Can CBD Help with Dog Seizures?

Watching your dog have a seizure can be scary and devastating. As many as 1 in 20 dogs will experience a seizure in their lifetime. If your pet has chronic recurring seizures, this may indicate that they have Epilepsy.

Unfortunately, pet medications for seizures, such as Phenobarbital (PB), K-BroVet Potassium Bromide (KBr), and Primidone, only help in 70-80% of cases, and they can carry some harsh side effects including liver damage, lethargy, weight gain, personality changes, decreased white blood cell count, and thrombocytes (blood clotting), as well as thyroid and hormonal changes.

Can CBD help your dog with seizures and canine epilepsy?  Let’s explore…

What is a Seizure?

A seizure is a neurological condition that is popularly referred to as a convulsion. It is a distortion in the brain, a shift from the normal activity which affects the muscles and makes them uncontrollable by the individual who is affected.

Seizures can happen to humans, dogs, or any living animal. For many dog owners, it has been a cause of worry, fear, and anxiety. It sometimes feels worse in animals since you can’t actually hear what they say, you can only see their movements.

If you are not present at the time of a seizure in your dog, it could also be fatal.

Epilepsy is a continual occurrence of seizures in your dog. This means that the seizures may continue to happen especially if your dog is suffering from other illnesses such as kidney problems, liver diseases, and head injuries.

What are the Types of Dog Seizures?

There are different types of canine seizures that your dog can experience including:

Grand Mal Seizures

Grand Mal seizures are what most people associate with seizures. Symptoms can include falling, convulsions and twitching, loss of muscle control, and involuntary urination or defecation. Grand Mal seizures may last only a few seconds or up to several minutes.

Focal Seizures:

This type of seizure only affects one side of the brain. It could eventually spread to the other part of the brain and still make your dog exhibit the same characteristics. Symptoms may include involuntary jerking of limbs or repetitive facial movements.

Psychomotor Seizures

This type of seizure is difficult to detect, you may think that your dog is only having some fun when in reality, it may be struggling with brain inactivity. Your dog may only be hyperactive or aggressive for a short time, or they may express some uncommon behavior such as motionless staring, or hallucinatory behavior.

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Symptoms of Dog Seizures to Recognize

Since dogs do not have the ability to communicate what is going on, owners of dogs with epilepsy must be vigilant and check for some of these symptoms of seizures:

  • Becoming stiff
  • Losing consciousness
  • Chewing its own tongue
  • Drooling
  • Foaming from the mouth
  • Unconsciously urinating or defecating

What To Do If Your Dog Is Having a Seizure

If you do notice some of these behaviors and suspect your dog may be having an epileptic seizure, you should remain calm and follow the steps below to comfort your pet:

  • Speak to your pet in a soft, calming tone
  • Assert light pressure on your pet’s eyes which may help decrease seizure duration
  • Protect your pet from injury and prevent their head from hitting nearby objects
  • Be careful not to move your pet or approach their head or mouth as they may bite
  • Do not punish your pet if they urinate or defecate indoors during a seizure
  • Seek emergency help if a seizure lasts more than several minutes or if a second seizure immediately occurs before they have recovered

What are Some Triggers for Seizures in Dogs?

It is difficult to know what particular triggers may cause seizures in dogs. However, you should be on the lookout if your dog has recently exhibited any of the signs or symptoms above and note any possible triggers listed below:

  • Kidney or liver disease: if your dog is currently battling or recently recovered from kidney or liver disease, it is possible that seizures will occur.
  • High blood sugar or low blood sugar: extremely high blood sugar or extremely low blood sugar can greatly affect the brain which can cause seizures.
  • Traumatic head injury: whether recent or past, head injuries could pose a threat to your dog which may be the culprit for seizures.

Other possible causes of seizures may include:

  • Genetics (hereditary)
  • Anemia
  • Vascular disease
  • Poisoning
  • Tumors
  • Stroke
  • Infection
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Can CBD Oil Help with Canine Seizures?

As stated above, many of the drugs for canine epilepsy have serious side effects. Many pet parents seek a safe and natural alternative treatment for relieving your dog’s seizures without side effects.

What is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound extracted from the cannabis plant. CBD has been shown to provide numerous health benefits including relieving discomfort, reducing inflammation, promoting relaxation, and a wide range of other benefits with little to no side effects.

CBD has been used by many pet owners to help aging pets, those with physical, mental, or behavioral conditions, and as a way to promote good overall health. Many pet owners have reported that CBD has greatly improved their pet’s quality of life.

In your dog’s body, there are endocannabinoid receptors that interact with cannabinoids introduced into the body. These include CB1 receptors found in the neural system and CB2 receptors found in the immune system. The neuroprotective property of cannabinoids is what makes CBD oil so beneficial.

How to Give Your Dog CBD?

The options for giving your pet CBD are plentiful. The most common (and tastiest!) method is in the form of CBD Dog Treats.  Tessera Naturals CBD Dog Treats are made from organically grown USA hemp and contain 2mgs of CBD per treat with no THC. They have a delicious beef flavor that all dogs love.  Cats love them too! CBD dog treats are a safe, convenient, and fun way for pets to enjoy the benefits of CBD.

For larger dogs (60+ lbs), it may be more practical (and more cost-effective) to use our CBD tinctures or softgel capsules.

NOTE: If you give your pet CBD oil using tinctures, it’s best to stick with “natural” flavor.  Some essential oils, such as peppermint oil, may be toxic to some dogs.

Tinctures can be applied directly into the back of the animal’s mouth or under their lip, or the appropriate dosage can be dropped into their regular food, or mixed with a tasty treat like peanut butter.

In addition, cats will lick CBD oil off of their paws when it is applied there, which is a good non-intrusive method to get CBD into their system.

If your pet is on prescription medications, we advise that you check with your veterinarian before giving them CBD.

What to Look for When Buying CBD Oil for Dogs With Seizures

Unfortunately, due to the lack of FDA regulations on CBD, there are many low quality and possibly unsafe CBD products on the market. Always make sure you are purchasing a high-quality product from a reputable source.

What Sets Tessera Naturals Apart?

All Tessera Naturals products adhere to the following standards:

  • Organically grown phytocannabinoid-rich hemp from fully compliant US Farm
  • Manufactured in GMP compliant and FDA registered facility
  • CO2 extraction methodology to maintain the whole plant profile
  • Nano-emulsion technology to ensure optimal absorption and bioavailability
  • Non-GMO and free of pesticides, metals or harsh chemicals
  • 3rd party independent lab testing for potency, quality, and safety

We offer military and senior discounts… and every product you buy from Tessera Naturals helps protect our planet through our partnership with onepercentfortheplanet.org!


Key Takeaways

  • Canine seizures can affect 1 in 20 dogs
  • There are different types of seizures and some may be difficult to detect
  • Remain calm and help your pet avoid injury during a seizure
  • Look for triggers and causes to reduce the occurrence of dog seizures
  • CBD oil may greatly help your dog’s quality of life
  • Make sure to only buy high quality CBD products from a reputable source

CBD for Psoriasis: Can CBD Help Curb Your Symptoms?

CBD has risen to fame in recent years, especially with the windfall of new research to support its therapeutic potential. Unlike its psychoactive cousin THC, CBD does not produce the intoxicating effects typically associated with marijuana. Many people around the globe use CBD for a variety of conditions such as pain, anxiety, and insomnia, but can CBD be used as an effective treatment for psoriasis symptoms?

