Categories
CBD Education

Reach for This CBD Muscle Rub All Winter Long

 

When you play hard, sometimes your body takes a beating. But that’s no reason to stop doing the things you love. So whether you’ve leveled up with a new PR at the rock gym this week or you’re out crushing it on the slopes, we supply what you need to keep the stoke alive. Introducing your new best friend: CBD muscle rub. 

Staying in Shape For Winter Sports

Support your body through all the twists and turns of your favorite winter sports and activities with CBD. We know how even the most adventurous of activities can take a toll on our knees, ankles, and more, especially with those old injuries or sore spots. 

Think of this muscle rub as your new adventure companion. It contains calming ingredients that keep you fresh and on your toes for the next big adventure. We love using it on recovery days or after a long day of outdoor play. Relax your discomforts and get back in winter sport shape with CBD muscle rub.

Designed For The Gym Bag or Mid-Mountain: CBD Muscle Rub Squeeze Packs

The unique part about our muscle rub is how it’s packable for adventures! The convenience of a squeezable, single-use pack to stash in your fanny pack, gear bag, or even your pocket speaks for itself. And did we mention it smells fantastic? So bring it to a massage appointment for that extra dose of zen, or snag a set of squeeze packs for your friends to share the love during apres-ski at the lodge. 

CBD Muscle Rub Powered By Botanicals

Our muscle rub is crafted with botanicals including eucalyptus, ginger, grapefruit, black pepper, and other ingredients. This is a far cry from the Icy-Hot you slathered on aches and pains in the old days! It contains 23 essential oils and CBD derived only from hemp, not marijuana. No THC, GMOs, or artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners, so there’s nothing fake about it!  

Aloe vera-based gel ensures your post-workout self-care ritual is smooth and cooling, never sticky. We recommend using it directly after a hot shower post-mountain or as you stretch out on your yoga mat.

Take Extra-Good Care Of Your Body This Winter 

Since falling in the snow one too many times isn’t always a soft landing, consider CBD muscle rub as just another part of keeping your body in top shape this winter. Stay prepared for all of your favorite adventures whether that’s snowshoeing, earning your turns in the backcountry, or hitting the groomed trails. Use this muscle rub as many times as you need to stay outside doing what you love best! 

Stay Stoked on CBD Muscle Rub and Go With Ablis.

Not all CBD muscle rub is made equally. Ours is primed for a take-along adventure and made by athletes, for athletes.  Don’t go adventuring without a plan to take supremely good care of your muscles. Try all our other fun and adventure-worthy products, including MCT oil and CBD shots

Categories
CBD Education

A Guide to Buying the Best CBD Oil Online

 

With the boom in the popularity of CBD oils online, it can be tricky to find the perfect product. It’s good to know a few basic things that all top-quality CBD oil products have in common. From the labeling to dosage amounts, get to know what you need to confirm your product is legit! To start, here’s the lowdown on the different types of CBD oil so you can easily decide for yourself. 

The 3 Types of CBD Oil 

Full Spectrum

Full-spectrum CBD is easiest to describe as “whole plant.” None of the plant’s components are missing, which usually means the product contains some levels of THC. Usually, these trace amounts measure at around (0.03% or less). 

At Ablis, we offer 100% CBD isolate products, meaning none of our products are full spectrum. But if you are purchasing from another CBD oil provider online, you may need to know what else is in your CBD. 

Broad Spectrum

Broad spectrum is another form of unfiltered CBD. While it has less THC than full-spectrum products, it still has trace amounts (sometimes as low as 0.01%). Broad Spectrum CBD oil has a stronger hemp flavor and still contains other cannabinoids, but THC specifically is targeted and extracted from the product. 

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate is CBD in its purest form. The oil is treated with carbon dioxide, followed by a distillation process that guarantees to leave all THC behind. This means the only active ingredient in CBD oil is the CBD itself. No plant essences, terpenes, or other cannabinoids remain. 

Pay Attention to Dosage Amounts When Buying CBD Online

Unfortunately, in the internet age, there are plenty of “CBD” products on the market that don’t hold up. We’d hate for you to get shortchanged of the real thing! That’s why it’s important to check that your product actually includes CBD. 

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to CBD dosing. What is appropriate for one person may not work for another. That’s why we encourage you to consult your doctor or pharmacist about CBD and what potential benefits or drawbacks it might have for you. 

Look For Third-Party Testing and FDA-Registered Growers

With most CBD products, we recommend buying only products that are batch-tested by third parties to ensure the lack of pesticides, heavy metals, mold, or THC. This will ensure the purity and safety of your CBD oil. It’s also important to look for hemp growers that are registered with the FDA and state and those that follow all regulations accordingly. 

For the Best CBD Oil Online, Here’s How To Get The Good Stuff

At Ablis, we only promise what we can deliver. Our CBD beverages, topicals, and concentrates are never full spectrum. Our products only contain 100% pure hemp CBD isolate and nothing else. And we abide by all state and federal regulations for the processing and sale of CBD. 

For the best CBD oil online, clear dosage amounts on the label, no gimmicky promises, and third-party quality assurance is the best guarantee you’re getting the good stuff. 

For more questions about our CBD isolate or range of products, see our FAQ page for more information. Or shop for CBD oil that’s tested, vetted, and responsibly sourced!

Categories
CBD Education Uncategorized

CBD-Infused Drinks: Your New Summertime Go-To

This summer feels like emerging from an extra-long hibernation—and we plan on taking advantage of it! That means weekend adventures, spontaneous trips, and exploring our outdoor playground as often as we can. But it also means knowing when to take it easy and reset. If you’re adventuring this summer, here’s why you should make CBD-infused drinks your new go-to. 

