Unlike the legal cannabis sector, smoking isn’t the primary way consumers use the non-psychoactive cannabinoid CBD. According to recent statistics, most of the multi-billion-dollar CBD industry revolves around oils, topicals, and edibles. However, there has been noticeable growth in the smokable CBD hemp space. In fact, hemp flowers and prerolls accounted for $80 million in sales in 2020, and most analysts project this figure to reach at least $400 million by 2025.
Benefits Of CBD Hemp Flowers: A Few Reasons People Are Lighting Low-THC Nugs
Although CBD hemp flowers may not meet everyone’s goals and preferences, they have a few unique benefits everyone should consider. Even if people are solely interested in CBD extracts, it’s worthwhile exploring a few features CBD hemp buds offer.
The Impact of CBD Hemp Flowers Is Fast & Potent
Arguably, the top reason people get interested in smoking hemp flowers is to enjoy the immediate effects of CBD. Although there are other ways you could quickly get CBD into your system (e.g., taking a CBD tincture under your tongue), inhaling CBD smoke goes directly into a user’s lungs for incredibly intense effects. Since the CBD in a hemp joint doesn’t need to pass through the liver, it has a nearly 100% absorption rate and a profound impact within seconds. For these reasons, hemp flowers are a fantastic choice for consumers interested in using CBD for acute symptom relief. For example, if someone uses CBD to help with sleep, sore muscles, or headaches, the fast-acting effects of flowers will deliver CBD’s full effects in no time.
CBD Hemp Flower Are Naturally Full-Spectrum
Another reason hemp flowers are so powerful is because they have a “full spectrum” of secondary cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Many in the cannabis community believe all of the compounds in hemp strains work together to produce heightened therapeutic properties (aka the “entourage effect“). Because CBD hemp flowers naturally contain dozens of other hemp compounds—including ≤ 0.3% delta-9 THC—they may offer additional benefits not found in more refined CBD oils or powders.
Even though some CBD extracts are “full-spectrum,” it’s common for delicate aromatic terpenes to get destroyed in manufacturing. Terpenes like myrcene, limonene, and alpha-pinene have different boiling points than cannabinoids, so it’s difficult for extractors to preserve them all when making products. By contrast, it’s easier for terpene fans to enjoy more of these compounds by putting their hemp flowers in a temperature-controlled dry herb vaporizer tailored to their specific preferences.
The Power of the CBD Flower
Derived from the hemp plant, CBD flowers contain a compound known as cannabidiol (CBD), which interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This interaction has the ability to regulate a variety of bodily functions, such as mood, inflammation, and pain relief. According to a study published in 2019 (Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol), CBD may help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, providing a natural substitute for other medications that may have more complications.
CBD Hemp Flowers Have Incredible Flavor Profiles
Speaking of terpenes, hemp strains have a diverse array of aromatics smokers and vapers can take advantage of. Self-proclaimed “flavor chasers” love exploring the unique hemp hybrids on today’s market, which range from diesel and skunky to fruity and sweet. Interestingly, some CBD hemp flowers have the same terpene profile as iconic cannabis strains like Sour Diesel, OG Kush, and GSC.
Sampling hemp flowers that mimic marijuana hybrids is an excellent way for beginners to test “cannabis smoking” without worrying about excessive THC exposure. Indeed, many people who love cannabis flavors but suffer from THC-induced paranoia gravitate to hemp hybrids to enjoy a similar experience without adverse side effects.
CBD Joints May Reduce Tobacco Cravings
A few preliminary placebo-controlled studies suggest CBD hemp may be a viable alternative for people trying to overcome nicotine addiction. Although these findings are still in the early stages, it appears former smokers who use CBD joints rather than placebos have lower cravings for nicotine. If scientists can reduplicate these findings, it may open up a new option for people interested in weaning off nicotine-containing substances like tobacco.
Again, please remember there’s no proof CBD hemp helps with nicotine addiction, but there’s growing interest in this use case. Patients who want to overcome nicotine addiction should always speak with a doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan and ask whether CBD fits into this strategy.
Methods of Consumption
There are several methods to consume CBD flowers, and users can choose the one that best suits their needs. Smoking CBD flowers through a pipe or a bong is a popular method, as the CBD enters the bloodstream quickly, providing almost immediate relief.
Another method is vaping, which heats the CBD flower without combustion, reducing the number of harmful chemicals inhaled. For those who prefer a non-smoking option, CBD oil tinctures can be administered orally or added to food (you can cook any food you like with homemade cannabuter), while CBD gummies offer a tasty alternative for on-the-go relief.
Finding The Right Dose
Finding the correct dose of CBD flower for your particular needs is a personal process with no immediate right answers. Factors like body weight, tolerance, and specific symptoms play a significant role. It’s essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase the amount to find the optimal level for each individual. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on the appropriate dosage for your needs. However, going low and slow is always a good rule of thumb.
When Shopping For CBD Hemp Flowers, Focus On Quality!
Like other CBD products, authorities like the FDA don’t screen hemp flowers for purity and potency. Therefore, customers interested in taking advantage of CBD hemp flowers must work with a farm or distributor offering high-quality third-party lab test results. Please remember hemp flowers absorb heavy metals and toxins from the ground, so reviewing these lab tests for potentially harmful compounds is imperative.
Also, remember to look into the delta-9 THC percentage to double-check these hemp flowers won’t produce unwanted psychoactive effects. Under federal law, hemp farms can only cultivate and sell products with ≤ 0.3 percent delta-9 THC, so please verify this percentage before making a purchase.
