% after initiating this program that also gives them a tax break* and a place to give aging inventory. Win, Win, Win.

The industry needs a meaningful and data driven education platform that encompasses the wealth of practical knowledge and data that RoC has collected over the past 8 years. RoC aims to expand services in this area. The goal is to make a learning program so informative, engaging and user friendly that individuals will seek their services above all others.

If you are feeling inspired and wish to contribute to RoC’s initiatives, fill out this form and a RoC team member will get back to you!

Realm of Caring has been featured on:

*check with your tax accountant on in-kind donation of hemp products.

Blog Featured Uncategorized

Rock the RoC

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date March 8, 2021

Rock the RoC is a virtual, memorial and benefit concert to pay tribute to Charlotte Figi. Here is what you should know about the April 7th event, the impactful story behind it and how YOU can get involved.

Rock the RoC: 04/07 at 6pm MT – Livestreaming at www.rocktheroc.org

Get your free tickets NOW to the largest event Realm of Caring (RoC) has ever hosted; an event that we know you will love: Rock the RoC. We have curated the perfect playlist, to come together to heal, inspire, and groove. We are excited to share this epic event of award-winning artists with our global community.

You will see performances and appearances by: The Avett Brothers, Jason Mraz, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Ruthie Foster, Michael Franti, Molly Tuttle, Glen Phillips, Graham Nash, Wesley Schultz of the Lumineers, Sarah Jarosz, Jeffrey Gaines, MC Flow, The War and Treaty, Nora Brown, Johnnyswim, Chris Trapper, and Johnny Helm.

Online streaming is free for everyone. But in order to really get this going, we are speaking out to YOU, our global community.

Why is that?

Well, if you want to see this production come to life, we need your help.

But first…

A few words about Remarkable Charlotte:

Charlotte Figi shifted the paradigm of wellness and access for all, as the world watched through the expert eyes of Dr. Sanjay Gupta and his truth-seeking docuseries, Weed. Her story of reclaiming a quality of life from pediatric epilepsy with cannabinoid therapy sparked a global effort to showcase the power of cannabis as a natural solution. Her story changed the course of compassionate care for the world. Charlotte’s sudden and tragic passing at the age of thirteen on April 07, 2020, is an urgent reminder that life is precious, that dignity of choice is critical, and that the courage of innocence is a guidepost for human wellness.

Who is RoC?

RoC is a high-impact nonprofit that is creating a worldwide community where access to plant-based therapies is the cornerstone of helping others. Charlotte’s impact remains the footprint of our path forward, toward care for all through the healing power of the Earth. Her fight paved the foundation for research, education, and impact; our mission carries on her light and legacy through funding research, education, and community services that change lives and open minds.

How can you help?

In a VARIETY of ways. Not only will your contribution go towards funding this massive production that is gearing up to air, but it also helps RoC to continue our mission of helping millions globally every day.

Sponsor

Share your brand with millions in the most meaningful and impactful way, celebrating the life of Charlotte. Her life propelled progress for botanical solutions and advocacy for access to them. Your support helps to elevate our mission that began with Charlotte. We have three sponsorship levels available, each incentivized to put your business in the spotlight.

Crowdfunding

Consider making a donation and sharing our Kickstarter Campaign. Rewards for backing this campaign include merchandise with our concert logo, designed by Shepard Fairey’s Studio Number One. Kickstarter funds raised (are required) to go to the production costs of the event.

Donate

Not interested in the incentives but love the RoC and want to keep it going? Donate directly to realmofcaring.org just once or monthly in the amount that you are able to provide. Our one on one support services to clients worldwide are completely free, donations help us to keep it that way.

Share your smile!

Be a beacon of light just like Charlotte and share your name or your loved one’s name in a quick video saying “Hi my name is ____ from _____ and I rock the RoC for _______!”. Send us your video to rock@realmofcaring.org and post it to your social media with the hashtag #iROCKtheRoC.

Leave a message

What are your memories of Charlotte? How has your life been impacted by her light? If you wish to share your feelings and thoughts, head to CharlotteFigi.com and leave your personal message there.