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin disorder that causes skin cells to multiply faster than normal, leading to a buildup of cells on the surface of the skin. This results in bumpy dry red patches covered with itchy white or silvery scales. The rash can grow anywhere on the body, but is most prevalent on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.

Psoriasis is thought to be an auto-immune system deficiency, where the immune system causes too many skin cells to develop, which then builds up on the surface before they are mature. Furthermore, the National Psoriasis Foundation says that up to 30 percent of people with psoriasis can develop psoriatic arthritis, which leads to stiff and inflamed joints.

Conventional Treatments for Psoriasis

There is currently no cure for psoriasis, but the right treatment can help people manage their symptoms and quality of life. Treatment for psoriasis typically aims to remove scales and stop skin cells from growing so quickly.

Triggers for psoriasis flare-ups can include infections, stress, and cold temperatures. Therefore, alleviating the symptoms of psoriasis can sometimes be promoted on our own with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, moderate exposure to the sun, as well as minimizing stress as much as possible.

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Taking special care of the skin is also a method to reduce outbreaks. Using gentle soaps and lotions and occasional oil baths can be beneficial. Regular application of natural topical products such as butters and oils that support skin renewal and restoration can greatly help psoriasis sufferers.

For more serious cases, medical intervention may be necessary. Many dermatologists will prescribe corticosteroids, which are very powerful anti-inflammatory drugs, but long-term use can unfortunately cause very serious negative effects in the skin and body.

What is CBD?

CBD stands for cannabidiol.  CBD is a natural plant-based compound found in the cannabis plant. CBD is only one of 100+ cannabinoids found in cannabis that all offer their individual benefits. When consumed together, CBD and other minor cannabinoids can be a powerhouse treatment for various health conditions.

CBD oil interacts with our endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is comprised of a series of cannabinoid receptors throughout our bodies that produce their own cannabinoids which help regulate many of the functions that retain our physical and mental well-being.

CBD oil helps our ECS promote homeostasis and brings balance between bodily functions by reducing inflammation, regulating pain, and promoting a more relaxed demeanor. The ECS also plays a fundamental role in maintaining the health of the skin.

What is a CBD Salve?

Herbal salves have been around for thousands of years. A salve is essentially an ointment, cream, or balm that you apply to your skin for its healing properties.

Salves are extremely versatile and multi-purpose products especially beneficial for the treatment of easing symptoms such as rashes, dry patches, scrapes, wounds and other minor skin mishaps.

Salves are made with a combination of waxes and oils to produce a semi-solid consistency. Salves do not contain any liquid, so they tend to remain thick and stable, and do not need to be refrigerated.

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Coconut oil is a popular base for salves as it contains saturated fats that help keep the skin moist. Beeswax or other waxes are commonly used to bind salves together and give it a more solid consistency. The more wax that is added, the stiffer the salve, which is good for products such as deodorants or lip balms.

Many salves are infused with various herbs, essential oils, and plant-based medicinals to enhance their healing properties. For example, Tessera Naturals CBD salve includes Lavender, which helps promote relaxation, and is also great for healing burns, bites, rashes, as well as relieving muscle and joint pain.

What the Research Says on Using CBD for Psoriasis 

CBD research is still in its infancy, but there has been an increasing amount of studies recently on the effects of CBD for skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema. The exact nature of how CBD works to help treat psoriasis remains unknown, but the results are showing promise.

A 2007 study by Nottingham University found that cannabinoids are anti-inflammatory and have inhibitory effects on the proliferation of a number of tumorigenic cell lines and that cannabinoids inhibit keratinocyte proliferation, which therefore supports a potential role for cannabinoids in the treatment of psoriasis.

A study in 2009 from the  University of South Carolina found that some cannabinoids found in cannabis may help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, which is the main cause of psoriasis outbreaks.

More recently in 2019, researchers in Italy showed that applying topical CBD-enriched ointment on psoriatic skin did help to reduce psoriasis symptoms.

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While CBD has not been proven to cure psoriasis, it can be used as a natural treatment or as a complement to other therapies for easing psoriasis symptoms. If you do decide to give CBD a try for psoriasis, we advise choosing a test site and check for irritation or allergic reactions before applying to larger areas of the body.

More research is definitely needed to study the effects of CBD for psoriasis, so we advise speaking with your dermatologist before altering any treatment course you’re currently on.

Most importantly, psoriasis sufferers should only purchase products from reputable brands and sellers. Always ask for a certificate of analysis (COA), which confirms the potency of cannabinoids in the product as well as ensuring there are no harsh chemicals or other contaminants.

Tessera Naturals is a leader in the CBD industry and has always focused on improving the health and wellness of our customers.  We pride ourselves on our strict manufacturing processes and will always strive for excellence in everything we do.

All Tessera Naturals products are THC free and 3rd party tested for potency and safety.  We stand by our products 100% and offer a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied for any reason.


Takeaways

  • Psoriasis can be a debilitating skin condition that could severely impact quality of life.
  • Conventional medical treatments for psoriasis often carry serious adverse side effects.
  • Natural treatments for psoriasis include a balanced diet, overall healthy lifestyle and natural skin products such as butters and oils.
  • CBD has shown promise for relieving pain and inflammation and regulating the immune system function, which could provide benefits for psoriasis patients.
  • CBD will not cure psoriasis, but may be beneficial as a complementary all-natural treatment.
  • As with any new treatment, people considering CBD for psoriasis should consult with their doctor.

CBD Tinctures: Everything You Need to Know

CBD tinctures are the most commonly used CBD products. Tinctures provide a quick and easy alternative to methods of consuming CBD (cannabidiol) such as vaping and edibles.  If you’re brand new to CBD, we suggest reading our Beginner’s Guide to CBD.

Tinctures have an extensive history in herbalism and Western medicine, which makes CBD tinctures very promising. There are some important things to know about tinctures before you can start enjoying the full range of their benefits. In this article, we’ll dig deeper into what exactly is a tincture, as well as how to use them to optimum effect.

What are Tinctures?

Most people associate the word tincture with the little bottles of oil that contain a squeeze dropper, but the definition of a tincture is actually any solution that consists of a plant or animal extract which is dissolved or diluted in some kind of solvent.  The solvent breaks down the plant’s cell wall, releasing the active chemical compounds into the solution.

As with any herbal or essential oil tincture, there is also a carrier oil. A carrier oil acts as the delivery vehicle for the active compound. Carrier oils also dilute and preserve the highly concentrated compound and make it easier to absorb due to their fat content. Common carrier oils for CBD include MCT oil, olive oil, grape seed oil or hemp seed oil.

Tinctures have actually been in use for thousands of years. Their first recorded use was with the Ancient Egyptians, and they were a staple of Western medicine throughout the last 8 centuries. Tinctures were gradually replaced by pills, but they have seen a resurgence lately due to an increased awareness of herbalism and its many benefits.

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How to Use CBD Tinctures

Tinctures are very easy to use and require no extra equipment beyond the bottle and dropper. To apply a dose, simply squeeze the dropper while submerged in the oil and fill to the desired level.  Then drop the amount of CBD drops under the tongue. It is recommended to hold the solution under your tongue for 60 seconds or more to maximize absorption. Some people swish the oil around the inner cheeks for additional absorption before swallowing.

How to Calculate and Measure Dosage

Determining dosage is a common challenge when starting a CBD regimen.  It will require some trial and error to find the optimal dose of CBD for you based on many different factors, which we’ve covered in a previous blog post.

We’ve also created a CBD dosage Calculator for a recommended daily starting point based on weight, condition, and severity.  Every individual is different so it will inevitably require some experimentation to find your sweet spot.

