However, we didn't cover one essential feature:
How is it possible to transfer the high quality of certified hemp seeds to its derived products?
Namely, how do you get high-quality hemp flowers from certified seeds?
It's impossible to answer the above question without getting our feet wet with an actual scenario.
Enectaliana is Enecta Farm's flagship strain, and we put a lot of research into its creation, especially from a genetic standpoint.
We're talking about a one-of-a-kind hemp strain. Let's see why.
The vast majority of hemp strains on the market right now are outdated. It's a bold claim. We know it.
Yet, it's true. Consider this: the CBD industry has been booming for more than ten years. However, compared to the industrial hemp industry, it is still in its infancy.
What does this mean?
Pretty simple. When CBD wasn't even on the radar, hemp strains were bred to produce fiber.
Then, when CBD and the other phytocannabinoids became all the rage, growers started to sell extracts, flowers, tablets, and other CBD-based products.
Don't get us wrong, we are into the business as well. Yet, the novelty of the CBD industry meant that there weren't any ready-made strains. Growers had to use old varieties made for the hemp fiber market.
The lack of specific strains made for the phytocannabinoids industry prompted growers to use old ones.
Of course, that was the starting point. Many have enhanced these strains and tailored them to the CBD market. Yet, this is when Enectaliana shows its uniqueness. It will be the first high CBD strain listed on the EU Common Catalogue.
After years of research, we designed a hemp strain that zeroes in on CBD productivity.
Here are Enectaliana's unique features:
Now that we have unfolded our case study, let's focus on hemp flowers.
Many people don't realize that flowers are at the core of the CBD industry.
Topical creams, extracts, vapes, and many other CBD-based products. These are all sourced from flowers.
Remember when we said that most of the hemp strains registered in the EU Common Catalogue were designed for the fiber market?
This means that the main aim for such strains is to deliver high-quality stalks, that will make great fiber.
On the other hand, you won't get the same quality for your flowers with these genetics.
For that, you need the strongest CBD flower strains out there, like Enectaliana.
Harvesting flowers is a very delicate enterprise. Compared to standard hemp harvesting, where you can use machinery, hemp flowers need careful handling and dedication to avoid damaging the trichomes. Then, they need to be dried and cured. This is a time-consuming and expensive process, and many things can take the wrong turn.
Yet, it is definitely worth it, as flowers are the building blocks of the CBD industry.
What if the quality of your flowers is not as expected though?
Maybe you bought hemp seeds that promised to deliver astounding results and, after all your efforts, it didn't happen.
How is that possible?
That is pretty simple. A lot of hemp seeds are sold with no traceability behind them.
There is no way to track back their origin, the methods used to breed them, or any other information.
The only way to get high-quality flowers is by growing high-quality, certified, and standardized seeds. Quality is passed by. That is the secret sauce behind the best CBD flower strains.
Standardization may sound like a bland word. There's nothing fancy about being "standard".
Yet, meaning always depends on the context. When it comes to the hemp industry, standardization is what really sets a valuable supply chain apart from the others.
If each step in the making of, say, CBD extracts, is carefully designed, monitored, and enhanced via steady adjustments, then you are almost guaranteed to get a valuable end product.
First is preparing your soil and sowing. Then there is germination, followed by harvesting and finally curing.
All these operations need to follow a strict method. That is the safest way to go from zero to a quality CBD product.
This is what we did with Enectaliana.
It's the secret sauce behind the best high CBD flower strains: standardization.
At the same time, we take all the necessary steps towards the certification of Enectaliana.
That is the most important step of the whole process, certification bestows a quality mark on your work. It's the proof of your value chain and what grants growers that they will actually get top-notch flowers from your hemp seeds.
Want to know more about how we did it?
Or maybe you're a grower and would like to give Enectaliana a try?
Check out Enecta Farm's website and drop us an e-mail.
Talk soon,
the Enecta Farm Team
]]>We'll go through all the steps you have to take to register your hemp variety and start to grow it with no legal concern.
If you want to market a plant variety in the EU, you must first register it in the EU common catalogue.
What's that?
To put it short, the catalogue is the list of plant varieties that can be marketed in EU countries.
There are two main catalogues:
Before being registered on either catalogue, a plant variety must be technically examined and notified to the EU Commission.
The certification process is not a short one, as there are many standards that the plant has to conform with.
Yet, the benefits far outweigh the effort European farmers undertake to get their seeds certified.
Variety registration is the first prerequisite step towards seed certification, followed by a thorough examination by a competent authority.
When we talk about hemp, we should always be talking about a "Cannabis Sativa L." plant, or its parts, in which the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) level is below the EU regulated maximum (0.2%).
Thanks to its versatility, as many of the plant's parts can be used for a wide variety of purposes, hemp farming is booming.
From 2015 to 2019, hemp cultivation has seen a staggering 75% rise in cultivated hectares.
A sudden increase motivated by the well-known environmental benefits of hemp, especially since we have entered the European Green Deal age.
Yet, with environmental benefits come great responsibilities.
There are two main reasons for which you are required to grow hemp from certified seeds only.
As we speak, there are 75 hemp varieties listed in the EU common catalogue. All of them are below the required 0.2% THC level.
Even after having been listed on the catalogue, a hemp variety still needs to face a specific country's legislation.
For instance, let's take Enectaliana, our own hemp variety (more on this below), which will be listed on the EU common catalogue this year.
Enectaliana can be legally cultivated throughout the European Union, as it has been certified by the NAK, the Dutch Agricultural authority.
Yet, even if a hemp variety is registered on the EU catalogue, it can still face some limitations, depending on the member country where one wants to cultivate it.
Long story short, even though there's a European regulation, member countries may still have their own different legislation regarding hemp farming.
To be registered in the EU common catalogue, hemp seeds have to meet several requirements and undergo as many trials by the competent authority of a member country.
Test materials are either removed for measurement by the testers and/or sent to the Examination Office.
We can break down the examination method as follows:
Next comes the growing trial, during which distinctness, uniformity, and stability will be assessed.
These criteria help the examiners understand whether the hemp plants undergoing the trials can withstand the industry demands and are sufficiently standardized.
At Enecta, we faced all of the above trials for Enectaliana, our flagship hemp seed variety, whose core feature is an above-average percentage of produced CBD (5-8%), coupled with the EU required 0.2% THC level.
Enectaliana will be officially listed in the EU common catalogue this year, marking the successful conclusion of a laborious certification process.
First, it was the "Orange Label".
After rigorous testing, Enectaliana was listed on the Dutch Variety Register.
That allowed us to market our hemp variety in the European Union, and to legally grow it.
This means that, even if not yet listed on the EU common catalogue, it is already fair to speak of certified seeds.
Enectaliana's seeds are compliant with the European Union's demands for quality and standardization, and the inclusion in the EU catalogue will mark the culmination of a long process.
More info:
info@enecta.farm
]]>We launched new products, cultivated more hectares, and started new partnerships.
Yet, as funny as this may sound coming from growers, it’s not all about growth. Let’s rephrase that formula: it’s all about sustainable and socially responsible growth.
That’s why we created Enecta Farm, a way to both innovate and foster the hemp industry.
It’s 2022 and hemp and its derivatives have become mainstream. In many EU countries you can buy CBD cosmetics, vape cbd, or even make bricks out of hemp!
Yet, something’s missing.
More and more people are flocking to our industry with no previous experience on hemp genetics, without knowing the peculiarities of the Cannabis Sativa L..
The point is, it’s not their fault!
The more growers the more the industry itself will grow, but there’s a lack of information, a lack of uniformity that could hinder further improvements in the hemp sector.
We created Enecta Farm to solve this lack of information and standardization in the industry. How?
By becoming the go-to b2b company for transparent, reliable, and certified hemp products, be those seeds, biomass, flowers, or extracts.
Enecta Farm wants to provide to both new and expert growers the tool towards sustainable growth.
How?
By working closely with academic researchers, we created two new varieties, both are registered in the Dutch National plant registry, and they will soon be listed in the EU Common Catalogue.
The importance of certified hemp seeds
That’s our answer to the lack of uniformity and information in the hemp industry. We wanted to create new genetics that would perform in a consistent, stable and profitable way. A certified variety is much more safe for several reasons:
All the above points are crucial, as each has been a major flaw in the industry up to now.
All of the above also applies to other hemp products, such as biomass and flowers.
We have gone through a laborious certification process to provide growers genuine products across the whole supply chain.
The values and qualities that come from certified hemp seeds are passed on to biomass, to flowers, where the fruity and velvety terp profile of our certified genetics comes into play.
With Enecta Farm growers know exactly what they are getting.
The hemp market’s growth needs to take into account the above points, if we want it to keep on growing.
We want to be able to cross the gray zone wherein hemp has long been relegated.
Enecta Farm will tackle these issues and it will do that by involving academics, growers, breeders, and other profiles in the process.
The main aim is that of providing cost efficient, safe, and stable hemp seeds to the growing community of hemp farmers.
With Enecta Farm, growers will always know what they are getting, where it comes from, and who are the people behind each seed.
More info:
info@enecta.farm
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New Hampshire’s medical marijuana program is now serving more than 2,000 people.
The Concord Monitor reports that the state Health and Human Services Department reports the youngest qualifying patient is 2 years old; the oldest is 98.
Administrative rules coordinator Mike Holt says there’s been a steady stream of applications. In addition to the 2-year-old, three other children are participating, ages 4, 5, and 11.
The majority of New Hampshire’s qualifying patients use therapeutic cannabis to treat multiple injuries, including spinal cord injury and disease, and cancer.
More than 700 patients were using cannabis to treat one or more injuries, another 662 were using it to treat the effects of spinal cord injury and 345 were using it as part of their cancer treatment.
The state has four medical marijuana dispensaries.
Information: The Concord Monitor
By The Associated Press
This year, in fact, our European cycle friends will also return, mainly from Austria and Holland, who characterised the international soul of the event.
For quite some years now, Enecta has been promoting the relationship between CBD and Sport with the aim of raising awareness of the potential of this molecule, a lifestyle linked to wellbeing, as well as the enhancement of the territory and of the most marginalised inland areas of Abruzzo.
One of the objectives of the Enecta Bike Tour is to promote the territory; those inland areas in which Enecta has been investing in hemp cultivation for several years now.
The Enecta Bike Tour is a non-profit event, the participation fee for each cyclist includes the Tour uniform, insurance coverage, two dinners, one night in a hotel, two refreshment points and luggage transport with an accompanying car equipped with spare parts and tools in case of mechanical failure. Our aim is not to create profit from the two days but to add value to the areas in which we operate and live.
In the event that one or more cyclists are unable to continue, the bikes will be loaded onto the accompanying vehicle and they will continue the route by car.
The fourth edition of the Enecta Bike Tour will take place on September 25th and 26th. The start will be in the usual setting of Castelvecchio Subequo while the arrival, a novelty of this edition, will be in Sulmona, the land of Ovid, the poet of love.
There will be two stages during which the participants will accumulate a total of 150 km in a group ride through the unspoilt beauty of the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Parks.
The first stage will end in Passo Godi, at an altitude of 1630 metres, where the group will spend the evening in the company of silent, hospitable mountains and good local food.
The following day the second stage will be characterised by a long glide through villages and towns of unique beauty. The group will partly retrace the roads of the Giro d'Italia 2021.
Scanno, Villalago, Anversa degli Abruzzi, Bugnara, Sulmona, some of the villages and countries where the green caravan will transit and stop for a group selfie or a photo by the lake, we will enjoy what nature, history and culture offers in this corner of the Region.
The Enecta Bike Tour is a cycling event suitable for anyone with basic cycling training who can cover more than 100 km in two days at a cycling pace, i.e. at an average of between 18 and 20 km/h. Required characteristics: willingness to suffer uphill, healthy fun and getting to know new places and people, where vehicular traffic is close to zero.
With the Enecta Bike Tour, the company conveys its mission, for example through the development of a model to help create a positive impact on the environment.
The hemp plant, from which Cannabidiol (CBD) is extracted, has beneficial properties for water and soil decontamination, restoration of ecosystems, rural, chemical and nuclear areas. It can be used as a natural pesticide and is useful for enriching cultivated land through crop rotation.
The Enecta cultivation model does not require large amounts of water, no chemical fertilisers or pesticides; the energy source used for cultivation is the sun. Enecta is looking for innovative solutions to reuse disused machinery, for example from the tobacco or mining industry, and to reduce industrial waste.
We have the ambition to achieve zero waste within 5 years, in line with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, as well as the UN Global Compact.
We believe in well-being, and sport is certainly one of the tools with which to promote it; sporting activity is synonymous with health.
CBD is an additional ally with which to achieve this goal; in this respect, the World Health Organisation has classified CBD as a non-narcotic substance, suitable for medical use since 2017. There are several clinical studies that have shown that CBD can be an effective treatment for specific medical conditions.
One of Enecta's goals is to ensure "access to quality essential health care services and to essential medicines which are safe, effective, high-quality and affordable for all."
CBD, today, is accessible on the market at high prices, limiting access to treatment, especially for less affluent citizens.
We are working to create a production model that can provide the market with quality products at low cost, accessible to all.
Would you like to participate in the Enecta Bike Tour and get more information?
Send an email to giuseppe@enecta.com or contact us through our social pages, the team is at your disposal to provide you with all the information you need on the event and on how to reach the starting point and the places we will be passing through.
