Hemp, stress and inflammation
By Mike Ventresca, Vital Choice Healthstore
Hemp may be one of the most versatile plants on the planet. The fibers and stalks are used in clothing, construction materials, paper, biofuel and more. More recently, we have begun to understand the health benefits of hemp, and they are numerous.
Before I go any further, it is vital to understand hemp is not marijuana. While both are the same species of plant, cannabis sativa L., they have very different chemical properties.
Simply put, hemp oil cannot produce a “high,” even if you consumed an entire bottle, and unlike marijuana, industrial hemp is legal in all 50 states.
The difference between hemp and marijuana is much like the difference between red and yellow tomatoes. Both come from the same species (solanum lycopersicum), yet yellow tomatoes have no lycopene while red tomatoes are an excellent source.
So, how can hemp help with our health?
Most of the research focuses on specific plant chemicals called phyto-cannabinoids, like CBD (cannabidiol) and their effects on the endocannabinoid system—a network of receptors in the bodies of all mammals that helps maintain a healthy balance and overall well-being.
The ECS helps regulate functions such as sleep, immune system responses, and pain among others. Recent research has shown consuming a CBD-rich hemp product can be beneficial for a variety of conditions, including anxiety, autism, inflammation and seizures. While research is ongoing, there appears to be significant promise.
If you are considering trying a hemp or CBD product, two brands I highly recommend are Charlotte’s Web and CV Sciences. While CBD hemp products are exploding on the market, many do not possess the quality controls, potency or efficacy of either of these two brands.
Mike Ventresca is the owner of Vital Choice Health Store located at 9243 Sprague Road in North Royalton’s Timber Ridge Plaza. The phone number is 440-885-9505 or VChoice.com. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.