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Why Cannabis Legalization Would Benefit Texans

Cannabis has been a topic of debate for decades in the United States. While some states have legalized the use of cannabis for medical and recreational purposes, others have continued to criminalize it. Texas is one of the states where cannabis remains illegal, but there are strong arguments for why it should be legalized. In this article, we will explore the monetary and infrastructure benefits of legalizing cannabis in Texas, with references to studies and reports.

Monetary Benefits One of the most significant reasons for legalizing cannabis in Texas is the potential economic benefits. According to a report by New Frontier Data, legalizing cannabis in Texas could generate $2.7 billion in annual revenue by 2025 (1). This revenue would come from a variety of sources, including sales taxes, excise taxes, and licensing fees. The report also estimates that legalizing cannabis would create over 40,000 new jobs in the state.

Another report by the Perryman Group estimates that legalizing cannabis could have an economic impact of over $17 billion and create over 400,000 new jobs in Texas (2). The report also suggests that legalizing cannabis could save the state $1.1 billion annually in criminal justice costs, including police, court, and incarceration expenses.

Infrastructure Benefits Legalizing cannabis in Texas would also bring infrastructure benefits. The cannabis industry requires a significant amount of infrastructure, including cultivation facilities, processing facilities, and dispensaries. This infrastructure would create new jobs and stimulate economic growth in areas that need it the most.

A study by the University of California Agricultural Issues Center found that legalizing cannabis in California could create between 81,000 and 130,000 jobs and generate between $4.5 billion and $7.5 billion in annual economic activity (3). While this study is specific to California, it suggests the potential for significant economic growth and job creation in the cannabis industry.

Additionally, legalizing cannabis could help to address the issue of opioid addiction in Texas. Opioid addiction is a serious problem in the state, with over 2,500 opioid-related deaths in 2019 alone (4). Studies have shown that states with legal cannabis have lower rates of opioid addiction and overdose deaths. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that states with medical cannabis laws had a 25% lower opioid overdose mortality rate than states without medical cannabis laws (5). By legalizing cannabis, Texas could provide a safer alternative to opioids for pain management and reduce the overall rate of opioid addiction in the state.

Conclusion In conclusion, legalizing cannabis in Texas would have both monetary and infrastructure benefits. It would generate billions of dollars in annual revenue, create tens of thousands of new jobs, and reduce the burden on the criminal justice system. It would also bring much-needed infrastructure to areas of the state that need it the most and provide a safer alternative to opioids for pain management. As more and more states legalize cannabis, Texas should consider following suit and reap the benefits that come with it.

References:

  1. New Frontier Data. The Economic Impact of Cannabis Legalization in Texas. 2019.
  2. The Perryman Group. The Economic and Fiscal Benefits of Legalizing Cannabis in Texas. 2019.
  3. University of California Agricultural Issues Center. Economic Impacts of the Cannabis Industry: Implications for Other States and the Federal Government. 2017.
  4. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Opioid Overdose Crisis. 2021.
  5. Bachhuber, M.A., et al. Medical Cannabis Laws and Opioid Analgesic Overdose Mortality in the United States, 1999-2010. JAMA Internal Medicine, 2014.
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The Similarities and Differences Between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC.

Cannabis is a complex plant that contains over 100 cannabinoids, including Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC. Both of these cannabinoids have gained attention in recent years for their potential medical and recreational benefits, but they differ in their chemical structure and effects on the body. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC.

Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are both forms of tetrahydrocannabinol, a compound found in cannabis that is responsible for many of its effects. However, their chemical structures are slightly different. Delta-8 THC has a double bond on the eighth carbon atom in the chain, while Delta-9 THC has a double bond on the ninth carbon atom. This subtle difference in structure leads to differences in their effects on the body.

One of the main differences between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC is their psychoactive potency. Delta-9 THC is known for its strong psychoactive effects and is responsible for the “high” that people experience when they consume cannabis. Delta-8 THC, on the other hand, is reported to have milder psychoactive effects and is often described as producing a more relaxed and clear-headed high.

Another difference between these two cannabinoids is their legality. Delta-9 THC is classified as a Schedule I substance by the US Drug Enforcement Administration, which means it is illegal at the federal level. However, some states have legalized the use of cannabis for medical or recreational purposes, which allows people to use Delta-9 THC legally in those states. Delta-8 THC, on the other hand, is a more recent discovery, and its legality is currently a bit of a grey area. Some states have explicitly banned Delta-8 THC, while others allow it to be used as long as it is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC.