In view of this fourth edition, as per tradition, a new and original uniform has been designed with a reference to the inspiring principles of the Company. The aim is to create a community that is increasingly large and sensitive to the aforementioned themes, so if you are unable to take part but would like to support our cause, send an email to giuseppe@enecta.com, book your uniform and become part of the Community!
CBD is just the thing you may need if you're looking for a natural way to help yourself feel better. This incredible plant compound comes from Cannabis Sativa L. In 2016, CBD or Cannabidiol came a long ways. There were multiple innovations and legalization happening in the cannabis industry which allowed for CBD to be shipped worldwide.
Many people are familiar with CBD in the form of an oil which is consumed in an e-pen, under the tongue or mixed within edibles, however the favorite amongst consumers seems to be vaping. While its popularity is still extremely strong there are many other advancements with CBD products that are trending equally in strength.
CBD is reported by consumers to provide relief from inflammation and to help promote bone strength. Many consumers also find relief from anxiety and stress.
So CBD is one of many compounds found within the Cannabis plant that could offer a multitude of medicinal attributes for people around the world. These attributes are being studied in countries such as the United States, Israel and others to great extents.
CBD Crystals are 99 % pure when ordered from Europe. These CBD crystals are dabbable and tasty. Many consumers find that CBD dabs help to take the edge off their day. These CBD crystals allows consumers to obtain the relief of CBD in the form of dabbing it which is an ever growing trend in the Cannabis culture.
CBD Topical Creams are also growing in popularity. These creams are able to be rubbed directly under the skin providing relief where you need it most. Just like other CBD products there's no psychoactive effects or high associated with topical CBD creams. This makes them a favorite amongst many people and is why they are such a hot CBD item in 2016.
CBD for pets is another trending topic for the 2016 year. When it comes to our pets they are not animals they are family. Just like us when something's wrong with them we want to do what we can to make them feel better. CBD is helping to play an important role in the health of pets for a multitude of different conditions.
CBD may be just the thing you need. With legalization happening on the Cannabis forefront in the United States of America other countries around the world are following this trend as well as conducting research studies of their own.
As more time goes by the facts about CBD will become clear to those who have clouded knowledge thanks to negative propaganda.
Author: James Priest
]]>Growing organically means obtaining safe products with total respect for the environment and biodiversity.
For us at Enecta, becoming 100% organic was a great challenge. We now know for sure that we will achieve our goal within two years. This is a great achievement, which we would like to tell you more about, and above all to stress the great importance of organic farming today.
Nowadays, it is essential for farms to opt for organic farming methods. This is because conventional farming methods, especially in the context of overproduction, have led to serious side effects for the environment and for humans.
The unbridled use of pesticides, heavy metals and herbicides progressively devastates the soil, the land and the climate.
Besides the environmental impact of course, the use of chemicals also significantly alters the quality of the final product. Whether it is courgettes, potatoes or cannabis sativa, it is a product taken in by humans.
Non-organic farming, therefore, is as harmful to humans as it is to the environment. To continue practising it is irresponsible and countercurrent.
Organic farming, as well as abolishing the use of chemical products, means respecting the rhythms of nature and the balance of the ecosystem and, where possible, restoring them.
As the European Commission reports, these are the advantages of organic farming:
BIO certification is a quality mark that guarantees consumers a series of control standards. It is a system that was created to protect the environment and at the same time respond to the need for consumers to have access to safe, healthy and natural products.
Organic farming is regulated by legislation, which sets out the criteria for obtaining and maintaining certification. All organic products must be produced without the use of chemical and/or technological aids.
In order to be able to claim organic farming and use the organic label, any farm must undergo rigorous quality controls. Only then, if all the control steps have been passed, can it be certified by the relevant control bodies.
In Europe, the bodies authorised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to issue certification after carrying out checks are those authorised by the Ministry. These bodies are in turn subject to control by the Regions and the Ministry.
The subject of BIO certification is truly complex and full of controversy. This is why the EU has approved new legislation that is still in preparation and is expected to come into force in 2022.
The new legislation on organic farming provides for:
Until the new legislation, organic certification is regulated by EC Regulations No 834/2007 and No 889/2008, which detail all stages of the production chain.
Through our experience with Green Valley, we have learned that when a company decides to practice 100 % organic farming, a 360° conversion process must be initiated.
This process lasts 24 months and does not only concern the conversion of the fields but of the entire production chain. From the conversion of the storage sheds to the material processing methods.
We have therefore prepared ourselves in good time and, given the figures, we can say that in two years' time we will finally be 100% BIO.
During this last farming season, we chose to work with a Spanish agronomist engineer. Marcelo Anscari looks at agriculture from a sustainable and innovative point of view at the same time and helped us to start growing two 100% organic pilot crops.
This is how our Anscari Project was born, whose claim is: 'What you give to the earth, the earth gives back', which fits in well with the principle 'Hemp gives back hemp'.
Within 24 months, all non-100% organic products used for the cultivation of the crops will be replaced with 100% organic products.
The other major objective is that all waste will be used for the preparation of compost, which will serve to prepare and rebalance the soil for subsequent cultivation.
This conversion process will give further quality and prestige to the product, which already has the advantage of growing in an almost uncontaminated environment at the foot of a natural park.
In addition, Enecta, after a more than positive experience with Green Valley, has started to collaborate with the first company recognised at European level for the production of organic products for agriculture.
It is BioTabs, the name of the Dutch company specialising in organic products for the cultivation of cannabis and sponsor of our Enecta Bike Tour.
This is how the BioTabs Project came to life: Green Valley and Enecta started a pilot project in Abruzzo with as many as one hundred 100% organic plants using specific BioTabs products.
The products successfully supported the following processes:
We will continue to tell you about our work in progress on our Road to 100% BIO, a road full of great challenges and gigantic satisfactions.
In 2018 the World Anti-Doping Agency removed CBD (cannabidiol) from the list of prohibited substances in sport and included it among substances suitable for medical use.
It was an important decision to introduce both professional and recreational athletes to the use of CBD.
The therapeutic and pharmacological properties of CBD make it an excellent supplement for sportsmen and women and all those who exercise regularly.
CBD can even be a good alternative to corticosteroids, opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Let's find out more about how CBD and sport are a good match and how Enecta works to promote physical and mental wellbeing through exercise.
Here is what we will see:
One of Enecta's objectives is to promote the physical and mental wellbeing of all, and to help people become aware of their right to health in order to take full advantage of it.
That is why we strive to make the potential of CBD known to those who engage in physical activity.
Cannabidiol is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid widely known in the scientific community for its therapeutic and pharmacological properties, which among other things, make it the ideal supplement for those who practice sport.
Let's take a closer look at the benefits of CBD for those engaged in physical activity.
Analgesic properties: CBD can positively affect the performance of athletes by reducing hyperalgesia, i.e. hypersensitivity to pain, and also all painful impulses felt as a result of a harmless stimulus. It is a powerful analgesic that is particularly effective against chronic pain. It relieves pain caused by contusions and muscle tears, which are common in all types of sports.
Anti-inflammatory properties: CBD is effective in reducing inflammation and swelling caused by blows, injuries or overexertion. It is very useful for sports such as rugby, soccer or football where sports injuries can be common. sportivi.
Restorative properties: CBD helps boost the immune system due to its ability to interact with receptors in our endocannabinoid system. It is a powerful tonic that helps regain strength and energy after prolonged exertion such as a sports competition or a session in the gym.
Anxiolytic properties: CBD can be very useful for balancing mood, fighting anxiety and panic attacks. It can therefore be a panacea for dealing with pre-race stress and long training sessions.
Regulatory properties: sleep-wake cycle: the relaxing and soothing effects of CBD make it capable not only of helping you sleep the night before a competition, but also of restoring the natural sleep-wake cycle, which is essential for any athlete, competitive or not, to perform at their best.
Regular physical activity helps the body to stay fit and prevent many diseases and disorders. Moving can be a great help in avoiding osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes and even mood disorders.
Yet ISTAT (the Italian National Institute for Statistics) research shows that a large percentage of the population does not get enough exercise.
Enecta believes it is essential to promote the concept that health also and above all comes through physical activity.
This is why we organise sporting events in various Italian and European cities, but also and especially in less populated and well-known areas, the same ones we have chosen for our crops.
Here are two of the projects we have created and have been continuing to do for some years:
Enecta Free Fitness
Enecta Free Fitness is a project set up in 2017 to inspire people, of all genders, ages and backgrounds, to the culture of movement in the open air. The motto of the project, which perfectly sums up its intentions and methods, is: wellness has no price.
This is an initiative that started in Bologna in 2017, which we later took to Naples and Barcelona as well, and which consists of offering free, continuous lessons in different sports disciplines.
Even during the Covid emergency, we continued to offer our contribution to wellness using the online mode. In addition to promoting movement in the open air as a lifestyle, Free Fitness has created new social synergies, groups, friendships, communities.
In addition to the conditions of deprivation that exist in some parts of the world, globalization is also responsible for global warming and all the environmental problems facing us and future generations.
Bearing this in mind, companies — given their role as active players on the market — wield institutional and social power as well as economic power. The only way to limit the damage caused by globalization is for companies to harness this power and use it to bring about change.
At least, that’s how we see it. Since its very beginnings, Enecta has been guided by ethical responsibility and has worked to create a model capable of dealing with environmental and social challenges in a positive manner.
In the firm conviction that cannabis can contribute to tackling the major challenges of our time, we have created a business model which not only guarantees top-quality products at affordable prices, but also has the interests of the environment, underprivileged people, and technical and scientific progress at heart.
The model that we are about to describe to you is an inclusive one, inspired by some of the goals of the UN Agenda 2030 for sustainable development and the principles of the United Nations Global Compact for corporate social responsibility.
Our aim has always been to offer a beneficial product useful for improving people’s quality of life, at prices that are affordable to all.
This also reflects the decision by the World Health Organization to classify CBD as a non-narcotic substance suitable for medical use.
We have invested in research and established important collaborative relationships, with the University of Genoa, for example. The research carried out by Dr Pasquale Striano and his team, later published in the ‘Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research’ journal, has shown that the 24% CBD-based oil produced by Enecta is highly effective on patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy.
Despite these encouraging results, our focus remains on providing affordable quality, because the right to health is a right for all. We continue to offer our products at sustainable prices and to spread scientific knowledge, in order to educate as many people as possible on the potential of cannabinoids.
Research suggests that by 2030, cannabis sativa may generate more than double the turnover that it has produced so far, for an overall revenue of around 100 billion dollars; creating jobs — particularly in disadvantaged areas — and contributing to the fight against poverty and inequality.
Enecta is making a tangible contribution through its choices in terms of development and empowerment.
- Development: we invest in disadvantaged areas, creating plentiful work opportunities both in farming the land and in the construction of plants and laboratories. In partnership with Green Valley, we cultivate 6 hectares of cannabis at Castelvecchio Subequo, a village of 958 inhabitants in the Italian region of Abruzzo. We chose this region because, in addition to having lost 2,366 enterprises in 4 years, its per-capita GDP is 15% below the national average. This leaves approximately 30% of the population at risk of poverty or social exclusion, and one-third of young people unemployed and without employment prospects.
- Empowerment: we organise and fund social, recreational and cultural projects in these same places, giving people the chance to receive training, build a community and expand their horizons and skills.
In addition to these choices, which are the pillars of our inclusive model, we have been pursuing a project to integrate asylum-seekers into the workplace since 2018. So far, four young people have come to work with us: two from Mali and two from Nigeria, all of them seeking asylum on humanitarian grounds. After enrolling in a programme run by the Sulmona Horizon Service and SPRAR (the Protection System for Refugees and Asylum Seekers), they worked from summer 2018 to the end of the year on the team that harvests and cleans the hemp grown in Valle Subequana.
One of the four young people, Sekou, has continued working with Green Valley to this very day, where he has acquired skills and experience in processing cannabis.
Our production model is based on extensive outdoor farming, which requires 4 times less water than the quantity used to grow cotton. We practise natural agriculture in our fields, refraining from the use of chemical pesticides and taking care to grow our crops on land where no heavy metals are present.
What’s more, cannabis itself has important functions to play in decontaminating the soil and water. It is a natural pesticide which enriches the earth and helps to restore balance in ecosystems and rural areas which have been neglected or have suffered chemical or nuclear contamination.
In terms of the extraction process, we exclusively use technologies which respect the principles of the United Nations Global Compact to extract our CBD.
We have also found innovative solutions to repurpose disused machinery and reduce industrial waste to a minimum, as well as setting ourselves the goal of completely reintroducing waste material into the production cycle within 5 years, contributing to the circular economy.
We believe that cannabis can be a revolutionary tool for today’s world as well as the world of tomorrow.
For this reason, we consider it essential that young people in particular should be aware of the innovative techniques that can be used to process it.
Collaborating once again with Green Valley and with TEC (Mexico), we have developed an international training programme aimed at students from developing countries. The purpose of this initiative is to offer a concrete opportunity to learn professional skills, providing the tools needed to train in the field of cannabis processing with a particular focus on European standards and the leading innovative and sustainable technologies. This year also saw us launch “Reezo Academy”: a hemp training course which is proving immensely satisfactory.
Our inclusive model is our response to the hyper-consumerist production model, which is no longer sustainable and whose disastrous consequences are apparent to all who wish to see. In today’s globalised and interconnected world, it is more indispensable than ever that companies should behave with social responsibility and actively offer not only a product, but an ethical code and a positive role model.
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Since then, innovations and discoveries have been made through passionate research by the company's ever-expanding team.