April 7th, 2021 at 6pm MT is a date and time you do not want to miss. Celebrate our light, Charlotte Figi and the millions around the globe just like her.

Blog Education

Getting to Know Delta-8-THC

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date February 23, 2021

Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8-THC) is a cannabinoid that is growing in popularity due to its accessibility in the hemp industry. It is less psychotropic and chemically more stable than its isomer Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC), while still having its own researched benefits.

Delta-8-THC and Delta-9-THC are practically identical. They have the same molecular formula of C21H30O2; which also happens to be the same molecular formula as cannabinoids cannabichromene (CBC) and cannabidiol (CBD), and the hormone progesterone. Their metabolisms follow the same pathways and they have been researched for their like-benefits, as they both have an affinity for CB1 receptors in the brain. For example, both delta-8-THC and delta-9-THC have been studied for their benefits as antiglaucoma agents and for their ability to reduce tumor growth in rodent models. While their chemical behavior is very similar in most cases, there are a few chemical differences that set delta-8-THC and delta-9-THC apart.

First, delta-8-THC is less psychoactive than delta-9-THC, resulting in individuals being able to tolerate higher amounts per administration. In one study, children with hematologic cancers were able to take considerably higher doses of delta-8-THC than delta-9-THC to prevent vomiting due to antineoplastic treatment. They were administered 480 treatments of delta-8-THC and all participants reported feeling relief. This shows promise for delta-8-THC as an effective, yet inexpensive, option to relieve pediatric cancer patients of their nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, with negligible side effects.

Another difference between the two are their chemical stability and how they are extracted. Delta-9-THC will readily oxidize to cannabinol (CBN) with oxygen, light, or natural aging. Delta-8-THC, on the other hand, is a stable molecule with a long shelf life. Although stable, extracting delta-8-THC is not quite as simple. Delta-8-THC grows in very small amounts in cannabis, however it may be able to be derived from hemp or from CBD; which also makes it technically legal in several states. Many delta-8-THC products are created synthetically by converting CBD into delta-8-THC through a process Dr. Raphael Mechoulam patented, called isomerization.

A few other differences to mention are some advantages that delta-8-THC may have. A study published in 2004 tested small amounts of delta-8-THC in mouse models for its effect on cognitive function and food consumption. Over the course of the study, delta-8-THC showed a tendency to improve cognitive function without the psychoactive effects that are typically associated with cannabis. Food intake increased with a similar performance to delta-9-THC but at a significantly higher rate, showing delta-8-THC as having therapeutic potential for weight disorders.

A question you may be curious about is: will delta-8-THC show up on a drug test that is looking for delta-9-THC? And the answer is, most likely. After cannabinoids are metabolized they are excreted for days. As THC molecules break down in the body, they become smaller molecules known as THC metabolites. The major, excreted glucuronic metabolite through the urine is THC-COOH glucuronide. The urine tests are not looking for the specific THC isomer that goes in the body, they are instead looking for the THC-COOH metabolites that come out.

As with many cannabinoids, much research still needs to be completed and considered on delta-8-THC before we can fully understand its full potential. What we do know is that there is a lot of promise as a less psychotropic alternative to delta-9-THC.

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.

Blog Education Featured

Cannabis legislation a priority to U.S. House and Senate members in 2021

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date February 3, 2021

Cannabis Laws

With the start of the new year, several bills are expected to be introduced by Congress in the name of cannabis legislation and reform. Two congressional bills have, in fact, already been filed but Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL). The first introduced bill is identical to the previously proposed, The Marijuana 1-to-3 Act of 2019. This measure would reschedule Marijuana to a Schedule III with the goal to increase research on the therapeutic effects. The second filed legislation is The Veterans Cannabis Use for Safe Healing Act, to “prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from denying a veteran benefits due to the use of medical marijuana in states where the substance is legal.”

These introduced bills show promise, but advocates are looking for more change in terms of cannabis reform, especially considering that the Democrats now have control of both the House and the Senate. Last year the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act was introduced to federally legalize marijuana. While this passed through the House it did not pass the Senate. To speak to the re-approach of the bill, Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) stated on his Twitter on February 1st, “We look forward to working with the Senate to refine the bill, advance its core criminal justice and restorative justice provisions, and end the failed federal prohibition of cannabis once and for all.”

