When America’s first hemp crop was planted in Jamestown in 1616, little did the settlers know of the medicinal potency it held. Fast-forward over 400 years to 2023, cannabinoids, the chemical compounds found in hemp and its cousin, marijuana, are being hailed as the next frontier in health and wellness. Forecasted to balloon into a $23 billion industry by 2025, this fast-growing sector can be overwhelming for the uninitiated. That’s where family-run enterprise The Hemp Doctor steps in, offering expertise, product integrity and personal experience to help consumers find the right fit for their needs.
The market is expanding faster than the regulations around it, and there’s a lot of noise and confusion. With new products, brands and fads, it can be hard to distinguish the helpful from the harmful, the bona fide from the bogus. Today, The Hemp Doctor is leading a mission to provide education, transparency, and quality in the burgeoning industry.
The healing journey and the Hemp Doctor’s mission
“Out of our family’s hardship was born a desire to educate and help others. Our daughter Courtney’s journey opened our eyes to the potential benefits of hemp,” says Robert Shade, the founder of The Hemp Doctor. In 2009, their world was turned upside down when Courtney, their eldest daughter, was critically injured in a car accident. The years of physical suffering and subsequent surgeries led them on an unexpected path, discovering the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids.
“Seeing Courtney’s recovery was a turning point for our family. After experiencing the effects ourselves, we knew we had to spread the word about CBD and its many benefits,” Shade says. The Hemp Doctor was created to offer a safe space for education and discussion about CBD, aimed at those seeking answers and potential relief from their health issues.
Guiding consumers through the cannabinoid maze
Understanding the complexity of cannabinoids is at the heart of The Hemp Doctor’s mission. With over a hundred cannabinoids identified so far, knowing which ones are beneficial and how they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system is crucial. The brand places a strong emphasis on educating customers to help them understand these nuances.
“Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to health and wellness. We aim to empower our customers by educating them about CBD, its potential benefits and how to find the right product for their needs,” Shade explains.
Putting quality and integrity at the forefront
The Hemp Doctor takes pride in using the most advanced nanotechnology to offer a full line of CBD and THC products. Organic farming methods and rigorous third-party lab testing are also implemented to ensure product quality and purity.
Currently, they offer a full line of CBD products, as well as other cannabinoids such as Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC, HHC, CBG and CBN. These come in edibles, topicals, oil tinctures, softgels, flowers, prerolls, vape carts and more, all in unique blends and flavors. “Providing pure, organic, bioavailable products to our customers at an affordable price is our commitment. We believe that everyone should have access to the potential benefits of hemp,” Shade says.
Despite the glowing testimonials and apparent benefits, some critics remain skeptical about the potential of CBD. Dr. Kent Vrana, a professor and chair of the Department of Pharmacology at The Pennsylvania State University, has advised that although there is increasing evidence supporting the benefits of CBD for certain conditions, it is most important to exercise caution. He emphasized that there is a lack of rigorous scientific studies, and it is crucial that the marketing of CBD products does not surpass the research and solid evidence. Vrana recommended consulting with a doctor and pharmacist before purchasing any CBD products.
Learning The Hemp Doctor’s promise
In response, The Hemp Doctor team acknowledges the need for more research but stands by its belief in the potential benefits of CBD. It stresses the importance of a balanced approach, viewing CBD as an addition to a health and wellness routine rather than a standalone cure.
The team highlights the importance of a balanced approach, viewing these compounds as an addition to a health and wellness routine, not a standalone cure.
Their range of products caters to the various needs and preferences of consumers:
-
CBD, or cannabidiol, is the most recognized cannabinoid, praised for its potential anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving properties.
-
Delta-8 THC is known for inducing mild psychoactive effects. Delta-8 THC can be beneficial for those seeking relaxation, appetite stimulation, and better sleep.
-
Delta-9 THC is the compound responsible for the traditional “high” feeling associated with marijuana use. It has potential benefits for pain relief, nausea reduction, and sleep aid.
-
HHC, or hexahydrocannabinol, is a relatively new cannabinoid on the market, and while it’s similar to Delta-9 THC, it typically results in less potent psychoactive effects.
-
CBG, or cannabigerol, is often referred to as the ‘mother of all cannabinoids’ as it’s the precursor from which others are synthesized. Early research suggests it may have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.
-
CBN, or cannabinol, is known for its potential sedative effects and may be beneficial for individuals with insomnia, chronic pain, or inflammatory conditions.
The Hemp Doctor exemplifies a steadfast commitment to disseminating their profound expertise on the myriad benefits of cannabinoids to its valued customers. Their unwavering passion for education shines through, offering a comprehensive selection of top-notch products that consistently meet high-quality standards. With an unyielding dedication to their mission, The Hemp Doctor emerges as a pioneering force in guiding consumers through the ever-evolving terrain of cannabinoids.
The news and editorial staffs of the Chicago Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.