CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found primarily in the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant. The hemp plant is sometimes called the cousin of the marijuana plant, since they both come from cannabis sativa. They are, however, quite different. CBD is legal federally, and in all fifty states. CBD has not shown to be psychoactive in any way, but there are a number of positive health effects that have been reported regarding CBD.

CBD operates to bring the human body in balance. Each vertebrate, including of course humans and our pets, have in place an endocannabinoid system. This system helps us to stay balanced and in good overall health, especially when we are faced with life’s challenges. When the body senses it is out of balance it produces endocannabinoids, and these react with sensors within the system to bring the body back in to balance. CBD is a phytocannabinoid, made outside the body, but it interacts favorably with the sensors in the system, helping the body to return to a healthier state.

CBD may be Full Spectrum, or Broad Spectrum. Full Spectrum CBD contains the botanicals extracted from the hemp plant, which will include a trace amount of THC (less than .3%). Many believe that this tiny amount of THC produces better effects than Broad Spectrum because of what is called “the entourage effect.” Broad Spectrum is basically Full Spectrum CBD with the THC removed to non-detectable levels.

CBD is not currently closely regulated, and the process of acquiring good hemp, and using the best extraction methods, is left up to individuals or companies. Some companies falsely represent that their CBD operation is “FDA approved” when that is not the case. Portions of the process from Farm to Shelf can meet a set of standards, but there are no specific regulations in place for the CBD industry. This is one reason we at Utopia CBD demand accountability and integrity of product at every stage.

Farm to Shelf CBD is the only type of CBD that is used in Utopia CBD products. Each product available for sale uses CBD that is traceable back to the ground from which the hemp was grown. Soil testing, in field testing, and further testing throughout the process gives the Utopia CBD customer confidence that they are receiving the best CBD on the market, with accountability of quality and safety all the way back to the earth.

The World Health Organization has stated in a comprehensive report that “CBD is generally well tolerated with a good safety profile.” One presumes that this refers to CBD from hemp grown in appropriate conditions, extracted using appropriate equipment, fully tested, and free from any contaminants. The FDA has yet to give an opinion like the WHO, so a standard disclaimer should accompany any legitimate CBD product.1 The National Institute of Health has issued an in depth report about the safety and benefits of CBD.