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CBN vs. CBD: What Are The Differences?

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Both CBD and CBN are naturally-occurring cannabinoids produced by the hemp plant, although their unique characteristics do not make them substitutes for each other. 

CBD, the more popular of the two, is the subject of extensive medical research as of this writing. CBN on the other hand is still relatively new but is being touted by many hemp companies as a silver bullet for all of your sleep problems? How far off the mark are they, and is there really that much of a difference between CBN vs. CBD? 

In this post, we’ll explore a few topics like:

  • What are the similarities between CBN and CBD?
  • What are the differences between CBN vs. CBD?
  • Are there any benefits to taking CBN?
  • Which is better at helping you get to sleep? CBN or CBD?

How Are CBN and CBD Similar?

CBN and CBD Both Come From Hemp

As mentioned in the opening paragraph, CBD and CBN are both naturally-occurring cannabinoids produced by hemp and cannabis plants. 

CBN is short for Canna-Bi-Nol 

CBD is short for Canna-Bi-Diol 

Most of the CBD, and to some extent the CBN, you find in a hemp plant will be in the resin glands of a mature flowering female plant. All of these cannabinoids work together in the resin glands to help protect the plant from insects, hungry animals, and mold. 

CBN and CBD Both Interact With Your Endocannabinoid System 

CBN and CBD are both non-intoxicating cannabinoids. When you consume CBN, CBD, or both, they’ll work their way into your bloodstream and your body will quickly deliver them to your endocannabinoid system— a large network of receptors and enzymes that control a host of bodily functions including:

  • Sleep
  • Mood
  • Appetite
  • Memory
  • Fertility
  • Central nervous system (CNS) development
  • Synaptic plasticity
  • And many more…

Both CBN and CBD Are Legal Cannabinoids

CBD is the more prevalent of the two cannabinoids, quickly becoming the focus of the hemp farming boom following the 2018 Farm Bill. In short, this iteration of the farm bill defined hemp as any cannabis plant that contained less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight thereby opening the door for production, extraction, and sale of other non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBN.

CBN vs. CBD: What Are The Differences?

Where Does CBN Come From?

CBN and CBD are both produced by hemp and cannabis plants alike. While CBD is produced (by way of its acidic form CBDa) via a flowering cannabis plant’s resin glands, a majority of CBN is not. 

CBN is a somewhat unique cannabinoid because it’s mainly produced in hemp and cannabis as a by-product of THC oxidation; meaning that when THC ages and breaks down, it will break down into CBN. 

This means that the level of CBN found in your cannabis flower is not determined by genetic factors— like breeding programs used to maximize certain cannabinoid content. Instead, the amount of CBN in your flower is a result of environmental factors like:

  • How airtight was the container that your cannabis was stored in?
  • Was your cannabis exposed to UV light or excessive heat?
  • How old is your cannabis?

If your goal is to maximize the CBN content in your cannabis flower, the best way to achieve that goal would be to keep your flower out of direct sunlight, but in a container that is exposed to fresh oxygen. If your goal is to keep your THC from oxidizing, check out our blog post on bulk flower storage here. 

Perceived Use of CBN vs. CBD

CBD’s potential uses have been and are currently being researched. Some of these effects include:

  • Helping reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. 
  • Helping reduce feelings of nausea
  • Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Helping the user manage sleep 

What is CBN Good For?

CBN, while being one of the first cannabinoids isolated and chemically synthesized is still relatively unknown. So far we know that CBN may help with the following: 

Is CBN Good For Anxiety?

As of now, there are no known anti-anxiety benefits of taking CBN. CBN taken in an effort to manage one’s sleep may help manage an individual’s anxiety as sometimes sleep and anxiety are related. 

There have been animal studies that suggest that the CB1 receptor, the receptor that CBN binds with (albeit weakly,) plays a role in managing anxiety levels. In an experiment conducted with mice, the experimental group had their CB1 receptors chemically blocked. This experimental group was less likely (read: more anxious) to explore a new maze. 

When a CB1 receptor antagonist was administered to both the control and the experimental group, both groups showed signs of reduced anxiety. 

Is CBN or CBD Better for Sleep? 

Current research would suggest that both CBD and CBN may provide users with some sleep benefits. It’s hard to say which cannabinoid is better for sleep because the data just doesn’t exist yet. 

If you really want a good night’s sleep, you should consider taking both CBN and CBD at the same time. A recent study published in 2021 by the Australian Sleep Disorders Research Institute found that a combination of THC, CBN, and CBD taken regularly under the tongue significantly improved insomnia symptoms and self-reported sleep quality in people compared to the placebo group.

CBN vs. CBD: Risks and Side-Effects

CBD is generally considered safe though there are some minor side effects that present when the cannabinoid is consumed in high amounts. The most common are:

  • Change in appetite 
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Upset Stomach 
  • Weight change

As of this writing, there aren’t any known side effects of CBN use. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t any, it just means that CBN hasn’t been studied long enough to know what they are.

CBN vs. CBD: Other Frequently Asked Questions

CBN vs. CBD: Are they the same?

No, CBN and CBD are not the same. They are both cannabinoids— yes. But CBD and CBN are two distinct chemical compounds. CBN is much less common than CBD and interacts with your endocannabinoid system’s CB1 receptor, while CBD doesn’t directly interact with any CB receptors.

CBN vs. CBD: Can you take both together? 

Yes, you can mix CBN and CBD together. In fact, doing so may just produce more powerful desired effects. Research on animals suggests that mixing CBN and CBD to create a small entourage effect is effective for treating pain. 

Some CBD products that are designated “full-spectrum” and some “broad-spectrum” will actually include both CBD and CBN.

CBN vs. CBD: Takeaways

CBN and CBD are both unique cannabinoids with their own chemical structure, effects, and unknown potential. If you’re interested in trying either you should be aware that both are considered safe to consume, but neither is guaranteed to be a cure or treatment for any disorder.

Updated 6/10/2022

Is CBD Legal? What You Should Know

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Federally: yes, CBD and hemp products are legal. On a state-level: It depends.

Because CBD was only just legalized in the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD is still subject to quickly evolving rules and regulations on the state level— something we’ll get into further in this post. 

Here’s what you need to know about CBD and its legal status….

Disclaimer: This piece is for informational purposes only. This piece in no way is or claims to be legal advice and should not be misconstrued as such.

What is CBD?

CBD is short for cannabidiol and is one of the more than 100 known cannabinoids— chemical compounds— produced by the Cannabis Sativa plant. Cannabidiol is one of the best-known cannabinoids now, right up there with its psychoactive cousin THC. 

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning that consuming it won’t get you “high” or intoxicated. Instead, CBD is believed to help with the uptake of beneficial molecules and inhibit the uptake of less desirable molecules by your body’s endocannabinoid system. It’s believed that CBD acts as a facilitator and helps your body run more efficiently.

Is CBD Legal?

It’s complicated.

We’re going to try and set the record straight. Below we’ll help answer the questions about CBD and how it’s legally a different product than marijuana.

Hemp vs. Marijuana: Understanding the Difference

A lot of the confusion surrounding CBD’s legality has to do with its similarity to traditional THC marijuana. 

Visually, hemp flower and marijuana look nearly identical. They also smell very similar, making the first few years of the federal hemp program very challenging for US Postal Inspection Service workers. Both hemp flower and marijuana contain CBD, but the difference is in their respective levels of THC. Hemp flower, by legal definition, is a cannabis flower that contains less than 0.3% THC by weight. 