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has stated that cannabis reform is a priority for 2021. On February 1st he announced on Twitter that “The War on Drugs has been a war on people, and particularly people of color. Ending the federal marijuana prohibition is necessary to right the wrongs of this failed war.” Schumer is working alongside Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) to release draft legislation in the coming weeks, detailing the proposed policy change at a federal level. Their released, joint statement shows promise for “comprehensive reform to ensure restorative justice, protect public health and implement responsible taxes and regulations.”

Realm of Caring Foundation (RoC), is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that was established by parents in 2013 to support families who were out of medical options. By creating educational resources, conducting research, and assisting families with data-rich answers to their questions, RoC continues to be a leader in the cannabinoid (cannabis/hemp) field. RoC’s no-cost Care Team has served more than 65,000 clients worldwide and supports a network of over 2,000 medical professionals. To learn more about participating or to donate to this cause, visit www.realmofcaring.org or call 1-888-210-3772.

Blog Education

Cannabinoid therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date February 3, 2021

Observational studies and trials in both humans and rodents in recent years have reported the beneficial use of cannabinoids in the form of cannabidiol (CBD) cannabis and hemp extracts as a therapeutic potential for ASD. In addition to being beneficial, these studies have also reported that, even in adolescents, the side effects of the cannabis extracts were either nonexistent or less frequent than those who reported drugs that are traditionally used for ASD, ADHD, sleep disorders, or epilepsy.

When considering ASD, there are currently no defined drugs or psychotherapeutic approaches capable of extensively improving the quality of life, social skills, and cognitive functioning of the most severe cases. While the currently available drugs may mitigate certain symptoms, the effectiveness is, reportedly, limited and may have undesirable side effects. So, how is it then, that cannabinoid therapy may work differently with the body to possibly provide therapeutic benefit? To understand the difference of cannabinoid therapy in comparison to the available, conventional treatments it is helpful to first gain an understanding of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) these plant cannabinoids are interacting with.

The ECS is the largest neurotransmitter system in the body, involved in regulating nearly every physiological process. It is composed of two receptors called CB1 and CB2 receptors, endocannabinoids, and metabolizing enzymes. Two key endocannabinoids have been identified as Anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These endocannabinoids are responsible for activating the CB1 and CB2 receptors that are found throughout our bodies and brains. Once endocannabinoids activate these receptors, physiological actions take place.

Research has shown that one thing individuals with ASD have in common, is that AEA levels are more reduced than in non-ASD individuals. This is a concept known as clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CED), a theory presented in 2001 and more thoroughly explored in 2004, where decreased AEA levels were found to be associated with a lower pain threshold, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), gastrointestinal disorders, and inflammation.

When experiencing a deficiency of endocannabinoids, such as decreased AEA levels, research suggests the benefit of naturally increasing levels with the modulating cannabis compound, CBD. By supplementing with phytocannabinoids, like CBD, we may be able to mimic the action of those endocannabinoids to fill in gaps of deficiency, which means those decreased levels may become normalized.

Since discovering this connection between decreased AEA levels and ASD, it has been shown that AEA modulation may potentially improve some aspects of behaviors, such as anxiety, without affecting social behaviors. There have even been suggestions that increasing AEA activity at CB1 receptor sites may actually lead to prosocial behavior. AEA modulation has also been linked as an important role in those with epileptic conditions.

In addition to modulating AEA levels, CBD has been researched for its modulating benefits in other physiological processes. This includes how effectively our body may facilitate the serotonin it creates, allowing for more regulation of our moods. It also includes the shifting of glutamate and inhibitory y-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which may regulate excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. Due to the many processes CBD may modulate, participants in studies have seen a reduction in anxiety, cognitive impairment, and discomfort factors as well as an increase in the processing of emotional information.

