Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid constituent of Cannabis sativa and is one of the most abundant compounds found in hemp. CBD has been shown to be an effective analgesic, exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects without inducing systemic side effects associated with opiates such as aspirin or ibuprofen. The plant form of this compound contains negligible amounts of THC, which makes it ideal for those looking for therapeutic benefits from cannabis use but cannot risk even minute levels of THC due to current drug testing policies. Also, because hemp was declared by Congress to be a “cash crop” in 2014, consumer interest in CBD products should continue to grow as companies attempt to increase their market share by promoting the health benefits associated with CBD products.
CBD products are now available online and in retail outlets around the country. However, untrained individuals who desire to purchase CBD oil would have very few options beyond internet-based suppliers that sell CBD products of questionable quality. While there are reputable companies selling CBD oil, it is currently difficult for consumers to distinguish between high-quality or poorly produced oils. Moreover, many online companies promote their goods as “legal” despite the fact that they contain uncontrolled/illegal levels of THC because testing procedures are expensive and require sub-gram quantities (i.e., less than 1 milligram). It is possible that these products draw customers by undercutting legitimate manufacturers with respect to price or marketing materials, thus hurting the reputation of the legitimate CBD industry.
The proposed study would create a set of guidelines, reference products, and labeling requirements that ensure the quality of CBD products available to consumers. Click this to find information that would be useful not only for commercial entities interested in entering this market but also for individuals desiring to dispense the product to their patients/customers. This study will serve as an initial effort towards developing standardization recommendations concerning dosage recommendations, product labeling, and promotion claims that could later be incorporated into policies governing manufacturing practices and distribution of therapeutically appropriate CBD-based goods. In collaboration with federal officials from the FDA’s Office of Dietary Supplement Programs (ODSP) and the National Center for Natural Products Research at The University of Mississippi, researchers from ChromaDex will work to create industry-wide standards for the marketing and distribution of CBD products. The study will also support health claims associated with CBD products by examining their effects on pain.