Because marijuana plants contain more THC, a Schedule I substance according to the DEA, it is federally illegal in the United States.

Can You Buy and Sell CBD Legally?

You can buy CBD and hemp products online provided that the CBD in those products is derived from hemp as defined by the 2018 Farm Bill and not marijuana plants— cannabis containing more than 0.3% THC by dry weight.

Can You Ship CBD?

According to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp flower and other CBD products are considered to be industrial hemp products and shipped legally via the United States Postal Service. 

Judge James Gilbert ruled as such in the KAB vs. United States Postal Service case when he declared that products like CBD oils and edibles derived from hemp are allowed to be shipped via the postal service. 

However, new federal legislation called the “Preventing Online Sales of E-Cigarettes to Children Act,” has effectively banned the online sale and shipment of vaporizers and vaporizer cartridges. This includes CBD, delta-8 THC, and other cannabinoid cartridges.

Why is CBD Legal?

Most CBD is legal because it is harvested from hemp plants— cannabis plants that contain less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. CBD harvested from marijuana plants— cannabis plants whose THC content exceeds that 0.3% dry weight limit would be considered illegal. 

As a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid, CBD has largely been ignored by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency; the very same agency that declared delta-9 THC a Schedule I controlled substance. Knowing this, and that CBD harvested from marijuana plants is illegal, it’s fair to say that CBD products are legal because it’s they don’t contain delta-9 THC and won’t lead to intoxication.

Where is CBD Legal?

While the 2018 Farm Bill more or less legalized hemp and CBD in one sweeping bill, the United States is exactly that; a group of states working together, and sometimes against each other. 

States that already have legalized medical marijuana for the most part also allow the use of CBD products for medical and recreational use. States that aren’t so ‘with the times’ on marijuana can sometimes have laws on the books that dictate what kinds of CBD are legal and which are prohibited.

Here’s a state-by-state list of CBD’s legality in all 50 states:

Alabama – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products approved by the FDA and have less than 0.3% THC are legal for recreational use.

Alaska – Legalized recreational marijuana use. CBD products approved by the FDA are okay.

Arizona – Legalized recreational marijuana use. CBD products approved by the FDA are okay.

Arkansas – Legalized medicinal marijuana use. CBD products approved by the FDA are okay.

California – Legalized recreational marijuana use. CBD products approved by the FDA are okay.

Colorado – Legalized recreational marijuana use. CBD products approved by the FDA are okay.

Connecticut – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products approved by the FDA are okay.

Deleware – Decriminalized marijuana possession. Medicinal marijuana is legal. CBD products approved by the FDA are okay.

Florida – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products approved by the FDA are okay.

Georgia – Legal to use CBD products below 0.3% delta-9 THC levels recreationally. Medicinal patients may use CBD oil with less than 5% THC.

Hawaii – Decriminalized marijuana possession. Medicinal marijuana is legal. CBD products approved by the FDA are okay.

Idaho – Cannabis of all kinds, both THC marijuana and CBD, is illegal in Idaho.

Illinois – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products approved by the FDA are okay.

Indiana – CBD oils that contain less than 0.3% THC are okay as long as it is not used with other controlled substances.

Iowa – CBD oils are legal as long as they are compliant with chapter 124E of the Iowa Code.

Kansas – CBD products that are approved by the FDA and are THC-free are okay. Possession of marijuana is still illegal. 

Kentucky – CBD oil is legal to use as long as it contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.

Louisiana – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Maine – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Maryland – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Massachusetts – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Michigan – Legalized recreational use. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Minnesota – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Mississippi – CBD oils and products that contain less than 0.3% THC and are approved by the FDA are okay. Medical patients may use CBD products that contain total THC levels of up to 0.5%.

Missouri – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Montana – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Nebraska – Decriminalized marijuana possession. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Nevada – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

New Hampshire – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

New Jersey – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

New Mexico – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

New York – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

North Carolina – Marijuana decriminalized. Hemp & CBD products are allowed for medical use as long as they contain less than 0.9% total THC.

North Dakota – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Ohio – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Oklahoma – Makes the distinction between marijuana and CBD hemp products. CBD products are legal and okay for use as long as they are approved by the FDA and contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.

Oregon – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Pennsylvania – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Rhode Island – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

South Carolina – CBD products that contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC and are approved by the FDA are okay. CBD products for medical use can contain up to 0.9% delta-9 THC.

South Dakota – CBD use is okay as long as the product is okayed by the FDA.

Tennessee – CBD oil that contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC and is approved by the FDA is okay. CBD products for medical use can contain up to 0.9% delta-9 THC.

Texas – CBD products are okayed as long as they are FDA-approved and contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. CBD products for medicinal use can contain up to 0.5% delta-9 THC.

Utah – CBD oils containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC are okay. CBD edibles are illegal with the exception of gelatin cubes (as to not appear like candy to children.)

Vermont – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Virginia – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD is legal if it is obtained from industrial hemp plants and is okayed by the FDA. Medical CBD products can contain up to 0.5% of delta-9 THC.

Washington – Legalized recreational marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

West Virginia – Legalized medical marijuana. CBD products that are approved by the FDA are okay.

Wisconsin – Unclear whether or not CBD products are legal. Possession of CBD products is considered a misdemeanor. However, the AG has advised law enforcement to not enforce this law.

Wyoming – CBD products are legal as long as they are derived from industrial hemp and contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.

Disclaimer: This piece is for informational purposes only. This piece in no way is or claims to be legal advice and should not be misconstrued as such.

How Hemp Can Help: Giving Tuesday

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The whirlwind of another harvest is complete. This year makes three. There is still some processing to do, but the fieldwork is finished. 

As Director of Sales and Sustainability, I wanted to take a moment a reflect on our social philanthropy from this past calendar year— who we donated to, how we saw alignment between our missions, and any other thoughts that happen to cross my mind. 

First up… GiveDirectly.org 

Amount: $10,800.00 with a $10,800.00 match from The Majority Report 

We had a productive year at Sunset Lake CBD and wanted to do one more big philanthropic push before the end of the year. Our strongest business partnership is with the Majority Report with Sam Seder and we decided as a team that we wanted to collaborate with them on this project.  We reached out to Sam, Julie, and the rest of the MR crew to see what they wanted to do. Sam proposed GiveDirectly.org. 

We agreed and decided that we wanted to give back a portion of our Gross Sales from our November 22 through December 1, 2021. We were absolutely humbled by the response and were able to donate more than $10,000. 

Alburgh Family Clubhouse

Amount: $6,135.69

The Alburgh Family Clubhouse project was brought before us by my business partner’s mom, Janet Bellavance. She’s the defacto company mom at this point. This project straddled 2020 and 2021, and I’ve already written about it here. 

Lack of childcare is a crisis in America, especially in rural and economically underdeveloped communities like Alburgh. If we are going to continue doing business in the Champlain Islands, we must give back. If you live in Northwest Vermont and want to contribute to this cause, please find their donation page here. 

Green Mountain Club

Amount: $1,000.00

Vermont is called the Green Mountain State, and for good reason. Exploring the mountains are an inextricable part of being a Vermonter. The Green Mountain Club’s mission is to make the Vermont mountains play a larger part in the life of the people by protecting and maintaining the Long Trail System and fostering through education, the stewardship of Vermont’s hiking trails and mountains. 

