The CBD hemp flower may not resemble a long-stemmed, red rose or smell like a bunch of freshly cut lavender, but it certainly has its own special, inner beauty.
It is precisely that inner beauty that more and more people are becoming aware of – a long list of potential benefits for the mind and body. And, in our opinion, finding something that could potentially offer genuine relief from conditions as wide-ranging as relief from insomnia, chronic pain and inflammation, and anxiety (to name just a few) is better than any bouquet of flowers.
Ultimately, however, whether you are new or familiar with CBD hemp flower, it is fair to say that there is a lot to get your head around. There are countless CBD users who will not necessarily be aware of its history and abilities, and plenty more who are willing to dip their toes in the water but don’t know where to start.
So, whether you are new to CBD, or if you have found yourself preparing some CBD butter just this morning and suddenly wondered exactly how you came to be preparing it, then this guide is catered towards you. In a way, we should all be students to the flower, so pull out a chair, whack out a notebook, and prepare for the lesson.
And yes, if it will help you concentrate, regular joint breaks will be permitted.
What is CBD Flower?
CBD flower is produced by Cannabis sativa and indica plants, and is identified by a high level of CBD (cannabidiol, one of the most significant phytocannabinoids produced by cannabis plants) and, at the same time, a very low level of THC.
THC is, of course, the phytocannabinoid that creates a high in those who ingest or smoke marijuana.
There are two major disciplines of cannabis plant – Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica (more on that below) – but many, many, many different strains within those categories. These strains all possess different smells and tastes, they look slightly (or very) different from one another, and contain different levels of CBD and THC.
Strains that feature less than 0.3% THC are characterised as CBD hemp flower.
A Brief History of Hemp
As far back as 8000 BC, hemp was discovered in Asia as an easily cultivated, naturally occurring plant. At first, it was utilised to make clothing, with Emperor Shen Nung teaching his people to weave it into wearable materials due to its strength and abundance.
Onwards from there, more uses for hemp were discovered. It was soon found to have medicinal and spiritual purposes, with the ability to relax the body and communicate with spirits, though users were warned about the possibility of seeing the devil should they use too much.
Between 600 BC and 100 BC, the use of hemp filtered through the rest of the world, where it was used for medicine, textiles, rope and even building material. Many in Europe would use the seeds for pottery and food. In the Hindu religion, it was considered as a gift which was known as ‘sacred grass’. In China, it was transfigured to create paper. Fast forward a few hundred years, and you’d even find King Henry VII issuing fines to farmers who would refuse to grow it, such was its ongoing global popularity.
It was only towards the twentieth century that the utilisation of hemp began to die down. With easier and far more time efficient materials like cotton taking its place, as well as ropes and sails being made from synthetic fibres – and, eventually, a more divisive role in many parts of the world – hemp took something of a backseat.
But, rather than receding from view completely, hemp’s role simply evolved into something many of us are now excited to explore.
What is the Difference Between Hemp Flower and CBD?
CBD is a phytocannabinoid contained within a hemp flower – or any species of cannabis, for that matter. We can see the hemp flower, but we cannot ‘see’ the CBD contained within it until it is extracted.
Despite hemp’s widespread cultivation – and such a wide variety of uses documented over millennia – it is only in the last hundred or so years that the West has started to ‘wake up to’ its true potential. With growing interest from the circles of science and medicine, we have started to grasp the nature and makeup of the whole plant.
Standing for Cannabidiol, CBD is a chemical in the Cannabis Sativa plant. First discovered by the scientist Roger Adams back in 1940, he managed to distinguish a number of different phytocannabinoids – CBD, CBN (cannabinol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). A few years later, another scientist by the name of Raphael Mechoulam went as far as isolating THC from CBD, discovering that the ‘high’ which was associated with cannabis was formed solely from THC.
This was a pivotal moment, as the realisation that CBD created a very unique reaction within user’s bodies, without the psychoactive effects of THC, would later bring CBD forward as a potential medicinal component for those who really needed it.
Do They Have Psychoactive Effects?
No, CBD is not psychoactive. THC is the psychoactive component in cannabis plants.
One of the most important things to remember is that concentrations of CBD and THC – and the ratio of one to the other – differs significantly across different strains of cannabis. Hemp features the lowest concentrations of THC – sometimes, below 0.1% – which makes it ideal for the CBD industry.
That’s a subject to discuss a little later in this guide, however. For now, here’s how CBD is cultivated and extracted from the hemp plant.
What is the CBD Flower Used For?
When people think of hemp, they would often imagine it rolled up in the form of a joint, but hemp does not only have to be inhaled to gain the full effects. While plenty of users enjoy the effects of smoking, many modern users prefer to experience the same benefits through hash, oil, or wax.
With each of these three options, the initial process – actually extracting the CBD from the hemp flower – is the same…
Making CBD
- The growing cycle of CBD hemp flower spans from 108 days to 120 days. It is usually grown outside and, being a hardy plant, can be cultivated in most climates.
- Hemp plants are thermophilic, which means they like warmth, and they are also heliotropic, meaning they like the sun.