Cannabis sativa is the premium variety selected by Enecta for its cultivation. Also known as sativa hemp, the plant has Asian origins. It was cultivated between western China and northern India, as it was considered a valuable food source due to its high fibre content and remarkable healing properties.
Its cultivation in Italy has been deeply rooted in the territory for centuries and was introduced by the Scythians in the 4th century BC, during the period of the Roman Empire. Cannabis sativa was cultivated mainly for textile use, to produce ropes and cloth, due to the high strength of its fibres. Even today, the sailing ship Amerigo Vespucci, owned by the Italian Navy, has canvases and ropes made from hemp.
Today, cannabis sativa is mainly cultivated for industrial uses in textiles and construction. However, there are also medicinal purposes: the plant has been shown to relieve pain, promote sleep and appetite.
There are numerous applications in the medical field: from the treatment of glaucoma to arthritis and rheumatism, as well as multiple sclerosis, asthma, anorexia, tumours, herpes, mycosis and inflammatory or respiratory disorders.
Enecta's fields are located in Abruzzo, Veneto and Emilia Romagna. In Abruzzo, in Castelvecchio Subequo (province of L'Aquila), Enecta has been working for five years with 'Green Valley', a partner company for cultivation that was founded in 2017. There are eight hectares under cultivation in Abruzzo. The fields prepared for cultivation follow the protocols of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).
All fields are free of chemicals and heavy metals. A great deal of attention and care is paid to the microclimate, planting density, fertigation regimes and general crop management characteristics that can influence plant growth.
According to the guidelines developed by Enecta for quality hemp cultivation, which have also been adopted by Federcanapa, hemp can be sown with a grain seeder, placing the seed at a maximum depth of two to three centimetres.
The best sowing time and density will vary according to the main product to be obtained and also according to the choice of variety.
For seed production, the optimal period is from early April to mid-May. On the contrary, late sowing may cause problems such as the need for emergency irrigation, excessive weed development and water stress.
«Here we use the technique of seedling transplanting, i.e. we sow the seeds in 'trays' of more or less eighty-four spaces», says Vincenzo Frittella, who works in the front line at Castelvecchio.
«We let the seedling's root system develop, a process that takes between 25 and 30 days to complete, and then we transplant the seedlings into the field».
In Abruzzo, transplanting takes place between the second half of May and the first half of June, while in Veneto it takes place in the first days of May due to the different temperatures.
Depending on the purpose, harvesting can begin in September or October. If biomass or seed are involved, it is preferable to start harvesting in mid-October.
«The aim is to grow hemp that is as natural as possible.The plant absorbs everything around it - the more natural the climate, the better the quality», says Frittella about the decision to sow in Abruzzo. The Subequana valley, where the hectares of land used to grow Enecta hemp are located, is in fact characterised by a considerable temperature fluctuation between day and night. «In order to survive, the plant needs to protect itself, so it produces more resin. The percentage of cannabidiol thus increases, facilitating the extraction of elements useful in the production of medicinal preparations».
But how is cultivation carried out? «Sowing, transplanting and harvesting are done by hand, as is the tradition. We have six permanent workers who cultivate and twenty-five who take care of harvesting». Machinery is only used to keep the land clean.
«In Veneto, because of the larger extensions, everything is mechanised and we use machinery such as transplanters and harvesting machines».
In addition, for some years now, together with CREA-CI, the Research Centre for Cereal and Industrial Crops of the Council for Agricultural Research and Analysis of Agricultural Economics, "Green Valley" has been developing a project on the optimisation of agronomic techniques for the cultivation of cannabis sativa.
The varieties grown in Abruzzo are Futura 75, Santhica 70 and Finola. Recently, however, Enecta has produced two new genetics that have entered the European Register.
One of the new hemp seeds from Enecta is called Enectaliana and has a CBD active ingredient content of between five and eight percent, which is considered medium-high. This variety is designed to give the maximum in active ingredients and has a high germination capacity.
It is particularly suitable for biomass, food and fibre production.
Enectarol, on the other hand, is the new genetic developed by Enecta with a high cannabigerol content of six percent. CBG has high therapeutic potential as it can be used as an antibacterial agent and in counteracting glaucoma, as well as in the treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases.
From Enectarol it will be possible to produce biomass, fibre and extractions for cosmetic and food purposes, due to the absence of chemical components.
Enectaliana and Enectarol have very high germination levels of ninety-seven percent and ninety-five percent respectively. The germination level is the ratio of the number of seeds planted compared to the number of plants that make it to harvest.
Both genetics are also pure, which means that they are not mixed with seeds of other varieties.
For each hectare of land, seven to ten thousand seeds are recommended.
This is a phrase my cousin Marco and I have often repeated to each other. First as kids, when we imagined that one day we would invent a train to the moon and back. Then as teenagers, when we thought of creating a sort of independent village made up of everyone we liked. And then as young men with a background and a future to write.
Two backgrounds to be honest, and very different ones as well, which nonetheless led us to the same place at the same time, each with the exact same certainty in our minds: "If we don't carry out the revolution now, we never will!"
I was in the Netherlands for my PhD in Economics, Marco had already been living in Amsterdam for a few years and it was there that the spark ignited; we met up for the umpteenth time and finally decided to fulfil our objective. It was the right place.
In those months of 2012 spent together, we realised that cannabis, a plant with such extraordinary therapeutic properties, could be a symbol of revolution for a more natural, more sustainable and certainly better world.
One day I showed him the project I was working on, which at the time was called: "Cannabis Revolution. For a better and sustainable world." We laughed like crazy and then got a little emotional: "It will be our revolution."
And we talked and talked and talked, all the way on the bus, at dinner and again at home. All through the night and again the next day and then again.
This is how Enecta was born. Two cousins who were once just kids found themselves with the same dreams they had back then and the desire to take risks in order to keep a promise.
We had a clear but rather ambitious goal: to take the best from the cannabis plant and create an original product that could be used by as many people as possible, that would do them good and was legal.
After much research our attention turned to cannabidiol or CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid produced by cannabis plants, which had been praised by scientific research for some time already. We were free, we were young and we decided to go. We went to America to see how they were using CBD, we worked in a cannabis farm for 3 years, CBD was cultivated and extracted, we learned what was needed to imagine bringing this resource home. Back to Italy.
We were still a bit sceptical but felt this could be the right direction. We sought out the best experts to test the qualities and properties of the plant.
It was a bit like when we were kids playing chemistry, but this time, for the first time, it was for real. Together.
We studied cannabidiol in its entirety and realised that it was exactly what we were looking for. A molecule with numerous therapeutic properties, all natural and perfectly legal, capable of improving people's quality of life.
A molecule which was still almost unknown in Italy and which we learned to extract in order to create... our first revolutionary product.
That's when our adventure officially began.
Since our first conversation that night in Holland, we had decided that at the cost of making lots of sacrifices we would follow the whole chain, from cultivation to distribution.
Our revolution would also be an agricultural one, we would practice organic and natural farming and abolish the use of chemical pesticides.
In addition to cultivation, we would also take care of distribution and, of course, research and the creation of new genetics.
And so we did. Not all by ourselves, of course.
Little by little our team has grown and we are proud to be able to employ so many people. We cultivate over one hundred hectares of fields in Abruzzo, Veneto and Emilia Romagna, which we are able to follow thanks to our collaborators and a production network that we trust completely and that we monitor constantly.
After several CBD products that we have created over time, here we are in a new project, which sees us as the first in Europe: to offer the market a specific seed for CBD extraction with standardised and certified performance. The same seed that gives us our extracts.
Revolutions never stop.
We believe that creating networks and being globally connected is essential, but that real change starts locally. In addition to our products, we are equally passionate about a number of projects that focus on physical and mental wellbeing, training and scientific research.
We created Enecta Free Fitness, a project that offers free sports lessons in the cities of Bologna, Naples and Barcelona. We also organise sports-related events in the less populated areas of Abruzzo, such as the Enecta Bike Tour.
We created Cannabeta, a cycle of scientific meetings on the theme of cannabis, which have so far taken place in Athens, Milan, Rome and Naples. And a whole series of activities related to research and science.
This year we decided to focus on young people with an educational project: Reezo Academy, a training course dedicated to the hemp sector for young people aged between 18 and 30, which will enable students to acquire the tools to sow their own future.
Just as we did.
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Enecta, founded in the Netherlands in 2013 by two young Italian entrepreneurs and now based in Italy, operates in the cannabis sector, producing CBD oil and capsules, pet oil, cannabidiol-based cosmetics, CBD crystals, CBG oil and crystals.
Since its foundation, it has been fundamental for Enecta to raise awareness among consumers and companies about the different uses of the hemp plant, in order to establish a transparent Italian supply chain.
Baumhaus was founded in May 2019 as a type A social cooperative and is active on the territory of Bologna. It deals with the design and production of innovative projects in the educational and cultural fields.
According to a study published in May 2020 in the "Italian Journal of Agronomy", eighty-three percent of the farms producing hemp in Italy were recently and directly established for this purpose. The industries are run by young entrepreneurs (fifty-seven percent of the owners are under the age of thirty-five) and forty-three percent of these exploit abandoned land.
The hemp sector is therefore a growing sector, as the plant is sustainable and has numerous industrial and therapeutic uses.
Reezo Academy is a training guidance course aimed at deepening the relationship between environmental sustainability, social innovation and new production models.
Structured in fifteen appointments for a total of one hundred and forty hours, on Friday and Saturday mornings in Bologna, the course is totally free of charge and sees the participation of thirty girls and boys aged between eighteen and thirty, with one hundred and forty seven applications received.
The aim of the course is also to offer different opportunities to young people at risk of dropping out. The participants include both young people already in employment or education and young people who have just finished their studies.
The course combines in-depth meetings, group project work, testimonials from companies and professionals, individual mentorship meetings and in-depth analysis of local opportunities.
The course is divided into five transversal modules common to all participants, two in-depth courses, "Vegetable Crops" and "Business Crops", with topics ranging from botany to marketing, from creativity to strategy; meetings with companies and professionals; field experiments and a final project work.
«We started at the beginning of February with one appointment a week in distance learning mode," explains Luca Padova, project coordinator for Baumhaus. «Holding the course in-class would be impossible, considering that we have participants from Friuli Venezia Giulia to Sicily and that during the year the rules for the containment of COVID-19 infection have frozen all unnecessary travel».
The course will end in February, after one hundred and forty hours of training. «The objective of our training plan is to give participants an in-depth understanding of the production, processing and marketing chain of industrial hemp, which can be used for the extraction and production of CBD-based products.». The lecturers include professionals and experts as well as Enecta collaborators. «We are investing a lot in testimonials from companies that give lectures with the aim of creating networks and bringing in new insights and different skills».
Another partner in the project, along with Enecta and Baumhaus, is "Kilowatt", a communications agency that deals with brand identity. The agency designed the naming and coordinated image, which is able to describe the distinctive soul of the course of studies. The name "Reezo" is the pop version of "rizo", which means root. The project's claim is in fact 'the future takes root'. «Starting from the roots of the plant to get to the leaf," says Luca Padova, «because hemp is a future-proof plant». Kilowatt will also draw up an impact assessment of the project.
Another unprecedented partner is the association 'Antigone', composed of legal sociologists and criminologists, which carries out research and acts as an observatory on prisoners' rights. «With Antigone we have built four workshops within a module called "Public Health", dedicated to a general overview of the current Italian legislation on substances and with a focus on the jurisdiction relating to the cultivation of hemp».
Classes will end in mid-July. Part of the hours will be dedicated to project work until the final presentation. «The young people are divided into two groups, one dedicated to phyto-purification, the other to the construction of an eco-village, in which they are carrying out project ideas derived from the lectures and meetings organised». The project is designed to enable participants to put their skills to use and realise their aspirations.
At the end of the course, a certificate of participation will be issued and there will be an opportunity for some students to undertake internships at Enecta.
An in-person camp is also being planned in Castelvecchio Subequo (province of L'Aquila, Abruzzo), to be held in September, in order to put into practice what has been learned during the year.
Out of the one hundred and forty-seven applications received, preference for participation to the Reezo Academy was given to thirty young people aged between eighteen and thirty, who are not currently in education or have no stable employment.
Salvatore, 29, says: «I chose to participate in Reezo Academy because I am very hopeful about the future and the impact cannabis will have on it. It's a passion I've been trying to cultivate for years now, constantly seeking out as much information as possible. When I heard about this course I practically fell in love with it; what interests me most is the cultivation and medical applications of the plant.» For Salvatore, the Reezo Academy experience is «pioneering, exciting, rich».
Salvatore is one of the students working on a project dedicated to the phyto-purification of the territory. «It's an idea I've had for several years and which I also proposed to Enecta some time ago. Now we are working to find the most suitable solution for a town in Piedmont that is particularly rich in mercury».
Reezo Academy is an opportunity to meet and exchange, as well as a professional course aimed at providing students with skills. «Personally I'm already getting a lot out of this experience, I'm meeting nice people who share my passion for cannabis and I'm getting the chance to understand to what extent I can follow my passions and dreams. Reezo has also been a way for me to feel less alone in this battle for a more beautiful and healthy world». At the end of the course, Salvatore would like to get a job in the cannabis world. «Over the years, I've found that the art I put aside always comes in handy, so I'm sure that all the skills I've learned on this course will come in handy sooner or later».