The Green Mountain Club’s mission for land stewardship, creating common space with equal access, and promoting health by getting out into nature is exactly what we are about here at Sunset Lake CBD. As an avid hiker too, it was a no-brainer to contribute to this cause and we will continue to donate as long as we exist. If you want to support them, too please check out their donation page.

St. Vincent Nurses Strike Fund

Amount: $2,500.00

Fun fact: Did you know that donations to union strike funds are not tax deductible? Just another way that the rules are set up against working-class people. 

This project made perfect sense to us due to our connection with Worcester, Massachusetts via our Director of eCommerce, T.J. You can read our original press release about the donation here. Although we are a small company, we feel it’s important to take a stance. It’s a moral crisis in our country that these companies run profits in the hundreds of millions and then work their staff to the bone, depress wages, and negotiate in bad faith. It’s not about return on capital invested, or Wall St., or comparables— it’s about doing the right thing and having a strong middle class. We will continue to principally and financially stand in solidarity with workers. 

Chittenden County Emergency Food Shelf

Amount: $3,000.00

We are farmers, first and foremost. Many Vermont farms have a mission to donate extra produce and allow gleaners onto their property to collect produce for people suffering from food insecurity. Unlike other farms though, we don’t grow any food, but this doesn’t absolve us of the responsibility to donate what we can to combat hunger here at home. That’s why we decided to collaborate with the Farm to Fork Fond, an annual bike ride through the Vermont Islands, and to donate to the Chittenden County Emergency Food Shelf. 

Afghanistan Refugee Resettlement Fund

Amount: $1,000.00

Did we mention that we love the Majority Report with Sam Seder? We share a political and economic perspective on how this country can improve. So when Sam Seder and his co-host, Emma Vigeland, promoted a go-fund-me for Afghani refugee resettlement, it piqued our interest. And, when Sam said that he would wear a tank top and flex his pythons if his audience donated enough money— well, that had our attention! See a brief clip of the gun show here. 

On a more serious note, the news of America’s withdrawal from Afghanistan was a historical event, even though this country had no plans on how to manage the fallout. America should be opening its doors to Afghani refugees. We are a small company, but felt it was a moral imperative to help. 

Humane Society of Chittenden County 

Amount: $2,500.00

We wouldn’t be here without the support and banking services of Mascoma Bank. You can read more about our successful partnership here. One day, when we walked in to withdraw some petty cash, they proposed that we sponsor a charity 5k. 

Well, we love our pets here at Sunset Lake CBD, so we decided to sponsor the Humane Society of Chittenden County’s 5K Doggie Fun Run. It was a great opportunity to support our community, our pets, and introduce pet owners to our great CBD pet line. Pets deserve high-quality CBD, too! 

Looking Forward

We plan on building on this momentum in the coming year, but for now, we’re going to settle in for the holidays and thank our lucky stars that we have such a great group of customers. Thanks so much for making all of this possible. 

-Cy Kupersmith 

CBD for Cats: What You Should Know

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While our feline friends are generally easygoing, merely wanting to be watered, fed, and given a few scratches— on their terms of course— cats can benefit from regular CBD use. 

Cats go through different stages during their development and can occasionally exhibit signs of stress-related anxiety. This can manifest in your cat as hyperactivity, excessive grooming, change in appetite, and furniture destruction. 

Your cat’s behavioral changes can be triggered by a number of changes in your home— a recent move, new roommates or children in the house, and even introducing a new four-legged friend to the home. 

CBD can regulate your cat’s behavior and help them maintain a calmer disposition. This can allow your cat to experience said changes without exhibiting self-destructive behaviors and make your home a more harmonious place.

What Is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the more than 100 chemical compounds (called cannabinoids) produced by the cannabis plant. While there are traces of CBD in what we call “marijuana,” (cannabis that produces the psychoactive cannabinoid, THC) CBD is non-psychoactive and more commonly found in hemp. 

CBD will not get you “high.” CBD’s lack of intoxicating properties has led the World Health Organization to state that “[i]n humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential” 

So, CBD won’t make you feel “high” and it won’t lead to dependency in human users. The question though is CBD for cats safe and can it help your cat?

How CBD Can Help Your Cat

CBD acts a lot like other supplements you can give your cat. CBD is processed by your cat’s endocannabinoid system, which activates different receptors around your cat’s body and can provide the following benefits:

  • A calmer/ stable mood – CBD can help calm your cat’s anxieties or help boost cats experiencing depression. 
  • Better sleep – CBD can promote better sleep if your cat suffers from any chronic health conditions. 
  • Better mobility – If your cat is getting on in years or recovering from an injury, CBD can help your cat regain their step. 
  • Immune system support – Better sleep and better moods can provide a big boost to your cat’s immune system.
  • Increased appetite – CBD can help stimulate your cat’s appetite, especially if your cat is reeling from any recent change in its environment. 
  • Help manage seizure disorders – Cats and humans can use CBD to help manage their seizures. The FDA-approved, Epodiolex, helps humans suffering from unique seizure disorders manage their symptoms. 
  • Skin and coat support – CBD for cats can be applied both orally and topically to help improve coat health and alleviate any symptoms associated with your cat’s allergies.

Is CBD for Cats Safe?

While there haven’t been any peer-reviewed scientific studies regarding cats and CBD use, many vets agree that CBD oil is generally safe for cats. There can be, like any supplement, some unwanted side effects like upset stomach and excessive sedation, but both can be alleviated by discontinuing CBD use. 

The best way to introduce CBD to your cat safely is by first consulting your veterinarian, following the dosing instructions on your product’s label, and starting at the lowest possible dose for your cat. 

You know your cat the best and if you notice any unwanted side effects after CBD use, lower the dose for next time.

What Is the Right Dose of CBD for Cats?

The correct dose of CBD for your cat depends on your cat’s weight. Just like in humans and dogs, the optimum dose of CBD isn’t one size fits all and will depend on your cat’s body. 

A safe dose of CBD for cats is between 1mg – 2mg per 10 pounds of body weight as a rule of thumb. If you’re just starting your cat on CBD, start lower at 1mg. 

You may notice effects right away and you may not, but don’t let that disappoint you. Keep up your cat’s CBD regimen for at least two weeks time and keep an eye out for any differences in their behavior.

How Do I Give My Cat CBD?

If you’re using a CBD oil tincture (See the picture below) you have a couple of options. You can put CBD oil directly into your cat’s food bowl and mix it with their food. 

CBD oil for cats

You might also be able to train your cat to enjoy the taste of the CBD oil and they may want to lick the oil straight from the glass pipette. 

Sublingual (under the tongue, common with how we humans take CBD oil) application isn’t highly recommended because let’s face it, is your cat going to enjoy that?

Can My Cat Take Too Much CBD?

Short answer: no. 

If your cat takes more than the recommended CBD dosage, they will likely experience some unwanted side effects like upset stomach, diarrhea, lethargy, and in extreme cases, disorientation. These symptoms will subside in a few hours though. 

Likely your cat will end up sleeping off the excess CBD and will wake up right as rain. There are no known long-term effects of overdosing your cat on CBD.

Can CBD Interact with Your Cat’s Medication?