To calculate how much CBD to consume with a CBD tincture, you must note the total CBD content (mg) in the bottle and the number of serving. For example, if your tincture has 1000 mg of CBD, and there are 30 servings (1 full dropper), then one dropper contains about 33mg.  Some companies suggest counting CBD drops in order to measure dosage, but we’ve created a simple diagram to calculate the various dropper amounts or each of our tinctures.

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Again, when trying to figure out just how much CBD you should take, it will require some trial and error. We suggest starting with a low dose (10-15 mg of CBD) and see how you react. You can slowly increase the dose over the next few days to find the most effective dose for you and your goals.

Why Sublingual CBD Application is Effective

One of the main advantages of using tinctures is the ability to get a quick, effective dose of cannabidiol simply by applying the oil under your tongue. This method is a convenient and non-intrusive way to take your daily CBD dose, and typically only takes minutes to take effect. There are thin mucous membranes beneath the tongue that will quickly absorb any chemicals they come into contact with, and directly enter them into the bloodstream. As a result, sublingual administration is a much more efficient route as opposed to normal oral ingestion.

Using CBD Tinctures with Food/Beverages

CBD oil from tincture can also be easily applied to your favorite foods and beverages if you don’t like its taste, but this approach does come with some drawbacks. For one, CBD drops applied onto food or beverages will take longer for your body to absorb the CBD. Furthermore, oral ingestion lowers CBD’s bioavailability as it must be processed through the digestive system, meaning that a decreased amount of CBD will actually end up in your system.

How to Store CBD Tinctures

Tinctures have an incredibly long shelf life, so long as they are stored in dark ultraviolet-protective bottles and kept away from heat and light.

Although tinctures do not need to be refrigerated, they should be kept away from heat in a “cool” environment (ideally 60-70 degrees) to avoid degrading the cannabinoids as well as to maintain the viscosity of the oil.

Dark or opaque tincture bottles offer increased protection to light, and storing them in a dark place helps maximize their shelf life. All Tessera Naturals CBD Tinctures products are packaged in dark amber glass bottles for added protection.

In addition, most CBD tinctures will require an extra bit of care since they often contain a non-alcoholic solvent. Without the preservation that alcohol provides, tinctures have an increased risk of growing mold. To avoid this, make sure not to contaminate the bottle by touching the dropper with the mouth or any other surface.

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Make Sure You’re Using a Quality CBD Tincture!

When selecting a CBD tincture, it’s important to recognize the distinction between actual CBD oil and other “hemp oil” or hemp seed oil. Although they both come from the same plant, hemp seed oil lacks the many cannabinoids that provide a range of therapeutic effects. Hemp seed oil is particularly rich in omega fatty acids, but it won’t have much of an effect if used as a tincture for healing or therapeutic properties.

NOTE: The CBD oil products on Amazon are mostly likely hemp seed oil and do not contain any CBD at all.

Also, make sure you understand the amount of THC in the product and look for either full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD to get the maximum benefit of the entourage effect.

Lastly, make sure you are vetting the products you are buying to make sure they contain the best, high-quality CBD oil, from organically grown hemp, and do not contain harsh chemicals or solvents.  Review Certificate of Analysis (COA’s) to make sure you verify what’s in the bottle.

Tessera Naturals is committed to offering the highest quality premium grade Broad Spectrum CBD products on the market.  Made from USA organically grown non-GMO hemp, using a solvent-free extraction process, Tessera Naturals maintains a pure whole plant profile with 0% THC.  All products are 3rd party tested for safety and potency.


Key Takeaways

  • Tinctures include any solution that consists of an extract dissolved or diluted in alcohol/solvent and is contained in a carrier oil.
  • CBD Tinctures are best used to transfer CBD oil directly under the tongue for maximum absorption.
  • Using tinctures with food and drink is perfectly fine, but it’s more effective to apply the dose sublingually.
  • Calculate the dosage of tinctures by noting the total CBD content in the bottle, divided by the number of servings.
  • Store tinctures in a cool, dark place for maximum shelf life.
  • Make sure you are purchasing high-quality CBD tinctures from a reputable source.

6 Reasons Why CBD Pills Might be the Best CBD Product Ever

Due to the hyper-growth in the hemp and CBD market, more and more products are popping up from CBD pills, topicals, tinctures, and edibles.  Because of the popularity and competitiveness, it seems that everyone is trying to come up with the “next best thing” in CBD in order to stand out from the crowd.  We’ve seen everything from CBD popcorn to CBD toothpaste!

At Tessera Naturals, we’ve always avoided gimmicks and instead choose to focus on providing the highest quality hemp CBD products on the market, but there are definite pros and cons for the various ways of consuming CBD, as we’ve written about in our Beginner’s Guide to CBD.

Why CBD Pills are a Favorite?

CBD pills in the form of softgels and capsules offer an easy way to consume CBD as part of your daily health and wellness routine, or as a supplement to treat a number of conditions.  Let’s go over 6 reasons why CBD pills might become your new favorite product.

1. Convenient and Clean

Tinctures are by far the most popular form of taking CBD, and for good reason as the sublingual application has been shown to be super effective.  That being said, many people don’t want to mess with droppers, holding oil under their tongue for prolonged periods of time, or trying to figure out dosage with the various bottle sizes and potencies that tinctures come in.

Everyone has popped a pill in their life for one reason or another. There’s nothing new to learn and it’s quick and simple.  Most people are used to taking vitamins or supplements in pill form so CBD pills are comfortable for them.

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2. CBD Pills are Portable and Discreet

If you’re on the go, at work, or traveling, tinctures can sometimes be a bit messy or cumbersome.  On the other hand, CBD pills are easy to take with you and there will be no strange stares or unwanted questions as to what you are taking since they resemble regular everyday vitamins.  

3. High CBD Absorption and Bioavailability

Bioavailability refers to the rate and the amount for which a substance is absorbed into the bloodstream. The bioavailability of CBD varies based on the different consumption methods.

Sublingual application is extremely effective as the oil absorbs directly into your bloodstream through the capillaries under the tongue.  Some people add hemp oil from tincture bottles to their food or beverage… while perfectly fine to do so, the drawback is that you will lose some of the CBD as it goes through your digestive system and is processed through your liver.

This might lead you to believe that CBD pills have the same disadvantage, but our CBD softgel capsules are made with a proprietary water-soluble hemp oil that is nano-emulsified.  This means that the oil droplets are broken down into tiny (nano-sized) droplets. The smaller the drops, the more surface contact the oil has with your body’s absorptive tissue, which in turn increases the absorption of CBD across mucous membranes up to 5 times that of standard hemp oil.

4. Long Lasting effects

Similar to how different formats of CBD provide different absorption rates and bioavailability, there is also a difference in how long the effects will last.  While smoking or vaping CBD provides the fastest effect (within minutes), the CBD lasts the shortest amount of time in your body.  Conversely, CBD in pill form and other edibles take a bit longer to reach your bloodstream (30-60 minutes), but the effects of the CBD will remain in your body for several hours.  Tinctures fall somewhere in between.

5. CBD Pills are Tasteless and Odorless

Some people do not enjoy consuming CBD from tinctures due to the taste of hemp.  There are plenty of tasty edibles to choose from, but oftentimes those come with added calories, sugars, artificial flavors and other undesirable additives.

CBD gelcaps are a great choice for a tasteless form of CBD while avoiding unwanted calories and extra ingredients.