What Are CBD-Infused Drinks? 

CBD is extremely versatile and can be infused in anything from gummies to beauty products. CBD-infused drinks are simply drinks with, you guessed it, some form of CBD added. At Ablis, we use emulsified hemp CBD in our sparkling drinks and shots. As we’ve discussed in past blogs, this hemp-derived CBD doesn’t contain THC, so it won’t make you high. But we take it a step further by only using CBD isolate, which is nothing but pure, 100% CBD. 

We take testing seriously when it comes to all of our CBD products, including our refreshing CBD-infused drinks. We start by sourcing from credible and licensed hemp processors who are as local as possible. Then, we send our CBD to third-party labs (with state licensing and national accreditation) for purity and pesticide testing. And if they don’t meet our standards, they don’t make it into your hands. Period. 

From there, we can get to creating our CBD products, including the fan-favorite beverages that pack a punch of flavor and potency. And we don’t know about you, but the knowledge that our drinks (and all our products) are safe to consume makes them all the sweeter. 

Our Favorite Ways to Add CBD Infusions Into Your Routine 

We always say that summer is the perfect time to try new things. So the next time you’re headed out to the river or the trail, consider taking our CBD infusions along for the ride. 

If you need some inspiration, try… 

…A pack of Cranberry Blood Orange on your next camping trip. 

Ablis Cranberry Blood Orange naturally infused sparkling beverages are sure to zing up your camping trip. The blend of classic and bold flavors is our most popular for a reason—and its zingy hit is offset by the 25mg of emulsified hemp CBD. 

We love to take this particular flavor for those in-between moments like sitting by the lake after a day of kayaking or while grilling up hotdogs or roasting marshmallows. If this flavor doesn’t quite grab you, our other bold sparkling beverages include Strawberry Mojito and Lemon Ginger

…Throwing a Strawberry Mojito Shot in your backpack before a hike or bike ride. 

Ablis shooters are perfect for anyone on the go. They’re a no-fuss, give-it-to-me straight alternative to slowly sipping on CBD-infused drinks—which is why we love them for a day of adventuring. If you’re planning to hit the trails this summer, we recommend the Strawberry Mojito Shot, which tastes like summer vacation in a bottle and delivers 10mg of pure hemp CBD. 

This particular flavor is one of our most popular—especially in the summertime—but we also carry Cranberry Blood Orange and Lemon Ginger if those are more your style. Our shooters are sold in packs, so you can share the fun with friends or pick an adventure for each one this summer. 

…Or sipping on a refreshing Lemon Water at a BBQ with friends. 

Our naturally infused sparkling waters contain the same amount of CBD (25mg) as our bold flavors, but without the added calories. Naturally sugar-free, bright lemon is the star of our Lemon Water beverage and, we think, perfect for lazy summer days. 

These low-calorie alternatives come in Berry Lime Water and Blood Orange Water as well, so you can’t really go wrong. If you want to really spice things up for a summer BBQ, try using these CBD-infused drinks in functails or cocktails.     

Shop Ablis CBD-Infused Drinks and More 

With exciting flavor combinations, refreshing finishes, and trusted sourcing, there’s really no way to go wrong with our CBD-infused drinks. And now that the summer months are once again changing the landscape of our outdoor playgrounds, we know these options make the perfect mid-morning break or after adventure finish. Explore all our CBD products or try a sample pack to make the most of those delicious summer moments. 

 

Categories
CBD Education

Hemp-Derived CBD Won’t Get You High, Here’s Why

CBD is still fairly new to the mainstream, so it’s only normal that many aren’t quite sure what CBD is just yet. No worries. I am happy to clarify!

Of all the information available about CBD, one question seems to consistently come up.

Will it get me high?” 

Nope. 

While it is not technically fair to say CBD isn’t at all psychoactive, it won’t give you the intoxicating “high” feeling more commonly associated with THC, its sister molecule. 

When I say psychoactive, I mean it could potentially have an effect on your mental state. It won’t result in impairments typically involved with being high on THC, and it’s considerably less when you ingest it rather than inhale.

Inhaling CBD is a quick and potent way to feel the potential calming effects, however, allowing the digestive tract to slow down the absorption through ingestion prevents any feelings of intoxication.

CBD has hundreds of purposes, but getting high is not one of them. 

Breaking Down the Hemp Plant 

Hemp is where we begin when discussing CBD.

The hemp plant contains an abundance of cannabidiol, better known as CBD, as well as trace amounts of other cannabinoids. On the other hand, the cannabis plant contains higher percentages of THC and lower percentages of CBD if any at all.  

The hemp plant’s flower and leaves are harvested to manufacture CBD. 

Hemp-derived CBD products will only contain trace amounts of THC (if any), while cannabis-derived products will typically contain more THC than CBD. 

The other trace cannabinoids are either removed or left behind in tiny amounts in most CBD products depending on the process used to manufacture it. 

After the Farm Bill passed in 2018, products containing 0.3% of THC or less were deemed legal in almost every state. That percentage has remained the standard for CBD products. 

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is the cannabinoid abundantly found in hemp. It has a specific and targeted way of interacting with our bodies. 

That’s why THC and CBD have such contrasting effects. They’re doing two completely different things. 

Together, they can work in tandem to ease some of the more extreme symptoms you may connect with THC. We will get more into how this occurs when we talk about the endocannabinoid system. 