CBD is not known to cause any issues alongside your cat’s existing medications. That said, you should always consult your veterinarian about starting your cat on CBD so that they may advise you on how to proceed. 

While CBD will likely work with and not against your cat’s medication, ultimately you and your vet know your cat best and will help you determine if CBD is right for your cat.

How to Find Reputable CBD for Your Cat

The best way to find reputable CBD for your cat is the same way you’d find CBD for yourself. Seek out companies with a lot of product reviews from verified buyers and who openly display their third-party lab results. 

You can find Sunset Lake CBD’s lab results right here. 

Third-party lab results will tell you if the advertised amount of CBD on the product label matches what’s actually been tested in the product. If that matches, the buyers give the product good reviews, and the company seems like it’s on the up and up, it may be a good choice. 

Check out Sunset Lake CBD’s 600mg Full-spectrum Pet CBD Oil Tincture here.

CBD Dosages Made Easy: How Much CBD Should You Take?

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Cannabidiol (CBD) is available in so many forms including infused oils, capsules, topical creams and lotions, and smokables. The ideal CBD dosage for you may depend on the frequency of use and what form you take it in. 

There is limited research on CBD dosages and medical applications, so medical professionals have yet to confirm dosage guidelines for certain illnesses or if CBD has any FDA-approved applications beyond helping manage seizures. 

In this post, we’ll be talking about

  • CBD dosages 
  • CBD’s potential uses 
  • And, how to calculate your own CBD dosage.

CBD’s Uses and Dosages

So far, the United States Food and Drug Administration has only approved the use and prescription of one CBD-derived product called Epidiolex. It can only be prescribed to people diagnosed with severe types of epilepsy called Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, or to people diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis complex. 

Epidiolex is a basic CBD oil tincture, much like the ones Sunset Lake CBD sells via its store, the only difference between them being that Epidiolex uses sesame seed oil as opposed to our tincture’s MCT oil and Epidiolex is strawberry flavored. 

The dosage for Epidiolex CBD oil is:

  • 2.5 milligrams per kg of body weight (1 kilogram = 2.2 pounds) twice daily, for a total of 5mg/kg each day. For example, a 150-pound person would take 341mg per day.
  • After one week, if 2.5mg/kg per day is insufficient, Epidiolex’s dosage can be increased to 5mg/kg twice daily for a total of 10mg/kg/day. Using our previous example, a person taking 341mg per day would now be taking 682mg per day.
  • Patients who tolerate Epidiolex CBD oil at 10mg/kg/day and are still experiencing further seizures may benefit from doubling their dosage to 20mg/kg/day. There is a greater chance of experiencing adverse reactions at this dosage level.

CBD’s Potential Benefits

While CBD has only been FDA-approved for use in Epidiolex, there is a lot of research that suggests that Cannabidiol may help:

Whatever condition you’re trying to treat with CBD, administering the correct dosage is key, or it may not work at all.

What New Research Says About CBD Dosage

A few clinical studies have employed the use of CBD to treat a limited range of ailments. Researchers have used oral CBD dosages ranging from 100-800mg/day.

Medical Condition

CBD Dosage
Anxiety  300-600mg
Bowel Disease 5mg twice daily 
Type II Diabetes 100mg twice daily 
Pain caused by Cancer 50-600mg per day 
Parkinson’s disease 75-300mg per day
Poor Sleep  25mg per day
Psychosis  600mg per day

 

This wide range of experimental dosages signals to us, the reader, that there isn’t a consensus on how much CBD should be used to treat specific conditions. If you decide to use CBD, you should be aware that there is no universally recognized dose. In fact, some research suggests that people may respond differently to various dosages, so it may take some experimentation to find the right dose for you. 

It’s also important to remember that you should consult your doctor (if you have access to one) if you have symptoms of a serious mental or physical health condition. CBD could interact negatively with one of your medications or potentially worsen one of your symptoms.

How Much CBD Should You Take?

Finding the right amount of CBD for you depends on a whole host of factors, like

  • Your weight
  • Your previous experience with cannabis products
  • How long you’ve been taking cannabis/ CBD products
  • Your individual body chemistry
  • The type of CBD you’re taking 

In other words, there are a lot of factors that go into deciding what your CBD dosage should be. If you’re new to cannabis or CBD products, be sure to talk to your doctor about any prescription drug interference it may cause. 

If your doctor doesn’t want to provide you with a recommended dose, it’s a good idea to start with a low dose and work your way up as needed. We at Sunset Lake CBD always recommend starting with a 25mg dose, sticking with that amount for at least a week, and gradually increasing the amount you take by 5 milligrams per week.

Finding Your Ideal CBD Dosage:

 Assess how you react to CBD

Your individual ability to tolerate CBD will play a role in determining how much you’ll want to take. If at 25mg of CBD you feel sluggish, unwelcome changes in your appetite, or just downright unpleasant, you’ll want to revise your CBD dosage down. If, on the other hand, you feel nothing at all, you may need to take more.

Assess how CBD affects your symptoms

If you choose to use CBD to treat a specific or host of ailments, notice how you feel an hour after taking the CBD. How did it affect your symptoms?

Are you a regular cannabis user?

If the answer is yes, you may already have a built-up tolerance to CBD and may not notice smaller doses. That’s okay. Gradually increase your dose until you achieve your desired results.

Full-spectrum CBD vs. Isolate

Is your CBD product full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or made with CBD isolate. The presence of other cannabinoids in your CBD may increase its potency. 

Read more about the differences between full- and broad-spectrum and CBD isolate products here.

Consider other individual factors

When trying to find your ideal CBD dosage, consider your body first. Generally, people with heavier or larger bodies will need to take more CBD to achieve their desired effects. Similarly, men may need to take larger doses than women to achieve desired effects.

How to Determine the Dosage of Your CBD Product.

The potency of your CBD product plays a huge part in how much you’ll want to take for your optimal dosage. For example, a CBD oil containing 1500 milligrams of CBD per ounce will require five times less oil to reach a given dose of CBD than a lower potency oil with just 300 milligrams per ounce. 

Sometimes CBD oil producers will make determining dosage easy and advertise the concentration of CBD per milliliter of oil on the label. Sometimes this isn’t readily offered and you may have to do a little math to figure out your dosage. 

Here’s what you’ll need to know before you determine the dosage:

  • Bottle size (in mL) 
  • Amount of CBD advertised per bottle (600mg, 750mg, 1200mg, etc.) 

You can use the following equation to calculate the potency:

(Milligrams of CBD) / (Total milliliters of oil in the bottle) = CBD in mg/mL

Let’s use our 3000mg CBD Oil Tincture as an example. Bigger than our 750mg and 1500mg, our 3000mg tincture contains 60mL of oil. Now for the equation. 

3000mg / 60mL = 50mg/mL. There are 50 milligrams of CBD in every 1 milliliters of oil. 

Now that we know how potent the oil is, we can determine how much oil we’ll need for a specific dose.

Convert the Dose into Drops

To make nailing your CBD dosage easier, you can convert your desired dose into drops of oil next. This too will depend on how potent your oil is. 

Knowing the dosage per drop is useful when using high-potency CBD oil or when you’re using CBD to treat your pets. Because of their lower weights, even a slight change in dosage can make a big difference. 

To determine dose per drop we need to know:

  • The CBD potency per mL
  • That there are roughly 30 drops of oil per mL of oil. 

