If you ask an experienced farmer of industrial hemp for tips on a great harvest, they’ll likely start talking about soil quality. Hemp, or cannabis sativa, is a hardy weed, but growing it outdoors can pose myriad challenges, particularly in Florida, where the climate is hot and humid. There needs to be adequate drainage, proper acidity levels, decent water retention, … Read More
What Are Cannabis Terpenes and What Do They Do?
The distinctive aromas and flavors we associate with cannabis are all thanks to organic molecules known as terpenes. Terpenes are inert chemicals that are produced by all flowers and plants, not just cannabis. These fragrant molecules are the main component of essential oils utilized in both aromatherapy and traditional medicine. Terpenes are what give oranges their wonderful citrus smell, and … Read More
The Difference Between Terpenes and Cannabinoids
Terpenes and cannabinoids are active chemical compounds in the cannabis plant, and both perform important functions. Cannabinoids like CBD and THC are largely responsible for the psychoactive, therapeutic, and medicinal benefits of cannabis. Terpenes are lesser-known compounds found in cannabis and are responsible for flavor and smell. What do cannabinoids do? The majority of the 100+ known cannabinoids do not … Read More
The Variety of Uses of Hemp
A member of the Cannabaceae family, hemp is a type of cannabis sativa that has hundreds of practical uses. Hemp cultivation dates back thousands of years, with civilizations across Europe, Asia, and Africa growing the plant for its durable fibers. Hemp found its way to North America in the 17th century, where farmers grew the crops for rope, cloth, paper, … Read More
Why Quality Control Matters for Hemp & Cannabis Testing
Are you confident about the purity and potency of your hemp and cannabis products? Whether you’re a consumer, a producer, or a healthcare practitioner, transparency and accountability are critical. It’s far too easy for companies to label hemp and cannabis products with misleading or incorrect information regarding quality and potency. False advertising in the industry is disturbingly prevalent. Start-ups — eager … Read More
How Cannabis Can Help the Immune System
For millennia, the cannabis plant has been praised for its medicinal properties. Cannabinoids can alleviate chronic pain, help mend bones, and stabilize blood sugar levels, to name a few therapeutic applications. But what about the effect of cannabis on the immune system? Does marijuana help or hinder our ability to fight inflammation and ward off disease? A handful of studies … Read More
What Do You Need in order to Open a Marijuana Dispensary?
Looking to open a marijuana dispensary in Florida? Technically known as “Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers,” these businesses are authorized to possess, cultivate, process, sell, and transport cannabis products. According to the Orlando Business Journal, medical marijuana in Florida has grown into a $6 billion industry — and that was only in the first nine months of 2018. There are now … Read More
What Is CBG?
In the wide world of cannabinoids, CBG is a compound that is often overlooked. Cannabigerol may be less familiar than CBD or THC, but it is no less intriguing. CBG is the precursor or “stem cell” molecule to phytocannabinoids, which help relieve insomnia and anxiety and keep aching joints manageable. In its inactive state, cannabigerol forms the foundation for THC, … Read More
Can Coffee Shops and Restaurants Sell CBD Under Florida Law?
Yes, Florida’s food and drink purveyors can sell CBD under Florida state law. However, as this state law seemingly conflicts with federal law that is enforceable by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, many Florida business owners may be unsure how to proceed. Adding to the confusion are requirements in the Florida statutes that may make compliance a challenge for … Read More
New Florida Requirements for Certified Marijuana Testing Labs
The Florida Department of Health Office of Medical Marijuana Use recently released its requirements for certified marijuana testing. These regulations were originally scheduled for release in 2017, but the road to state certification has been long and difficult. These rules were promulgated based on the Florida government’s emergency rulemaking powers. That means these rules could become active at once, rather … Read More