The ABCs of Hemp CBD: A Guide to the Endocannabinoid System | Plus CBD Oil + Taste for Life ebook

The ABCs of

HEMP CBD: A Guide to the Endocannabinoid System

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WHAT WE DO MAKES A DIFFERENCE. CREATING CHANGE AROUND HEMP IN THE MINDS OF MILLIONS WASN’T AN EASY TASK BUT, COLLECTIVELY, WE DID IT. In the new and emerging hemp CBD market, many brands claim to be the best or most trusted, and it can be hard to know who to believe or what to choose. Being natural products industry experts, we know it’s more than just the products that matter. That’s why, at PlusCBD Oil ™, what we do is truly different.

■ Vertically Integrated - Offering Full Traceability – From Seed to Shelf ™

■ cGMP, Auditable, QA/QC Laboratory

■ Independent Third-Party and DNA Testing ■ QR Codes on Every Label for Increased Transparency

■ Human Clinical Testing Proving Efficacy ■ Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) Self-Determination ■ Expertise & History in the Dietary Supplements Industry

■ Members of Essential Trade Organizations ■ Unparalleled Education, Sales, and Marketing Support

■ Widest Product Selection Available

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THE #1 SELLING HEMP CBD PRODUCTS* AVAILABLE IN HEALTH FOOD STORES NATIONWIDE PLUSCBDOIL.COM I (855) PLUS-CBD (758-7223) A CV SCIENCES BRAND *BASED ON SPINS SCAN DATA

HEMP-DERIVED CBD OIL

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About Us Meet CV Sciences, Inc.

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CBD & Hemp Extracts What’s the difference?

Eating for Your Eyes

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Key nutrients to support vision.

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Hemp CBD Myths vs. Facts

Women’s Essentials Awards

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Winning products that boost health and well-being.

ECS, Explained

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What is the Endocannabinoid System?

Nutrition & Alcoholism A healthy diet may help support recovery.

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Featured Products Learn about CV Sciences different offerings.

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Focused on the Future Growing interest in CBD research.

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Cannabidiol (CBD) supplements are obtainable in much of the US. A nonpsychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant, CBD is being studied for its effects on many health conditions. Each state has laws regarding CBD with varying degrees of restriction. Learn about CBD’s status in your state at www.HempSupporter.com.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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COMPANY PROFILE

SINCE 2012, CV SCIENCES, INC. HAS BEEN PAVING THE WAY FOR THE HEMP-DERIVED CBD INDUSTRY.

As one of the first and leading hemp CBD companies, our mission to improve well-being underscores our values, operations, and products. As the demand for hemp CBD continues to grow, more retailers are deciding to Join The Evolution™. Now available in over 2,000+ health food stores across the nation, CV Sciences flagship brand, PlusCBD Oil™, is the #1 selling hemp supplement brand in the natural products industry.

PlusCBD Oil™ offers a wide range of products, allowing each user to have a personal experience. With three different formulas provided in a variety of delivery systems from topicals to sprays to softgels to gummies, everyone can find their own path to balance. For the CBD novice, we offer PlusCBD Oil™ Balms to use topically, or PlusCBD Oil™ Sprays and Drops for those interested in lower concentrations. PlusCBD Oil™ Capsules and Softgels also provide the experienced user with a way to optimize their wellness routine more precisely.

Because we are committed to providing the highest quality hemp CBD products, we manage every step of the supply chain process—from Seed to Shelf™. That means, from the moment our hemp seeds are placed in the ground to laboratory testing for safety to putting the product on the store shelf, we are there every

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step of the way. Each product is tested multiple times throughout the manufacturing process by our state-ofthe-art in-house laboratory and via third-party for full transparency, ensuring that all quality standards are met.

To demonstrate safety and efficacy, we at CV Sciences have invested in human clinical case studies and have the first and only hemp extract with self-affirmed Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status. Our dedication to science and research establishes PlusCBD Oil™ as the trusted brand and aims to further solidify the place of hemp CBD supplements in the marketplace.

As pioneers of the hemp CBD industry, with expertise and history in the natural products channel, we take great responsibility in setting an industry standard for companies promoting the manufacture, sale, and distribution of quality hemp products. In addition to being founding board members of the US Hemp Roundtable, CV Sciences has aligned with essential trade organizations, such as Hemp Industries Association and the American Herbal Products Association, to establish our position as advocates for hemp and natural products.