 Sticking with our example above— 3000mg of CBD per 60mL oil (50mg/mL)— let’s calculate the milligrams of CBD per drop. 

(50mg per mL) / (30 drops per mL) = 1.66mg/drop 

Now let’s say that you’ve found you’re using this oil (1.66mg/drop) and you’ve also determined from prior CBD use that your preferred dosage is 34mg of CBD in the morning. To find the number of drops you’d need to divide your preferred CBD dosage by the potency to get your dose in drops. 

(Target dose) / (Potency of CBD oil) = CBD dosage of oil in drops

34mg / (1.66mg per drop) = ~20 drops.

 

If You Don’t Know Your Ideal CBD Dosage

Start With a Low Dose

Unless otherwise directed, start your CBD dosage journey off slowly. Start by taking 25mg a day and stick with this regimen for a week to make sure your body can tolerate CBD and you don’t experience any unwanted side effects. 

If after a week’s time a 25mg dose does not have the desired effect, try increasing your CBD dosage by 5mg per week until you experience desired effects. 

If you feel at all funny or off, lower your dosage by 5mg continuously until you feel comfortable.  If you ever feel downright bad, stop your CBD regimen and consult a health professional.

Is It Possible to Take Too Much CBD?

Is it possible to overdose and take too much CBD? What is the maximum amount of CBD you should take? 

Technically speaking, yes it is possible to overdose on CBD, though doing so would be very difficult and would likely not be life-threatening. Someone who overdoses on CBD would likely just be very uncomfortable for a few hours and have to deal with some minor side effects. 

Researchers have yet to fully understand CBD, so there is yet to be an advised maximum CBD dose. Some studies have found that 600mg per day seems to be safe, while others suggest that a dose as high as 1,500mg is safe and tolerable.

CBD’s Side Effects

While CBD is generally well-tolerated by most, this doesn’t mean that you won’t experience any side effects. Some of the most commonly reported side effects are:

  • Change in appetite 
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Upset Stomach 
  • Weight change

It should be noted that the side effects listed above are from short-term use. Because of CBD’s relatively short-lived prominence, we have yet to observe any side effects from long-term use.

Last Word on CBD Dosage

If you decide to start a CBD regimen for a specific condition, remember that your dosage will depend on a variety of factors. Finding the right dosage for you may take some experimentation and adjustments. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed is highly advisable.

CBD vs. THC: Differences and Similarities

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As more and more of us are introduced to cannabis flower and cannabis products, the topic of CBD (cannabidiol) versus THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol) comes up quite a bit. 

Both are naturally occurring compounds (cannabinoids) in the Cannabis Sativa L. plant. Both interact with your body’s native endocannabinoid system. So what’s the difference between CBD and THC? 

In the rest of this post, we’ll try and cover, point by point the differences and even some of the similarities between CBD and THC. In doing so you will become a more conscientious consumer of cannabis products.

CBD vs. THC: How Different Are They?

CBD and THC Both Come from the Cannabis Sativa Plant

As we mentioned in our introduction, both CBD and THC come from the Cannabis Sativa L. plant. 

If you’re familiar with the Sativa and Indica distinction, don’t worry, your Indica plants will still produce all of the relevant cannabinoids. Cannabis Sativa L. is the overarching genus that covers all cannabis plants— Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis (autoflowering) 

What concentrations CBD and THC appear in a specific cannabis plant are determined by that plant’s genetics. For example, medical marijuana is bred to have high THC content, whereas CBD hemp flower is bred to have very low THC and more CBD content. To the naked eye, the marijuana plant and hemp flower plant may be indistinguishable. 

Both CBD and THC are formed in what are called trichomes during cannabis’s flowering stage— the latter half of the plant’s life cycle. To the naked eye, trichomes look like mushroom-shaped growths on the cannabis plant’s flower. Inside each trichome head, cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids develop, giving each plant its own unique profile.

What does CBD stand for? How about THC? Read more here!

CBD vs. THC and Their Similar Chemical Structures

Both CBD and THC have very similar chemical makeup. Both molecules contain

  • 21 Carbon atoms 
  • 30 Hydrogen atoms
  • 2 Oxygen atoms
delta9 THC Chemical Structure
CBD Chemical Structure

The difference between them lies in their atomic arrangement. This difference allows CBD and THC to affect your body in different ways. 

CBD and THC are chemically similar to endocannabinoids that your body produces. This similarity allows them to interact with endocannabinoid receptors all over your body. 

These interactions between CBD, THC, and our own native endocannabinoid systems cause the release of different and specific neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters play an important role in a range of bodily functions that we’ll get into below.

How Do CBD and THC Interact with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)?

CBD and THC both interact with our endocannabinoid system— a network of receptors and neurotransmitters that help us regulate, 

  • Sleep 
  • Mood
  • Stress
  • General appetite and metabolism
  • Memory and learning
  • Inflammation

Whereas THC has been observed bonding directly with certain CB1 receptors in the brain, CBD is believed to interact with the ECS by facilitating and protecting our naturally produced endocannabinoids. One can think of CBD as a more passive cannabinoid when compared to THC. 

There is still a fair amount of research to yet be undertaken regarding CBD and its interaction with the ECS, but some early studies suggest that CBD may help users with pain management, feelings of nausea, and other symptoms related to inflammation.

THC Is Psychoactive, CBD Is Not

THC, and more specifically delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, is famous because of the psychoactive, or “high,” feeling you get after consumption. 

Juxtapose the high of THC to CBD. After consuming CBD hemp flower (containing only trace amounts of THC) one doesn’t experience that same “high” at all. That’s because CBD is considered a “non-psychoactive” compound. In fact, it’s thought that CBD actually curbs some of THC’s less-desirable effects. 

So what does CBD feel like? Read more here.

Side Effects of CBD vs. THC

While neither CBD nor THC is physically dangerous just by itself at any conceivable consumption level, both present users with a different set of side-effects at higher doses. 

THC can cause temporary side effects like: 

  • Elevated heart rate
  • Dry mouth (colloquially known as cottonmouth) 
  • Red eyes 
  • Slowed reaction times 
  • Anxiety 
  • Memory loss 
  • Problems with coordination 
  • Appetite changes 

CBD can cause side effects like: 

  • Fatigue 
  • Weight loss 
  • Dizziness 
  • Dry mouth
  • Diarrhea

Of course, we want to stress that these side effects can occur from lone use of that cannabinoid. They don’t take into account the interactions between either CBD or THC and any medications you may take.

The Legality of CBD vs. THC

THC Is a Schedule I Substance

As of this writing in September 2021, marijuana, THC, and some THC isomers derived from hemp are still federally prohibited and still sitting on the DEA’s schedule I substances list. This means that said substance is not considered to have any medical use and has a high potential for abuse.  

This is an especially confounding designation considering that 36 states and the District of Columbia have enacted policies allowing physicians to prescribe medical marijuana and products containing THC.

Hemp Is an Industrial Commodity

CBD on the other hand, was more or less federally legalized via the 2018 Farm Bill. Hemp containing less than 0.3% of THC by dry weight was henceforth considered a legal industrial commodity. 

Because CBD was and is considered a legal industrial commodity, its transport and shipping was legalized shortly after the 2018 Farm Bill went into effect. Judge James Gilbert ruled as such in the KAB vs. United States Postal Service case when he declared that products derived from hemp were allowed to be shipped via the postal service.