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6. Exact dosage

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive is “How much CBD should I take?”.  Tinctures offer great flexibility for experimenting and adjusting your dose, but once you’ve found your sweet spot, you’ll want to have some consistency.

Vaping/smoking CBD is difficult to control dosage as it will vary based on several factors such as vaping apparatus, how long you draw in the smoke/vape, etc.  Edibles can also be a bit tricky as the CBD dosage isn’t always consistent within the overall product.

While you can’t really overdose on CBD, CBD pills are great for staying the course as you’ll receive an exact consistent dose.  Our CBD softgel capsules contain 25 mg of CBD each, so you’ll know what you’re getting every time.

Why Tessera Naturals CBD Softgel Capsules?

We believe that quality is (and should be) the most important measure of any product we consume.  When it comes to our health and what we put into our bodies, we shouldn’t compromise.

Tessera Naturals is committed to offer the highest quality broad spectrum hemp CBD oil on the market and all of our products are:

  • THC free
  • Made with premium-grade whole plant hemp extract
  • Made from 100% organically grown non-GMO hemp
  • Made in the USA from farm to bottle
  • Manufactured in a GMP certified FDA registered facility
  • 3rd party tested for content, quality, and safety
  • Free of heavy metals, harsh chemicals, solvents or pesticides
  • Legal in all 50 states, 2014/2018 Farm Bill compliant
  • Free shipping in the US
  • 30 day 100% money-back guarantee

Lastly, every product you buy from Tessera Naturals helps protect our planet through our partnership with onepercentfortheplanet.org!

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Why Should You Use CBD Oil for Dogs (and Other Pets!)

As CBD products become more popular, and their many health benefits become widely known, people have naturally begun to wonder if these health benefits could be extended to their pets as well. To no surprise, there has recently been a surge of hemp CBD oil products dedicated to dogs and other animals, which claim to be able to help with their ailments and encourage overall health. 

With this emergence of CBD products for pets, a number of questions are raised. How is CBD oil given to pets? How does CBD oil help dogs? Is CBD oil safe to give to pets? Let’s explore the answers to these questions and find out what CBD has to offer our four-legged companions.

An Overview of CBD Oil for Pets

CBD pet products are a natural result of the increased awareness of CBD oil’s health benefits when used by humans. One main appeal of CBD products for dogs is that they contain little to no THC, so there is no risk that it will cause a pet to become intoxicated. 

Furthermore, like humans, all animals have an endocannabinoid system, which regulates certain cognitive and physiological processes in the body. Considering that people’s pets also suffer from a number of acute and chronic ailments, it was inevitable that CBD would find its way into the pet market.

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As of right now, CBD has been used as a natural way for pet owners to help aging pets, those with physical, mental, or behavioral conditions, and as a way to promote good health. People have reported that CBD can provide relief for their pet’s inflammation, pain, anxiety, and hyperactivity.

As an example of how helpful CBD hemp oil can be for pets, take a look at these stories… 

Ella the dog used to experience severe anxiety from fireworks or other loud noises, but this anxiety disappeared after her owner (who is also a veterinarian) started giving her CBD. 

Jet the cat used to be highly shy and defensive settling into his new home, but after daily doses of CBD, he became much more sociable and compassionate. While these are just two anecdotes, they demonstrate how CBD can be effective in both dogs and cats.

How Do You Give CBD Oil to Your Dog?

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The options for administering CBD to pets are various, allowing for pet owners to choose a method that their pet is most comfortable with.

The most common products come in the form of CBD Dog Treats made with a specific amount of hemp-derived CBD oil for dogs, and some of these same treats can be given to cats and other pets as well. Treats are usually made with healthy all-natural ingredients that are safe for pets to eat, and are available in a variety of flavors aimed at dogs and cats. Treats provide the simplest way for pets to enjoy the benefits of CBD, and it’s a plus if they enjoy the flavor!

For pets that are more finicky about their food, there are also CBD oil tinctures and capsules. Tinctures can be applied to the back of the animal’s tongue or under their lip, or the appropriate dosage can be dropped into their food, onto one of their favorite treats, or mixed with peanut butter. 

In addition, cats will lick CBD oil off of their paws when it is applied there, which is a good non-intrusive method to get CBD into their systems.

Note: If you give your pet CBD oil using tinctures, make sure there are no added ingredients that could be harmful for animals. Also, it’s best to stick with “natural” flavor as some essential oils, such as peppermint oil, may be toxic to some dogs.

CBD balms and oils can be applied directly to a pet’s skin so it can be absorbed transdermally. A common location for applying balms is on the bare skin inside the ears of dogs and cats, which allows for quick and easy absorption. Balms are good for a pet’s skin, and can also help relieve tired or sore muscles and joints. CBD balms have been particularly helpful for treating horses.

Lastly, some product lines offer a CBD pen that administers the dose intravenously, though this isn’t a popular option as many pets aren’t too happy about this method!

How Much CBD Oil Should You Give Your Dog?

Just as figuring out how much CBD you should take as a human, determining the appropriate dosage of CBD for a pet is essential to make sure they get the most benefit. Just like with humans, every animal is unique, and will require a different amount of CBD to achieve a desired result. 

An effective dose is typically determined by pet species, breed, weight and ailment being treated. Veterinarian Judy Morgan recommends starting with a dose of 1 mg per 10 pounds of weight, and then monitoring your pet’s reaction to decide if the dose needs to be increased.

It is also important to note that some hemp-derived CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, which has shown to be toxic to some dogs and cats. This is all the more reason to keep the dosage low to start out with, or stick to either broad spectrum CBD or CBD Isolate.

While CBD treats will probably be the preferred method of administering a dose to pets, they are not as flexible as oils or tinctures. Unlike with treats, tinctures allow for the dose to be easily adjusted as needed.

Is CBD Oil Safe for Pets?

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As of 2019, there have been few formal scientific studies examining how CBD oil affects dogs and other domestic animals. One study found that hemp-derived CBD is perfectly safe to administer to dogs, but research on other animals is limited. 

However, the amount of anecdotal evidence from pet owners suggests that CBD causes no serious side effects when given to animals. The side effects that could present themselves at higher doses are comparable to side effects seen with humans, which include decreased salivation, nausea and drowsiness.

With that being said, it’s still important to only purchase organic, all-natural CBD products that are sourced from reputable sources. Non-organic hemp could potentially contain additives that would be harmful for pets, and a lack of FDA regulation means that some products could mislabel their actual THC/CBD concentrations. Moreover, pets should not be given edible CBD products meant for human consumption, as they could contain other ingredients that might be toxic to animals.

The AKC Canine Health Foundation is currently sponsoring a study that will investigate the use of CBD in treating epileptic dogs. Hopefully, this will spark new research that will uncover even more information about how CBD affects pets, and the potential benefits that CBD products have to offer them.

If you’ve tried giving CBD to your pets, please leave a comment below as we would love to hear your experience!


Key Takeaways

  • CBD oil for dogs and cats is a booming sector within the explosive CBD hemp industry.
  • CBD may help pets with age related conditions as well as pain, anxiety, and hyperactivity.
  • Popular options to give your pets CBD oil include hemp dog treats, tinctures and topicals.
  • Finding the right dosage is key for pets, it’s best to start low and slowly increase over time until you see the desired results.
  • So far, CBD has ben shown to be generally safe for dogs and other pets.

CBD Oil or CBD Cream for Pain? Which is Better?