Through the innovative and responsible application of science and education, we will enhance the prosperity and well-being of our communities.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

WHAT WE DO MAKES A DIFFERENCE. CREATING CHANGE AROUND HEMP IN THE MINDS OF MILLIONS WASN’T AN EASY TASK BUT, COLLECTIVELY, WE DID IT. Hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) has been recognized for its benefits on human health and is capable of affecting nearly every biological process via the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Our PlusCBD Oil™ products contain a biochemical matrix of phytocannabinoids including CBD, in addition to naturally occurring fatty acids, terpenes, plant sterols, and vitamin E. Four years ago, the entry of PlusCBD Oil™ products gave birth to an entirely new category that never existed before. We felt great responsibility to create comfort around hemp CBD products and funded the scientific, legal, and social metamorphosis that has transpired before our eyes.

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THE #1 SELLING HEMP CBD PRODUCTS* AVAILABLE IN HEALTH FOOD STORES NATIONWIDE PLUSCBDOIL.COM I (855) PLUS-CBD (758-7223) A CV SCIENCES BRAND *BASED ON SPINS SCAN DATA

HEMP-DERIVED CBD OIL

CBD + HEMP EXTRACTS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CBD AND HEMP EXTRACTS? THE CANNABIS PLANT IS A DISTINCTLY UNIQUE PLANT—AND NOT JUST BECAUSE IT’S CLOTHED HUMANS AND GOT THEM HIGH FOR THOUSANDS OF YEARS. ALL PARTS OF THE HEMP PLANT WERE USED FOR DIFFERENT REASONS, INCLUDING ITS HEALTH BENEFITS. AFTER MANY YEARS OF PROHIBITION, HEMP IS BACK WITH SOME UPGRADES. FROM TINCTURES TO EXTRACTS TO ISOLATE, CBD IS AVAILABLE IN SO MANY FORMS. WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Isolate As the name suggests, CBD isolate has only one thing: CBD. Usually taking the form of a simple white powder, it is quite inexpensive to extract CBD from the plant, stripping away all traces of any other materials or nutrients.

Mainly reserved for pharmaceuticals, CBD isolate is available but limited in supply.

It can also be produced in a lab, known as synthetic CBD, which is common in research. Synthetic CBD has not yet been approved for human consumption.

While CBD isolate is widely used in research settings, there are a few, subtle, differences in the way it works in the body, because of the changes that were made from the natural plant extract. According to the research, CBD isolate requires higher doses than a full-spectrum extract.

Full-spectrum hemp extract In a full-spectrum hemp extract, there are hundreds of other ingredients that contribute to health. In addition to CBD, there are other cannabinoids, terpenes, fatty acids, plant sterols, and naturally occurring vitamin E. Terpenes are the molecules that give the smell to plants. Pinene gives that special aroma to Christmas trees, limonene to the citrus, and linalool is responsible for the calming effects of lavender. Even just a few molecules of these terpenes can change the brain state of a human and each of these terpenes is present in cannabis. With so many terpenes to draw on from its gene pool, humans found a rich ground for creating nuanced profiles of flavors and smells that can most be compared with wine.

But unlike alcohol, terpenes are healing molecules in themselves. They work together with the CBD from the plant as well as the other cannabinoids such as CBG, CBN, THC, and CBC. In addition to the terpenes and other cannabinoids, it’s been known for a long time that the cannabis plant contains an excellent ratio of essential fatty acids.

It’s something known as the entourage effect. It’s a scientist’s way of saying that even though it’s more complicated than we currently can understand, it’s clear that all the molecules work together for good. Benefits can be achieved in lower doses than isolate, and there is a full synergy of plant nutrients working here that is absent in a CBD isolate.

As the godfather of cannabis, Raphael Mechoulam, once said, “We discovered and named the entourage effect quite a few years ago . . . I believe that it is of value. But so is CBD alone.” CBD has a wide range of benefits and a remarkable safety profile.

As the industry grows, we are learning more about its benefits and disadvantages in real-time.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

HEMP CBD MYTH VS FACT

MYTH: Hemp CBD can get you high.

FACT: Taking hemp CBD will not cause any intoxicating, psychoactive effects. With agricultural hemp, you get to enjoy your hemp CBD with larger levels of the essential fatty acids and other cofactors and only the trace amounts of naturally occurring THC (under 0.3%).

MYTH: CBD works for everyone instantly.

FACT: By now, we’ve all heard stories of people whose first experience of CBD saw great improvement to their health by incorporating this botanical nutrient into their daily regimens. But that’s not true for everyone. Each of us has our own endocannabinoid system that works with our individual needs. Cannabinoids, whether from plants or within our bodies, will work differently for everyone. The “take two and call me in the morning” approach that we are all used to doesn’t apply to hemp CBD. No one knows you better than you know yourself. Start low and slow to find your sweet spot.

