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Q: What is CBG? A: CBD or CBG cannabigerol, is a chemical compound extracted from the cannabis plant. It differs from CBD because it’s often referred to as the mother of all cannabinoids. This is because other cannabinoids are derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), an acidic form of CBG. Q: What is CBD? A: CBD or Cannabidiol, is a chemical compound extracted from the cannabis plant. It is the primary chemical compound found in the hemp variant. It differs from THC because of its non-psychoactive properties. It will not have an effect on an individual's mind. Q: How are CBG and CBD different? A: While there is comparably a lot of research available on CBD, research on CBG is far more limited. We nevertheless know how the two interact differently in the body. While CBD has a relatively low affinity for cannabinoid receptors and interacts mostly with the endocannabinoid system on an indirect basis, CBG is thought to interact directly with the brain’s CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. Q: Do CBG products contain THC? A: CBG products must contain less than 0.3% THC to be legal according to Federal Law. Terms such as "full-spectrum" indicate the presence of THC, whereas terms including, "broad-spectrum" or "CBG isolate" indicate that THC has been removed. Q: Is CBG legal? A: CBD that is extracted from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC is legal at the federal level with the passage of the Farm Bill in late 2018. Each state also has its own law regarding the legality of CBD and therefore the legality of CBG products can vary from state to state. Q: Is CBG the only cannabinoid in the hemp plant? A: No. CBG is one of many cannabinoids within the hemp plant, but it’s currently growing in popularity and being researched for potential wellness benefits. Q: How does CBG work? A: CBG works by binding to both C1 and C2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system where it's thought to strengthen the function of anandamide, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in enhancing pleasure and motivation, regulating appetite and sleep, and alleviating pain. Unlike THC, CBG has no psychotropic effects, so it will not give you a high. Q: How does CBG get incorporated into various products? A: Formerly CBG was only found in trace amounts. Thanks to genetic research, breeding, and controlled environmental factors CBG can now be harvested in the same quantities as CBD or THC within the cannabis plant. Once extracted, CBG can be combined with a carrier oil, which is then incorporated into tinctures, foods, topical creams, and more. Q: Who to trust for CBG? A: CBG is growing in popularity these days. Asking questions is the first step in finding reputable products. Lab reports should be readily accessible. Labeling should be clear and easy to understand. Potency, purity, and consistency are the hallmarks of quality CBD products. Q: Is CBG a fad? A: CBG serves as the precursor molecule for the most abundant phytocannabinoids. As such it holds an important position within the research community. CBG is currently being marketed as a dietary supplement and, as with cannabidiol (CBD) before, many claims are being made about its benefits. Unlike CBD, however, little research has been performed on this unregulated molecule, and much of what is known warrants further investigation to identify potential areas of therapeutic uses and hazards. Time will tell whether it is as popular as CBD commercially, or whether it remains a resource for cannabinoid studies. To learn more about CBG, take a look at our growing backlog of blog posts, here.