Pain is a wonderful thing!  While that may not sound like a rational statement, our body’s pain response is what saves us from potential life threatening circumstances. Pain is our body’s way of telling us that something is wrong and to stop doing what is causing the pain.  There are various types of pain such as acute pain, chronic pain, inflammation and even psychological pain caused from physical pain, referred to as “psychogenic” pain, so the answer of which format is best… CBD oil or CBD cream for pain, isn’t quite as simple.

What is CBD?

CBD (short for cannabidiol) is one of 100+ chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant called cannabinoids.  While THC is the most famous cannabinoid for its intoxicating effects, CBD is gaining popularity for its health benefits and therapeutic properties.

CBD can be taken in any number of different formats such as oils, capsules, topicals, vapes and edibles. There is a growing list of medicinal benefits from taking CBD on a regular basis and some of the most popular reasons why people take CBD include anxiety, insomnia and pain relief.

In the article, we will focus on pain relief and discuss whether CBD oil or CBD cream is best for pain relief and inflammation.

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How Does CBD Help with Pain?

Our bodies have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that promote homeostasis, which is the body’s ability to maintain balance and function properly.  Our ECS acts sort of as a “control panel” for many different functions such as appetite, sleep patterns, immune function, cognitive and motor abilities, as well as pain sensitivity and inflammation response.

Unlike THC, which binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our ECS, CBD is actually an antagonist and has the opposite effect. CBD inhibits anandamide, a natural cannabinoid in our body that helps regulate pain and promotes a feeling of well-being.

Looking at the science, there is still some debate on how exactly CBD elicits analgesia (analgesia = absence of pain).  Other than interacting with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system, there is also evidence that CBD may also affect areas outside of our ECS such as opioid, serotonin and other receptors involved in inflammatory pathways. CBD has also been shown to activate other receptor proteins, such as TRPV1, which is responsible for functions such as inflammation and pain awareness.

CBD, along with the other cannabinoids and terpenes in the hemp plant, is a growing trend among pain sufferers from a variety of conditions such as chronic pain, migraines, arthritis and other neurological or autoimmune disorders.  Studies have shown that plant cannabinoids (CBD and THC) are far more potent anti-inflammatory operators than NSAIDs.

CBD may not completely get rid of all pain like taking morphine would, but it may reduce it to a point where it’s tolerable, and thus eliminate the need to take harsh prescription drugs.

A Word on Opioids:
Opioids are extremely addictive, which has led many pain sufferers down a path of abuse. Prescriptions for opioids have soared in the US in the last two decades and incidents of opioid overdoses have tripled during that time. Statistics show that opioid addiction, overdose and deaths are at an all-time high in the United States.

CBD Oil vs CBD Cream For Pain

Using CBD Oil for Pain

CBD can be ingested into the bloodstream by using a tincture bottle containing CBD that is diluted in a carrier oil. The recommended method to use CBD from tinctures is to place the oil under your tongue and hold it there for some time to let it absorb through the sublingual capillaries.  The sublingual method is preferred as the CBD enters your bloodstream without having to go through the digestive system.

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CBD ingested internally will take a bit longer to absorb, but will have a longer lasting effect on the overall pain and inflammation functions in our ECS.

As far as how much CBD oil to take, CBD dosing will depend on several factors including body weight, metabolism, frequency of use, as well as the CBD quality. We always suggest starting with a low dose and gradually increase until pain relief is achieved.

Visit our free CBD dosage calculator for a good starting point.

Using Topical CBD Cream for Pain

There are various topical CBD products that can be very effective for targeted pain relief.  Topical CBD can be found in an oil-based salve or ointment, which tend to be thicker consistency, and will stay on the skin’s surface for a longer period of time, which bodes well for skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.  A CBD cream or lotion, on the other hand, is water-based and will absorb better into the skin.

Both CBD creams and CBD salves can be infused with other botanicals or essential oils to complement the effectiveness of pain relief.

Rather than being ingested orally like CBD oil, topicals are applied directly and massaged to the specific area of pain, offering a concentrated amount of CBD in a relatively small area.  Topical CBD also avoids the first-pass metabolism effect from ingesting CBD oil and thus improves the CBD bioavailability.

Topical CBD products also minimizing any potential adverse effects some may experience with ingesting a higher dose of CBD oil due to potential side effects, or sensitivity to some carrier oils.

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Since topical CBD administration helps with localized pain, as opposed to chronic pain from conditions such as neurological disorders of autoimmune deficiencies, topical CBD is ideal for acute pain from arthritis, joint pain, muscular pain, back pain and sciatica or dermatological conditions.

As for dosage, anecdotal evidence suggests that a low concentration of CBD is quite effective when applied topically vs ingested orally, so a little goes a long way.  Also, pain is extremely subjective, so it will also depend on the severity of pain and inflammation one is experiencing, and what exactly is causing the pain. For example, if you just broke a bone, CBD may not be of much help in alleviating the immediate pain until the fracture is set and you’re in the later stages of healing.

So Which is Best , CBD Oil or CBD Cream For Pain?

Both CBD oil and topical CBD can be very effective for pain relief. Ingesting CBD oil can work on the internal cells to provide relief while CBD creams can provide direct targeted relief to painful areas. CBD oil ingested orally may also help with other symptoms that someone in pain may be experience due to their condition such as anxiety, insomnia, etc.

There are proponents for both types of CBD formats for alleviating pain, but when combined together, a CBD oil and a topical CBD cream or salve can be a powerhouse for attacking pain and inflammation from the inside and out!

The Future of CBD Use for Pain

As of this article, it has only been slightly more than a year since CBD derived from hemp was de-classified by the federal government as a Schedule 1 substance (unlike marijuana which is still federally illegal).  This means that there have been very limited studies on CBD and its effectiveness for pain.

With the shift in legislature in the US and other countries towards cannabis, new research, as well as anecdotal evidence, has been growing giving us a better understanding of how cannabis may provide therapeutic benefit. The relationship between cannabis and the human body is extremely complex and further research is required to fully comprehend its therapeutic benefits and safety profile. 

We at Tessera Naturals keep our thumb on the pulse for any breaking news and information that surfaces on the benefits and usage of hemp and its derivatives. Tessera Naturals provides the highest quality broad spectrum CBD products on the market and many customers have finally achieved much needed relief using our CBD cream for pain, made with all natural ingredients and no side effects. Our CBD oil tinctures are also a great way to get relief and achieve overall health and wellness for many ailments and conditions usually treated with harsh prescription medications.

Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest information as well as exclusive discounts on our premium line of broad spectrum CBD products.


Key Takeaways

  • Pain is our body’s way of telling us that something is wrong that is causing pain.
  • CBD from hemp is a growing treatment for pain sufferers without the intoxicating effects of THC.
  • CBD interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system to provide relief from pain and inflammation.
  • CBD oil can be ingested sublingually to provide pain relief from the inside while topical CBD can be applied to a targeted area to attack pain from the outside.
  • Both CBD oil and topical CBD cream for pain can be very effective, and when combined, they can be a powerful synergistic treatment.

What is Broad Spectrum CBD and Why We Chose It?

Due to the lack of regulation in the CBD industry, there are no official definitions when it comes to describing the various types of CBD oils on the market. Moreover, not all CBD companies are using terms correctly.  That being said, there is a growing list of generally accepted standard terminology as the industry develops. In this article, we explain what is broad spectrum CBD, and why we chose it for our product line.

First, Let’s Define the Terms

Cannabis

Cannabis is a plant that contains 113+ cannabinoids with each offering different health benefits.  Cannabis oil can be extracted from either the marijuana or hemp strain.

Marijuana

Marijuana is a strain of cannabis that has a high concentration of THC, the cannabinoid that gets you high.