- Farmers plant the hemp into loose, regularly watered soil, and when the hemp flower reaches full bloom, the bud then creates cannabinoids and resin to produce the seed.
- Farmers will remove the male plants so the female plant can flower. The flowers themselves then become enveloped in a sticky residue that contains CBD.
- When the 108-day cycle is up, or when the hemp plants begin to emit an aromatic scent, the plants are then harvested, and the CBD is extracted.
Making Hash
- There are a few different ways in which CBD hash is made, but traditionally it is formed by extracting the sticky trichomes – fine, hair-like fibres – from the plant.
- These trichomes are then filtered and compressed into a single, concentrated block of hash.
- Once created, the hash is then able to be smoked, vaped, or placed into edibles.
Making Oil
- CBD oil is made from extracting the CBD from the dried flower.
- This can be done either by soaking the plant in high-grain alcohol, using carbon dioxide to isolate cannabinoids under low temperatures, or heating the hemp plant and cooking it in carrier oil.
- Once this is done, the CBD is then combined with flavouring (if required) and a carrier oil. CBD oils can contain varying levels of CBD, from the very mild (say, 5%) to much more potent concentrations (up to 25%).
- This is then tested for purity and potency to ensure it is an official, safe, and quality CBD product.
Making Wax
- Like oil and hash, there are several ways that CBD wax can be created, but the most common methods include what is known as a closed-loop extraction system.
- This means using an extraction method to pull out cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
- The extraction method is often done through either CO2 or BHO, both of which leave a highly concentrated substance, which we have come to know as CBD wax.
Of course, these are just a few of the methods in which one can produce CBD-based products. There are more, but this should give you the best idea of how a hemp flower becomes that relaxing joint or delicious, CBD oil-infused brownie.
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The Differences in Strain
When talking about the cannabis plant, you will find that there are two different designations to be aware of. Those are the sativa and the indica strain, which differ in their effects, appearance and origin, and chemical makeup. There are also ‘hybrids’ of the two but, for the sake of simplicity, we’ll focus on the two designations for now.
Cannabis sativa is generally found in hot climates, such as Africa or Central America, where the sun can help them grow. They are typically tall and thin plants, with spindly-like leaves and stems which grow taller than twelve feet. Compared to indica, too, a sativa plant will usually take a longer time to mature and harvest, with a lower concentration of CBD and a higher concentration of THC. Hemp has, however, been specifically cultivated from sativa to contain higher levels of CBD and much lower concentrations of THC – often as low as 0.01%.
Being native to Afghanistan, India and Turkey, the indica strain has become suited to a harsh, dry and turbulent climate. They are shorter than sativa plants with thicker leaves, which grow wider, and stockier stems, which grow shorter. Typically, these plants will produce more buds and grow fast, with a higher level of CBD and a lower level of THC.
Both designations are closely related, but easily distinguished from one another. A variety of strains of cannabis are used to create CBD products. In some parts of the world, higher concentrations of THC are permissible, but here at dozeCBD, for instance, we make sure that our range of CBD flowers possess a THC level of less than 0.01%, ensuring to keep in compliance with the UK and European regulations.
One of the great things about the world of CBD is the sheer variety of strains on offer. From the more ‘usual’ strains to flowers with unique and distinctive properties, like our Lemon Sorbet CBD Flower (yes, it tastes like lemon), there’s an incredible variety of strains to experiment with.
What the Research on CBD Says
It is first important to note that there is only limited evidence and testing which can state categorically that CBD hemp has specific health benefits. Despite this, the popularity of CBD has been growing exponentially over the last decade, with a myriad of users reporting a wide range of potential benefits.
One of the most widely reported benefits is, quite simply, relaxation. It is famous for its soothing and calming effect on users, helping them to unwind and relax themselves after a particularly stressful day. With mental health being at the forefront of the conversation today, it does not have to be spelled out how important it can be to have an aid in unwinding and letting the mind take a much-needed breather.
Other studies have shown that CBD may help to relieve pain. The unique way in which CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system is thought to create an anti-inflammatory effect, which soothes the muscles and even treats severe headaches. These anti-inflammatory effects can also offer a potential therapeutic treatment to those suffering from inflammatory conditions, such as IBS and arthritis.
What’s more, CBD has been said to help with anxiety, depression and addiction, as well as chronic stress and PTSD. While it may not work for everyone, there have been a number of users who have reported its benefits with their symptoms.
There is also a wealth of anecdotal evidence supporting CBD’s ability to ease insomnia, and help users get a better, deeper night’s sleep.
It should be stressed, however, that this is coming from user experience. CBD will likely have alternate effects for everyone, but with so many users reporting similar attributes, it certainly should not be ignored as a viable option for a better quality of life.
You can find out more by reading our guide to the benefits of CBD Flower.
The Different Ways of Taking CBD
When discussing the potential health benefits of the hemp flower, it is important to venture through the alternative ways in which you can take it, as well as the particular health benefits specific to each variant.
For starters, the most popular way of using CBD hemp flower is simply by smoking it. This can be done by crushing up the flower and either rolling a joint, using a pipe or even partaking in the purchase of a bong. Whatever you do, though, please refrain from buying a cliched Bob Marley bong. Unless you’re genuinely into Marley’s music. In which case, who are we to stop you?
