Leaf411 Question of the Month - December 2019
By Katherine Golden, RN
Leaf411 CEO
Each month, I’ll share insights on questions we receive at the Leaf411 cannabis nurse hotline. While the hotline is anonymous, we keep track of the types of questions we get so that we can continually improve our services.
A Surprising Cannabis Question
One issue I hear all the time, including when we’re out at events like our Veteran’s Day booth, is that people think they have to inhale to get the medicinal benefits from cannabis. It’s surprising to me that this misconception is still prevalent across all age groups.
For those of us in the industry, we know that many different THC and CBD product types are out there—edibles, tinctures, transdermal patches and gels. Sometimes we assume that everyone else knows about these options as well. But when I discuss ways that cannabis can be consumed, people are surprised and have a lot of questions about which route might work best for them.
For example, I recently had a caller who wanted to try cannabis for a specific health concern but was worried how it might impact their liver issues. They had no idea that transdermal patches were an option. When I suggested a transdermal patch, they responded, “Oh, like a pain patch!” It was a medication delivery method the caller knew how to use, and it offered a safe alternative. Transdermal patches deliver THC, CBD and other cannabinoids directly to the bloodstream, bypassing the liver.
I also educated the caller about transdermal gel pens which are used on the venous areas like the inside of the wrist. They were just blown away that these types of advanced products exist in our market. Calls like this really underscore the need for education.
At Leaf411, Our Priority Is Always the Public
Our priority at Leaf411 is always the public, helping people find the best information and resources for safe cannabis use.
When I get a call, my first priority is to listen and understand why the caller wants to go down this road. I’ll ask questions about products they’re already using. If they haven’t tried cannabis yet, I’ll ask why they want to start and what their goals are.
I also spend a lot of time discussing balance. Cannabis by itself is not a magic bullet. I ask questions about callers’ activities of daily living, diet, exercise and sleep as well.
Cannabis is a plant that is shown to have benefits. However, it’s only one part of lifestyle changes that I and the other nurses encourage callers to consider.
I recently talked to someone who thought they would need to move to a different state to access legal cannabis. In fact, their home state has legalized medical cannabis, and hemp CBD products are available to be shipped to most states. They had not considered these options before our conversation.
My goal is to offer solutions that are financially sound and accessible, based on each caller’s unique situation and needs.
When it Comes to Cannabis, More is Not Always Better
We tend to think more is better. Based on my conversations with callers, that attitude has extended into cannabis and hemp CBD as well. But the latest science is showing that sometimes just a small amount of cannabis can provide symptom relief. We don’t need to flood our systems, when it comes to what most people are trying to treat.
Also, there is a point where you can take too much marijuana, or even too much hemp CBD. I educate callers about precautions they need to take when using cannabis, just like there would be precautions with any other medications.
Launching the Leaf411 Chat Feature
We want to create the best service possible at Leaf411. It was important for us to get the phone hotline up and running, making sure it was a positive experience for people who contacted us, before adding other options to connect.
Last week, we launched the chat function on our website, providing an additional option for people to contact us.
When someone begins a chat with me, I bring the same level of attention to their concerns. I may start off chatting with someone online and then ask them to call the hotline to talk if at all possible.
People have so much to say, and tone of voice is so important to understanding someone’s needs and concerns. My hope is that the human touch that I and the other nurses provide through the phone hotline will reassure callers, even those who initially reached out to us via chat.
Call or chat our free, anonymous hotline today at 844-LEAF411 (844-532-3411) for answers to your cannabis questions!
Leaf411 Holiday Gift Guide
Share Your Love of CBD with Family and Friends
Medically reviewed by Katherine Golden, RN
Written by Denise Rustning
Whether you shop online, at the big box stores, or in local craft markets, you’ll likely come across CBD-based gifts for everyone, including the family dog.
Perhaps you’ve had good experiences with CBD products. It makes sense that you would want to provide the gift of CBD (which is also sometimes called hemp) to friends and loved ones who could also benefit from this wonderful plant.
You may also be looking for the perfect gift for yourself, as someone who’s curious to try CBD hemp as part of your wellness regimen.
Leaf411 is happy to present our CBD hemp gift guide, highlighting gift-worthy products from our partner business members. We fully review all our members to ensure their products are compliant with all regulations and are manufactured to the highest standards.
We also share tips for steering away from products that are little more than a lump of coal. After all, no one wants to give a gift that’s a dud.