Manufacturing also plays a role in the amount of THC you will find in CBD products. CBD is manufactured using predominantly three different methods, isolate, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum. All three methods utilize the hemp plant, yielding different results. 

Both full and broad-spectrum CBD will contain trace amounts of other cannabinoids and plant compounds like terpenes, including THC. 

However, at Ablis, we use CBD isolate. That means nothing but pure, 100% CBD.

Related: Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil: What’s the difference between them?

What is CBD Isolate? 

CBD isolate is simply CBD in its purest form.

Just as it sounds, it is isolated from the rest of the cannabinoids in hemp giving you nothing but a dose of natural balance. 

Isolate contains absolutely zero THC, which means maximum legality and no chance of a high feeling. To achieve this level of purity, after the oil is extracted with CO2, a method called winterization takes place, followed by a distillation process. This removes all excess wax, terpenes, and remaining cannabinoids, leaving it in its purest crystalline form. 

Knowledge of these different methods comes in handy if you’re worried about traveling with a CBD product or taking a drug test for work.

Related: CBD Isolate Definition and Broad vs. Full Spectrum

The Endocannabinoid System 

Your body was literally designed to consume cannabis.

We all have this intricate system throughout our bodies that acts specifically to communicate with the cannabinoids found in hemp and cannabis plants. 

Cool, right? 

It is called your endocannabinoid system, and it is the determining factor of why THC will get you high, but CBD won’t. 

This system is made up of “receptors.” These receptors are located all over the body, not just the brain, and they link up with consumed cannabinoids to create certain effects in the body. 

Scientists have been able to study enough of these receptors and the cannabinoids they communicate with to determine that CBD will not get you high. 

CBD suppresses the CB1 receptor, which is responsible for the feelings of intoxication often associated with THC.

There is still a lot left to learn about the endocannabinoid system. It’s exciting to think that we are only scratching the surface when it comes to CBD and the hemp plant’s abilities. 

If you were timid about giving CBD a shot, I hope this has offered you some clarification and peace of mind. 

Everyone’s endocannabinoid system is unique so start small and experiment, dosing up or down to meet your personal needs. 

Happy dosing!

Categories
CBD Education Recipes

MCT Oil + CBD: A Power Couple

At Ablis, optimizing beverages to supplement an active lifestyle is what we are all about, so MCT oil was a natural fit for our line of products.

So, what’s all this hype about MCT oil? 

It’s just coconut oil, right? 

MCT stands for Medium Chain Triglycerides. These “shorter chain” fatty acids are more beneficial than coconut oil in its basic form because they are digested differently. This is achieved by a refining process that isolates the MCTs in MCT oil. 

Your body uses them primarily to burn fat and aid in brain function by targeting immune responses, which affects pretty much every aspect of your health. 

Benefits of MCT Oil

You may have heard about the Keto diet that has gained popularity over the last couple of years. That’s because MCT oil promotes the production of ketones in the body, which are what burns fats efficiently, curbs appetite, and gives you that little boost. 

Although the ketogenic diet is what made MCT oil famous for its fat-burning properties and ability to curb cravings, I was a lot more interested in what it could do for my gut health and cognitive function if I were to use it for bulletproof coffee. Maybe this will give me that extra boost of energy in the morning! 

MCT Oil and CBD

We put CBD in EVERYTHING. And why wouldn’t we? It’s pretty great! 

By combining CBD isolate with MCT oil, you can enjoy a healthy dose of essential fatty acids with the balance and calming effects of CBD. 

We have two MCT oil products in our essential line:

The bigger, eight-ounce bottle has 500 milligrams in the whole bottle and is great to add to your skincare routine.

We also just came out with a smaller MCT concentrate. It’s an MCT oil with 2000 milligrams of CBD in an ounce. This one is good for bulletproof coffee recipes if you want to add more CBD. 

Related: Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil: What’s the difference between them?

A Few Ways to Use MCT Oil 

After I jumped on the bulletproof coffee train (I, too, can be trendy), I realized this was not my favorite way to use Ablis MCT oil (even though I was excited to see how it would help with gut health and cognitive function). As a mom of two young children, I could never really enjoy this process since I was reheating my cup in the microwave 5 times an hour. 

I realized my routines work best at night and that I have many favorite uses for the MCT oil outside the beloved bulletproof coffee (but keep reading for bulletproof tips). 

1. Skincare

I use the MCT oil mostly for spa days (which can be every evening once the kids are asleep). I love having a skincare routine and adding CBD to it is so much easier. 

  • It’s an amazing moisturizer after a shower. (If I’m in a pinch, I’ve even used it as a shaving cream substitute. Because it’s so slick, it works great with your razor.)
  • I like to put it in face serums to hydrate your skin and keep it feeling soft.  
  • Bath bombs are another favorite of mine. They are super easy to make and are perfect gifts for the holidays. (See my favorite recipe below.)
  • For foot soaks, I like to use Epsom salt with a mixture of essential oils dispersed in the MCT oil. It’s an efficient “carrier oil” for essential oils so it blends with them seamlessly. 

NOTE: I recommend looking into dilution ratios when combining essential oils to any carrier oil (for they can be added to the MCT oil in the above skincare hacks). Essential oils can cause skin irritations if not diluted properly. I am not an aromatherapist so please consult one with questions (I recommend leajacobson.com for EO safety resources). 

2. Oil Pulling

If you’re new to oil pulling, you’re not alone, but it’s certainly not new! It is an ancient technique flushing the teeth and mouth of bacteria (bacteria that can be harmful to gut health) with coconut oil. 

“Pulling toxins” with MCT oil a couple of times a week (still brush your teeth everyone!) is easy and can be done anytime during the day. 