What about THC Isomers Like Delta-8 and THC-O?

Here’s where everything gets a little turned around. If you’ve been searching for CBD online, you may have come across some sights that offer THC products; delta-8, delta-10, and the new THC-O among them. 

Whenever you see these products advertised, know that they’re not derived from marijuana like delta-9 is. Instead these novel cannabinoids are derived from hemp with the help of a little chemical manipulation. And, because they’re derived from hemp, they were legal for a little while. Said cannabinoids have since been gathered under the THC umbrella and been scheduled, but enforcement has lagged far behind.

CBD vs. THC: Which Will Show Up on a Drug Test?

Whole-Plant CBD and THC Will Show Up on a Drug Test

THC, even in the trace amounts that are legally allowed to be present in whole-plant (also known as full-spectrum) CBD products, can still show up on a drug test. As of now, all CBD hemp plants contain some amount of delta-9 THC and THCa (the precursor to delta-9 THC) 

Most urine-based drug tests are looking for the presence of THC metabolites. When you consume either full-spectrum CBD or THC products, whatever THC is present will break down once your body is done with it and be expelled. Unfortunately for CBD users, drug tests are unable to discern an “acceptable level” of these THC metabolites. Instead a user is often judged on the presence of the metabolites. 

Read more about full-spectrum CBD and drug tests here. 

CBD Isolate will not show up on a Drug Test

Unlike whole-plant CBD, products that contain CBD isolate will not cause you to test positive on a drug test. Because these products have had all THC chemically removed before infusion, your body will have no THC to turn into metabolites.

CBD vs. THC: The Takeaway

CBD and THC both have their uses, and both are considered relatively safe for adult use. Users may experience some undesired side effects with higher doses. 

Ultimately though, if you’re looking for a federally-legal, non-psychoactive way to consume cannabis, CBD products and CBD hemp flower are a sure and safe bet for you.

How Long Do The Effects Of CBD Edibles Last?

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So you’ve taken an edible and want to know how long this feeling will last? Or, maybe you’re thinking about splurging on a little treat for yourself— CBD chocolate fudge sounds good, no?

In the last few years, cannabis science, specifically CBD-infused edibles has really started coming into its own. 

In this post, we’ll be talking more about edibles, what they are, how long they take to kick in, how long edibles last, and what kind of factors play into their effectiveness.

What Are CBD Edibles?

CBD edibles are foods or drinks that have been infused with CBD derived from federally-legal hemp plants. The edible experience tends to differ from the traditional smoking or vaping experience due to how potent CBD edibles tend to be and how long the experience lasts for. 

Cannabis next to a stack of cookies

Edibles come in all shapes and sizes including, but not limited to, candies, baked goods, syrups, soft drinks, and more. If you can think of a food, chances are that someone has already found a way to infuse CBD into it.

What does CBD stand for? Find out here. 

How Long Do CBD Edibles Last?

The effects from edibles generally last much longer than if you were to consume a similar amount of CBD via smoking or vaping. Edibles can last anywhere from 6 to 8 hours after consumption. 

Of course, there are some factors that can shift that 6 to 8 window in either direction. 

  • Did you eat a second edible while waiting for the first to kick in (we don’t recommend ever doing this)
  • How strong are the edibles that you took?
  • Are you an experienced CBD edible consumer? 

Predicting how long the effects of CBD edibles will last isn’t yet an exact science. In a 2016 study, researchers analyzed over 100,000 tweets and found that edibles “unpredictability” was one of the most common adverse effects listed.

How Long Does It Take For Edibles To Kick In?

Edibles start to kick in anywhere between 30 and 90 minutes after consumption— a big window. There are a whole bunch of factors that play into how fast edibles come on. 

We’ll talk about them shortly, but it is worth noting that, unlike THC edibles, edibles infused with CBD are non-psychoactive; they don’t cause the “high” typically associated with THC edibles. That said, it may be harder to figure out when a CBD edible actually takes effect.

Type of Edible

Some edible products like hard candy, gum, and lollipops are examples of edibles that are ingested without actually being swallowed. Their CBD is absorbed through the mucus membranes in your mouth (known as sublingual ingestion— the same as taking a CBD oil tincture!) These edibles will take effect faster. 

Edibles that pass through your digestive system like baked goods, chocolate, and drinks will take longer to take effect because the CBD is being absorbed in your digestive tract. When the CBD reaches your liver via your digestive tract, you’ll begin to notice some effects.

Your Metabolism

When in edible form, your CBD is going to be digested at the same rate as regular, non-infused food. If you have a higher metabolism rate, you’re more likely to feel the effects of your CBD edible more quickly than someone with a naturally lower rate. 

The flip side of this is that consumers with higher metabolism rates will experience CBD’s effect for a shorter duration of time.

Did You Eat Your Edible On An Empty Stomach?

It’s usually recommended that users take their CBD edible after or with a meal. That said, if you decide to eat your edibles on an empty stomach, the effects will come on quicker and much stronger. If you’re new to CBD edibles, definitely heed the advice.

Read more about our CBD edibles do’s and don’ts

Dose/Homemade Edibles?

How much CBD you eat can also determine how fast/ if you feel any effects from your CBD edible. A bigger dose may come on faster and stronger. 

That said, the general rule of thumb with edibles of any kind is to start low and slow. Eat one dose at a time and wait a full hour before indulging again. You don’t want to overdo it. 

This advice is especially pertinent if you’ve made your own CBD edibles. You may not know what the exact dose is, so start slow.

Do CBD Edibles Expire? How Long Do Edibles Last…Literally?

While edibles are a great and tasty way to ingest your CBD, it’s also important to consider shelf life. Cannabinoids degrade over time, but not necessarily as fast as the butter turns rancid. 

Keep your edibles in the fridge if you want to extend their shelf life (or the freezer if you really want to save ‘em long-term)

Pre Rolls | An Appreciation Post

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Today, we’ll be talking about pre rolls— what they are, the different styles, what’s in them, and why they’re so many folk’s preferred method of cannabis consumption.

What’s A Pre Roll?

Pre rolls are considered one of the most popular forms of cannabis consumption. It’s easy to understand why. Pre rolled joints are easily transportable, disposable, relatively environmentally friendly, and above all— iconic. 

Technically speaking, a pre roll is made up of cannabis, (either THC cannabis or hemp flower) shaped into a cylinder and rolled up behind a sturdier mouthpiece in a thin rice or hemp paper blend. It looks like this:

pre rolled joint laying across four others

Think cigarette, but substitute cannabis for tobacco, and replace the foam filter with a rolled up piece of thick paper or cardboard and you’ve got it! Just place the mouthpiece between your lips, light the other end, and inhale. It’s just that easy.

A Piece of Pre Roll History

The first commercial cannabis pre roll hit the market in the 1870s. Grimault’s Indian Cigarettes were advertised to help alleviate asthma and bronchitis because they included resin from Indica cannabis plants. No, seriously. They contained dried belladonna leaves, Cannabis Indica extract, and nitrate of potash.

Why Pick Pre Rolls?

Pre-rolled joints and pre-rolled blunts offer individuals the ultimate convenience. There’s no need to prepare your hemp flower, transport any bulky smoking pipes, or wait for your vaporizer to charge. 

All you need is your pre roll and a lighter. 

The Many Faces of Pre Rolls

As with any icon, there have been many iterations and remixes. Let’s take a look at the most common.