Twenty-one-year-old Alessia Irene also particularly enjoyed the Reezo Academy experience. «I chose to take part in the Reezo Academy because at first glance I was intrigued,» she says. «I found it a very interesting and above all innovative project. I was struck by its unusual proposal and even though I'm pursuing another course of study in the meantime, I always try to find a way not to miss a lesson!» Alessia would describe this experience as «innovative, stimulating, concrete and creative».
Among the topics covered within the course, sustainability stands out.« We had a lesson on the environmental, social and economic sustainability of enterprises. Within the course we also talked about the history of hemp and the present and future business models. One aspect that makes you never miss a lecture is the testimonies of professionals who work with hemp on a daily basis, from the CBD application sectors to the agriculture, textiles and food and beverage sectors.
Alessia Irene is working on a project work regarding the construction of an eco village. «In order to carry out the project work, we were given tools such as the business model canvas, which helps to combine everyone's ideas and make objective assessments. The project I am working on involves the design of an eco village, focusing on the production and reuse of waste substances. The eco village offers workshops for adults and children, focusing on recycling and how to make the best use of nature's products, thus creating a positive ecological and social impact».
For Alessia, taking part in the course is a way of deepening her knowledge of the subject and getting to know professionals working in the world of hemp by hearing their testimonials. «I would also like to work with hemp one day, to help people feel better about themselves, feel more connected to nature, and appreciate the value of small things».
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CBD Crystals and other CBD products’ main difference is how CBD crystals are manufactured to remove everything but the THC component. This can be beneficial to people who don’t want any THC traces; however, both products have very similar benefits.
To try CBD Crystals, go to https://www.enecta.com/collections/vendors?q=Enecta Enecta Cc 500mg range with 99% CBD and 1% Terpenes.
CBD and CBD crystals both have the same effect on our bodies and brains. This is because all humans have an endocannabinoid system that assists us in maintaining overall wellness through nerve cell signaling or homeostasis.
CBD works with our cannabinoid systems through the interception of CB1 (primarily found in the nervous system) and CB2 (primarily immune cells) receptors. These receptors are responsible for transmitting messages to the brain. CBD is able to reduce sensation by impacting the activity of these receptors helping to alleviate pain, reduce anxiety, inflammation, and much more.
CBD Crystals are made by removing all other compounds from the plant, which were initially extracted from the cannabis plant. There are many ways to extract CBD from the cannabis plant.
A crucial part of making CBD crystals is the isolation of CBD. The isolation of CBD in the making of CBD Crystals requires more steps than making just CBD oil alone. The difference is that when creating CBD Crystals, we are removing more elements such as phospholipids and flavors from the product. This means the final product doesn’t taste like cannabis, has no other cannabinoids, flavinoids or terpenes left behind. Therefore, creating a more pure product requires a more complex production.
To make a concentrate, you first need extraction. A range of solvents can be used in this process; however, the most commonly used solvent in the production of CBD isolate or CBD Crystals is ethanol, which draws out the cannabinoids.
This is the process of removing things like fats, waxes, and chlorophyll from the extract. These elements need to be removed in order to reach the purity of the target CBD compound. This is achieved by cooling down the extract to sub-zero temperature using the solvent, then maintaining a low-temperature environment for some time. This allows the fats and waxes to separate from the miscella.
Once winterization is complete, Waxes and fats need to be filtered from the crude oil quickly using a filter press and the assistance of a vacuum pump pulling the miscella through a series of filters. Fats and waxes are collected in one vessel and miscella in another.
Decarboxylation is a crucial step. This process involves removing carbolic acid and CO2 from the cannabinoids present in the cannabis extract. This ensures the end product contains all of the benefits that the cannabinoid has to offer. The acidic cannabinoid must be converted to its neutral form.
It is also imperative that in this process, CO2 is removed, or it will affect the ability to form a vacuum in the distillation apparatus properly. The decarboxylation method is achieved through the application of heat in a reactionary vessel.
Now that steps 1-4 are complete, the distillation process is begun. Under vacuum, the extract is put into the feed tank and passes over a heated plate. The heated oil then enters another vessel where spinning wipers and a thin film are created around the jacketed vessel. Finally, a long condensing coil in the middle of the vessel recondenses the vapors back into liquid form. The receiving vessels will then collect the CBD from the terpenes, volatiles, and high boiling point cannabinoids.
There is one last step in the process for manufacturers who want to reach crystallization. This process is started by putting the CBD oil into a large vat. The mixture is then heated while being constantly stirred. Next, the temperature is lowered. Next, the stirring is slowed. Then, as the crystallization stage begins, the stirring rapidly increases, causing the crystals to separate from the solution. The finishing touch is the crystals being rinsed with a chemical solvent to remove any unwanted impurities.
There are many benefits to using CBD in a crystal form, and here are a few reasons why.
THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol is the component of cannabis that gives us the sensation of being high. For people who cannot have any THC or just don’t want it, CBD crystals are the perfect alternative. CBD Crystals do not contain any THC so they are completely legal in any country where CBD is legal and THC is not.
With the removal of all other cannabinoids, it is easier to calculate CBD concentration in the products. However, the dosage is measured in milligrams. Although you can follow dosage instructions on the packet, it may take some experimenting to find the dose that works best for you. Dosage entry point usually begins around 10mg.
You can pretty much take CBD Crystals any way that you like. Crystals can be crushed to form a powder which can be either placed under the tongue or mixed into any food or drink that you desire. The only thing to keep in mind is that some studies have shown heating crystals may decrease potency, so best to mix with cold beverages or food.
Many studies have shown that CBD may improve sleep and anxiety in individuals suffering from anxiety disorders. According to InsideTracker “A review of 11 trials found that CBD reduced anxiety when taken one hour before an anxiety-inducing event, and a compilation of case reports found that nearly 80% of patients given CBD for anxiety saw reductions in one month.”
Some people have found CBD to be a great alternative to addictive pain medication. While studies have shown that CBD hasn’t been as effective for short-term acute pain, it has shown excellent results in long-term chronic pain.
There is limited scientific evidence behind the effectiveness of CBD crystals in sleep; it has been said that some people do seem to benefit from CBD to assist with sleep. However, this appears to depend on the dosage. Smaller dosages can work as a stimulant, while higher doses appear to aid in sleep.
Studies have shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in animal and cellular studies. More human trials are to occur; however, we expect to see positive results in this area.
While cannabis has been used for generations, recent studies have only found that the power of CBD extraction has come to light. CBD was initially identified back in the 1940s where it was assumed that it had little to no effect on the human body, with the primary research being around THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
During the 1990’s Professor Raphael Mechoulam led a research team that made a revolutionary discovery around CBD and how it interacts with the human body that would have changed everything - The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The Endocannabinoid System plays a role in the human body affecting functions such as;
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) already exists in our bodies and what has been discovered is that CBD directly interacts with the ECS.
There have been two key endocannabinoids identified so far;
anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol.
These endocannabinoids assist in homeostasis - keeping stable internal functioning with an ever-changing external environment.
CB1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are mainly found in the peripheral nervous system and are most prevalent in immune cells.
According to Healthline.com, “Experts aren’t completely sure how CBD interacts with the ECS. But they do know that it doesn’t bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors the way THC does.”
Many believe that CBD prevents endocannabinoids from being broken down, allowing them to have more of an effect on your body. Others believe that CBD binds to a receptor that has not yet been discovered.
While we still don’t fully understand the above, there is still plenty of research that suggests CBD can help with multiple conditions.
There have been many benefits linked to the use of CBD products, here are just some of the potential benefits listed below:
Some research has shown that CBD can give anxiety relief. It has been thought that it may alter the way our brain receptors respond to serotonin. Early animal studies have shown that CBD may relieve anxiety symptoms by reducing stress, decreasing the psychological effects of anxiety, improving symptoms of PTSD, and assisting in sleep with insomnia.
A popular subject in CBD use has been around treatment for epilepsy. More research needs to be done around this topic; however, it has been stated by healthline.com that The American Epilepsy Societies’ study offers hope in this area.
Researchers are studying the use of CBD for treating multiple neurodegenerative disorders - Disorders that cause deterioration of the brain and nerves over time. Researchers are mainly looking at one receptor CB1 the receptor responsible for this nerve deterioration.
Specific diseases being studied for the use of CBD are:
Studies have shown that CBD can help to manage pain in cases such as:
Researchers believe that it’s the anti-inflammatory benefits in CBD that provide pain relief; however, more research needs to be done in this area.
CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory benefits, and it’s thought that the inflammatory
benefits may help acne sufferers. It was also found that CBD had a positive effect on sebaceous gland activity - the glands responsible for producing sebum, an oily substance, can lead to acne when overproduced.
Cancer TreatmentIt’s been known for a long time that CBD effectively treats symptoms associated with chemotherapy and pain. There have also been studies that have investigated the role of CBD in preventing cancer cell growth. More research is needed in this area, but this is a step in the right direction in using CBD in cancer treatment.
Some people may experience mild side effects from CBD however they are limited. Below is a list and explanation of what some people could experience.
“This side-effect is known as a “cottonmouth,” and it’s common with all cannabis products, including CBD. People who use CBD products may experience dry mouth due to the cannabinoids found in the plant, that act as an inhibitor of the human saliva.” - CBD Common Side Effects.
To prevent this from happening, consume a lot of water before, during, and after consuming CBD products.
“If you consume a higher dosage of CBD, you may find yourself more sleepy and lightheaded than usual. That’s because CBD tends to lower your blood pressure significantly”. CBD Common Side Effects
It’s not a severe side-effect, except in two situations.
The first one is if you’re diagnosed with high blood pressure, so the effect of CBD may intervene with the effect of your pills, and it may be a bit of a shock for the body.
The same may happen if you’re diagnosed with low pressure too.
If you’re worried about the potential effects of CBD on your blood pressure, consult with your doctor before using it, make sure you’re safe to consume it.
One of the more common side-effects of CBD is drowsiness. In higher doses, CBD has been found to make you sleepy than usual, and some people may feel the desire to sleep more than usual.
“A lot of research has to be done on this side-effect, but for now, avoid using CBD products before having an important thing: a car drive, a task from your job, or anything else related to being concentrated or wide awake.” CBD Common Side Effects
Diarrhea is another potential side-effect of using CBD, but usually, it’s not related to CBD at all.
As such, CBD has gastroprotective properties - it helps with your digestive tract, increases the flow of blood to your stomach and generally, has a positive effect on the digestive system.
But, after the first usage, it’s not uncommon for people to experience diarrhea, and that’s usually due to other ingredients in the CBD oil or the manufacturing process.
“CBD is mostly used with MCT oil (short for medium chain triglycerides which helps CBD to be absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly), emu oil, hemp oil, etc., that can irritate the stomach and cause diarrhea to happen. To prevent this, always check the ingredients on the CBD oil and the CBD concentration - higher CBD concentration may irritate your digestive system as well”.CBD Common Side Effects
CBD has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin, and it can help you treat acne, psoriasis, or dermatitis.
“However, it may be the cause for skin allergies to appear - itching or rash over the body where you placed the CBD products. This is not always the case, but if you’re having a strong reaction to CBD skin products, stop using them immediately and consult with your doctor”.CBD Common Side Effects
CBD has come a long way from when it was first discovered in the 1940s. With the progression of science, we have managed to uncover more about how CBD interacts with the human body. As a result, there are many potential therapeutic benefits to using CBD. However, consumers always need to do their research before taking any CBD products to ensure they consume the highest quality product. A great place to start is Enacta.com. Enecta not only has a great range of high-quality CBD products they also have an array of articles with a multitude of information to keep you informed.
We’ve all heard of CBD and THC, the two most talked-about chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant, but we don’t hear much about Cannabigerol or CBG. Cannabigerol is a phytocannabinoid and is one of the 120 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant that is not psychoactive. CBG is referred to as a “parent molecule” as it is the first cannabinoid to develop in a young cannabis plant. As the plant grows CBG can still be found in smaller quantities of the plant, however it is usually extracted when the plant is young. When cannabinoids are extracted from a well developed cannabis plant, only 1% of those cannabinoids are CBG with “20 to 25% of CBD or 25 to 30% of THC.”
CBG is extracted from the young cannabis plant. This is the stage of growth where the most CBG can be found. As the cannabis plant begins to mature and with exposure to heat and UV rays, enzymes are released, breaking down the CBG acid, which causes a significantly smaller amount of CBG to be found, and higher amounts of CBD and THC become present.
CBG can be found in the form of crystals or oil. Because it is challenging to extract high amounts of CBG from the cannabis plant, breeders are beginning to experiment in different breeding techniques such as cross-breeding and genetic manipulation. Scientists are also working to pinpoint the perfect time in the budding process to extract the maximum amount of CBG from the plant.
CBG, like CBD and THC, is processed through our own body's endocannabinoid system. Our endocannabinoid system plays an essential role in homeostasis and regulates various processes of both the physical and the cognitive kind. It's made up of small signalling molecules and receptors within the human body responsible for maintaining internal function with an ever-changing external environment.
The human body contains two types of cannabinoid receptors, type 1 cannabinoid receptor CB1 (this is the dominant receptor) and type 2 receptor CB2. CB1 receptors are found in the nervous system and brain, while CB2 receptors are found in the body’s immune system and other areas. CBG works by attaching to receptors that bind to a neurotransmitter called anandamide. This was the first endocannabinoid to be discovered, and the same receptor THC effects. It plays a part in regulating sleep, appetite, pain relief, pleasure and motivation, but unlike THC, it has no psychotropic effects.