Whether it truly works or not, I honestly do not know (but I hear coconut oil is a natural antibiotic). But, I do love the clean feeling afterward!  

  • Take a tablespoon of Ablis MCT oil and swish for about 5-10 minutes, then discard (use toilet, not bathroom sinks for oil can build up). Repeat 2-3 times per week.

3. Baking 

During the holidays, I love to bake with my friends. Adding MCT oil to your recipe makes for super fluffy, highly delicious baked goods! 

So far, we have made muffins, banana bread, and cookies with MCT oil/coconut oil. The banana bread was my favorite! A couple of things to note:

  • I exchange the oil recommendations in recipes with MCT oil (8oz 500 mg). Take how much vegetable oil the recipe requires and swap it out for the same amount of MCT oil. 
  • If you would like to add a little more CBD to your baking, you can grab the MCT oil concentrate (with 2000 milligrams) to add to the oil that is recommended (whether in the original recipe or if you have already swapped it out with the MCT oil). 
  • You can’t go wrong with this oil, but you can go wrong in many other ways when baking. Start with easy recipes and work your way up! 
  • Cooking in general! Oh, the possibilities… (So far, I’ve found you can’t go wrong using it in a stir fry).

4. Bulletproof Coffee

How do I describe this drink? It’s a blended mixture of coffee, ghee (clarified butter), and MCT oil. Using the blender (frother wand) creates this incredible, creamy consistency that is not only a big energy boost, it’s also super filling. This drink has many possibilities!  

I personally do not need to eat less or fast in a day. It just doesn’t fit into my lifestyle. Also, the maintenance it requires is not ideal with my own schedule, but for others reading, here are my tips when it comes to bulletproof coffee (and how to actually enjoy it):

  • Ablis MCT oil concentrate is what I would recommend for bulletproof coffee single cup recipes. It doesn’t take much MCT oil when adding to your cup (it’s 2000mg of CBD in 1floz).
  • Look into a frother wand!!! Genius, I tell you! 
  • My go-to recipe is .5 teaspoon of ghee and .5 teaspoon of MCT oil in 4 oz of coffee. You can also add almond milk and sweetener (I used stevia). 
  • Even if you drink more than 4 oz of coffee, do not ingest more than one teaspoon of MCT oil a day. While MCT is good, too much too fast can be distressing inside your body, always introduce something new to your body gradually. 
  • Got a sweet tooth? Look into adding cocoa powder (I hear there are keto chocolate syrups out there). 
  • Make sure you have time to sit and enjoy it while it’s hot! 

There are so many ways to use Ablis MCT oil. Whether it’s to start the day with a bulletproof coffee or to end it with a refreshing soak, MCT oil with CBD is the power couple we didn’t know we needed in our daily routines. 

I have created some DIY recipes that I’m excited to share with you! I hope you’ll give them a try and enjoy it! Cheers!

Related: CBD Cocktails: How to Make a CBD drink At Home Using Ablis

Favorite DIY Recipes

Bath bomb

Ingredients:

1 cup baking soda

1/2 cup Epsom salt

1/2 cream of tartar (for sensitive skin)

1/4 cup cornstarch

2oz Ablis 8oz MCT oil (500mg per bottle)

1 tablespoon vitamin E

Essential oils

For essential oils, I use 6 drops tangerine, 6 drops grapefruit, 6 drops cypress, 10 drops frankincense. I recommend doing research for dilution as well as sensitivities before using essential oils.

Directions:

  1. Mix dry ingredients and introduce oils (blended together) very slowly. You don’t want to create a fizzing mixture. 
  2. Pour and mix until the consistency visibly binds.

Face serum

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon rosehip

1oz Ablis 8oz MCT oil (500mg per bottle)

.5oz sweet almond oil

5 drops grapefruit

4 drops frankincense

3 drops cypress

Directions:

  1. Mix together and apply to the skin.

Stretch mark cream

Ingredients:

1 bottle of Ablis 8oz MCT oil (500g)

2 tablespoons of vitamin E

15 drops lavender oil

15 drops frankincense oil

Directions:

  1. Mix together and apply to the skin.

 

*The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

 

Categories
CBD Education

Is CBD Legal? Here are the Facts

It’s no surprise that we get asked a lot about the legality of CBD.

We totally get it! It’s a lot of information to absorb, and the laws have evolved a lot over the past few years. 

It can be overwhelming when navigating CBD products. There are so many to choose from, and new ways to manufacture and consume CBD are being created at a pretty crazy rate. 

This has caused a lot of confusion around the legality of hemp-derived products like CBD, so let’s clear the air and break down the legal stuff. 

Embracing Hemp Products

The U.S. is finally embracing hemp products and the possibilities of CBD, but it hasn’t always been that way.

The 1970 Federal Controlled Substances Act categorized cannabis and hemp as a Schedule 1 substance. This restricted the public’s access to cannabis and hemp-derived products for decades until states began to realize the potential of hemp. 

Hemp got a bad wrap for a long time until the government realized it was a hot agricultural commodity.

Luckily, Ablis is located in Oregon. We are lucky to have some of the most quality hemp to produce our CBD because our state was way ahead of the curve.

Oregon has historically been one of the most progressive states in terms of cannabis laws, and our hemp laws followed suit. We legalized medical cannabis in 1998 and recreational cannabis, including hemp, in 2014. 

So, we were more than ready to contribute to the growing CBD market. 

The Legalization of Hemp

The Farm Bill was passed in 2018.