Is Hemp for Everyone? A Word of Caution Before You Give
So you’re thinking about buying that awesome CBD tincture for you Aunt Deborah who complains of stiffness in the wintertime. Before you pull out your credit card, ask yourself these questions about the person you’re buying a gift for:
- Are they pregnant, breastfeeding, or under the age of 18? There’s simply not enough evidence yet about on either side of the issue—risks versus benefits—when it comes to how CBD impacts developing fetuses, infants, children and teens. For that reason, Leaf411 suggests sticking with topical products like skin cream for this group.
- Are they undergoing chemotherapy, taking blood thinners or other long-term medications? Cannabidiol works through the endocannabinoid system, with endocannabinoids broken down by enzymes. CBD is metabolized through specific liver enzymes that also play an important role in metabolizing certain medications. In short, CBD may impact certain medications in a similar way that grapefruit does. We recommend sticking with topical products for these folks to try first, which carry the lowest risk of medication interaction. Also, either you or your gift recipient are encouraged to consult with a physician or call our free nurse hotline at 844-LEAF411 (844-532-3411) for help with your questions.
- Do they have a job that requires drug testing? This is a tricky issue. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp products containing less than 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that provides the cannabis “high.” THC levels in full-spectrum CBD products are so low that you will not feel any psychoactive effects—however, there’s debate about whether they could trigger a positive drug test result. For people who work in construction, transportation, public safety, healthcare, the military or other industries, full-spectrum CBD may not be worth the risk of a career-ending positive drug test.
If you’re determined to buy a hemp-based gift for someone who has concerns about drug testing or is worried about even miniscule THC content, stay away from full-spectrum CBD products. Instead, look for products that specifically say “No THC” on the label, or which are either broad-spectrum or CBD isolate.
Broad spectrum products “should” have all THC removed, though the beneficial terpenes and flavonoids remain. Terpenes, which are present in both cannabis and hemp plants, do not impact drug tests. However, terpenes and cannabidiol work together creating the beneficial entourage effect.
CBD isolate products “should” contain only CBD. All THC, terpenes and flavonoids are removed by the manufacturer.
Why do we emphasize the word “should” when describing different product types? The CBD hemp industry currently lacks clear product labeling standards, and some manufacturers confuse the terms “full spectrum” and “broad spectrum” in their advertising and on product labels.
This makes finding brands you trust especially important when looking for THC-free CBD. Does the manufacturer provide a certificate of analysis (COA) for their product? These are often listed on the manufacturer website in their own section (look along the main website header or footer for a link). COA lab results will verify whether the product contains trace amounts of THC. The COA will also confirm whether the product provides the CBD as advertised.
Leaf411 member businesses provide COAs for their products. Their customer support teams can help you find an item that fits your loved one’s needs, as well.
Our Leaf411 hotline nurses are also available to walk you through any manufacturers’ COA to determine if the product will deliver on its promises. Call us toll-free at 844-LEAF411 (844-532-3411) with your questions.
How to Choose CBD Hemp Gifts that Fit
When it comes to gifts for hemp newbies, stick with products that have familiar features and lower concentrations of CBD. Most everyone is familiar with how to use body lotion even if it contains cannabidiol. On the other hand, a CBD dab rig might be too extreme for Grandma!
Want something special for a friend who already uses CBD? Look for clues with the products they already use. Do they prefer topical creams? If so, look for new CBD hemp body care items they might like to try.
Hemp-Based Gifts for Skin Care and Beauty Enthusiasts
Hemp-based skincare products feel amazing during the cold, dry winter season. Cannabinol (CBD) has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that helps restore stressed dry skin. There are minimal risks associated with hemp skin care products, though you’ll want to carefully check the product label for other ingredients that could be irritating or unwanted. Check the manufacturer’s COA to ensure you’re getting what you’re paying for when it comes to CBD content. Also, beware that hemp seed oil is not the same as cannabidiol/CBD—we explain the difference below.
This holiday season, Leaf411 business member Color Up Therapeutics is offering special hemp holiday sets geared toward relaxation, rejuvenation and travel. Gift sets like these provide a great opportunity to test out different hemp-based products!
CBD Products Designed for Guys
Men appreciate high-quality skin and hair products that are created just for them. CBD shaving cream and beard oil are growing in popularity, with many men finding they make for a better shave. Remember to always check the product ingredients and COA.
Clean Coconut, one of our founding members, offers Man Scrub to scour away dirt and grime while moisturizing skin. While this product is marketed toward men, we have a feeling there are women out there who might appreciate it as well!