Nano-CBD is trending online. If you've searched CBD Oil online in the last few months, it's likely that you've come across an increasing amount of Nano-CBD products in stores. Top Shelf Hemp Co. is here to separate science-fiction from reality. What Is Nano CBD? Nano-CBD is an emulsion of CBD and a carrier oil, typically a small lipid, and flavoring. The CBD Oil is suspended at the molecular level by the carrier oil. It's designed to help CBD enter the body in a more efficient manner by making the digestive system absorb the carrier oil covering the CBD before breaking down the CDB molecules themselves. Nano-CBD may sound complex, in reality, it's about as scientifically advanced as a salad dressing. Don't be fooled by the technical jargon. Below we'll explain in detail how Nano-CBD works, its benefits, drawbacks, if it's worth it, and how to find the best Nano-CBD on the market for yourself. What Does "Nano" Mean? Nano - a combining form with the meaning “very small, minute,” used in the formation of compound words; in the names of units of measure it has the specific sense, as defined by Dictionary.com. In everyday terms, it means that companies producing Nano-CBD are working with extremely small things, and measuring size at scales less than 100 nanometers or 0.00000001 meters. As the CBD industry is unregulated, the term "nano" is used frequently to describe much larger things. A marketing tactic employed because "nano" brings to mind technological advancement. To help visualize CBD at the molecular level, think of a container of sprinkles. Most of the sprinkles represent the carrier oil. There is a much smaller amount of CBD sprinkles mixed inside the container. They are mostly hidden inside the container with very little visible on the surface. We've all heard the saying that water and oil don't mix. Your mouth and digestive tract are coated in moisture. Due to their polar charges, the water repels the CBD molecules. When CBD oil is swallowed it tends to stay in droplets, with most of the CBD molecules in the center of each drop, until fully digested. How Does Nano CBD Oil Work? Sometimes you need to look to the past or outside your field to innovate. Is there a way to get water and oil to mix? The answer is yes. Nano-CBD producers use an old culinary technique. The emulsification process is a simple one. Natural ingredients include honey, mustard, or egg yolks. Whipping one of these ingredients with carrier and CBD oils creates a stable suspension of evenly distributed CBD molecules and additional ingredients known as an emulsion. Emulsifiers coat the CBD at a molecular level. This prevents the CBD from forming larger droplets and merging or separating from the water in the mixture Nano-CBD products, such as Nano-CBD oil and Nano-CBD water, usually contain CBD oil, water, and other ingredients that help stabilize this emulsion. One common Nano-CBD ingredient is lecithin or "phospholipids". Lecithin is sourced from either egg yolk or soy. Nano-CBD Benefits In the simplest of terms, the only reason you might try Nano-CBD is to increase the amount of CBD reaching your bloodstream. This is achieved in two ways. Increased Surface Area By suspending CBD in an emulsion, the body is free to act on each molecule from 360 degrees. This increases surface contact with the body's enzymes and absorptive tissues. The liver will produce its own emulsion in the liver by combining bile salts with CBD Oil. However, digesting a pre-emulsified CBD oil in your mouth could help the body absorb the CBD molecule at earlier stages of digestion. Penetration Enhancement Nano-CBD also commonly contains ingredients that can increase the movement of CBD molecules across skin tissues and mucous membranes. These "penetration enhancers" include ethanol, propylene, and glycol. These chemicals also coat the CBD oil and enhance the permeation of tissues. Nano-CBD Risks & Side Effects While Nano-CBD can accelerate the rate of absorption and deliver higher levels of CBD into the bloodstream, there are two important concerns to take into consideration before consuming Nano-CBD. Added Chemicals Nano-CBD is produced with chemicals you may not want in your body. As an example, propylene glycol is a common allergen. Each CBD molecule is covered with these ingredients. While each company may use different chemicals to create their Nano-CBD, it's important to understand each component and its effect on your body. If you're unsure, it's best to seek the counsel of a medical professional. Transparency At this time, with the CBD market being unregulated, the Nano-CBD market is full of fraudulent products and misinformation. These companies tend to use scientific language as a distraction. If you can't understand what is being said, it's most likely intentional. Due diligence is the key here. Is Nano CBD Oil Worth It? With all of the information provided for you above and if you're still drawn to Nano-CBD, you might consider trying it for yourself. Many of the benefits Nano-CBD products admonish can be found in other more cost-effective CBD products. Here are 4 popular reasons people consider taking Nano-CBD. First-time Buyer You might want to consider establishing a baseline with a high-quality CBD oil on its own. From there you will have a better understanding of how CBD impacts your body, and if it's worth pursuing an enhanced version. Quality Whether purchasing Nano-CBD or natural CBD oil, it's important to verify that the product comes from a reputable company. In a minimally regulated industry full of hype, it's easy to find yourself with an inferior product. Effectiveness Here are a few tips for increasing the effectiveness of CBD oil. Eat a meal including healthy fats. Swish CBD oil around your mouth for a few minutes before swallowing. Consider taking your CBD oil with a natural emulsifier like honey. Are you buying your first CBD product and just stumbled on nano CBD? You might want to start simple and try a high-quality CBD oil on its own. You can use that as a baseline to see how — or even if — you would want to improve that experience. Novelty You already enjoy the benefits of CBD oil and are ready to try something new. Make sure to research your options. A company that treats you like an intelligent adult and prioritizes your safety is what you're after. Tips for Choosing the Best Nano-CBD Products Ignore the Hype The most important ingredient in Nano-CBD is the CBD itself. Using high-quality, organic, full, or broad-spectrum hemp extract in a product is crucial. You should know where and how their hemp is grown. It's not uncommon for low-quality CBD to end up in Nano-CBD products. Understand the Ingredients If you don't understand the ingredients walk away. The main ingredients should be water, CBD oil, and a handful of other ingredients. The more chemicals on the list the more flags this should raise. Nano-CBD is not an ingrediant. If the main ingredient is simply oil, it is not a nano-emulsified CBD product. 3rd Party Lab Reports Every CBD company is required to test its products. 3rd party lab reports, known as certificates of analysis (COAs) should be readily available to the consumer. Seeking out COAs helps cut through the scientific and marketing jargon. Make an Informed Decision You've got all the information you need to make an informed decision on Nano-CBD. Is Nano-CBD the future of the industry? We'll leave that up to you. We're adding new articles every week to our blog. For more information, click here.