Hemp

Hemp is a strain of cannabis that has a high concentration of CBD and very low levels of THC.  Both marijuana and hemp also contain trace amounts of the other minor cannabinoids such as CBG, CBN, CBC, etc.

In order for a CBD product to be federally legal, it must be derived from hemp and contain no more than 0.3% THC.

Full Spectrum CBD

Full spectrum CBD oil refers to an extract that contains the full spectrum of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.  If the oil is extracted from hemp, the dominant cannabinoid will be CBD, but it will also contain small amounts of the other minor cannabinoids, as well as THC.

When various cannabinoids are present at the same time, they work more effectively than alone, and together they produce a synergistic benefit known as the entourage effect.

Broad Spectrum CBD

Broad spectrum CBD refers to an oil that starts as a full spectrum extract, but undergoes an additional step to remove the trace amounts of THC.  It still contains CBD and other minor cannabinoids, and still produces the entourage effect… The only missing piece is THC.

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate refers to a product that only contains the singular compound CBD. CBD isolate does not produce the entourage effect since it does not contain any of the other minor cannabinoids, amino acids, or other beneficial compounds found in hemp.

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How is CBD Oil Extracted from Hemp?

Unrefined hemp extract contains everything extracted from the hemp plant, including the many cannabinoids, terpenes and amino acids, and also THC.

High quality CBD oil is extracted using either CO2 extraction or food-grade ethanol. After extraction, the crude CBD oil is then refined. The solvents are removed but the cannabinoids, terpenes and other phytochemicals are left intact, leaving a full spectrum extract.

To produce broad spectrum CBD, the full spectrum extract undergoes an additional step to remove the THC. Tessera Naturals’ process uses liquid chromatography to selectively isolate and remove the THC, leaving behind the other beneficial compounds that users want from a full spectrum product, but without the chance of ingesting any THC.

Why We Chose Broad Spectrum

Most CBD products on the market are full spectrum, which contains trace amounts of THC. While these trace amounts are not enough to make you high, we acknowledge that even micro-doses of THC has many reported health benefits.

That being said, CBD does not necessarily “need” THC to work effectively. Many people ask us, “Is broad spectrum better than full spectrum?”… our answer is no, they’re just different (albeit only slightly). We feel both are beneficial and neither is necessarily better than the other.

At the same time, we wanted to make sure that our CBD products were widely available to everyone. There are many people that want to take advantage of the health benefits of CBD, but do not want to ingest any THC for a variety of reasons, so we chose to stick with THC free CBD oil as our core product line.

Reasons People Avoid THC

Some people are super sensitive to THC and it can give them anxiety.  Reducing anxiety is one of the most popular reasons for using CBD, so any THC would be counterproductive. 

Others cannot ingest any amount of THC due to their jobs where they regularly get drug tested, such as public sector employees, healthcare professionals or law enforcement.

There are those that are just not interested in THC due to the stigma of marijuana, or they live in an area that has very strict THC laws.

Lastly, some people have said that full spectrum CBD oils have a very strong scent and flavor that they find unpleasant.  Our broad spectrum CBD oil has a very mild hemp flavor that some would describe as “earthy” and very pleasant.

For these reasons above, we felt that removing THC was a small trade-off in order to provide the benefits of CBD to as many people as possible, with just as much benefit, but without the potential legal risks or other “baggage” associated with THC.

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Will Broad Spectrum CBD Show Up On a Drug Test?

The short answer is no, you should not fail a drug test by taking broad spectrum CBD from Tessera Naturals as our products do not contain any THC.

That being said, some lab facilities test for a wide spectrum of cannabinoids, not just THC.  Therefore CBD and other cannabinoids may trigger a false positive on a drug test.

Also, some people may metabolize CBD differently and while you can’t really overdose on CBD, we’ve heard that patients who consume very high amounts of CBD (1,000+ mg of CBD per day) can trigger a false positive on a drug test as well.

A Word on CBD Isolate

As stated above, CBD isolate is a singular extracted compound that contains pure CBD only. CBD isolate may be best for individuals who are seeking a high dose of CBD, or for relief from conditions that only CBD can provide.

Other than those few, we feel that choosing CBD isolates to avoid THC is not as effective for overall health and wellness as broad spectrum CBD as it lacks the many benefits that the amazing hemp plant provides.

We believe that nature knows best and that it’s always best to consume products that contain raw ingredients as close to their natural unaltered state as possible.

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What You Need to Know When Buying Broad Spectrum CBD

If you’re interested in experiencing the benefits of a full spectrum CBD product, but without the THC, then broad spectrum CBD is the way to go.

Note that many companies choose to define the types of CBD oil differently, some say full spectrum, some call it whole plant extract, we’ve also seen wide spectrum CBD, so it’s important for consumers to have enough knowledge and education to know exactly what is in the product.

Be careful of products that are labeled as THC-free full spectrum CBD. A product cannot be considered full spectrum if it’s missing one of its components. Either the “THC-free” claim is incorrect, or the company is using the “full spectrum” term incorrectly.

Whatever CBD product you purchase, you should also make sure the company can provide a certificate of analysis (COA).  These are independent 3rd party lab tests that verify the contents of the product, showing the potency of cannabinoids and terpenes, including whether there is any THC in the product or not.  Lab tests should also ensure that there are no dangerous contaminants such as pesticides or harsh chemicals.

Also, you should only buy CBD products from a reputable source, either a brick and mortar wellness/CBD store where there are representatives who can explain the products, or an online retailer that clearly explains what type of products they offer.  If you can’t get straight answers, we advise you to go elsewhere.

Beware of “home made” products that are not clearly labeled and may contain dangerous substances, or products that are labeled as hemp oil and contain little to no CBD.  Even professionally labeled products can be misleading or incorrect, such as the CBD oil on Amazon that are actually hemp oil and do not actually contain CBD. 

Not all CBD is created equal, which is why we advise that you don’t just pick up some cheap CBD from a gas station or your local vape shop.

Read 10 Things to Look For When Buying CBD.


Key Takeaways

  • There are 100+ natural compounds in the cannabis plant called cannabinoids, and when they work together, they produce the entourage effect.
  • The hemp strain contains all of the cannabinoids and terpenes found in cannabis, including a high concentration of CBD and a trace amount of THC.
  • Full spectrum CBD includes the whole plant extract, including THC.
  • Broad spectrum CBD starts as a whole plant extract, then the THC is  completely removed.
  • CBD isolate contains only CBD and no other cannabinoids, terpenes or amino acids from hemp.
  • Broad spectrum provides the benefits of a full spectrum CBD (entourage effect), but without the THC.
  • Broad spectrum CBD should not cause you to fail a drug test, but this is not guaranteed.
  • Always read labels, review lab reports and make sure you’re purchasing high quality products from a reputable source.
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All About Topical CBD

Topical CBD, or CBD products that are used on the skin, provide a range of benefits and advantages unique to other forms of CBD. Keep reading to find out all you need to know about topical CBD products. For an overview of CBD in general, read our Beginner’s Guide to CBD.

What is Topical CBD Application?

Topical CBD products are intended to be applied directly to the skin as needed in order to reap their therapeutic benefits. These products come in several forms, such as CBD balms, lotions, creams, salves, oils, CBD ointment, and even adhesive CBD patches.

Topical CBD products are typically used to relieve pain or inflammation in a specific area, and they also show promise as a treatment method for various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. Furthermore, CBD has also been shown to speed up the healing of minor wounds such as blisters and cuts. While it is still in its preliminary stages, there is promising research suggesting that CBD can promote healthy skin and hair.