While smoking the flower is an efficient and quick way to feel the effects, it is not for everyone, and you don’t have to be afraid to try something different. CBD oil is also said to be particularly beneficial for offsetting anxiety and depression. This can be taken either by placing a few drops directly onto the tongue, adding it in a smoothie, in a vape pen, or even in sweets, such as CBD infused gummy bears.
Apart from this, CBD wax is also a popular choice amongst users. This has been reported to be perfect for daytime use, due to its tendencies to avoid you feeling groggy or sedated. One of the best ways to use wax is through a process called “dabbing”. To do this, you simply place a dab of wax onto a heat source and allow the heat to melt the CBD and produce vapours, which can then be inhaled directly into the system.
Smoking vs Vaping
When it comes to smoking CBD, you can either do this the traditional way with papers and nimble fingers – or a bong – or you can purchase a vape pen which can give you the same effects without the risks associated with smoking.
Besides, smoke may irritate or deter other people. Vaping is, for this reason, a slightly more sociable option if you live with people who dislike the smell of smoke. It is also kinder on the throat and lungs, although long-term studies have not been made yet to assure that it truly is healthier than smoking.
Ultimately, it’s down to the user’s choice.
How to Find a Quality Product
As with any industry, there are high points and low points, which are best avoided. It’s a relatively new world for a lot of people and, as a result, there are some sellers who bank on a lack of knowledge or ‘savvy’ when it comes to choosing products.
The right product will be sold by a credible and knowledgeable company. Yes, a lot of it is relatively light-hearted and fun, but there is always a serious note that needs to be struck whenever something is marketed for health and wellbeing.
Obviously, the right product will come from a source that adheres to all of the UK’s relevant laws and guidelines, but they will also be passionate and transparent about how they source their products, and how they should be used and enjoyed.
Speaking of which, quality is a non-negotiable for the team at dozeCBD, the ideal CBD product is a personal choice. You can take a look at our guide to finding the CBD product that is right for you.
A Changing Influence
Being the offspring of the cannabis plant, it is fair to say that hemp flower has had a bit of a hard rap over the last few decades. Recently, however, CBD has soared in popularity, with more people (much like yourself) choosing to explore the history of the plant and educate themselves on the benefits it can bring to our lives. Nowadays, there are more safe and controlled CBD products on the market than ever, with the industry projected to hit $16 billion by 2025 in the United States alone.
Without extensive research and testing, it is fair to say that the full potential of CBD is thus far untapped. We know what users tell us, which is that it can help with sleep, anxiety, pain, seizures, epilepsy, and more. But with its potential benefits being explored more than ever, it is likely that there is a lot more to be discovered. The future, in this case, looks exceedingly bright.
As the demand grows, we are poised to bring even more innovative CBD hemp products to the our customers. More and more people are turning to CBD – and fewer people are being held back by the outdated public perception of cannabis – which means that there is more and more room to be creative.
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FAQ
Are There Other Side Effects to Taking CBD?
As with anything we ingest, smoke, or even absorb through the skin, there can be some side effects. In the case of CBD, side effects such as dry mouth, diarrhoea, as well as a loss of appetite or fatigue have been known to occur. If you are concerned about any side effects, then talk to your doctor before using CBD.
Are CBD Flowers Legal in the UK?
As long as it contains less than 0.3% THC and has been derived from an approved hemp strain, CBD flowers are completely legal in the UK. There is a clear distinction between CBD hemp flowers and marijuana.
Is CBD Addictive?
Due to containing no psychoactive substances, CBD does not have potential for addiction.
What Strength of CBD is Best?
With so many types of CBD available, it can be hard to know which strength might be best for you. Ordinarily we would advise to start low, and then build your way up if needs be. A 5% CBD oil would be perfect for beginners, with 25% recommended for those experiencing extreme difficulties and in need of intense relief.
Everyone is different. Some people will stick with a low dose their whole lives, while others will gradually increase. It’s all about you, your needs, and the effects that you find CBD has on your mind and body.
The End of The Trail
If you have managed to get to the end of this guide, then congratulations – you are now a fully-fledged student of the CBD hemp plant. It certainly has an interesting history. There aren’t many plants that have had so profound an impact on humanity – and which represent such a close and integral ally to modern users.
Both physical and mental health are so important for an enjoyable and prosperous lifestyle. Anything that can help us to achieve the best life possible should be welcomed with open arms. Anxiety and depression, in particular, are especially prevalent in today’s culture. Just getting by day to day can feel like a challenge. Any potential breakthroughs in this arena should be encouraged and celebrated.
Whatever the reason you have found yourself using the hemp plant, you can now consider yourself a part of a growing community – one ready to take their health and wellbeing into their own hands, and explore the incredible powers of nature. It is a broad topic, with the ability to fascinate more and more people now that the world is beginning to open itself up to its possibilities. For now, however, it is fair to say that you have done a great job in sticking with us in the journey to uncover our favourite flower. Until next time, class adjourned.