It's important to open this conversation that this is exclusively an informational article and does not address the legality of growing hemp at the local, state, and federal levels. Please contact lawmakers at each level for more information on the rules and regulations on hemp cultivation in your area. With this in mind, here are 4 tips to help you get started growing hemp. Genetics Hemp is an excellent agricultural crop. From the outset understanding, your goals are important. Are you harvesting stalks, flowers, or seeds? The genetics of a hemp seed determines the sex, germination rate, flowering time, THC levels, yield, and hardiness. You need to plant the right seeds for the environment you're growing the plants in. Most farmers who are growing hemp are doing so with CBD extraction in mind. Carmaleonte or Fibranova strains from Italy are ideal for fiber production, used in food and clothing. American strains are ideal for CBD extraction as they have the potential to yield up to 25% CBD. This is due to genomic research and selective breeding. Regular seeds are relatively inexpensive. As a beginner, it's advised you start here until you have a better understanding of the plant's life cycle and can identify its specific needs. Once your regular plants are thriving, it may be time to consider feminized seeds. There is less need to identify the gender of these plants, unlike regular seeds. While hermaphroditism does happen, most plants are female, uniform, and simple. If you are growing in a confined space, auto-flowering plants might be the right choice for you. Their seeds produce small, fast-maturing plants. You can also start your adventure with clones. Taking a cutting from a plant will produce another plant with the same genetics if properly cared for. Soil It's common to assume that hemp can grow anywhere. However just because it can doesn't mean that hemp with thrive in any conditions. Whether you're planting indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse, drainage, low weed pressure, and the right nutrients are crucial. A soil test is a crucial step in understanding how to best prepare your soil for growing the highest quality hemp. A crop consultant takes soil samples, performs tests, and can determine the condition of your soil and its nutrient needs. Keep in mind that any soil additives used will dissipate within 2 years and will affect soil composition. The best time to test your soil is a few weeks before planting. With a good grasp of the condition of your soil, you may need to fill nutritional gaps with fertilizer. Balancing pH and increasing soil nitrogen content aren't uncommon. How you apply fertilizer is crucial as well. Fertilizer applied directly to a plant could burn the plant. It's best to apply fertilizer to the side of the seed row. This could encourage weed growth, so it's important to research the best methods for your plants. Timing There are many factors that contribute to the successful planting of hemp outdoors. You need to strategically plan your outdoor production to maximize the existing environment you're planting in. For a successful crop, diminishing the chance of frost, coordinating day length to your strains flowering response time, and planting before rain need to be taken into consideration. Virtual resources are available online. You can find a date with low frost potential and a length of the day that is above their strain-specific flowering time. This is the best time to plant your hemp. Hemp seeds need proper drainage. Too much water can delay germination and increase seed mortality. Crop Density Hemp seeds should be planted in a firm seedbed at about 1/2 inch. The density of your seeds depends on your planned end-use. Grain or seed hemp is planted at 25-35 lbs. per acre. This allows for a thicker stalk to grow, which is necessary to hold up the weight of the heavier plants. Producing hemp for fiber, crops prefer 40-60 lbs. per acre. This forces plants to grow thinner stalks and have more vertical growth. Hemp grown for CBD ideally has plenty of room for big bushy crops. 1,000-2,000 plants per acre. Less than 1 lbs. per acre if planting outdoors. It takes thorough research, planning, and execution to grow high-quality hemp. Put our tips to the test. For more information on industrial hemp, check out our blog, here. .