According to Leafly, CBG has promising results for the use of medicinal purposes such as;
It is thought that CBG is effective in the treatment of glaucoma, an eye condition caused by damage to the optic nerve. Due to its ability to reduce intraocular pressure and act as an effective vasodilator with neuroprotective effects.
Animal studies have found that with CBG, there has been a decrease in the inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel disease, which causes chronic inflammation in the bowel and affects millions of people worldwide.
Huntington's disease is a condition affecting nerve cell degeneration in the brain. A 2015 study has shown that CBG protected neurons in mice with the disease. If effective, this could possibly stop the onset of Huntington’s. Any person found to carry the “mutated” IT-15 gene will develop Huntington’s disease eventually, and with no present cure, these are encouraging results.
CBG has been shown to assist in intercepting receptors responsible for cancer cell growth, and in one study, the use of CBG has shown to obstruct the development of colorectal cancer cells in mice. These findings demonstrate an exciting possibility for the cure of colon cancer with the use of CBG.
Research conducted in 2017 also found that purified CBG with the removal of the delta-9 THC component was an effective appetite stimulant in rats. This is a promising result for severe weight loss treatment associated with late stages of cancer and other diseases.
In a European article published in 2008, evidence found that CBG was an effective antibacterial agent, particularly in treating Staphylococcus aureus, the most dangerous and drug-resistant staphylococcal bacteria. CBG has been used as a topical skin treatment since the 1950s; however, scientists were unaware of the chemical composition at the time.
In a 2015 study called “Effect of Non-psychotropic Plant-derived Cannabinoids on Bladder Contractility: Focus on Cannabigerol,” five different cannabinoids were compared with CBG tested for their ability to inhibit muscle contractions. The results suggested CBG could be a tool in treating bladder dysfunction.
The therapeutic benefits to CBG are looking promising and with the added benefit of non-psychotropic effects. CBG could be a good candidate for future use in various treatments and symptoms as mentioned above. According to WebMD, animal studies have indicated no negative side effects, and we look forward to human studies that some scientists say could change the way these diseases are treated.
As you may have noticed, CBG and CBD have very similar qualities, they are both non-psychotropic, and they both act on the endocannabinoid system. The main difference between them is that CBD interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors, whereas CBG directly binds to them. This does not make CBD less effective than CBG; it just means that they interact differently. Both CBG and CBD are linked to some very exciting health benefits, but more research is needed, particularly around CBG.
CBG can potentially offer substantial health benefits and is becoming increasingly popular; however, more research is always needed in cannabis-based products. This is a common issue and one that can only be resolved with legislative reform and regulation.
As CBG is far more challenging to extract from the cannabis plant than CBD, it can be more difficult to find pure CBG oil, and prices can be higher than other cannabis products. Users may prefer to look at broad-spectrum CBD oil products that contain CBG with the added benefits of other cannabinoids and Terpenes. If you are looking to try CBG for any of the conditions mentioned above, you could start by trying Enectas G500 5% CBG oil.
Alternatively, take a look at the Enecta range that is clearly labelled with all ingredients and keep an eye out for the word Cannabigerol or CBG. Remember, CBD and CBG have many similar benefits and can often be more effective when complemented by other cannabinoids extracted from the cannabis plant. You can learn more about this “Entourage Effect” by checking out this article: “Terpenes and Entourage Effect.”
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What does this mean for our children? To understand this, we first need to understand marijuana and its compounds.
Marijuana is a plant named Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica, most commonly smoked as a joint, through a “bong,” or consumed as a delicious treat (a brownie or cookie). In recent years there has been a growing trend in the use of ‘vapes’ or vaporizers to avoid smoking and increase its potency. Over the past few decades, marijuana has been grown to increase THC potency levels. In the 1990s, an average marijuana plant contained around 4% THC. Marijuana plants now hold up to 15% THC, which is where the problem lies for experimental teens.
Unlike CBD (another compound found in marijuana), THC is a psychoactive phytocannabinoid and is found only in the flower of the plant. There are over 500 chemical compounds in marijuana. THC is the famous cannabinoid responsible for the plant’s psychotropic effect making users feel ‘high.’
The chemical structure of THC is similar to a cannabinoid in the human brain called anandamide. The similarity in these structures means the body recognizes THC, making it possible for THC to modify normal brain transmission. Cannabinoids act as neurotransmitters sending chemical messages between nerve cells affecting different areas of the brain. Let’s look further into how this affects the teenage brain.
Susan Weiss, Ph.D., National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), states that:
“There are a lot of open questions” around the long-term effects of marijuana, "but there's growing literature, and it's all pointing in the same direction. Starting young and using frequently may disrupt brain development.”
There have been multiple adverse outcomes associated with adolescence who participate in heavy use of marijuana, such as poor school performance, high dropout rates, low life satisfaction, greater unemployment, and higher rates of welfare dependence.
In a study performed by Duke University psychologist Terrie Moffitt, Ph.D., and colleagues, participants were questioned about marijuana use between the ages of 18-38. They also underwent neurological testing at ages 13 and 38. Researchers found that marijuana use was linked to lower IQ.
During our teenage years and into our early 20’s the frontal cortex is still developing and therefore sensitive to any type of drug exposure that can modify communication within our brain and nervous system.
It is also one of the last regions of the brain to finish developing.
**Remember THC binds to the cannabinoids affecting brain messages
THC isn’t all harmful. There are many benefits to THC use in cases such as:
However, with rising potency in the unregulated sale of marijuana, the potential for misuse is high. The effects on the developing brain could cause lifelong issues for adolescent users.
The recreational use of THC could damage a teenager’s development. Studies have shown that THC can have a beneficial “entourage effect” when combined with other cannabinoids like CBD. However, unregulated marijuana is still known to contain much higher THC levels than suggested for medicinal purposes. Therefore, recreational use of THC is not considered a safe practice for teenagers. The information we have on THC and brain development indicates a great need for caution.
You can’t have a CBD dessert list without cookies! This recipe has come from industry leaders and has been tested and tried many times over. Easy to bake and easy to portion your CDB intake, and taste delicious.
Ingredients
Peanut butter and chocolate have to be among the best combinations of flavors. This no-bake recipe is super simple and great to have as an after-dinner surprise.
The name of this dessert sounds deceivingly healthy! As you will see from the ingredients list below, this is definitely a dessert for cream lovers. Another no-bake recipe you can prepare reasonably quickly, but you do have to have patience while it sets in the fridge.
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The first important thing all parents should know about CBD is that it is not psychoactive. This means your child cannot get “high” using this specific compound of the cannabis plant. THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis that makes people feel “high.” Having said this, some CBD will contain traces of THC and other cannabinoids and terpenes, but not enough to have any psychoactive effect on the brain.
You may have seen youtube videos of children with epilepsy having seizures and being given CBD oil to magically stop the seizure in its tracks. There a many conditions that CBD is thought to treat successfully. The most common are listed below:
The World Health Organization reported that 50 million people worldwide had epilepsy in 2019. Two rare forms of epilepsy are treated by CBD, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. The FDA has approved only one form of CBD for treating these syndromes called Epidiolex. This treatment is available for patients aged two years and above.
Various studies have been collated into a review by scientists from the University of Messina, Italy. The review was called Use of Cannabidiol in the Treatment of Epilepsy: Efficacy and Security in Clinical Trials, and regards to the safety of CBD in epilepsy patients, scientists concluded :
“To date, available safety data show that the administration of CBD associated with other AEDs causes non-serious adverse events, which can be resolved reducing the dose of CBD and/or common AEDs.”
They also concluded that our understanding of how CBD actually interacts with other Anti-epileptic drugs is not entirely understood:
“The available results also highlight the efficacy of CBD as adjunctive to common AEDs. The mechanism by which CBD interacts with other AEDs is not yet fully known, as many metabolic pathways involved in this interaction are still unknown. In addition, not all the molecular targets used by the CBD to exercise its antiepileptic action are yet known. However, the results obtained to date encourage the use of CBD associated with AEDs.”
49% of all CBD users in the U.S.A take it for anxiety relief. Some parents opt to try CBD for their children’s anxiety, and some parents claim successful results. Some parents feel comfortable trying CBD with their child because of their own CBD experiences. There are no current studies that can confirm that CBD is helpful to children suffering from anxiety; however, there has been plenty of animal and adult studies and surveys conducted.
Esther Blessing, Ph.D., of New York University, conducted a study in 2015 on CBD use for treating anxiety. After reviewing 49 studies, the results looked very encouraging and indicated a clear need for further studies. Dr. Blessing stating:
“Overall, current evidence indicates CBD has considerable potential as a treatment for multiple anxiety disorders,” Dr. Blessing concluding, “with the need for further study of chronic and therapeutic effects in relevant clinical populations.”
Many parents using CBD for children with ASD or suspected ASD are doing so with the knowledge that it is not a cure. CBD is usually used to treat various symptoms of the disorder to improve the quality of the child’s life. Animal studies have proven there is some correlation between the use of CBD and the improvement of autistic behaviors. Scientists are busily beginning to investigate whether CBD will positively impact these behaviors in humans.
Orrin Devinsky, M.D., director of NYU Langone’s Comprehensive Epilepsy Center in New York City and a principal investigator in the Epidiolex trials, stated that:
“Some genes that cause autism also cause epilepsy, and some of the physiologic changes in nerve cells in autism are also similar to those in epilepsy,” Devinsky says. “So it’s not a shock that we might get some benefit from drugs that might work on both disorders.”
There is not a lot of direct evidence regarding whether CBD affects ADHD. Most of the very small studies on ADHD have shown insignificant results. Scott Shannon, M.D., assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, commented that although he does not usually recommend CBD for ADHD, “Kids that have an anxious variety of ADHD may get some benefit.”
Some parents have reported treating anxiety in children with ADHD using CBD to be helpful.
CBD has a long way to go when it comes to clinical research definitive in its findings. Much larger and extensive studies must be completed, particularly in pediatrics. Although most CBD users consider the cannabinoid to be safe, as do some doctors and scientists, there is no guarantee that it is for all people and in all cases.
The choice to use CBD on your child is a personal decision that every parent will ultimately have to take on alone. All the above conditions have conventional medications available to try, and all of those medications will have side effects, both good and bad. As parents, it is your responsibility to weigh up the risk factors against the benefits of using any kind of medication or treatment. We suggest you begin to look at online forums where you can discuss other parents’ experiences with using CBD and work with your healthcare professional to make an informed decision about the use of CBD.
Imagine all the incredible benefits you could get from using Enecta CBD Products if they increased blood flow to the parts of your brain responsible for memory and emotion. If you or a loved one suffers from memory issues, if you have PTSD or anxiety, you may find the results of this study fascinating.
The hippocampus is an area of the brain linked to emotion and memory. In a research study lead by Dr. Michael Bloomfield (UCLA Psychiatry), researchers looked into how CBD affects the cerebral blood flow to parts of the brain involved in memory processing. The results were very promising and demonstrated CBD’s potential to treat conditions like:
The study involved 15 healthy individuals aged 18 to 70 years of age. Participants’ criteria was that they had never used cannabis in any form, were not on any psychotropic agents, and had no history of using psychoactive agents (recreational drugs). All 15 participants received 600mg of CBD in a capsule or a placebo capsule on different days. Tests were conducted using the double-blind testing technique. During the testing phase, participants followed a strict regime, fasting from midnight the night before ingestion until 3 hours later when test subjects received MRI scans 3 hours after ingesting the CBD or placebo.
The study results contradict previous studies performed with lower doses of CBD that found no increase in cerebral blood flow. In fact, in this study, the CBD appeared to somehow encourage increased blood flow specifically to those areas of the brain responsible for memory and emotion called the hippocampus. Blood flow increases were also observed in the orbitofrontal cortex, a brain region known to be responsible for decision making. Also worth noting, all other parts of the brain were wholly unaffected, showing no increase at all in blood flow. CBD appeared to create a targeted response, leaving researchers wondering what more intensive clinical studies could uncover.
Dr. Michael Bloomfield, who lead the study, commented on the results stating;
“There is evidence that CBD may help reduce symptoms of psychosis and anxiety. There is some evidence to suggest that CBD may improve memory function.”
Bloomfield also pointed out that this study could help explain why some users of CBD report therapeutic effects in their mental health conditions;
“Additionally, CBD changes how the brain processes emotional memories, which could help to explain its reputed therapeutic effects in PTSD and other psychiatric disorders. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the effects of CBD on memory are unclear.”
These results are a far cry from the red-eyed forgetful joint smoker we once associated with cannabis use. Research studies into isolated cannabinoids like CBD found in the cannabis plant are quickly changing attitudes worldwide. Studies are now pointing the finger at THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis thought to be responsible for the negative psychiatric conditions associated with cannabis use. Although THC is believed to have many health benefits, the ratio of other compounds found in the cannabis plant is thought to play a vital role in its effects. CBD alone is now associated with many positive mental health and physical health benefits through various studies and user reports.
This UCLA study was titled “The effects of acute cannabidiol on cerebral blood flow and its relationship to memory: An arterial spin labelling magnetic resonance imaging study” and is believed to have been a standout study with Dr. Blooming stating:
“To our knowledge, this is the first study to find that CBD increases blood flow to key regions involved in memory processing, particularly the hippocampus,” says Broomfield. “This supports the view that CBD has region-specific blood flow effects in the human brain, which has previously been disputed.”