Performance-Driven Hemp Gifts for Athletes
There’s been strong interest in CBD among professional and amateur athletes and it’s no wonder—high-quality hemp-based products can make a noticeable difference in post-game recovery. Since the World Anti-Doping Agency removed CBD from the list of banned substances in 2017, athletes across multiple sports are using hemp to improve performance and reduce recovery times. It’s important to note that THC is still banned, though, so make sure any gifts for competitive athletes are THC-free.
Companies like Arcanum, one of our founding members, have developed products tailored to athletes’ needs, including beginner-friendly salt soaks and topical cooling gels.
CBD Pet Treats for Fido
At Leaf411, we love sharing dog-approved CBD treats with our four-legged friends. CBD can keep your dog’s tail wagging through the stressful holiday season. Older dogs also benefit from hemp-based treats during the wintertime, when colder temperatures limit outdoor activity and aggravate arthritis.
Everyone knows that chocolate is bad for dogs. But did you know that your CBD gummies and flavored tinctures may contain Xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is toxic to dogs?
When shopping for canine gifts, stick with CBD oil and treats developed specifically for pets. These products come in dog-friendly doses, often with flavors that your best friend will appreciate, like Arcanum’s Hemp Bacon pet tincture.
Our partner Color Up Therapeutics also offers pet CBD drops that include fish oil as a beneficial addition to cannabidiol.
Not sure about where to start with CBD and your pet? Veterinary Cannabis provides guidance to pet parents, veterinarians, and product creators about the medicinal properties of cannabis, as well as how to use CBD products with pets. Their Veterinary Cannabis library is a good place to start!
Don’t Forget the Family Cat!
If you’re a cat owner, you likely know that supplements and medications can be trickier with felines. Doses are different, and individual cats may respond differently to the same medications. Despite the challenges in finding the right CBD product for your cat and convincing them to ingest it, many cat owners report success.
Online retailer CBD Garage sells Earth Buddy brand hemp treats for dogs and cats that contain a blend of CBD, mushrooms and herbs.
Tips for Buying High-Quality CBD Hemp Gifts
CBD products are legal across the United States and are widely available in stores and online. Your biggest challenge can be finding a retailer you trust:
- Can the seller answer your questions about specific product ingredients?
- Do they provide COAs for products they’re selling, or know where to find them online?
- Does the retailer offer customer support in case you or the gift recipient have questions or concerns?
Leaf411 business member CBD Garage is a good example of a responsible, trustworthy online retailer that ships products across the U.S. They offer a wide range of hemp-based products for people and pets, along with education and robust customer support.
Last Thoughts: Hemp Seed is Not the Same as CBD
Before we wrap up our gift guide, let’s talk about what isn’t CBD. Hemp seed or hemp seed oil, also called cannabis sativa seed oil, contains only trace amounts of CBD. While hemp seed oil may provide beneficial essential fatty acids for hair and skin, it likely won’t provide the benefits of cannabidiol that you’re looking for.
Product branding can make it tough, too. For example, a popular body care brand features a cannabis leaf and tag lines like “Get Baked,” though their ingredient lists make it clear that the products contain only hemp seed oil.
Some products contain both CBD and also hemp seed oil as the carrier agent that the CBD is infused into—these products will list both CBD and hemp seed oil separately.
Other brands confuse CBD oil with hemp seed oil, acting as if they are the same thing in order to charge the premium prices associated with CBD.
We’re not saying that hemp seed oil products don’t make great gifts—but if your goal is to provide the benefits of cannabidiol, these products won’t deliver.
With all the name variations, it can be easy to get confused! Just remember that hemp seed oil and cannabis sativa seed oil are the same thing, and do not contain significant amounts of CBD.
We Can Help
Still contemplating that CBD dab rig for Grandma? While our cannabis-trained nurses can’t do your holiday shopping for you, we’re happy to provide balanced information, including the pros and cons of different CBD hemp products. Contact us at the free hotline: 844-LEAF411 (844-532-3411)
Support Leaf411 on Giving Tuesday
Medically reviewed by Katherine Golden, RN
Written by Denise Rustning
The 2018 Farm Bill turns one year old on December 20, 2019. This federal law fully legalized hemp cultivation and sales, making cannabidiol/CBD products widely available online and in retail stores.
Now, everyone and their grandma are trying out hemp products. And with legal medical and recreational cannabis expanding to additional states, many people are also curious about THC-based products.
But what happens when people have questions?
Federal and state laws don’t fully address the need for consumer education on safe, effective cannabis use. In fact, hemp and cannabis producers, manufacturers, retailers and dispensaries are prohibited from making specific health claims about their products.
That’s where we come in. Leaf411 nurses have the professional medical background and training to provide balanced education and support for safe, legal cannabis use.