The Dogwalker

The classic. Not much needs to be said about this classic pre roll. Weighing in between 0.5g and 0.75g, this pre roll gets its name from its ideal-for-one-smoker size. Leash up the dog, take a walk, and enjoy yourself.

The Cone

What you’ll normally find on the shelf at your local hemp flower retailer or cannabis shop. These cones hold anywhere between 0.6g to 1g of material. They might be a bit big for one sitting, but you can always put it out and save some for later.

Hemp Blunts

Instead of paper, these pre rolls are made using pressed hemp leaf, hence the name. These have an added benefit of containing some CBD in the wrap itself which can lend itself to your smoking experience.

Concentrates

Lately there’s been a trend to take good ol’ pre rolls and take them to the entire next level. Whether that’s dipping the entire pre roll into cannabis extract or mixing solidified extracts with the flower inside. Either way, this new class of pre roll packs a serious punch.

How Are Pre Rolls Made?

A common misconception is that pre-rolled joints and pre-rolled blunts are prepared by hand. Actually, pre rolls are commonly made using papers that are pre-rolled, loaded into a machine, and packed with loose material. A combination of vibration, time, and patience is needed to make sure each pre roll is packed to perfection. 

Once done in the filling machine, the pre rolls are pulled, inspected, packed once and closed by hand.

What Are Pre Rolls Filled With?

There are a lot of different forms of hemp flower that a pre-rolled blunt or paper can be filled with. Most DIYers will opt for ground-up hemp flowers when making pre-rolled joints. 

Pre rolls can also be filled with the sugar leaves (leaves covered in trichomes) trimmed from the buds and combined with the trim. The trick is finding a blend that’s both effective, tasty, and not too moist— otherwise the material won’t pack well.

Pre Rolls vs. Joints

This is more of a square and rectangle situation rather than a this or that. Technically all joints are pre rolls, but not all pre rolls are joints. 

While joints are more of a labor of love, usually rolled by users like you, you likely won’t find anything called a “joint” sold at your local CBD retailer. Pre roll is the standard cannabis-industry jargon because it’s already pre rolled when the customer buys it. Pre rolls, too, as mentioned above are generally packed using a machine meaning that they’re also likely to be more consistent than hand-rolled joints.

Shop For Pre Rolls and Pre-Rolled Blunts at Sunset Lake CBD

Sunset Lake Pre Rolls

If you’re over 18 and looking to purchase pre-rolled hemp blunts or pre-rolled joints, Sunset Lake CBD is here for you. Our packs of five 0.6g pre rolls are great for personal use and will make you the most popular person at the party. Further, our pre rolls will save you the hassle of rolling our hemp flower yourself and let you do the most important thing— enjoy yourself. 

Shop our entire selection of pre rolls here.

CBD for Dogs: What Is It And What Does It Do?

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CBD for Dogs Overview

With the rise of CBD’s popularity among people, is it any wonder that there’s a great deal of interest in CBD for dogs? Dog owners across the country are using CBD to treat their dog’s various health conditions including:

  • Pain
  • Inflammation
  • Anxiety
  • Seizures
  • & Arthritis 

But with any new health trend, there is a lot of information floating around out there. The same is true for CBD and dogs. In this post, we’re going to try and answer some of the more general questions about CBD, and tell you what to look for when buying CBD for your dog.

What is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis and hemp. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive and won’t cause intoxication. The lack of intoxication has led the World Health Organization to state, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential….” 

Most CBD products are also derived from federally legal hemp and not from marijuana; the big difference is that hemp plants by definition produce minimal THC.

Read more about the differences between CBD Hemp and Marijuana here.

How Does CBD Affect Dogs?

There aren’t any FDA-approved, peer-reviewed studies on how CBD affects dogs yet— expect those in the months and years to come. 

Scientists and veterinarians do know that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system located in the peripheral and central nervous systems. Both humans, dogs, and other animals, have this native biological system.

Will CBD Make Your Dog High?

As mentioned above, there are big differences between CBD hemp and marijuana (cannabis that produces THC.) Most CBD products are made with hemp plants that contain high levels of CBD and very little psychoactive THC.

How do Dogs Benefit from CBD?

While there isn’t any FDA-approved data on CBD for dogs, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence to suggest that CBD can treat your dog’s pain, neuropathic and otherwise, and help control seizures.

Seizures

Preliminary data for veterinary-specific use of CBD to treat seizures in dogs was published in 2019. Researchers found a statistically significant 89% reduction in seizure frequency in dogs treated with CBD as compared to a 43% reduction in the control group. 

The American Kennel Club is also currently pursuing additional research into CBD for dogs to evaluate the use of CBD in treatment-resistant epileptic dogs.

Karen writes of our 600mg Full Spectrum Pet CBD Oil Tincture:

“I bought this tincture because my miniature pinscher had two seizures. She is an otherwise young, healthy and active dog. Because of this she is not a good candidate for anti seizure medication at this time. Her seizures are not frequent and they do not last for long periods of time. I decided to put her on CBD in the hopes it would stave off more seizures, preventing the necessity of putting her on anti seizure medication for the rest of her life. She has not had another seizure since I began using Sunset’s pet tincture.”

Anxiety

If your dog has been chewing up your house, peeing inside, or generally freaking out they may have a bit of anxiety. CBD may be able to help. While many humans take it to help manage symptoms of anxiety, CBD may also benefit your dog in the same way. 

Maggie writes about our 600mg Full Spectrum Pet CBD Oil Tincture:

“We’ve been using CBD products for our dogs for years now. We’ve switched to Sunset Lake to support a local Vermont business and we’ve noticed a huge difference in our dogs’ anxiety. We love the pet cbd specifically as the measuring is simple and not too overpowering. Hits just the right spot.”

Pain and Mobility

A recent study from 2018 looked into the anti-inflammatory properties and anti-pain properties of CBD for dogs with osteoarthritis. Researchers gave dogs 2-8mg of CBD per kilogram (2.2lbs) of body weight. 

Eighty percent of participating dogs showed improvements in pain management and mobility, as measured by veterinarians. But, it’s important to note that a CBD producer funded this study. 

Cindi writes about our 600mg Full Spectrum Pet CBD Oil Tincture:

 “Our 9 year old GSD, Sierra has severe hip dysplasia and this CBD oil has been such a relief from pain and mobility issues for her. She can play with our younger GSD (her bestie) for longer stretches of time and take gentle walks again. Thank you for the ♥️ you grow into your crops.”

Are There Side Effects of CBD for Dogs?

Because there is little research into canine CBD use, veterinarians can extrapolate potential animal side effects based on how CBD affects humans. 

  • Dry mouth: CBD can slow the production of saliva. CBD for dogs could manifest itself as increased thirst. 
  • Low blood pressure: Large doses of CBD can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure. This can lead to brief feelings of light-headedness. 
  • Drowsiness: While many owners have been known to use CBD to manage anxiety, there is a possibility of overdoing it. Too much CBD could make your dog drowsy. 

The best way to avoid any unwanted side effects is to consult your vet. Based on the weight and condition of your pet, they may have some insight into whether CBD may conflict with your dog’s other medication. Also, look for dosing instructions on your CBD product and start on the lower end of that spectrum. 

What do Veterinarians Think About CBD for Dogs?