One can only wait in anticipation for follow-up studies in this area of CBD research. For now, this promising result will continue to bring hope for those looking for alternative treatments to some common disorders.
The term 'industrial hemp' corresponds to certain varieties of Cannabis Sativa, belonging to the Cannabaceae family. Cannabis sativa differs from other varieties because of its low or almost non-existent THC contents.
Law no. 242/2016 of December 2016, in fact, which deals with regulating the cultivation of hemp sativa as a valuable natural resource, provides that in order to be cultivated, plants must maintain a THC content of between 0.2 and 0.6% and that hemp cultivation must only take place using certified hemp seeds registered in the European Seed Register.
From industrial hemp it is possible to obtain biomass, which is a special processing of all plant material present in the cannabis plant, with the exception of seeds, stems and main branches.
Biomass lends itself to a variety of uses, which we will look at in more detail in the next section. In general, however, since most of the products that can be obtained from hemp biomass are now of interest to the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic sectors, it is essential that each plant is grown in clean soil free of chemical additives.
This is why growers are not only required to use certified hemp seeds in order to produce biomass, but they are also required to follow and apply the GACP (Good agricultural and collection practices for medicinal plants) guidelines and the HACCP protocols. In this way, it is possible to guarantee a final product that is as pure and of the highest quality as possible, and which can also be used safely in medical cannabis treatments or for food purposes (for example CBD oil, CBG oil) or cosmetic purposes (specific creams, gels and lotions).
In order to meet the needs of these specific markets, some varieties of industrial hemp have been specially designed to produce biomass with a high cannabinoid content. They therefore continue to have a THC content of less than 0.2%, but offer biomass with a high content of CBD or CBG, two cannabinoids that have no psychoactive effects but offer many beneficial properties, which have already been tested in various research projects on medical cannabis, as well as in the food and cosmetics markets.
This type of biomass can be used to extract, distill or isolate the active ingredients of non-psychoactive cannabinoids. The final product can be used for the production of virtually any CBD or CBG product.
We have mentioned all these non-psychoactive cannabinoid products first because they are in high demand on the market at the moment, and this trend has been growing steadily for the last three years.
However, it may be useful to mention that industrial hemp biomass is also used for the production of sustainable fuel. It is particularly useful for farmers and other small and medium-sized enterprises in need of renewable energy.
It has also been used for decades for the production of fibres used in textiles, clothing and paper.
Of course, biomass for hemp fibre requires different manufacturing processes from those of biofuel and again different from those used to make non-psychoactive cannabinoid products.
At present, most of the industrial hemp on the market for the production of hemp biomass has a CBD content of between 2 and 4 %. With regard to CBG (a recently discovered cannabinoid that is even more sought after by the market and by consumers of light cannabis), the varieties of hemp sativa available have an active principle content of 2 to 3%.
We have introduced into the industrial hemp market two varieties that are ideal for the production of hemp biomass and exceed the standards. We have Enectaliana, with a high CBD content (5-8%) and Enectarol, with a high CBG content (4-6%); two brand new, extremely stable varieties with a higher germination rate than the standards, which you can read more about on our website.
In order to obtain biomass, the plants resulting from cannabis cultivation must be harvested and dried. Subsequently, the plants can be cut and shredded, i.e. finely chopped.
It can be useful to cut the stems all of the same size and to remove leaves and remnants from the stems beforehand.
The plant material will then be fed into special machines that will grind and compact it to obtain hemp biomass.
In order to obtain top quality biomass, it is important to make sure that all plant matter has been properly ground and that no stems, branches or seeds are present.
The process involves removing any larger branches or other excessively large components before feeding them into the machine.
We produce our biomass exclusively from certified hemp sativa crops and our soils are free of pesticides and heavy metals.
We adhere to GACP guidelines and HACCP protocols to produce products that meet pre-defined quality and safety standards.
We carefully monitor all stages of the processing of our biomass, ensuring that the different varieties grow separately and are processed separately to avoid cross-contamination. We inspect every stage of the packaging process and take special care to preserve our batches so that you can be assured of a safe, high-quality end product.
Among the various methods that can be used for the extraction of CBD and CBG from hemp biomass, which will then be used for the preparation of all products based on those cannabinoids, we distinguish two main ones: solvent extraction method and solvent-free extraction method.
Both of these extraction methods cannot be performed without the involvement of trained professionals with appropriate equipment.
The extracted oil is mixed again with a solvent (ethanol) and the solution is frozen. At this stage the impurities solidify, then the solution is filtered and the ethanol is removed from the final product.
The cultivation of hemp in Italy is only legal if the hemp seeds used are certified and registered in the European Seed Register. In addition, the grower is obliged to keep the label and the purchasing invoices for a period of one year after sowing. The label must be the original. Copies and photocopies cannot be considered valid. Each label must indicate the production batch, the date of certification and the weight of the package.In the event of partial use of the hemp seeds, they may be stored in the original packaging together with the label.
Those collecting hemp seeds from their own cultivation can use them for food production, but cannot use them, let alone sell them, as breeding seed.
Seeds for hemp cultivation intended for biomass production must be sourced from specialised companies able to guarantee all the standards required by certification, such as a high degree of germination (not less than 80%), purity of variety and genetic stability, which will ensure that the essential characteristics of the plant remain unchanged throughout its existence.
This is very important both for the THC content, which must remain below 0.2%, and for the percentage of the other cannabinoid elements, which must maintain the indicated percentage throughout the growth phase and also after processing for biomass production. It is not permitted to re-use seed from any given crop for sowing the following year, for agronomic reasons and to better protect the genetics of the variety.
More info:
info@enecta.farm
]]>Specialists in the Australian medicinal cannabis industry, FreshLeaf Analytics, have stated the first company to get its product on chemists’ shelves will have a significant advantage in a market estimated to exceed $200 million a year.
Limitations, leading to some public frustration, have been placed on consumers seeking easier access. CBD oil will only be available without a prescription or referral from a doctor under the following conditions:
The downfall of these conditions will mainly be financial on Australian consumers and companies alike. Some consumers are now complaining they are struggling to find quality CBD oil on Australian pharmacy shelves, preferring to order from reputable overseas companies instead. This is symptomatic of the time it is taking Australia to research and regulate CBD use.
Cannabis companies are under more pressure than ever before to prove the quality of their products. In Australia, the onus of proving CBD oil products work will be on the manufacturers. Overseas cannabis companies use third-party testing and independent studies to boost consumer confidence- it will be interesting watching Australia play catchup. Australia was already quite behind compared to countries like the US, Canada, Germany, Japan, and the Netherlands.
In an article by Claire Bracken of the ABC last month, Dr. Lain commented on the growing number of international companies showing interest in selling to Australians, stating:
“They see it as perhaps the fastest growing market in the world, even though it’s a small population, the numbers add up,”
It will be tough on Australian CBD consumers, who will have to wait for more reliable products at higher doses to become available straight from the shelf. The current over-the-counter legal limit of 150mg of CBD per day is unlikely to support many consumers’ needs.
In the United Kingdom, a bottle containing a 300mg dose of CBD oil would only be enough for two days’ worth of use at an average of €22.35. Now compare this to Enectas’s Premium Hemp Extract containing 1000mg at €49.95. You can see the value in offering higher doses in small bottles. Less oil is needed to obtain the higher dosage required for common ailments at a lower cost to the consumer.
The positive news is that experts are of the view that the rigid regime in Australia will have its benefits further down the line:
“By being careful and quite well regulated, the Australian scheme is probably going to give rise to very good products that will have a lot of export potential,” - Dr. Lain.
Of course, this is looking into the future, and many current CBD consumers are looking forward to it.
Australia is moving in the right direction with cannabis at last! As more countries transition towards easier accessibility to CBD, we may all begin to see better research and evidence benefitting the wider community.
Perhaps Australia’s small step towards easing CBD laws will influence other countries in the region to join the movement. As COVID-19 continues to remind us all of the value of our health, it has never been a better time for governments to open the doors to new solutions to medical problems.
]]>2015 to 2016 National Surveys on Drug Use and Health indicated that 12.5% of adults in the U.S. used benzodiazepines, translating to roughly 30.5 million people.
CBN and CBD offer a possible solution to stopping and starting “benzo” medications for sleep. A pill-free, quality sleep is a dream come true for the insomniac in all of us! Let’s look deeper into how this cannabinoid team works together.
You may already know that CBD is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, believed to have many health benefits, including relief from anxiety and sleeplessness. The cannabis plant is also famously known for another cannabinoid called THC, which is responsible for creating the famous “high” cannabis is well known for.
Something you may not know about THC is that when it is exposed to heat and light (oxidization), it breaks down, leaving behind Cannabinol, otherwise known as CBN. Interestingly, scientists have only recently started to take notice of CBN as it was previously thought to be a useless waste product of old and stale cannabis.
Unlike CBD, CBN attaches itself to the CB1 receptor found in our endocannabinoid system. It is reported to have a mild euphoric effect on some users as a result of this. This “high” is considered mild compared to THC as CBN does not bind as strongly to the receptor. In fact, it is estimated that CBN only has 10% of THC’s potency. Most importantly, CBN has also been reported to have retained THC’s sedative effect assisting users with sleep issues.
People who have combined CBD and CBN have reported a reduction in the adverse effects sometimes associated with THC use. It is thought there may be a connection between CBD and CBN being used in combination. There have been reports of cannabis containing high amounts of CBD decreasing the adverse side effects of THC like anxiety, depression, and paranoia. The two cannabinoids are thought to complement one another for the use of sedation. Researchers from Steep Hill Labs have confidently claimed that:
“The consumption of 2.5-5mg of CBN has the same results as using 5-10mg of diazepam (Valium). The study also asserts that CBD and CBN work together to provide an even better sedative synergy.”- AnalyticalCanabis.com
It is important to note that Steep Hill Labs is the world’s leading cannabis science and technology company. The company was established in 2008 and was the U.S.A’s first commercial cannabis lab.
Whether there is an “entourage effect” when CBN and CBD are taken together, causing a sedative response, is yet to be 100% proven. This does not mean using CBD oil combined with products containing CBN won’t be a promising solution to your sleepless nights; it just means more research needs to be conducted.
CBN has no proven or known adverse side effects due to a lack of scientific evidence. This doesn’t mean you should not be careful when dosing yourself. As CBN is a by-product of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), there is a possibility that high doses of CBN could cause a euphoric high in some people. For this reason, driving and lifting heavy machinery would not be advisable after ingesting CBN as a precautionary measure, at least until you know how it affects your body.
CBN is definitely a cannabinoid that should be carefully micro-dosed slowly and cautiously, particularly if you plan to mix it with CBD. When starting any cannabinoid, whether CBD, CBG, CBN, or THC, it is always advisable to go slow and take the minimum amount suggested on the product packaging.
The bill has been close to the finish line before, hitting roadblocks in the form of safety concerns by law enforcement groups and the state’s sheriff’s association. However, new problems have been raised by construction and business groups, fearing workers affected by marijuana will be impaired on the job.
The New York Governors office has estimated that a legal cannabis program could bring revenue of up to $350 million when it is entirely up and running. The proposed tax structure on Marijuana will be similar to that of the current tax levied on alcohol.
Stuart-Cousins explained that it would just be a case of inserting adequate language into the bill, which may include a provision to provide extra tax dollars to be used to train law enforcement in identifying impaired driving.
Andrew Yang, 2020 Democratic presidential candidate and currently running for Mayor in New York City, has also been open about his support of the bill, stating:
“...I’m for the total decriminalization of cannabis and marijuana, and we have to make sure that communities of color actually participate in the economic gains that are going to result from legalization.”
In 2020 Cannabis possession was decriminalized in New York, which was a significant step for the cannabis industry. Unfortunately, a framework for the regulation or sales and possession of cannabis was never put into place. In January 2021, Governor Andrew Cuomo delivered the Executive Budget Proposal for 2021-2022. Included in this proposal was an extensive piece of legislation called the Cannabis Regulation and Taxation Act (CRTA) that included the legalization of cannabis for adult-use.
Covered in the CRTA are the following key provisions:
Gov. Cuomo has been including proposals to legalize cannabis in his budgets for the past two years. Issues in relation to tax structures for the market and for social equity programs have contributed to the continuous delay of the legislation passing. The CRTA will be his third proposal, and there are encouraging comments from officials, including a state budget spokesperson who said that:
“administration is working with all parties to pass a comprehensive regulatory structure for adult-use cannabis that prioritizes social equity, social justice, economic development, and the public health and safety of all New Yorkers.”
Mounting statements from officials in support of the bill are pointing to a strong possibility of it passing. Officials, including some of the top Republicans in the New York Assembly, have said they expect the legislature to legalize cannabis this session.
State Senate Finance Committee Chair, Liz Krueger told Bloomberg Government:
“It is my understanding that the three-way agreement has been reached and that bill drafting is in the process of finishing a bill that we all have said we support,”
It does appear as though the legalization of cannabis in the state of New York is inevitable; whether it comes to pass during the upcoming session or in the near future will remain to be seen.
If you have ever drunk for any of these reasons, keep reading. You may just find 4 great reasons to try CBD instead!
How many times have you caught yourself saying, “It has been a long day, maybe I will have a drink,”? The day-to-day stresses of life can lead us to look for quick and easy ways to unwind. We are guilty of using one vice or other to help us get through the challenging moments. According to Alcohol.org, Americans spend over 3,000 dollars a year on after-work drinks. For some people, this after-work habit can turn into an unhealthy one. This is why so many CBD users will tell you it relieves their stress and has become their healthy vice.