Why is Transdermal CBD Application Beneficial?

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) includes receptor throughout all peripheral organ systems, and applying CBD transdermally is perhaps the most effective way to reach the endocannabinoid receptors in the skin. This is especially important, since the ECS has been shown to regulate allergic reactions, as well as promote healthy hair and skin cell growth.

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Transdermal CBD application also provides a comfortably and effective way to administer CBD. Oral ingestion is probably one of the more common ways that people use CBD, but it can cause gastrointestinal issues in some, and the body ends up metabolizing much of the CBD through digestion.

On the other hand, absorbing CBD through the skin avoids first-pass metabolism, and may be the preferred method for those who experience adverse side effects with oral ingestion. In addition, transdermal application allows for a steady dose of CBD to be delivered over an extended period of time.

What’s in a Topical CBD Product?

Even though CBD is the primary active ingredient in a topical product, there are additional substances that will influence the effect it has.

Most topical creams, lotions, etc. are either water-based or oil-based. Water-based topicals are typically more comfortable to apply and absorb quickly, but they do not provide the same level of moisturization and skin penetration as oil-based ones. This is because the outer layers of the skin are highly lipophilic, allowing for oil to penetrate easier.

CBD topicals may also include other plant extracts and essential oils that have their own therapeutic benefits. For example, eucalyptus is a purifying and immune-boosting oil and research suggests that eucalyptus oil can ease joint pain from conditions such as osteoarthritis and arthritis. Another example is lavender oil, which contains potent anti-inflammatory properties and moisturizes the skin.  It is also an antibacterial and can kill bacteria that penetrate your pores, which is helpful for preventing and healing acne.

Although certain substances can improve the effectiveness of a CBD topical, others might produce adverse side effects. Some preservatives, fragrances, and adhesives can potentially cause allergic reactions. In addition, ethanol is often used as a penetration enhancer, but it can also cause irritation and skin dryness.

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Storing Topical CBD Products

Storing topical CBD products properly will help maximize how long they are effective. Exposing products to intense heat or direct sunlight may cause the active ingredients to break down, so it’s best to keep them in cabinets or drawers. Refrigerating topical products can also extend their shelf life if they contain ingredients such as vitamins, but exposing them to extreme cold can have the opposite effect and destabilize them. 

Can I Use Topical CBD on My Face?

The face has some of the most sensitive skin on the body. While CBD itself has not shown to be an irritant, other ingredients could potentially cause discomfort. Alcohols, acidic substances, certain fragrances, and synthetic compounds added to a CBD ointment might be too irritating if applied to the sensitive facial skin, so it’s important to check your product’s ingredient list before use.

Make Sure You’re Using the Right Product!

When selecting a topical CBD product, it’s very important that you don’t get it mixed up with products that are hemp seed oil based. Hemp seed oil is rich in omega fatty acids, which can be very beneficial to the skin, but it lacks the many cannabinoids (including CBD) that provide healing and therapeutic effects.

Make sure that your topical product is made from high quality full or broad spectrum CBD and not just hemp seed oil.  Also, do your research and make sure to purchase your products from a reputable source and always review certificates of analysis (COA’s) to make sure the product is safe and effective.


Key Takeaways

  • Topical CBD products may provide targeted pain relief and treatment for various skin conditions.
  • Topical CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors in the skin, bypassing the digestive system.
  • Topical CBD can be either water-based or oil-based, and can be combined with other beneficial ingredients and essential oils.
  • Beware of preservatives, fragrances, and other ingredients that may cause adverse reactions.
  • Store Topical CBD products away from light and heat.
  • Make sure you’re buying quality topical CBD ointment from a reputable source.
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7 Healthy Coffee Alternatives

Coffee is the third most popular beverage in the world, behind water and tea. Many people love it for its flavor and its high caffeine content. Altogether, the world consumes about 400 million cups of coffee each year! 

In addition to its vast popularity, coffee has been shown to have many positive effects on health. Scientific evidence suggests that coffee consumption can help prevent neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, improve cognitive functions, and even help people live longer.

Why You Should Consider Coffee Alternatives

Despite the many benefits of coffee, some people might not enjoy the flavor, and some are not able to drink it due to a sensitivity to caffeine, which causes negatives symptoms such as anxiety, headaches, tremors, and insomnia. As a result, many coffee alternatives have emerged as of late, and they are gaining popularity at restaurants, cafes, and at home alike.

Let’s explore seven healthy alternatives to coffee for those who want to enjoy a nutritional beverage, as well as how you might choose to add CBD hemp oil to enhance their effects…

1. Chicory Coffee

Chicory is a flowering plant whose root is baked and ground to serve as a coffee alternative or as an additive to coffee. Chicory doesn’t contain caffeine or any of the volatile oils found in coffee, but it does have a similar flavor, which is rich, earthy, and somewhat nutty.  

Chicory is native to Europe, where it was used extensively in France as a culinary ingredient and coffee substitute in times of shortage. It is a good source of Vitamin C and antioxidants, and has been used historically to treat digestive issues. Today, chicory coffee is especially popular in Louisiana cafes, most notably at Café Du Monde in New Orleans, where it has become a popular local tradition.

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2. Herbal Tea

Herbal teas, unlike those made with the traditional tea plant, do not contain any caffeine, and are instead made with a mixture of various herbs, spices, fruits, and flowers. Some common herbal teas include ginger, peppermint, chamomile and ginseng, each of which has its own flavor and health benefits. 

Herbal teas can help with relaxation, boost the immune system, and prevent chronic diseases, along with a wide range of additional health benefits depending on the kind of tea. Furthermore, herbal tea contains zero calories when prepared with no added sugars or sweeteners, and can be enjoyed either hot or cold.

3. Yerba Mate

Yerba mate is an extremely healthy tea-like beverage that is traditionally consumed in many regions in South America. The drink is prepared by drying the leaves of the yerba mate plant over a fire, and then steeping them with hot or cold water in a gourd. Some people prepare mate in a french press, or even tea bags.

Depending on the brewing method, yerba mate can contain a high amount of caffeine, but with other compounds in the plant that give calming effects and mental focus, many people with caffeine sensitivity can drink yerba mate and do not experience the jittery effects, or adverse reactions that coffee or other caffeine-rich drinks gives them. 

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Mate has an earthy, bitter flavor that has been likened to green tea, but it is often infused with other herbs, spices, or sweeteners to alter the taste.

Drinking mate can provide a number of positive effects, including a suppressed appetite, weight loss, reduced blood pressure, and improved focus and energy. Mate also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-bacterial properties.

4. Matcha Tea

Matcha is a variation of green tea that uses specially-grown leaves made into a fine powder. Unlike with traditional loose leaf teas, matcha contains whole tea leaves, and provides up to ten times the nutritional content as green tea.

Matcha has a strong, grassy taste that is often compared to spinach, so it is often consumed with sweeteners. It has shown to be a mood booster, reduce blood pressure, help with concentration and prevent disease. 

Matcha typically contains about the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee, but the effects are said to be much more calming. In fact, matcha is especially useful for monks who meditate for lengthy periods, and have incorporated the drink into their practice for centuries.

5. Golden Milk

Golden milk is a beverage popular in India and China that is made by adding turmeric and other spices to milk. It is usually served warm, and provides additional health benefits when black pepper is included.

The spices used in golden milk (often turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger) are all rich in antioxidants that can relieve inflammation, improve memory and boost the immune system. Drinking golden milk in the morning or before bed can relieve cold and flu symptoms, as well as help you fall asleep. 