A recent VIN News Service survey of 2,131 veterinarians found that at least 63% had been asked about CBD oil for dogs at least once a month. But, because CBD is still relatively new, many vets can’t prescribe it to their clients. 

Some states have relaxed said restrictions. California passed a law that prevents regulators from penalizing veterinarians for talking with clients about the potential benefits and risks when using CBD for their dogs.

How Much CBD Should I Give My Dog?

Consult your veterinarian if your dog is already on medication. We always recommend starting on the lower side and increasing the dosage as needed. Start with 1-2mg of CBD for every 10 pounds your dog weighs. 

For more on CBD dog dosing check out this post of CBD oil dosing.

How to Find the Right CBD for your Dog

Check the Certificate of Analysis (CoA)

Perhaps the most crucial step: check the certificate of analysis and make sure that it’s from an accredited third-party lab. It should include the amount of CBD and THC present in the product. 

If you can’t find the certificate of analysis on the vendor’s website, and they don’t offer any when you ask, it’s time to find a new vendor. 

For help, check out our post How to Read a Certificate of Analysis.

Is it CBD or Hemp?

CBD and hemp are not interchangeable terms. A product may include hemp oil that’s totally free of CBD. Make sure that the product you’re interested in contains CBD and not just general “hemp oil.”  You can do so via the certificate of analysis mentioned above.

Check the Ingredients

Ask yourself this question: What’s in the product? Insist on seeing the ingredient list and look for any unnatural additives. Don’t be afraid, too, to reach out to the vendor and ask about any ingredients you’re unsure of. 

If you wouldn’t take it, is it acceptable CBD for your dog?

Sunset Lake’s CBD for Dogs

Check out Sunset Lake’s lineup of CBD for dogs. We currently carry a 600mg Full Spectrum CBD Oil and pre-dosed, CBD dog treats. 

Both are made with the highest (and simplest) ingredients we could find, and are crafted with the high-quality, pesticide-free CBD hemp that we grow on our own farm in northern Vermont.

How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog?

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How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog?

A great question! CBD is a relatively new product that a lot of people are approaching for the first time, let alone with their four-legged friends. Luckily, we’re here to help.

If you’re unsure if CBD is right for your pet, check out our previous blog post on CBD for Pets: What You Should Know.

Sunset Lake recommends starting your dog off with 1-2mg of CBD for every 10 pounds of weight. 

For example, if your pet weighs 

  • 8 pounds, you’d want to start off with 1-2mg of CBD oil. 
  • 50 pounds, 5-10mg of CBD oil. 
  • 110 pounds, 11-22mg of CBD oil.  

Look at the Bottle!

If you’re wondering ‘how much of this CBD oil should I give my dog,’ just remember that different CBD oils have different concentrations and that the milligram amount listed on the label is not unless otherwise marked, indicative of per-dropper dosage. 

 

We’ve tried to make dosing your four-legged friends a little easier with Sunset Lake’s Pet CBD Oil. The 60mL bottle contains 600mg of CBD, meaning that every full 1mL dropper contains 10mg of CBD. 

How Long Does it Take for the CBD to Work?

Similar to people, CBD for dogs will take 30-45 minutes to start working. Further, CBD oils tend to start working sooner than CBD-infused dog biscuits because there are fewer ingredients to break down. 

How Long Will the CBD Effects Last?

Each dose of CBD oil you give your dog will last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours depending on a few factors. 

  • Your dog’s weight 
  • Activity level
  • Breed
  • Age 
  • The severity of their symptoms

Generally speaking, younger dogs have faster metabolisms and will be able to process CBD much faster than older dogs. 

How Much CBD Oil Should You Give Your Dog?

Every dog is different! When it comes to CBD dosage, there’s no silver bullet. Start with our recommendation of 1-2mg per 10 pounds for a minimum of two weeks and adjust your dog’s dosage as needed afterward. 

If you think you’ve given your dog too much CBD oil, don’t worry. A little too much CBD will just make your dog a little sluggish and prone to more naps than normal. Sunset Lake’s Pet CBD Oil is a natural herbal supplement and won’t hurt your dog if you overdo it.

What the Heck is “Pure CBD”?

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While searching the internet for information about how to discern high-quality CBD products from the rest, you may have come across a few articles referring to “pure CBD.”

Well what the heck does that mean? Does it mean unadulterated whole-plant hemp? Does “pure CBD” refer to the cannabidiol molecule itself?  

In this piece, we’re going to 

  • Explain what “pure CBD” really means. 
  • Review the advantages and disadvantages of “pure CBD.”
  • Hopefully, help you make a more informed decision when considering different CBD products.

Pure CBD refers to CBD Isolate (most of the time) 

In the articles mentioned above, the jargon “pure CBD” likely refers to CBD isolate which is exactly what it sounds like— cannabidiol (C₂₁H₃₀O₂) isolated from all of the other cannabinoids found in hemp. 

By itself, pure CBD isolate looks a lot like frosted quartz, and when it’s ground up, kosher salt. In this form even “pure CBD” isn’t technically pure. Most CBD isolates on the market are between 97-99% CBD. Complete conversion of CBD just isn’t possible. 

The Disadvantages of Using Pure CBD Isolate

While there are a good many benefits of using pure CBD isolate (we’ll get into those shortly,) there are a few disadvantages, too. 

Disadvantage: Not Full-Spectrum 

Pure CBD isolate is, as we’ve said, just the CBD cannabinoid; meaning that products made with isolate contain none of the other 100+ cannabinoids present in hemp plants. 

Full-spectrum CBD refers to products that contain all of said cannabinoids, (including the trace amounts of THC.) Some users believe that using full-spectrum products are a more effective way of fully realizing their CBD’s effects. 

Disadvantage: More Processing = More Time & Money

Because pure CBD isolate needs to be processed more heavily than full-spectrum CBD, it means more time and money from a manufacturing standpoint. For some it may mean investing in more specialized extraction equipment. 

For this reason a lot of companies pass on the opportunity to make pure CBD isolate and instead choose to focus on their full-spectrum CBD products. 

The Advantages of Using Pure CBD Isolate

Advantage: THC-Free

The biggest advantage in using pure CBD isolate when making CBD products, is that whatever you end up making, you can be sure that it’ll be THC free. This is a big deal for people who are still subjected to drug testing for employment and healthcare reasons. 

Having products that are THC-free ensures that those people can still enjoy the benefits of CBD without the fear of testing positive. 

Advantage: Ease of Use

Remember how we said that pure CBD isolate when ground up looks like salt? It’s just as easy to store and to use, too. Just keep it relatively dry in a dark, cool room and you’re golden. 

The same can’t be said for full-spectrum CBD extract which looks and handles like molasses, only much stickier. 

Advantage: Consistency 

Making CBD-infused products is relatively easy. Making CBD-infused products that are a certain strength and doing it consistently is more difficult. 

Another overlooked benefit of using pure CBD isolate is that making consistent products is as easy as solving a few simple math problems and weighing out a correct dosage. 

How Sunset Lake Uses Pure CBD Isolate 

We use pure CBD isolate derived from hemp plants that we grew ourselves up in northern Vermont. It gives us and our customers a peace of mind that our CBD, from seed to product, is of the highest quality and free of unwanted adulterants like pesticides and harmful solvents. 

We use CBD isolate in a few of our products like our CBD Gummies and our Hemp Lotion infused with Jasmine & Aloe