Note: Our Giving Tuesday fundraiser is set up in Facebook. They’re matching the first $7 million in donations made via the platform on Dec 3. Contribute now to boost your donation’s impact!
You may also donate via PayPal. Contributions made via PayPal don’t count toward the Facebook Giving Tuesday challenge; however, we appreciate them just as much!
Your contribution supports our goals to:
- Increase our hotline coverage while maintaining our commitment to pay our cannabis-trained nurses a living wage.
- Increase our community-based outreach. We know that not everyone is online. That’s why we launched the free Leaf411 hotline, and why we’re also focused on in-person events to meet people where they are at.
- Strengthen our nonprofit’s foundation of support. As we grow, new doors will open. This includes our ability to participate in future Colorado Gives events. However, we need your help to get there! Colorado Gives and many grant programs require that nonprofits show existing support to qualify. Every dollar you donate today helps us unlock new funding sources.
Are you able to help on Giving Tuesday to support Leaf411’s mission? Donate via our Facebook fundraiser.
Why Leaf411 is a Needed Resource
Manufacturers and retailers are prohibited by law from talking about how CBD and cannabis may impact specific health conditions.
Also, many doctors say they are unprepared to answer patient questions about medical marijuana, despite the majority of those doctors also saying they believed cannabis can serve a legitimate medical purpose for patients, according to a 2019 Mayo Clinic survey. The reality is that less than 10% of medical schools even address medical marijuana, leaving many new doctors unable to answer questions. And older doctors likely don’t have any cannabis education at all.
The Leaf411 hotline provides an important service with cannabis-trained registered nurses ready to answer your questions at no cost to you.
Our hotline nurses are members of the American Cannabis Nurses Association and have completed specialized training on cannabis through Radicle Health. We stay up to date on the latest research to ensure that the information we provide reflects best practice. We also regularly connect with other cannabis clinicians to share knowledge and resources.
Our nurses are committed to Leaf411’s mission to provide callers with balanced education and directional support for safe, legal cannabis use. We are deeply grateful for their dedication and are committed to paying a living wage for their work.
Help support our nurses. Donate to our Facebook fundraiser.
Meeting the Community Where They Are At
Who uses cannabis? While market research shows that younger adults make up the majority of consumers, older adults represent one of the fastest growing groups of cannabis users. It’s no surprise, given the potential benefits of cannabis. However, many seniors struggle to find sound medical guidance for using cannabis, including the best delivery method and dosage, as well as benefits and risks that are specific to older adults.
Our cannabis-trained nurses have the medical background to answer seniors’ questions, but first we need to let them know we’re available.
Older adults are not online in the same way younger people are. We know the most effective way to reach out to this population is by participating in community-based events where we can introduce ourselves, build trust and awareness of the free Leaf411 hotline service.
Our focus isn’t limited to older adults, either. We’ve also partnered with our founding members and veteran’s organizations on outreach events for military veterans. Veterans face unique challenges in accessing medical advice for safe, therapeutic cannabis use, with VA physicians essentially prohibited from discussing cannabis as a treatment option. Through partnering with organizations like Veterans for Natural Rights, we’ve built a deeper understanding of veterans’ unique needs, and are honored to provide support to those who sacrificed for our country.
We have more community outreach planned for the coming year, but we need your support to make it happen.
Can you help us reach more veterans, seniors, and others who are seeking personalized information on safe cannabis use? Donate via our Facebook fundraiser.
We are thrilled to participate in the national Giving Tuesday event on December 3, as a Colorado 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Every dollar raised today helps unlock new funding sources in the future.
The annual Colorado Gives event takes place on December 10, a week after Giving Tuesday. Did you know that in order to participate in Colorado Gives, a nonprofit must show $50,000 in annual revenue?
As a newly launched nonprofit, we’re making good progress on qualifying for next year’s Colorado Gives—but we need your help to get us over the finish line! Contribute today via our Facebook fundraiser.
Qualifying for future Colorado Gives events is important. Our visibility to potential donors and potential callers will increase by participating in the Colorado Gives event. We’ll also be eligible for a portion of the $1.5 million incentive fund shared between participating Colorado Gives nonprofits.
By demonstrating strong community support, we’ll qualify for other grants and in-kind donations as well.
Any amount you give, no matter what that is, moves us closer to our goals. Please contribute to the Leaf411 hotline today. Donate via our Facebook fundraiser where your contribution may be matched, amplifying its impact!.
You may also donate via PayPal. Contributions made via PayPal don’t count toward the Facebook Giving Tuesday challenge; however, they are appreciated just as much!