This bill legalized hemp cultivation and CBD extraction on a federal level by making a clear distinction between hemp and marijuana-derived products. 

It also placed the regulations for CBD in the hands of the FDA. The FDA allows CBD products, with 0.3% of THC or less, to be sold anywhere (as long as they don’t make any big health claims).

The interest and the demand for CBD was pretty much instant. And that’s when Ablis switched from THC-infused products to all CBD.

We decided to take advantage of the amazing hemp here in Oregon and create products that supplemented an active lifestyle with CBD.

Related: Clearing the Top CBD Myths

THC vs. CBD Legality 

THC is still illegal federally, but CBD is now legal in most states. 

THC is the cannabinoid found in cannabis that gives you a high sensation, which is not the case with CBD.

Since recent studies have been able to isolate and research specific cannabinoids, it has been confirmed that CBD does not contribute to any of these psychoactive effects, leading lawmakers to revisit hemp legislation and eventually pass the Farm Bill. 

Because of this, THC is still federally illegal and categorized as a Schedule 1 drug.

Since the CBD cannabinoid can be isolated from THC, CBD products are available almost everywhere in the United States.

Although CBD is legal on a federal level, there are a few states that still have strict regulations when it comes to hemp and CBD. 

Related: Can CBD get you high? The Scoop on CBD vs. THC

Hemp is Still Illegal in Some States 

Certain states have still banned the cultivation and manufacturing of hemp products.

Idaho, Nebraska, and South Dakota do not allow any production of hemp or hemp-derived products locally, however their shipping laws are a little unclear. More clarification is required before we’d recommend having CBD shipped to these states. 

Each state with CBD friendly laws now has regulations for hemp. They do vary, but all regulate labeling, cultivation, and testing. 

However, regardless of the state, CBD products must contain no more than 0.3% of THC to meet federal regulations laid out by the FDA and in the Farm Bill.

Testing requirements break down all cannabinoids present and determine if any pesticides or solvents were used. Legitimate CBD products will be labeled with a lot of this information. 

The Different Types of CBD 

It’s good to know the difference between full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. 

These three distillation processes allow certain cannabinoids, like THC, to remain in the finished product or not depending on the desired result. 

Full-spectrum is the least processed, with all of the cannabinoids present in the hemp, including small amounts of THC. The THC levels will not exceed 0.3% of course. The THC is present to aid in what’s called the “entourage effect.”

The THC and other trace cannabinoids are said to help facilitate the absorption of the CBD, which can be beneficial for some. It all just depends on how your body responds to CBD. 

Broad-spectrum goes a step further, removing all the THC cannabinoids, but leaving other trace cannabinoids behind. This is a safer option if you’re looking to keep THC out of your system, as it has been known to build up over time. 

The CBD isolate distillation process isolates the CBD from all other cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, leaving you with CBD and CBD alone. This is the safest and most legal option. 

This is the method used for the CBD used in Ablis’ products. That’s why we are allowed to ship nationwide. 

Related: CBD Isolate Definition and Broad vs. Full Spectrum

Always Read the Label 

This is key. The label will give you a lot of information like the amount of CBD in the product, where it was manufactured, what type of CBD it is, the batch number and date, dosing suggestions, and a list of all ingredients.

If you’re worried about travel/shipping restrictions or keeping your system free of any THC for possibly a drug test at work, read labels carefully, and make your decisions accordingly. 

 

*The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Categories
CBD Education

CBD Isolate Definition and Broad vs. Full Spectrum

CBD is still fairly new to many and the choices are overwhelming. 

Whether you’re trying to get the most bang for your buck, need to be able to pass a drug test at work, or require some holistic relief, knowing what to look for is the hard part these days. 

If you’re struggling to understand the jargon and processes involved, allow me to explain. 

CBD is manufactured using predominantly three different methods. All three methods utilize the hemp plant, yielding vastly different results. 

That’s right. There’s way more to it than just a CBD label!

These three types are isolate, full spectrum, and broad spectrum CBD. 

At Ablis, we use CBD isolate to infuse our beverages, so let’s start there.

What is CBD Isolate? 

CBD isolate is CBD in its purest form. Just as it sounds, it is isolated from the rest of the cannabinoids in hemp giving you nothing but a dose of natural balance. 

This means you’re only enjoying the effects of cannabidiol (CBD) and no other plant compounds found in the hemp plant are present. 

Isolate contains absolutely zero THC, which means maximum legality and no chance of a high-feeling.

To achieve this level of purity, after the oil is extracted with CO2, a method called winterization takes place, followed by a distillation process. This removes all excess wax, terpenes, and remaining cannabinoids, leaving it in its purest crystalline form. 

What About Full and Broad Spectrums?

Full spectrum CBD is the most unfiltered method and contains all the natural phytochemicals found in the hemp plant including terpenes, oils, and moderate amounts of cannabinoids. It is the least processed form of the three types. 

This means it can contain trace amounts of THC (0.03% or less), giving you the possibility of some mild psychoactive effects, though highly unlikely. (Get it? Highly?)

Full spectrum creates the “entourage effect” by facilitating those interactions between cannabinoid receptors. The entourage effect is said to be what causes cannabis to be the most potent because the cannabinoids work in tandem to create a synergy and optimize each compound.

Some of the noteworthy cannabinoids that can be found in full spectrum extracts are CBN, CBDV, CBDA, CBG, and CBC. 

Broad spectrum CBD contains all of the plant’s compounds except for THC. The method of extraction and refinement is similar to isolate, however, it only targets the THC cannabinoid. 

This type of CBD can produce a similar entourage effect like full spectrum. 