In April 2020, Singlecare Team conducted a medically reviewed survey by KAREN BERGER, PHARM.D. The company surveyed 2,000 CBD users aged 18+. The survey results revealed that 49% of users turned to CBD for anxiety and stress relief, indicating that CBD could be a safer and healthier alternative stress reliever than alcohol.
We all know that alcohol can cause irregularities within the body, leading to horrible hangovers, health issues later in life, and addiction. The symptoms of a hangover indicate just how damaging alcohol can be to your body, including headaches, gastritis, nausea, and low blood sugar. Alcohol abuse can cause long-term damage to your organs and your brain.
On the contrary, CBD acts as a regulator inside the body. It does this by interacting with your endocannabinoid receptors that naturally respond to CBD, causing your body and mind to relax in a more natural and balanced way.
Next time you are thinking about finishing your day with an alcoholic beverage, consider a more balanced option. Try brewing yourself a “no stress CBD tea” instead.
According to the Anxiety and Depression Society of America:
“More than 40 million Americans suffer from chronic, long-term sleep disorders, and an additional 20 million report sleeping problems occasionally, according to the National Institutes of Health.”
Alcohol may help a person fall asleep, but alcohol will eventually cause irregularities in your sleep cycles resulting in more frequent sleep disruptions. This means you will have a poorer quality of sleep altogether. People have been turning to CBD oil for numerous years for assistance with sleep. Last year 42% of CBD users surveyed had used CBD to combat sleep disorders and insomnia.
In 2011 Cannabis and Insomnia researchers found that cannabis helped patients fall asleep sooner. Depending on the dosage, several studies have indicated that CBD could be used to encourage sedation in patients suffering from sleep problems and other health issues.
If you are using alcohol to help you sleep, try replacing your nightcap with a few drops of Enecta Premium Oil, with a CBD concentration diluted to 10%. This particular CBD oil is ideal for all those who want to reap the rewards of cannabidiol’s benefits. If you are unsure of what dosage you need, please microdose slowly over several weeks until you find your sweet spot.
Although far more research is required, studies and reports have indicated that CBD is potentially beneficial in reducing cravings and assisting with addiction.
In 2017, every 1 in 8 Americans were classified as alcoholics. That is a scary statistic and one we should not take lightly. The good news is that CBD could help reduce alcohol cravings and help curb alcohol addiction. In a study of “Cannabidiol as an Intervention for Addictive Behaviors,” scientists found:
“CBD is an exogenous cannabinoid that acts on several neurotransmission systems involved in addiction... CBD has several therapeutic properties on its own that could indirectly be useful in the treatment of addiction disorders, such as its protective effect on stress vulnerability and neurotoxicity.”
Frequently individuals can experience cravings due to withdrawals. In 2018 studies were performed comparing the effects of CBD on rats and their addictive characteristics to alcohol. Some of the data suggested that CBD helped lower the rats’ consumption, prevented relapse, and reduced impulsiveness. Although more research is needed to confirm a complete scientific conclusion, this is a promising result for those suffering from addiction.
CBD will not cure all of your issues with unwanted cravings and addictions, but it may help make the road to recovery a little less painful. See our previous post on Addiction Recovery, and be sure to seek professional help if you feel like you have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol.
Headaches, nausea, pain, rapid heart rate; are all symptoms you may be familiar with if you have had a hangover. When looking to ease the pain of your hangover, CBD could be the answer. While CBD won’t magically cure a hangover, It could certainly reduce its symptoms.
Hangover headaches usually happen because your body has become dehydrated, and your blood vessels widen due to your intoxication. CBD is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic, and these properties may help with blood flow and help to relieve pain. Data also suggests that consumers have also used CBD for migraine relief.
Another standard mark of a bad hangover is nausea. Gastritis is a symptom of the body's response to intoxication, and nausea may lead to vomiting. A study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, “The Regulation of Nausea and Vomiting by Cannabinoids,” discovered:
“There is some evidence that cannabis-based medicines may be effective in treating the more difficult to control symptoms of nausea and delayed nausea and vomiting…”
Finally, anxiety AKA “hangxiety,” is a symptom many people face after a night of overindulging. As stated above, CBD may help you with your unwanted feelings of distress and anxiety, especially ones triggered by a hangover. The horrible emotions of an unwanted hangover eventually pass after about 24 hours. While CBD cannot speed up time, it may help to treat the physical feelings anxiety can produce with your hangover.
Whether you are someone looking to cut back on your ‘after work drinks’, wanting to break an addiction, need assistance falling asleep, or are suffering from a severe hangover, CBD could be an option for you. Many users find the products transform their lives for the better.
]]>Without going into too much detail, CBG and CBD (and other cannabinoids) interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body. These receptors are apart of your endocannabinoid system. Try saying that three times! If you would like to learn about how CBG and CBD interact with your body, read on!
Did you know that CBG is the precursor to all cannabinoids? This means it is the first of all the cannabinoids to appear in young cannabis plants. All the other incredible cannabinoids are derived from this unique cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), an acidic form of CBG.
What does this mean? Well, CBG is a more challenging compound to collect as it is only usually available in young cannabis plants and in small quantities. In most strains of the plant, only 1% of CBG can be found compared to 20 to 25% of CBD or 25 to 30% of THC.
There need to be some good reasons to harvest CBG compounds, and these will be discussed a little later in this article.
To answer this question, it is important to know a little about the CB1 and CB2 receptors:
CBD interacts differently with these receptors when compared to CBG. CBD communicates indirectly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors. This doesn’t mean CBD is less effective; it just means it interacts differently with the body. CBG, however, actually binds itself to both the CB1 And CB2 receptors, interacting in a far more direct manner. It is even thought that CBG is particularly interactive with brain receptors, and this is why it is considered worth the challenge of harvesting!
It is always important to point out that CBG and CBD are non-intoxicating. Unlike the cannabinoid THC, CBG and CBD have no psychotropic effects when ingested, so you need not be concerned about getting ‘high.’
The little research we have on CBG points to a list of possible health benefits for consumers, including:
There may be fewer studies of CBG, but what we have seen could be very promising. Like other compounds found in the cannabis plant, CBG and CBD have been linked to some great health benefits. We have not discussed addiction and CBG in this article, but we will follow up on the study of CBG and CBD on addiction in a later blog.
Suppose you are suffering from a condition related to inflammation, pain, or even cancer. In that case, it may be worth trialing a high-quality CBG oil like Enecta’s G 500 oil and observing if you can experience some relief or improved quality of life. This particular product is ideal for first-time users of CBG. It has a medium level of concentration, allowing you to ease yourself into discovering what this oil can do to help you.
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Knowing about the potential it has to offer to its users, it makes sense that the CBD wellness product market is expected to grow within the next couple of years. The reason behind this is because of their prominent status of being a product intended for health and wellness in addition to being able to help mitigate the negative symptoms of many health issues. This is appealing to many consumers, and businesses are taking notice of that.
If you are interested in learning about what the future might hold, we’ve got you covered.
Where is CBD Headed
There has been a common misconception that has surrounded most hemp products, which is the reputation for being psychoactive or being used for recreational purposes. Many consumers do not know the differences between THC and CBD and tend to group them together without knowing all the facts. Luckily, as cannabidiol has grown in popularity, people have become more knowledgeable about the two cannabinoids and what sets them apart from each other.
As the confusion clears, CBD products are gaining much more traction in the health and wellness industry, and American cannabidiol-based product sales are projected to skyrocket as high as 22 billion dollars within the next three years.
CBD products have gained so much marketability that they have gathered the attention of big businesses and Wall Street investors. The reason Wall Street is interested in cannabidiol products is that it has the potential to appeal to consumers who might otherwise want nothing to do with the cannabis industry.
This opens a new door. Since CBD infused products usually contain either no or very small traces of THC, consumers are more willing to try these products.
In addition to the attention it’s getting from Wall Street, other businesses are realizing that they can benefit from the rise of CBD products because it’s a considerably higher-margin product than dried cannabis flower or marijuana. This new generation of cannabis users are attracted to alternative consumption methods. Such as vaping, edibles, capsules, topicals, cosmetic products, concentrates, and oils, just to name a handful.
CBD in the United States
Three of the more prominent U.S. health and wellness retailers to take advantage of selling CBD based products are CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid. CVS announced that it would be selling cannabidiol topicals in about 800 of its stores.
Not long after their announcement, Walgreens followed their lead by stating that they would also be carrying CBD topicals in over 1,500 of their U.S. locations. More recently, Rite Aid decided to join in and carry these products in two U.S. states, Washington and Oregon. Well known beauty retailers, Ulta Beauty and Sephora, have also begun selling CBD based cosmetic products in their stores. More are expected to follow suit.
CBD in Europe
Cannabidiol is also seeing exponential growth in the European market. The United Kingdom is beginning to allow traders to sell CBD products in pharmacies. While some other countries, like Bulgaria, are being a bit more cautious in their approach.
CBD products are legal for recreational use in the majority of EU member states. While estimates aren’t exact, the cannabidiol market in Europe is worth around €450 million. Experts suggest that this number will grow by over 400% in the next three years. To put this into context, it equates to over 30% of the global CBD market.
The future for cannabidiol in Europe promising, and likely to be long-lasting and very profitable. It is likely that CBD sales will continue to increase, and fast.
Final Thoughts
Analysts and experts believe that global cannabidiol use is going to soar in the upcoming years, and predictions indicate that the European market could potentially overtake demand in the United States.
The many benefits that CBD can offer when it comes to health and wellness have set a clear path to success for this valuable substance, and many people around the world are wanting to take advantage of this natural solution for many health issues.
When choosing a CBD brand, ensure that you are dealing with a supplier who is reputable and trustworthy about their product’s quality. Check that they put effort into making sure they are providing their consumers with premium CBD products that are safe and healthy to use.
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Hemp seeds are produced by Cannabis Sativa and are regularly used in the production of cannabis plants, which in turn are used both for fibre production and for the production of inflorescences, cannabinoid products and hemp biomass.
First of all, it is important to bear in mind that the only way to grow cannabis plants legally is to purchase certified hemp seeds. This will also ensure that the cannabis seeds we are investing in meet specific quality standards, including high germination percentage, varietal purity, genetic stability and other factors that will make a difference to the yield and quality of the final product.
Cannabis seeds are also the main raw material for the production of hemp seed oil and other edibles based on this plant. This specificity is due to the fact that hemp seeds are a very nutritious food, which can be used in low-calorie diets or diets aimed at lowering cholesterol and strengthening the immune system.
Hemp seeds are made up of complex carbohydrates, a protein fraction (the seeds are made up of 25% protein, in a combination in which all 8 of the essential amino acids for protein synthesis are present, which is important for cell renewal) and a certain amount of fatty acids. Fatty acids make up about 35% of the total, but they are polyunsaturated fats, i.e. good fats and lipids.
The fatty acids found in hemp seeds include Omega 3 and Omega 6, which are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids capable of slowing down cellular ageing and counteracting oxidative stress.
Cannabis seeds are also very rich in vitamins, the supply of vitamin E is remarkable, to put it mildly, along with the presence of minerals (calcium, magnesium and potassium). Finally, hemp seeds are rich in fibre and are particularly good for the intestine, a nutritional component that is useful for the proper functioning of the bowel.
Due to all these properties, hemp seed oil, which is the main derivative of hemp seeds, has been among the most sought-after and purchased oils by consumers for the last ten years. It is purchased by those who want to prevent inflammation in a natural way, by those who want to tackle hypertension and stress, but also by those who just want to include a vitamin and antioxidant supplement in their diet.
It is usually taken twice a day as a seasoning on food or in a recipe instead of seed oil (other seed oils...) Due to its protein profile and richness in essential amino acids, hemp seed oil is often used as a supplement in vegan diets.
In general, hemp seeds, even when not yet active, are living organisms and should therefore be stored and handled with the utmost care.
We have seen how important the seed is as food, but there is also the possibility of using the seed in other ways, such as sowing it to obtain the plant. It depends on what we are sowing for: do we want to harvest flowers? Or material for extraction? Hemp for fibre?
Depending on the type of plant and the type of cultivation we are setting up, the hemp plant may produce more inflorescences or more seeds.Before planting the seeds, make sure you use clean tools and have everything you need on hand to plant them during germination.
Germination is the earliest growth stage of cannabis plants and all plants in general. It begins when the seeds are placed in their ideal environment and made active, and ends when the very first roots and leaves of our future hemp plants can be spotted (germination is a stage in the plant cycle where the seed comes out of its dormant phase; the seed enters the germination phase under the right environmental conditions, such as water content, oxygen and temperature).
This is the moment in which the seed begins to germinate and pull out its first tiny roots.
This is an important stage because it could influence the future health of the plant. For this reason, before being planted to germinate, seeds should be handled as little as possible and care should be taken to observe strict hygiene rules.
Depending on the variety, the germination phase can last from three days to two weeks and it is important to monitor the condition of our seeds every day, check the temperature and humidity and move them swiftly to a light source as soon as the seeds begin to germinate. It is also important not to wait until the roots are over 6 cm before moving the cannabis plants into larger pots.
If at the end of germination we have tiny cannabis plants that are totally healthy and have grown in their ideal environment, we are more likely to see the plants perform at their best in the vegetative and flowering stages.