Despite these differences, Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC also share some similarities. Both cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which is responsible for regulating a wide range of physiological processes, including mood, appetite, and pain perception. They also share some potential medical benefits, such as reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and stimulating appetite.

In conclusion, Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are two cannabinoids that differ in their chemical structure, psychoactive potency, and legal status. While Delta-9 THC is known for its strong psychoactive effects and is illegal at the federal level, Delta-8 THC is milder and is currently in a legal grey area. Despite these differences, both cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system and have potential medical benefits. As research into these compounds continues, we may learn more about their similarities and differences and how they can be used to improve health and wellbeing.

References:

  1. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021, March 19). Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cannabis-marijuana-and-cannabinoids-what-you-need-to-know
  2. Mechoulam, R., & Hanuš, L. O. (2000). The cannabinoids: an overview. Therapeutic implications in vomiting and nausea after cancer chemotherapy, 91-103.
  3. Mechoulam, R. (1970). Marijuana chemistry. Science, 168(3936), 1159-1166.
  4. Gauson, L. A., Stevenson, L. A., Thomas, A., & Baillie, G. L. (2021). The Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol-like effects of Delta(8)-tet
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Not All CBD is Created Equal

All CBD is not created equal, so it’s extremely important to be an educated consumer. The demand for cannabidiol (CBD) oil products is quickly growing as more people become familiar with the natural health effects and uses of CBD. While you explore the available CBD hemp oil products, keep in mind that not all CBD oils are the same. As the market expands and more products hit the market, it’s more important than ever that you find a trusted source for high-quality CBD oil. As hemp-based CBD products are now legal in many countries, there are many retailers who boast high-end tinctures and infusions, but quality does vary.

With CBD hemp oil being classified as a natural product and dietary supplement, rigorous testing practices are not required by regulators. The methods used to manufacture CBD oil directly affect the safety and quality of products you might buy. That’s why it’s important that you do research to get your CBD products from manufacturers that you can trust.

There are numerous global sources of hemp and each variety has its own set of characteristics, including its CBD content. High-quality CBD oil products are derived from hemp that is naturally abundant in CBD and cultivated using strict safety standards.

CBD Extraction

CBD can be extracted from both the hemp and cannabis plants, although hemp-based products are the only available products being sold outside of a Licensed Producer (LP).

CBD extraction is an expensive and complicated process, with the three main avenues for extraction being CO2, ethanol extraction, and nanotechnology.

CO2 Extraction

CO2 extraction looks like a crazy science experiment. Hemp plants are exposed to different temperatures and pressures to isolate CBD and other cannabinoids such as terpenes and flavonoids. The set-up for this type of extraction is budget-busting, as it requires expensive equipment and a large space for set-up.

The results of CO2 extraction produce isolated cannabinoids, such as CBD, with 90% efficacy. This is not a good method for full-spectrum or large-volume production.

Ethanol Extraction

Ethanol extraction involves submerging the hemp plant in high grade ethanol, which extracts a full-spectrum of cannabinoids, including terpenes and flavonoids. Ethanol extraction is less expensive and is widely used for large scale production of full-spectrum CBD products.

CBD Nanotechnology

A few CBD companies are using a proprietary extraction method utilizing nanotechnology. This process involves a unique extraction process that reduces CBD into small nano-sized droplets.

CBD produced via nanotechnology is highly bioavailable, with the body absorbing up to 90 percent of the CBD, compared to only 10-15 percent for CBD products manufactured without using nanotechnology.

Lab Testing

It is important that the hemp and CBD Oil undergo rigorous 3rd party lab testing in order to identify the presence of bacteria and any other unwanted elements. It is important to verify that independent lab testing is conducted to inspect oil to make sure it has the ideal concentration of cannabinoids, including CBD.

Ideally, labs should be inspecting for any presence of the following unwanted elements:

•             Mold

•             Mildew

•             Fungus

•             Yeast

•             E.coli

•             Salmonella

•             Mycotoxins

•             Heavy metals

•             Residual solvents

Packaged for Clarity and Preservation

CBD hemp oil products should be packaged to optimally preserve the cannabinoids and other natural constituents of the CBD hemp oil. This helps slow CBD oil’s expiration, and protects it from degradation caused by exposure to air, light, and heat.