Both broad and full spectrum contain terpenes and flavonoids that have distinct flavors. 

The least amount of information is known about broad spectrum since it is the most recent method to make its way into the industry. 

Related: CBD vs. THC: They Are Not The Same

What’s the Big Difference? 

Aside from the variation in cannabinoids, price is a prominent difference. 

Keeping consistent ratios of CBD and THC compounds is not simple by any means. This makes full spectrum the most expensive of the three types of CBD. 

Broad spectrum is less pricey, however not as widely available since it’s new on the scene. 

Isolate is easy to find and typically the most affordable option.

I previously mentioned legality, which may seem irrelevant given that hemp and CBD are federally legal (thanks to the Farm Bill passed in 2018). 

However, certain states still have stringent regulations around all products that fall under the category of cannabis. It’s a good idea to look into your local and state regulations before choosing a CBD product. 

Which One is for You? 

Everyone is different. Each one of us contains a unique Endocannabinoid system internally. Many different factors can affect the way CBD interacts with your system.

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again; you’ve just got to experiment! Start small. 

If you are someone who finds a ratio of both CBD and THC to be advantageous, you might consider full spectrum. The entourage effect could be appropriate depending on the individual.

If you are sensitive to THC or live in a more restrictive location, broad spectrum or isolate might be a better choice.

Even trace amounts of THC can build up over time, putting you at risk in non-legal states. If you anticipate a drug test soon, save yourself the anxiety and stick to isolate

Unfortunately, mislabeling is a recurring pattern in the industry and many are sadly motivated by profit alone, so trusted brands with transparent testing and nutritional information are a must. 

It may take some time to figure out which type of CBD is a good fit for your needs, but it’s worth the wait! 

Why Did We Choose CBD Isolate at Ablis? 

We started in 2014 making a beverage that contained THC but eventually pivoted to CBD due to a growing demand for CBD products without the high associated with THC. 

We wanted to achieve a maximum reach with CBD, which meant the most legal route was the wisest. 

By ensuring that our process of extraction leaves no traces of THC, we can ship across state lines and sell just about anywhere.

Our sparkling CBD beverage might actually be the first of its kind.

We also care about quality. We have third-party testing, use crazy-good Oregon hemp for our isolate, and put only the essentials in our products. (No artificial sweeteners, preservatives, or additives!)

Isolate is odorless and flavorless, so it doesn’t leave that plant-matter-y taste behind. This seemed like a no brainer to me during the meticulous process of creating flavor infusions for our sparkling water. 

Another reason we are big fans of isolate is because we don’t want anything to slow down your lifestyle. If trace amounts of THC could potentially mellow out an intense hike or mountain bike ride – it simply isn’t ideal for our super active customer. 

Most of all, we think CBD is a powerhouse amongst the different compounds found in cannabis.

There’s nothing quite like starting or ending your day with CBD. Isolate allows you to do that without worry and still enjoy all the potential goodness the hemp plant has to offer.

How can Ablis infuse your lifestyle? 

Related: Staying True To Our Craft Beverage Roots

*The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Categories
CBD Education

Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil: What’s the difference between them?

Are you confused when it comes to hemp oil and CBD oil? Are they the same thing? 

Though they are both derived from the hemp plant, these oils contain different compounds and have different uses. 

I’m here to demystify the vague and oftentimes confusing marketing in the industry and explain the parts of the hemp plant used to extract both oils. After reading this article you’ll be able to make an educated purchasing decision based on your particular needs. 

Why CBD at Ablis? 

When Oregon legalized in 2014, we started by infusing our beverages with THC. Our co-founder, Max, had the idea to experiment with a new cannabinoid that was gaining popularity. The cannabinoid that piqued his interest was CBD. 

CBD is one of many cannabinoids present in the hemp plant. It is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it doesn’t give you that high feeling associated with THC. CBD is said to assist in recovery for active lifestyles and promote an overall feeling of well-being. It can be ingested or used topically.

Our founders, Jim and Max, wanted to make an infused beverage that could be shipped nationwide. So, they chose to use CBD isolate, which is totally free of THC, based on a huge demand for non-psychoactive cannabis products. 

They decided to make a drink that wouldn’t get you high but could give you the beneficial properties of cannabis. 

What’s With all the Acronyms?

CBD, THC, MCT… It’s confusing, I know. There are so many products on the market that boast the benefits of CBD, hemp oil, or hemp seed oil – but what’s the difference?

Here’s what you need to know. CBD and THC are basically sister molecules in cannabis. CBD has all the benefits of cannabis, without the feeling of euphoria you get from THC. Hemp oil contains neither CBD nor THC, but also comes from the hemp plant. It claims a long list of health benefits all on its own. 

So, They’re Both Hemp? 

Yes! Hemp oil and CBD oil are both derived from the hemp plant, just different parts. Hemp is categorized as a type of cannabis. However, it’s properties are put to use differently than traditional cannabis. 

Hemp seed oil, which is the same as hemp oil just a tad more specific, comes from the actual seeds. CBD is harvested from the leaves, buds, and stalks of the hemp plant. 

Though they come from the same plant, hemp oil does not contain CBD, and vice versa.

Hemp seed oil does contain essential fatty acids like Omega-3, Omega-6, and a lot of Vitamins B and E. The seeds themselves are nut-like in texture and taste, plus a quality source of plant-based protein. The vitamin dense oil is used frequently for its nutritional value and can also be used topically to ease several skin and hair conditions. 