MYTH: CBC is sedating.

FACT: Well, it depends. Everyone is different. For some people, that’s absolutely true. They love taking CBD before bed because it helps them get a better night’s sleep. For others, they find it energizing—like a cup of tea. For most people taking CBD, it doesn’t seem to affect their energy levels at all. The only way to know how CBD works with your system is by paying attention to yourself and listening to your body’s needs.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

MYTH: It’s imposible to fail a drug test from full-spectrum hemp products.

FACT: While it’s uncommon to fail a drug test from hemp, it can happen. The plant produces very low levels of THC—so small that it cannot get you “high” and usually cannot be detected—but it is best to be cautious.

Anyone applying for or currently in a position that requires drug testing should not use hemp CBD products, from any brand, to avoid any issues with testing. While many employers understand that testing positive for marijuana after using CBD is the same as testing positive for opiates after eating poppy seeds, to decrease all risk it is recommended to avoid all hemp products.

MYTH: CBD products are illegal.

FACT: Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, the legality of CBD derived from agricultural hemp has never been stronger. This landmark piece of legislation removed hemp from the authority of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), transferred it to the US Department of Agriculture, and includes not only hemp plants, but all its derivates in products, including CBD.

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B Y TA S T E F O R L I F E S TA F F

WHAT IS THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM? ABOUT 30 YEARS AGO, ONGOING CANNABIS RESEARCH LED TO THE DISCOVERY OF THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM (ECS), A SIGNALING SYSTEM WITHIN THE HUMAN BODY THAT WORKS TO ENSURE HOMEOSTASIS OR BALANCE, ESPECIALLY DURING TIMES OF STRESS. During the same time period, researchers also discovered that our bodies had receptors for THC—a psychoactive phytocannabinoid found in marijuana. A few years later, they discovered the body’s own endogenous cannabinoids.

What Are Endogenous Cannabinoids?

The body makes its own cannabinoid-like substances, called endogenous cannabinoids or endocannabinoids.

It also makes enzymes that that can degrade those endocannabinoids.

Endocannabinoids are chemical messengers produced on demand when the body signals they’re needed. There’s 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), which has been called the “workhorse” of the ECS. When the ECS works to inhibit 2-AG degradation, pain and anxiety are reduced.

Another endogenous cannabinoid is called anandamide, named after the Sanskrit word “ananda,” which means bliss. Anandamide’s chemical name is N-arachidonoyl ethanolamide (AEA). AEA is a stressresponsive endocannabinoid.

Both 2-AG and AEA are derivatives of arachidonic acid, which is a polyunsaturated fatty acid. If your body lacks sufficient essential fatty acids, it can’t make enough endogenous cannabinoids. Some people may have genetic issues that interfere with their ability to make sufficient endocannabinoids. Clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CECD) is thought to be present in fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, and migraine conditions.

What are CB1 and CB2 Receptors?

There are two established receptor subtypes in the ECS: CB1 and CB2. There may be more receptors, but researchers have not yet identified them. These receptors can be thought of as the body’s “message receivers.”

CB1 receptors are mostly found in the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the spinal cord and the brain, including the areas in the brain related to anxiety, fear, motor coordination, cognition, and memory. CB1 receptors impact neurotransmitters including dopamine, GABA, and serotonin. Both THC from marijuana and the body’s own anandamide are strong CB1 receptor agonists, which means they bind directly with receptors like keys in a keyhole and

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initiate physiological responses.

CB2 receptors are most abundant in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), especially in immune system cells. The PNS works via nerves to connect the CNS to limbs and organs—it serves as the relay between the brain and spinal cord and the rest of the body. Activated CB2 receptors can help reduce inflammation, which is believed to play a role in many diseases.

What Is Cannabidiol?

Both marijuana and agricultural hemp belong to the Cannabis Sativa L plant species. Marijuana is rich in a cannabinoid called THC, which induces a euphoric “high.” Hemp contains so little THC (no more than 0.3% THC) it could never produce such an effect. Its primary cannabinoid is cannabidiol, or CBD. While THC is an agonist of both CB1 and CB2 receptors and activates them just like the body’s own endocannabinoids, CBD operates differently. It does not bind directly with CB1 receptors. Instead, it promotes healthy production of AEA, which increases the presence of that endocannabinoid at receptor sites.

CBD allows the body to optimize on its own supply of endocannabinoids.

One of the most important functions of CBD might be its effect on the levels of anandamide—the first discovered cannabinoid neurotransmitter. One of CBD’s many effects at the cellular level is the inhibition of an enzyme called FAAH. This enzyme is responsible for regulating the level of anandamide by breaking it down.