Along with an accurate, complete listing of ingredients, product labels should provide information on standard serving sizes and storage recommendations so your CBD oil doesn’t expire or spoil too quickly.

The Entourage Effect

The Entourage Effect is defined as multiple cannabinoids working together to create an enhanced effect. Therefore, full-spectrum CBD products that include terpenes and flavonoids are expected to work better from an overall health perspective. Including a full spectrum of cannabinoids ensures that the CBD product is better absorbed and acts on all receptors in the endocannabinoid system. However, isolated CBD products may be better suited to managing specific symptoms related to a disease process, such as ticks found in Tourette’s.

Use of CBD Products

The saying “to each their own” is very appropriate in this instance. There are a wide range of CBD products on the market including tinctures, oils, topicals, gummies, water and other infused edibles.

An individual needs to search for the product that is best suited to them. CBD MED provides a wide array of products and incorporates nanotechnology to aid in absorption.

CBD Med offers capsules that are a great choice for consumers who are on the go. They provide easy, consistent dosing and can be added into an already established vitamin regimen.

CBD oil offers the ability to tailor the dosage to the user’s needs. If CBD is being used to manage pain, oil is a great solution, as the dosage can be adjusted according to pain level throughout the day.

CBD topicals offer the ability to externally assist the body with pain, skin irritations, and other ailments. This is a great solution to target certain areas of the body.

CBD water is a great health and wellness product as it keeps the consumer hydrated while providing beneficial amounts of CBD to maintain overall health. The use of nanotechnology improves the bioavailability and absorption of CBD and will help a consumer achieve maximum benefit.

TYPES OF HIGH QUALITY CBD OIL PRODUCTS AVAILABLE

Recognizing the importance of finding a high-quality CBD hemp oil product that meets your lifestyle, wellness needs, and financial considerations, CBD MED offers a wide variety of products that range in price and potency.

We offer an array of products to choose from, including pure CBD oils, CBD capsules, CBD tinctures or liquids, and CBD topicals.

Whether you’re looking for the greatest CBD concentration or value taste and convenience, you’ll be able to find a CBD oil product that works best for you

If you still have any questions feel free to stop by CBD Med in Baytown, TX or send us an email at info@gocbdmed.com. At CBD MED, our goal is to provide the Highest Quality CBD Products in Texas and Beyond.

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CBD Explained

What is CBD? How does interact with your body?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a trending ingredient the natural products industry and is the focus of a new area of cannabis research. CBD is one of many cannabinoids, or molecules produced uniquely by the cannabis family. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the primary psychoactive element in marijuana), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t have a strong effect on cognitive brain activity and doesn’t cause the “high” associated with marijuana.

Every variety of the cannabis family produces cannabinoids, including hemp. While CBD and THC are the most well-known cannabinoids, there are many different types. Our brains have specific receptors designed to accept cannabinoids, known as CB1 and CB2. These receptors are responsible for the assimilation of cannabinoid molecules into your system, resulting in the psychoactive and immune responses correlated with cannabis consumption.

In the last few years, there have been many advances in cannabis processing and consumption methods. Concentrated products such as oil and rosin (a sap-like product extracted via heat and pressure) have allowed for cleaner ingestion methods, such as vaporization, to become more widespread. These new technologies have brought more consistent, identifiable dosages to patients and enthusiasts alike, while potentially enabling safer methods of consumption. 

 

Quality of Products

When it comes to the quality of any CBD product, you have to be very careful. CBD companies must be researched to understand where the company is acquiring the hemp used for manufacturing, what type of extraction process is being used, and potency of the product.

Hemp: Just like with vegetables, identifying where a company gets the hemp used for producing CBD is important. Make sure the company has performed testing for pesticides. Ideally, organic is the way to go. 

Extraction: CO2 as an extraction method is ideal for botanical extracts. Although it is laborious and expensive, it is regarded as the best way to extract hemp oil due to its gentle action and high yield. 

Potency: The purity of the CBD and what is paired with matters. Ask for testing for purity of the CBD and if the product has THC. In addition, how is the product manufactured. Some process helps with absorption of the CBD into the body. 

When extracted correctly and verified for correct potency, CBD can provide the desired effect.