Cannabidiol (CBD) is extracted from the flowers and buds of cannabis plants, but CBD doesn’t produce the “high” associated with marijuana because it does not include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
To address the issue of legality, hemp, and marijuana both come from the cannabis plant, however, contain different levels of THC. Marijuana can consist of as high as 30% THC, while the hemp plant has an optimum of only 0.3% THC. So, while marijuana-derived CBD oil is still prohibited in the majority of states, hemp-derived CBD oil is legal in many states.
CBD Oil vs Hemp Oil
CBD is an active cannabinoid compound derived from the leaves, flowers, and stems of mature cannabis plants. It is this compound that offers the medical and therapeutic benefits you get from CBD oil.
Hemp oil is made from cannabis seeds, which contain little to no CBD. While it doesn’t have the therapeutic properties of CBD oil, some pet owners use it as a nutritional supplement because it is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Is CBD Safe for Dogs?
Veterinary clinical research into CBD is in its early stage, but many vets have started advising CBD oil for their pet patients. One study showed that healthy and balanced pet dogs tolerated CBD well, with some subjects showing mild diarrhea or little elevated liver enzymes. Long-lasting effects are still to be identified, yet they found no instant risk of liver poisoning. Human researchers show that cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory effects and can help with anxiety, hostility, discomfort, seizures, muscle spasms, and neurological conditions.
Pet owners are sharing their stories on social media and online discussion forums about the benefits they are seeing from their dogs using CBD. Equally important is that there don’t seem to be any reports of major side effects from pet owners or vets using CBD oil or treats.
The Benefits of CBD
People and pets have an endocannabinoid system that lets them gain from CBD oil. This system allows the energetic components in hemp to alleviate numerous signs. CBD drops or treatment can ease several periodic or persistent symptoms such as:
- Anxiety and stress
- Moderate to extreme discomfort
- Chronic inflammation
- Joint inflammation and joint discomfort
- Epileptic seizures
- Digestive concerns
- Nausea
Looking For Quality CBD Products
CBD oil for pets is not yet regulated, however, there are elements to consider when buying the most reliable and safe products.
- How is it grown? High-grade CBD oils are made from naturally grown hemp that is free of toxic substances and pesticides.
- How is it processed? Safe techniques include co2 and cold press extraction using no poisonous solvents to extract THC from the plant.
- Independent third-party report- Seek companies that can offer a certification of analysis (COA) by checking their products for microbial, pesticides, mycotoxins, solvents, heavy metals, and even more.