So when CBD slows down the action of FAAH, the levels of anandamide increase in the brain.

Another similar mechanism also contributes to the ability of CBD to raise anandamide levels. A class of molecules known as Fatty Acid Binding Proteins (FABPs) are the transporters that move anandamide around the cell and take it to the FAAH enzymes for degradation. CBD binds to these FABPs, blocking their action, and preventing the anandamide from being broken down. By these two mechanisms, CBD can raise our levels of anandamide, a molecule sometimes referred to as our neurotransmitter of balance.

Brain Lungs Vascular System

Spleen Bone Skin

Muscles Gastrointestinal Tract Reproductive Organs

Immune System Liver Bone Marrow Pancreas

Receptors are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, and to a lesser extent in other tissues.

Receptors are mostly in the peripheral organs especially cells associated with the immune system.

SOURCES “The CB2 receptor and its role as a regulator of inflammation” by C. Turcotte et al., Cell Mol Life Sci, 7/11/16 n “Clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CECD): Can this concept explain therapeutic benefits of cannabis in migraine, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome and other treatment-resistant conditions?” by E.B. Russo, Neuro Endocrinol Lett, 4/08 n “The endocannabinoid system: A beginner’s guide,” www.LeafScience.com, 3/17/17 n “Endocannabinoid system explained: How CBD brings homeostasis to the human body,” www.CBDCentral.com n The Medicinal Power of Cannabis by John Hicks, MD ($14.99, Skyhorse Publishing, 2015) n “Omega-3 fatty acids fight inflammation via cannabinoids,” University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, www.ScienceDaily.com, 7/18/17 n “Review of the neurological benefits of phytocannabinoids” by Joseph Maroon and Jeff Bost, Surgical Neurology International, 4/26/18

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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FEATURED PRODUCTS PlusCBD Oil™ Hemp Gummies

PlusCBD Oil™ Hemp Softgels—Gold Formula

Crafted with care using PlusCBD Oil™ Gold Formula fullspectrum hemp extract without any artificial ingredients, PlusCBD Oil™ Gummies provide a simple and tasty way of getting your daily CBD. Using only natural flavoring and colors, PlusCBD Oil™ Gummies are available in Cherry Mango and Citrus Punch tastes and are both gluten free and non-GMO. Delivering 5 milligrams (mg) of CBD per gummy, sweeten up your health regimen and find your balance with these tasty hemp treats!

Produced with a highly concentrated full-spectrum hemp extract, PlusCBD Oil™ Gold Formula Softgels grant an exact amount of CBD per serving, for enhanced support. Each softgel contains 15mg of CBD, along with other naturally occurring, phytocannabinoids and plant nutrients such as fatty acids, terpenes, and vitamin E. For a non-GMO, gluten-free, veganfriendly high-intensity CBD option, PlusCBD Oil™ Gold Formula Softgels are the perfect match for balancing both mind and body.

PlusCBD Oil™ Hemp Drops—Gold Formula

PlusCBD Oil™ Hemp Softgels—Raw Formula

PlusCBD Oil™ Gold Formula Drops provide a quick delivery of CBD in three enjoyable flavors: Unflavored, Goji Blueberry, and Peppermint. Available in two sizes and strengths, PlusCBD Oil™ 1oz Drops contain a total of 250mg of CBD, with 3mg of CBD per serving and the 2oz contains a total of 750mg of CBD, with 5mg of CBD per serving. Personalize your wellness regimen and get fast results with PlusCBD Oil™ Gold Formula Drops.

Infused with a true full spectrum of phytocannabinoids, PlusCBD Oil™ Raw Formula softgels give you the closest experience to the natural hemp plant. Cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), is an acidic cannabinoid produced directly by the plant, with many beneficial properties distinct from CBD. The Raw Formula Softgels contain a combination of 5mg of CBDA and CBD, along with the richest concentration of other phytonutrients such as fatty acids, plant sterols, other cannabinoids, terpenes, and vitamin E.

PlusCBD Oil™ Hemp Balm—Extra Strength

PlusCBD Oil™ Hemp Softgels—Total Plant Complex

Give your skin the glow it deserves with PlusCBD Oil™ ExtraStrength Balm, infused with PlusCBD Oil™ Gold Formula extract.

Containing 100mg of CBD and lightly scented with peppermint, this CBD Oil balm soothes and moisturizes the skin, supporting optimal skin health and balance. PlusCBD Oil™ Extra Strength Balm is non-GMO, gluten free, vegan friendly, and is never tested on animals.