While we don’t manufacture hemp seed oil at Ablis, we aren’t lacking in the healthy ingestible/topical fat department. Our MCT oil offers similar nutritional benefits to hemp oil and can be mixed into most beverages or used topically. 

MCT oil is not made from hemp and it does not contain CBD. MCT stands for Medium-Chain Triglycerides. These fats are more easily and more quickly burned than long-chain triglycerides, making them a super powerful source of fatty acids, much like hemp seed oil. 

Both MCT oil and hemp seed oil support a healthy immune system and are effective in activating ketosis or using stored fat for energy. They can both aid in maintaining a healthy weight and improving your overall energy.

You can moisturize with MCT oil, use it as a substitute for olive oil while cooking (up to 200 degrees), and add it to any beverage, along with your trusty CBD oil. 

We think that MCT oil and CBD oil are a winning combo because you get the nutritional value of the fatty acids in the MCT while activating those regenerative properties of CBD. It truly is the best of both worlds. 

RELATED: The Benefits of Hemp

Are they legal?

CBD can contain no more than 0.3% THC to be considered technically legal in all fifty states. I say technically because some states still prohibit hemp cultivation and manufacturing, so while deemed federally legal, it’s not as readily available everywhere. Hemp-derived CBD maintains these lower levels and is considered legal on a federal level.

Hemp oil contains zero cannabinoids, so it is perfectly legal everywhere. And I do mean everywhere. It can now be found in products in most pharmacies and grocery stores across the U.S. 

What to Look for Before Purchasing

Marketing for these products can be super vague and difficult to know exactly what quality and what compounds of hemp you are actually consuming.

So, how do you ensure you’re getting the best quality and the full spectrum of benefits? 

Know your sources and know your terms. 

In Oregon, our hemp regulations are pretty great. The quality of product here is going to be some of the best this region has to offer. The FDA doesn’t monitor CBD production yet, so it’s important to make sure your products have undergone third-party testing. 

You may see hemp oil products marketed as “cannabis seed oil” or “Cannabis sativa oil” because they are technically coming from a Cannabis sativa plant. This can be misleading given there is no THC present in these products, which is what these terms are usually associated with. 

CBD is also called “cannabidiol,” but is almost always referred to as CBD. Regulations prohibit the shipping of CBD products in certain states, making online marketing oftentimes vague for liability sake. 

Overall, look for brand transparency. Check the labels. Where is the hemp coming from? What is the extraction method? Is it isolate or broad-spectrum? Was there third-party testing? 

Sometimes these questions will take a bit more research to answer. Check company websites and product reviews. Their sites will be a pretty fair indicator of the quality of their product. Use your best judgment. 

RELATED: Know Who’s Behind Your CBD

How to Supplement Your Lifestyle with CBD

For me, I definitely get the most out of CBD topicals to soothe sore muscles after a workout. 

The product I use most often is our CBD muscle rub. I’m pretty active and encounter stress daily, so the muscle rub is my go-to. 

Whether you prefer topicals or ingestible compounds, CBD can fit into any active lifestyle and all of us here at Ablis are proof!

What’s the right choice for me?

If you’re seeking the balance and calm that CBD can provide, hemp oil is most likely not what you’re looking for.

If you’re hoping to beef up your beverages with a heavy dose of protein and vitamins, hemp seed oil or MCT oil would be a solid addition to supplement your lifestyle.

While we can’t guarantee the integrity of every company out there, adding CBD, hemp oil, or MCT to your habitual beverages, food, or skincare could potentially benefit you in many ways. 

Do your research. State regulations could mean that these products vary. Just be aware of what you are purchasing and from whom.

Why not try them all and see how they can significantly enhance your daily routine? Choose wisely to cater to your needs, but don’t be afraid to experiment since none of these ingredients are psychoactive. 

Happy dosing! 

Categories
CBD Education

Is CBD free shipping available? Travelling and Flying with CBD

These are strange times we’re living in, and with people going out less than average, our online sales are going up and up. 

With that, comes a lot of questions about whether it’s okay to ship CBD or not. So keep reading, because we’re going to answer that question, plus a few others!

Is It Legal To Ship CBD?

I’m usually a behind-the-scenes person at Ablis. I handle our accounting and a lot of logistics, including shipping! 

Lately, I’ve been getting A LOT of questions from customers about whether they can legally ship CBD, whether it’s ordering online from our website or sending products to a friend or loved one. 

Well, I have good news for you! You can send and receive CBD via mail, whether through USPS or a private carrier like UPS or FedEx.

As a reminder, CBD is legal at the federal level, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill. So shipping it domestically is not an issue. But, because CBD markets vary from state to state and the lingering stigma around CBD and cannabis, it’s easy to understand why there is so much confusion. 

There are two things to keep in mind when it comes to shipping CBD:

1. Make Sure You Know the Legal Definition of CBD. 

CBD comes from the Cannabis plant, which includes both hemp and marijuana. From a legal standpoint, the big difference is that hemp cannot contain more than .03%THC. Anything over that limit is considered marijuana, which is still illegal at the federal level. 

RELATED: CBD vs. THC: They Are Not The Same

So, the big takeaway here is to make sure that you’re choosing CBD products derived from hemp, such as Ablis. Then you can have the peace of mind that you’re playing by all the rules. 

2. Keep in Mind That CBD Has Been Banned in a Few States.

There are a handful of states that aren’t CBD-friendly. Idaho, Nebraska, and South Dakota have bans on hemp-sourced CBD, which means you won’t find people growing hemp or producing CBD products locally. The laws don’t address shipping specifically, so we recommend reaching out to a state representative for more information.