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In addition, golden milk can be completely vegan depending on the kind of milk and ingredients used. Popular recipes for golden milk often use coconut milk, but soy milk and almond milk are both possible options.

6. Kombucha

Kombucha is a slightly effervescent beverage made by fermenting sweetened black or green tea with a culture of yeast and bacteria. It can provide all the positive effects of traditional teas, as well as additional health benefits from the probiotic microorganisms present in the drink. The yeasts and bacteria produce several acids and antioxidants during fermentation which can kill pathogens and reduce toxicity. These acids are also responsible for kombucha’s sour taste.

Even though kombucha has been approved for human consumption by the FDA, it’s important to understand that harmful bacteria can contaminate the drink during its preparation. To be safe, it’s better to buy reputable kombucha products online or in stores, or prepare it according to the FDA’s standards.

7. Bone Broth

Bone broth is a stock made by boiling the bones and connective tissue of animals, as well as other ingredients such as vegetables, and then straining out the solids. It is typically prepared over a long period (8 to 24 hours) to extract the organic matter from the bones. While some might feel that bone broth is not a direct alternative to coffee due to its savory flavors such as chicken and beef, it has been touted as a soothing source of amino acids and calcium that can be enjoyed on the go.

Bone broth provides a unique health benefits and is high in vitamins and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous Drinking bone broth can be beneficial for the joints, digestive system, immune system, and the amino acids in bone broth may even help promote better sleep in some people.

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Using CBD with Coffee Alternatives

CBD hemp oil provides numerous therapeutic effects without causing any mental impairment like THC. When used in combination with coffee, or any of these healthy coffee alternatives, the benefits can be amplified, or the addition of CBD can create new, unique effects. 

For example, adding CBD oil to yerba mate or golden milk can help boost the immune system, along with providing pain relief for unpleasant cold or flu symptoms. CBD can also be added to matcha tea to reduce anxiety on top of improving focus and concentration. Whatever drink you might choose to add CBD to, the flavor will largely remain the same, and you’ll enjoy added benefits in addition to the ones already provided by the beverage itself.

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10 Things to Look For When Buying CBD Oil

Thinking of trying CBD?  Buying CBD for the first time can be confusing and overwhelming.  We’ve written a Beginners Guide to CBD which helps give an overview… but when you’re ready to take the next step, how do you know where to buy CBD hemp oil and how can you tell if it’s a quality product?

In this guide, we’ll go over 10 things to look for when buying CBD.

1. Where Should I Buy CBD Oil?

As we’ve covered before, you should NOT buy CBD oil on Amazon.  Amazon prohibits CBD on their platform so most of the “hemp” products that come up on a search for CBD oil are most likely made with hemp seed oil, which does not contain any significant amount of CBD, if at all.  

Also, vape shops and gas stations are not the best resources for high quality CBD.  These establishments are focused on cheap, low quality products that are meant to move quickly.  Just think, would you buy a high end skincare product at your local gas station convenience store?

Look for a reputable CBD company that focuses on high quality products and that promotes health and wellness as their primary goal.

2. Where is the Hemp Grown?

When buying CBD Oil, you’ll want to know the source from where the hemp was harvested.  Make sure to seek companies that use hemp grown in the USA under strict agricultural guidelines.

Unfortunately, due to the unregulated state of the industry, a lot of companies are importing hemp from other parts of the world that may contain pesticides, harsh chemicals, synthetics or other contaminated materials in their biomass.

3. How is the Hemp Grown?… Is it Organic?

Hemp is a very hardy plant, thus it does not require much to help it grow.  Hemp is a sustainable resource that grows in a variety of climates and soil types, and is naturally resistant to most pests. Look for companies that use organically grown hemp.

Note about organic certification: Although hemp can be grown organically, organic certification is regulated by the USDA. Even though the 2018 US Farm Bill has made hemp and hemp-derived products federally legal, the USDA has not begun issuing organic certifications to any hemp farms as of this writing.

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4. How Much CBD is in the Product?

Make sure you read the labels carefully when buying CBD oil.  You should see clearly listed how much CBD (Cannabidiol) is in the entire bottle/jar, as well as how much CBD there is per serving. 

If the ingredients only list “hemp extract” or “hemp oil” or something similarly vague, you should be suspicious as this does not indicate how much actual CBD, if any, is in the product.

5. How is the CBD Extracted?

There are several methods of extracting CBD from hemp.  CO2 Extraction process is the optimal method as it maintains the purity and integrity of the cannabinoids and terpenes without introducing any solvents or harsh chemicals.

6. What Part of the Plant is the CBD Extracted From?

As mentioned above, hemp seeds do not contain any significant amounts of CBD, so make sure the CBD comes from the flowers, leaves and stalk of the hemp plant.  Look for “whole plant” extracts, which is referred to as either full spectrum or broad spectrum (see next point).

7. What Kind of CBD Oil Is It? (And Does it Contain THC?)

There are many formats for consuming CBD from tinctures to topicals to edibles. Which one you buy will depend on your goals of why you’re using it, as well as your personal preference on how you’d like to incorporate CBD into your daily routine.

Aside from the format, the three main types of CBD oils you can buy indicate the concentration and ratio of CBD vs THC as well as other cannabinoids and terpenes found in hemp.

Full Spectrum CBD

Full Spectrum is a whole plant hemp extract that includes all of the cannabinoids (including trace amounts of THC), terpenes and other beneficial compounds in hemp.

Broad Spectrum CBD

Broad spectrum CBD is also a whole plant hemp extract similar to full spectrum, but with the THC removed.

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate contains only 99.9% CBD and no other compounds from the hemp plant

To read more about the differences, as well as the pros and cons of each spectrum, read our article on Full Spectrum CBD vs Broad Spectrum CBD vs CBD Isolate.

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8. What Other Ingredients are in the CBD Oil?

We believe that it’s always best to consume products that contain ingredients as close to their natural unaltered state as possible.  Look for CBD products that do not contain fillers, synthetic cannabinoids or other artificial ingredients.

9. Is the CBD Oil 3rd Party Tested?

Since there is currently no FDA regulation on CBD products, you should make sure to buy CBD oil from a company that can provide 3rd party lab tests which verifies the potency of cannabinoids and terpenes, as well as the safety of the products, making sure they do not contain pesticides or other harsh chemicals.

Ideally, CBD companies should make their lab tests readily available on their website.

10. Is it a Reputable Company Who Gives Back?

We like to support companies that provide value to the consumer, not just sell products.  We also believe in the golden rule and treat others the way we would expect to be treated.

When buying CBD oil, research the company and its founders to determine if there is transparency in their massage.  Do they provide helpful information and education to their customers, rather than making wild, unsubstantiated claims? Do they have positive online reviews?

Lastly, does the company give back to the community? Great customer service should always be expected, but do they go beyond that and contribute to others outside of their customer base?


11. Bonus Tip: What About Price?

Notice we did not include price as a main factor in our list of what to look for when buying CBD Oil.  That being said, price is definitely part of comparing products from reputable sources where all else is equal.

Some companies are unnecessarily overcharging for CBD products based on their brand recognition.  The opposite extreme is also true… watch out for unusually low prices. Keep in mind the old adage that states “you get what you pay for”. 

Look for pricing between $0.10 – $0.15 per mg of CBD, give or take.

Hopefully these tips will help you feel more confident when you’re ready to buy CBD oil and to ensure you’re receiving a quality product that will help you in your journey to better health and wellness.

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