Getting started with cannabinoid therapy can be overwhelming, especially when considering a neurodevelopmental disorder as complex as ASD. Most of the evidence of the efficacy of CBD with ASD comes from anecdotal and observational data; so although findings conclude that the cannabinoid is safe and may provide relief for associated symptoms, there is plenty of room for further clinical research to explore the full therapeutic potential of CBD, as well as the ability of other cannabinoids to potentiate its ability.

If you are seeking data-driven answers to your questions about this cannabinoid therapy and ASD, Realm of Caring (RoC) can help. RoC has 8 years of collected data and research based on individuals utilizing plant-based therapies. They can guide you through product selection, dosing and administration, how to talk with your doctor, and the results individuals are realizing.

The RoC Care Team is here to assist. They care a lot about helping you to find success. Reach them by calling (719) 347-5400, emailing info@realmofcaring.org, or by scheduling appointment.

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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.

Blog Education

Three Things to Know About Terpenes

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date February 3, 2021

Here at Realm of Caring, we strive to educate our clients on the science behind cannabis. One of the most popular questions we get is, “What is a terpene?”. Terpenes play an important part in cannabinoid therapy as they may enhance therapeutic effects. In an effort to get you to know more about them, we have here the three things to know about terpenes.

#1. What is a Terpene?

To put it in simple terms, terpenes are compounds produced by plants such as fruits, trees, herbs, and a variety of other plant species that are responsible for determining their distinct scents. Terpenes are so abundant in nature that they form the largest group of plant chemicals. They are commonly used for food flavoring, cosmetic products, and as a natural folk medicine. Of all of the plants known to man, cannabis has more terpenes than any other, having over 100 identified.

#2. What do Terpenes do?

Found in the flowers, roots, and leaves, plants use terpenes as a defense mechanism to protect themselves from the environment and predators. They release a strong odor and flavor that is intended to ward off certain insects or herbivores. Not only do they play a role in protecting plants, but research shows terpenes to have multiple health-promoting properties in humans. Many individuals will look for cannabis strains with specific terpenes for specific conditions. The therapeutic properties of terpenes combined with the therapeutic properties of cannabinoids may enhance the overall therapeutic effect that the cannabis plant can offer. This combination, known as the entourage effect, can improve effectiveness due to increased bioavailability and affinity to certain receptors. The cannabinoids and terpenes are essentially working as a team to provide optimal relief.

#3. What are the most popular terpenes?

Of the more than 100 terpenes found in the cannabis plant, there are specific ones found in higher concentrations in certain cannabis and/or hemp strains. Below are six of the most popular terpenes found in cannabis and cannabis products, as well as some of their reported benefits.

Myrcene

Reported to have active sedating, potent anti-inflammatory, and analgesic and anxiolytic properties.

Also found in lemongrass, basil, mangos, and thyme.

β-caryophyllene

Reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and antioxidant properties.

Also Found in black pepper, cloves, hops, rosemary, and copaiba.

α-humulene

Reported to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Also Found in hops, sage, and ginseng.

Α-pinene

Reported to have anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties as well as aid in cognitive function and as a bronchodilator.

Also Found in pine needles, hops, mint, holy basil, and camphor.

Limonene

Reported to have anxiolytic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.

Also found in most citrus fruit peels such as oranges, lemon, and lime.

Linalool

Reported to have sedative, analgesic, anxiolytic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and anticonvulsant properties.

Also Found in lavender, birch trees, sweet basil, and cinnamon.

There is much research to be done on the many terpenes found in nature and how they react with other compounds and the human body to promote internal balance. Once you know what a terpene is and what it does, you will have a better understanding of how it can enhance your cannabinoid therapy. Give us your thoughts below or direct your questions to a care specialist at info@realmofcaring.org.

Disclaimer

Education Featured

CBD and Hemp: Regulatory Overview, Issues Related to Children, and a Vision for the Future

Post author By Sarah M
Post date January 10, 2021

Legal Regulations of CBD and Hemp

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.

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Education Featured

CBD for Skincare

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date January 4, 2021

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!

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Education Featured

7 Easy Steps to More Holistic Health

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date December 30, 2020

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

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Education Featured

How CBD Oil is Helpful for Pets

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date December 18, 2020

Cbd for pets

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.

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