For maintaining an ideal mind-body balance, PlusCBD Oil™ Total Plant Complex (TPC) Softgels are infused with whole-plant hemp extract, packed with phytocannabinoids and naturally occurring plant nutrients, delivering 10mg of CBD per softgel.

Not only are PlusCBD Oil™ TPC Softgels easy to take while on the run, but they are also non-GMO, gluten free, and vegan friendly, making it a great choice to optimize all lifestyles and wellness routines.

Can’t find these products? Ask your store to contact the manufacturer directly.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

B Y TA S T E F O R L I F E S TA F F

FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE

IN 1962, A YOUNG RESEARCHER NAMED RAPHAEL “RAFI” MECHOULAM WAS EAGER TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AN ANCIENT THERAPEUTIC PLANT THAT HAD APPEARED IN THE TEXTS OF MANY CULTURES FOR THOUSANDS OF YEARS. HE APPLIED TO THE NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH (NIH) FOR A GRANT. In the 2015 documentary about him called The Scientist: Are We Missing Something?, Dr. Mechoulam, now 88, recalled the NIH’s response.

“The topic you’re interested in, namely the constituents of Cannabis sativa, is not a relevant topic for the US. It’s not used in the US. When you have something more relevant, ask us for a grant.”

The next year, the NIH changed its mind. By 1964, Dr. Mechoulam (now known as the grandfather of cannabis research) had isolated tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) in his lab. The NIH continued to fund Dr. Mechoulam for four decades and even presented him with an award for his research.

More than 20 years later, researchers found cannabinoid receptors in humans called CB1 and CB2.

They had known the receptors must exist because of “compounds we produce, not because there is a plant out there” that induces certain effects in people, explained Dr. Mechoulam. In other words, researchers knew that THC interacted with a receptor system in the human body, which was named the endocannabinoid system due to the cannabis

research responsible for its discovery. They also knew the body must make its own natural compounds similar to the ones found in cannabis.

Dr. Mechoulam’s lab isolated the first endocannabinoid, the molecule arachidonoyl ethanolamide (AE), named anandamide. This was followed by the discovery of an endocannabinoid named 2-AG. The body makes these endocannabinoids on demand to help maintain homeostasis in times of stress.

In fiscal year 2017, the NIH supported 330 cannabinoid projects totaling almost $140 million.

“Within this investment, 70 projects ($36 million) examined therapeutic properties of cannabinoids, and 26 projects ($15 million) focused on CBD.” The results of onging CBD research can be accessed on the website of the US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health at PubMed.gov.

SOURCES “The discovery of the endocannabinoid system: Centuries in the making,” www.NeuroscienceNews.com, 1/28/19 n “NIH research on marijuana and cannabinoids,” NIH, National Institute on Drug Abuse, www.DrugAbuse.gov, 5/18 n The Scientist: Are We Missing Something, Director Zach Klein, 2015

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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WHAT WE DO MAKES A DIFFERENCE. CREATING CHANGE AROUND HEMP IN THE MINDS OF MILLIONS WASN’T AN EASY TASK BUT, COLLECTIVELY, WE DID IT. In order to make the highest quality hemp extracts, we believe it is imperative to be a part of every step of the supply chain process. That’s why, from harvesting our hemp seeds to laboratory testing for quality to distributing our exceptional finished products, we are committed to going the extra mile. It’s our commitment to you.

HARVEST: Using EU-certified hemp seeds, we have exclusive contracts with a co-op of local farmers in Europe.

EXTRACT: At an on-site European ISO-certified facility, we use CO2 Extraction.

IMPORT: We import our CO2-extracted oil directly to our state-of-the-art laboratory.

CONVERT: Through a proprietary chemical-free process, we convert our raw CO2-extracted oil into varying concentrations of our hemp-derived CBD oil.

FORMULATE: We formulate and bottle our CO2extracted PlusCBD Oil™ line at a CGMP-certified facility.

TEST: We test for cannabinoid content, pesticides, contaminants, heavy metals and solvents.

THIRD PARTY TEST: We send our oil to a third party laboratory to verify concentration, quality and safety.

DISTRIBUTE: From Seed to Shelf™, we guarantee the highest quality hemp-derived CBD oil products.

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THE #1 SELLING HEMP CBD PRODUCTS* AVAILABLE IN HEALTH FOOD STORES NATIONWIDE PLUSCBDOIL.COM I (855) PLUS-CBD (758-7223) A CV SCIENCES BRAND *BASED ON SPINS SCAN DATA

HEMP-DERIVED CBD OIL