What About Flying With CBD? Is That OK?

Not many people are flying these days unless they really have to. But, if you’re one of those people and use CBD regularly, it’s super important to be able to bring it with you when traveling. 

Guess what? There’s more good news! Yes, you can fly domestically with CBD. 

You may have heard the horror story of a 71-year-old woman arrested in Dallas in 2019 for having CBD oil, but don’t let that scare you. After that incident, TSA updated its CBD guidelines to reflect the law. 

Like I said in the section above because CBD is federally legal, it’s OK to take it on a plane, either in a carry-on or in checked luggage. 

Many people get freaked out about taking their CBD through TSA, so here are a few tips for making it through security:

  • Follow TSA’s liquid guidelines: You’re allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on bag, but each container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
  • Choose professionally packaged products: Choose CBD products that won’t raise any red flags. For example, our topicals and concentrates look like typical toiletries, so they’re good travel choices. But bringing something like a vape pen filled with CBD oil or hemp flower might alarm a TSA agent who doesn’t know that CBD and THC are two different things. 
  • Be confident: You know you’re not doing anything illegal, so be confident when going through security. Sometimes nervousness and uncertainty can raise suspicion, even when you’re following all the rules. Attitude is everything!
  • Shipping is an alternative: If you’re still really nervous about flying with CBD, try shipping your products to your destination ahead of time. It may cost a few extra bucks, but it will reduce the stress of traveling. 

RELATED: Separating Fact From Fiction: The Top CBD Myths

What About Crossing International Borders?

I’m going to keep this short and to the point. This one is a big no-no. I want to say that right off the bat. 

International travel is pretty restricted right now, but if you are planning to cross an international border by plane or car, you will need to go through a customs check. 

Even though CBD is legal in many other countries, you shouldn’t transport it from country to country. 

For example, CBD is legal in Canada; it’s illegal to bring it across the border without authorities’ permission. On the other hand, Mexico does allow travelers to carry CBD with them into the country, but we still don’t recommend doing that. 

Taking CBD through an international checkpoint is not worth the risk. If something does happen, you’ll be left in the hands of a foreign government, and things could get messy. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Bottom line: Don’t do it. 

Do you have more questions about shipping CBD or traveling with it? Fire away! Let us know how we can help.

Categories
CBD Education

CBD and mountain biking: Kyle Jameson shares his CBD story

Mountain biking is my passion and my livelihood. But as I get older, I have to put more effort into recovering from a day out on the trail. 

My CBD wellness routine has become instrumental as I continue with this awesome sport, and here is why:

My Biking Career

Before we get into my CBD routine, I want to tell you a little bit about my biking career. 

Growing up outside of Sacramento, California, my first mountain biking experience was in Lake Tahoe when I was sixteen years old. A friend of mine and his dad rented some bikes and had me come along. I remember just loving going through the forest as fast as I possibly could. 

From that day on, I was pretty much hooked.

I stuck with the sport and competed in some pretty high-level competitions, like the Rampage qualifiers in 2014 and 2015 and FEST Series events, where I have taken home a few awards. For me, just getting through those courses in one piece was a huge victory, but it was also pretty fun to get to showcase my riding abilities. 

Nowadays, I think of myself as an ambassador for the sport and the lifestyle that comes with it. 

While I no longer compete, I’m still super involved in mountain biking. I have coached kids at all skill levels, from basics to backflips, and I own a company that builds mountain biking trails in Bend, Oregon. I also ride as much as I can and share my passion with others by making videos for outdoor media outlets and gear companies, where you can see me freeriding all over the country. You can also catch me having a blast on Instagram.

RELATED: How I Stay Active With CBD 

There is fun around every corner, and mountain biking is all about how you interpret the land, evolve your skills, and remain ready for anything.

My CBD Wellness Lineup

It goes without saying that mountain biking is an intense sport, and with any extreme sport comes a high risk for injury. As I get older, I find myself dealing with way more aches and pains than I used to.

I have used many different products, from traditional pharmaceuticals to plant-based remedies. But I switched over entirely to CBD a few years back. 

As the cannabis industry evolved, I realized that there was a lot more to it than just getting high using THC. I started learning about other beneficial compounds from the cannabis plant that could help me stay active, and CBD seemed worth a shot. I got interested in all forms of CBD like oils, topicals, and beverages. 

I no longer use the traditional over the counter treatments that I grew up with because I have had so much success with CBD. In fact, my whole family now uses CBD daily. It is just a part of our regular routine. For me personally,  I keep a muscle rub and concentrate with me at all times, and I keep a bunch of drinks with me as well. 

I believe firmly that if it comes from the ground, it is probably better for you than something from a lab, which is one of my reasons I partner with Ablis. Ablis is a CBD brand that’s committed to using pure, natural ingredients and transparent sourcing.

RELATED: Know Who’s Behind Your CBD

CBD Is Catching On 

I am not the only athlete using CBD as part of their training routine. More and more, I see CBD catching on in the mountain biking community and beyond.

I’ve seen a lot of professional athletes from all sports, from the National Football League to skateboarding and soccer, start to speak up about concerns surrounding synthetic drugs that can cause problems like addiction. Furthermore, these athletes have urged our government to fund more clinical testing and research about CBD’s benefits.

All of that is having a significant ripple effect in our society. In 2018, the World Anti-Doping Agency removed CBD from its list of banned substances– a big win!

With the stigma around cannabis starting to fade, people are beginning to realize that CBD is not this crazy harmful drug. With all of the advances and publicity that CBD is getting, I see it as a positive trend continuing far into the future.

*The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.