The germination percentage (which we will discuss in more detail in one of the following paragraphs), i.e. the final yield of our hemp seeds, depends on a combination of elements including environmental factors, germination techniques and adequate monitoring of the hemp seeds during their first growth stage.
Cannabis seeds, unlike other types of seeds, are particularly delicate. Before planting the seeds in the soil we have prepared for growing our cannabis plants, we need to germinate our seeds in an environment that is ideal for them.
There are several ways of germinating seeds, and they are all valid. The important thing is to respect the instructions and handle your cannabis seeds carefully and hygienically. Let's take a look at the main germination methods for hemp seeds:
You need potting soil that is preferably free of fertilisers but rich in natural nutrients. You will need a recipient, a small pot, but also egg cartons; just make holes in it (there are also special kits available).
Fill the container with soil and then make a small hole of about 4.5 mm with your finger or a clean pencil. Place the seed and cover it with soil. (The depth of the hole can be 10 mm or more; the seed is placed in the hole and covered with soil, without compressing it too much).
At this point, after watering with a spray, all that remains is to place the plant in a safe place protected from draft. It is important that the temperature remains constant at approximately 20° to 26°C (17°C at night, not below, and 23°C during the day).
The soil should be kept moist, but it is important not to over-water. Within two weeks, but probably sooner, you will start to see small stems emerging from the soil. When they have reached 3 cm, you can transfer your future cannabis plants into larger pots. At this very early stage of growth, it is best not to add any extra nutrients to the soil.
This method is a little faster than germinating in soil; the seeds should start germinating in two or three days, but could take up to a week.
Simply put a few seeds in a glass, fill with water at room temperature (around 22°C) and place away from drafts or temperature fluctuations.
It is necessary to keep the water clean, changing it about every two days. Keep an eye on your seeds, as soon as you see them sprout, wait for the small roots to reach 4-5 centimetres and very gently transfer them to the target soil.
Whether soil or hydroponics, it is necessary to plant the sprouted seeds in larger pots. Again, avoid adding any nutrients. The water and nutrients contained in the seed itself will be sufficient.
(This method involves some risks: with excessive exposure to water and the handling required in transplanting, the seeds run the risk of drowning or being damaged).
to germinate seeds with this method, the hemp seeds must be placed between two moistened paper towels (kitchen paper towels are perfect).
Once the ends of the napkins are closed, place the bundle containing the seeds in a closed plastic bag or under a small glass or plastic case (any suitable container). Make sure to keep the napkins sufficiently moist and place in a dark place away from temperature fluctuations. In about a week the seeds should germinate, but this could also happen on the third or fifth day.
The seeds have to be monitored because as soon as the roots start to grow, they have to be gently transplanted into larger pots. It is best to avoid the roots getting longer than 5 centimetres because they could get stuck in the paper towels or get damaged.
Some people use two cotton pads instead of two dampened napkins. The principle is the same. The right humidity and temperature must be maintained and care and delicacy must be used when picking up the hemp seeds before transferring them.
For this method, the same "risks" exist as for the glass of water method; the seeds are handled excessively and there is a risk of damaging them or, again, there is a risk of using too much water and causing the seeds to rot. Caution!
Rockwool is an inert and particularly draining substrate, which is excellent for germinating seeds because of its ability to keep the roots well oxygenated. You can find rockwool in the form of cubes.
The rockwool cubes must first be moistened. At this stage it is important to keep an eye on the pH value, which should be slightly acid to counteract the tendency of rockwool to become alkaline. Once moistened, simply make a 5.6 mm hole in the cube and place the seed inside.
The ideal environment for the cubes is a small greenhouse in which you can maintain the same good level of humidity, around 80%. Within two weeks you will start to see your cannabis plants grow. At this point, you can transfer them to larger pots, keeping them directly in the cube, which does not harm the health of the plant in any way, but rather helps the roots to grow in a healthy way throughout the growth phase of the plant.
Rockwool protects the plants by allowing them to be safely transferred into larger pots; the difficulty is immersion in water with a low pH level.
Whichever method of cultivation you have chosen, once they have sprouted and the roots have reached 4-5 centimetres, the seeds should soon be planted in larger pots, either directly in the target soil or in the hydroponic preparation you have made ready for them. During this step, it is obviously important that the roots are pointing downwards.
It is best to avoid touching the root, in any case it is important to use sterile gloves or tweezers and possibly have very clean hands. The young Cannabis plants should be planted in their new site about one inch deep; within a few days to two weeks, your seedlings should start to grow.
If the three indispensable environmental factors are respected, any of the methods described in the previous paragraph will help us to germinate our hemp seeds.
Let's have a closer look at what we can never stop paying attention to:
It is important to monitor our cannabis seeds throughout the growth phase so that we can intervene if necessary. It may be useful to keep a sprayer handy to keep the humidity high in case of excessive dryness. It is best to choose a sheltered place, away from doors and windows.
The germination percentage is one of the European standards that must be met in order to obtain certification that hemp seeds are suitable for cultivation.
Standards indicate that seeds should have a germination rate of 70 to 80%. Our seeds achieve a 95% germination rate.
This is because we know how crucial this factor is in terms of productivity. By germination percentage we mean the ratio between the amount of seeds we buy and plant and the number of seeds that manage to finish the entire growth phase and actually turn into cannabis plants.
Buying hemp seeds with a high germination percentage means you have a guarantee in terms of productivity and the final yield of your crop.
We have designed two new varieties of hemp seeds, extremely stable and pure, with a 95% germination level.
They are two certified varieties, which differ in the active ingredient at their core, one genetic is a source of cannabidiol (CBD), the other of cannabigerol (CBG); both are designed to give the maximum in terms of productivity and product quality.
Here is an overview of the two new genetics:
With a very high cbd percentage (5-8%), ideal for cannabis cultivars intended for biomass extraction, it has a highly sought-after terpene profile.
It is a genetic that is well suited and gives its best for biomass processing. It is a very hardy genetic that adapts easily to outdoor cultivation but can also be grown indoors or in a greenhouse. It can easily grow even in very cold climates and very low temperatures.
This is a new cannabigerol (cbg) genetics, one of the new major discoveries in the world of industrial hemp.
CBG is a key cannabinoid in the growth phase of the cannabis plant. It has only recently been discovered by both the scientific community and certain industrial sectors, such as pharmacology, food and cosmetics.
Enectarol is a certified variety with a cbg percentage of around 6%, a great novelty for the world of hemp biomass, which until now has only had varieties with up to 3%.
It is twice as strong as the other genetics because cannabigerol has a naturally stabilising function during the plant's first growth phase. It is well suited for outdoor cultivation but can also be grown indoors and in greenhouses.
Both Enectaliana and Enectarol meet all standards for extraction biomass production, offering a much higher active principle content and a great exception among the varieties designed for biomass extraction.
It is from these varieties that we extract our hemp biomass.
We design our genetics according to the highest European quality standards and cultivate our cannabis plants according to strict guidelines based on precise cultivation techniques.
All our products are natural and certified and our hemp seeds are carefully stored so that they are always fresh and ready to be planted.
An online debate to talk about hemp cultivation:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYDO1QBlZeI
More info:
info@enecta.farm
]]>Due to its association with cannabis, hemp is often confused with marijuana although they couldn’t be more different. While hemp is a variety of cannabis plant it contains less than 0.3% THC, so you don’t experience a high like you would with marijuana. Hemp is also used to create CBD oil which is a popular choice for those who prefer the medicinal benefits of the hemp plant but want to avoid the side effects associated with THC.
Let’s take a look at the long history of hemp and bust the stigma surrounding the invaluable crop.
Hemp contains chemicals that lower the blood pressure, slow down the heart rate, and increase the strength of the heartbeat. Hemp is also known to contain over 200 terpenes that work together to activate other compounds in the plant. Some studies suggest that terpenes may have the ability to adjust the overall strength of individual cannabinoids, like cannabidiol (CBD), improving the overall benefits of hemp.
There are three main types of hemp production, each using different seed varieties, equipment and overall techniques:
A hemp plant can grow to a height anywhere from 4-15ft and up to 0.75 inches in diameter. Because of its similarities in leaf structure, hemp is frequently confused with marijuana which may contribute to many countries' reluctance to legalize its production. Those who can grow hemp legally claim it is incredibly low maintenance, growing at a vigorous pace, and requiring less water, agrochemicals, and fertilizers than other crops, such as corn.
Hemp cultivation dates back all the way to the beginnings of recorded history, however, there is no agreement on exactly where or when it first came about. It’s thought hemp originated as a food crop in ancient China and was an important fiber and textile plant. Later, it was recognised for its versatility in producing a wide range of products, including clothes, paper, and milk across the Asian continent. As a food crop, the hemp seed was a major grain of ancient China and its oil was extracted and used for frying food. But the seed wasn’t the only part of the plant used. The fruits, leaves and roots were also used for medicines and in some cases, as a hallucinogenic drug.
Nowadays, hemp is commonly used for its nutritional and medicinal qualities in two different forms:
Hemp seeds are, as the name implies, seeds, and are now considered part of the ‘superfood’ family and have an impressive nutrient profile, including:
Hemp seeds are also rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which has been linked to many benefits, including a healthy balance of omega-2 and omega-6 fatty acids. A recent study also discovered GLA has strong anti-inflammatory properties and the potential to improve several inflammatory conditions.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the cannabinoids found in hemp and has a long history of reducing inflammation. A recent study indicated the popularity towards the use of hemp-derived CBD rather than cannabis, though this find was unsurprisingly given the latter is still considered illegal in many parts of the world. Most participants reported positive results after taking CBD for alleviating inflammatory pain, improving mood and sleep, and general wellness. However, there are many more surprising benefits of taking CBD, including:
In addition, there are lesser-known cannabinoids such as cannabigerol (CBG), also identified in hemp, that are now being investigated for their potential medicinal benefits. Currently, researchers have found promising benefits in CBG, including its effectiveness in treating glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure. In another study, CBG was found to be effective in decreasing inflammation in bowel disease in mice. And perhaps most promising is CBG’s potential as a cancer fighter by blocking receptors that cause cancer cell growth.
Hemp-derived CBD oil promises remarkable health benefits, and as research is on-going, there are sure to be more therapeutic uses for the versatile and exciting plant. If this sounds like an option for you, there are many CBD oils and capsules available online to discover and work out what’s best for you and your needs.
The main difference between the two is the CBD extraction method. For oil, carbon dioxide is used in the extraction process, and for tinctures, they use alcohol. In this article, we will explore some more differences between the two. Like their many benefits, and how to choose and use the products.
CBD tinctures and oils are similar, they both contain CBD derived from hemp or other plants found in the cannabis sativa family. Although, there are some differences when it comes to the extraction process.
For CBD oil, manufacturers use heat and pressure and the carbon dioxide method to separate CBD from the plant. This is considered to be the most efficient, environmentally safe, and quickest way to extract the substance.
When it comes to creating CBD tinctures, the process involves soaking cannabis in alcohol and then slowly heating the mixture. By doing this, the alcohol becomes infused with CBD, and then it is boiled or diluted.
With these two different extraction methods, manufacturers end up with two similar but different products. CBD oil contains cannabidiol that is suspended in a carrier oil. While CBD tinctures are glycerin or alcohol-based.
Generally speaking, oils tend to contain a higher potency of cannabidiol, while tinctures will have a longer shelf life. In addition to these differences, users can apply CBD oil to the skin or ingest them orally, while it is not advisable to use the tincture form of CBD on the skin.
Cannabidiol oil is most effective when taken sublingually. This is when you place a few drops or a full dropper, depending on your required dose, underneath your tongue and holding it there for around 30 seconds. Many capillaries that lead directly to the bloodstream are found under our tongue, and this is why you place CBD oil there.
The molecules of the oil are absorbed through these capillaries and into the blood without having to be broken down or metabolized. Taking CBD oil sublingually allows the substance to get into the body faster because it doesn’t need to work its way through various bodily systems.
Pure CBD oil can also work as a topical, or in other words applied directly to the skin. Although, when applied topically, CBD oil will not enter the bloodstream. You will have to use a liberal amount, and it will be absorbed through the pores of the skin and be able to interact with nearby receptors.
Experts normally suggest that users take 1-2 servings of CBD oil per day, typically once in the morning and again before bed. There is no way to determine the amount of oil you will need to ingest without experimenting first. It’s best to start with an oil with a lower percentage of CBD. Your physical condition and purpose of using cannabidiol oil will play a role in how much you will need to take to reach your desired results.
CBD tinctures are going to be used the same way you would use CBD oil, sublingually by placing a few drops or a full dropper underneath your tongue and holding it there for around 30 seconds to absorb into your bloodstream.
However, CBD tinctures are not a good choice when it comes to topical application, in other words, placed directly onto your skin. This is due to the additional elements found in tinctures that make it a better choice for oral ingestion. You can also place a few drops into food or drink, and even use tinctures for cooking.
Like CBD oil, 1-2 servings per day is the typical suggestion for how frequently you should take it. You will also have to experiment with tinctures to figure out what dose works best for you and your specific needs. It’s always best to start with smaller amounts and work your way up until you start noticing the results that you are looking for.
Now that you know the main differences between tinctures and oils, you can decide as to which option will be best for you. If you like having the choice of taking it orally under the tongue or applying it to specific areas of the body that cause you pain, CBD oil is the way to go. If you are looking for something that is going to primarily be taken orally, either sublingually or mixed into food or drink, tinctures may be a better choice for you.
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