What is CBD Hemp Flower and is it Legal in Baltimore?
With debates raging about whether or not to legalize marijuana, it’s only natural to wonder about the different types of cannabis products and strains that are currently available. Whether or not it will ever be legalized across the U.S. is anyone’s guess but in the meantime, there are several hemp products that you can try to give you satisfaction without the ‘high’. The secret just might be in the hemp flower.
What is CBD Hemp Flower?
Some people confuse pot, cannabis and hemp, as the terms are used interchangeably. However, there is a big difference between these and one of the lesser-known varieties is called the CBD hemp flower. Cannabis (also known as marijuana or pot) contains an ingredient known as THC (or tetrahydrocannabinol) and it is the ‘mind-altering’ component of the plant.
Hemp vs. Cannabis
The major difference between hemp and cannabis is the concentration of THC. Cannabis can contain up to 30% THC, while hemp generally contains a negligible amount. So, hemp products have no mind-altering effect. This makes hemp flowers and other hemp products a major attraction to those who want relief from medical issues without the effect of getting high.
There are many other products that are made from the hemp plant, including rope, textiles, food and bioplastics. Hemp seeds can be eaten raw and contain a healthy dose of carbohydrates and protein. The seeds can also be processed into a wide variety of food products.
Where can you buy CBD Hemp Flower?
There are many shops you can buy CBD products from, including hemp flower. There are also online retailers and wholesalers, such as IHF LLC , which is famed for stocking some of the best hemp flower grades.
Contrary to popular belief, doctors cannot prescribe medical hemp or cannabis products. There are severe penalties and fines for doing so. This is largely due to the fact that major drug companies have been protesting against the use of medical marijuana.
Health Benefits of CBD Hemp Flower
There is a reason that CBD hemp flowers and oils have gotten the attention of holistic healers and consumers alike. It’s because there are many health benefits they are believed to provide. Among some of the conditions that CBD hemp flowers are believed to manage are:
- Infections
- Skin irritations
- Anxiety and stress
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic pain and inflammation
- Insomnia
- Epilepsy and other seizure-related disorders
Taken in moderation, CBD hemp flower products are also suggested to alleviate many aches, pains and chronic conditions that traditional medicine cannot—without the nasty side effects that many medications come with. For a low level of pain, it’s recommended that you start with 5–10 milligrams per day as Verified CBD advises. The higher your sensitivity, the less CBD you’ll need to get the desired pain relief.
So, is CBD Hemp Flower Legal in Baltimore?
The short answer is, yes; however, some clarification is required. With the Farm Bill of 2018, hemp became legalized. This opened up a market that is predicted to reach $22 Million by 2022. The caveat is that the hemp must contain less than 0.3% of THC.
CBD oils and products (food and beverages) remain largely illegal, but not for lack of support. In 2016, polls indicated that more than 60% of Maryland residents supported the legalization of cannabis. The laws vary widely across the country. In Baltimore, recreational cannabis use is illegal, but has been decriminalized. That is, possession (less than 10 grams) charges amount to approximately $100, a similar offense to a traffic ticket. Prior to decriminalization, Maryland was a state with one of the highest rates of drug possession charges, the majority being marijuana.
In 2013, legislation was passed to legalize medical marijuana use, but restricted access to verified medical marijuana centers, where patients were closely monitored. In 2016, licenses were issued to a select few participants to grow and distribute marijuana for medical purposes.
There is no doubt that the debate will continue to rage on at the Federal level, particularly in light of America’s neighbor to the north, Canada, legalizing recreational marijuana use in 2019. Will the U.S. follow in Canada’s footsteps? It’s impossible to say. In the meantime, Baltimore residents can enjoy the benefits of the CBD hemp flower as well as other hemp products, without fear of prosecution. If you have a medical condition and suffer from chronic pain, you may benefit from these products. You can also find recipes online to incorporate hemp flower into your food, such as brownies, smoothies, and more.