How many different ways are there to consume CBD products? What’s the fastest way? Why might it be advisable to take CBD in a particular fashion? In this blog post, we’re going to explore the various delivery methods, their benefits and drawbacks, and the circumstances in which each method would be preferred. Delivery Methods There are 4 main methods of consuming hemp products. They each take a unique path through the body. This is part of the reason results can vary. Edibles Edibles have grown in popularity over the years. You can add a cannabinoid extract to almost any processed food or beverage. One often overlooked edible worth considering is soft gel capsules. A no-frills edible option with an exact and often relatively high amount of CBD ready for consumption. From the stomach, the majority of the CBD is absorbed into the hepatic portal system, which leads directly to the liver. The liver then begins to metabolize the CBD, before passing into the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, CBD is free to act on the endocannabinoid system throughout the body. Ingestion is by far the easiest means of consuming CBD, however, it’s far from the most efficient means of getting high levels into your system. Ingestion is also a slow process, taking anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to reach peak absorption. A good way to build up CBD in your system with regular and consistent consumption. Sublingual Liquids The word tincture has become a catchall term for traditional CBD tinctures, as well as, CBD oils. The difference is a fairly straightforward one. A CBD oil contains CBD extract and most commonly a blend of coconut oil, MCT oil, vegetable glycerin, and hemp seed oil. True tinctures are made from alcohol and most commonly contain essential vitamins, water, herbs, melatonin, sweeteners, and essential oils. To take a sublingual liquid, one takes a dropper of CBD tincture or CBD oil and squirts it under the tongue for 30-90 seconds. Unlike edibles, sublingual liquids bypass the digestive system entirely and are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. The effects can take just as long as ingestion. What you’ll see is a subtle increase in the amount of CBD getting where it will have the greater effect compared to edibles. Tinctures typically taste better but are less effective per volume % when compared to CBD Oil, because the % of CBD is decreased to make room for the other ingredients. Sublingual Liquids are slightly more effective than edibles. They take as much time as edibles to pass through the body. It’s difficult to get a large amount of CBD into the bloodstream at any given time using sublingual liquids. Consistency and regularity are important. One advantage of sublingual liquids is that they can be taken sublingually as well as consumed through the digestive system for enhanced effects. Add a dropper of CBD Oil to your favorite smoothie for a 1,2 combo. The major disadvantage is in administering an exact dose using a dropper. Topicals The topical application of CBD has two variations. The first variant, the salve, is designed to penetrate the skin but takes effect without entering the bloodstream. They act directly on the endocannabinoid receptors in the region the salve is applied to. The second variation is a transdermal patch. As its name suggests, transdermal patches are designed to carry CBD through the skin and into the bloodstream. Spreading CBD to a targeted area primarily then throughout the rest of the body to be used as needed. While topicals can get CBD exactly where it’s needed, it seldom penetrates deeper than musculoskeletal structure. Topicals eventually move into the bloodstream and are taken to the liver to be broken down. Another method that bypasses the digestive system, allowing the CBD to stay in your system longer. Topicals are easy to use. Apply a topical directly to the region needing treatment. Absorption of CBD can take anywhere from 15-45 minutes for peak effects. While a great deal of CBD can be deployed in a specific region, it's not as good as other delivery methods for getting the maximum amount of CBD throughout the whole body. Inhalant The respiratory system is the quickest way to the bloodstream for CBD. There are 4 variations on CBD inhalation. Smoking and vaporizing are lumped together for obvious health reasons. Along with CBD, you are introducing unhealthy carcinogens into your body. Aerosol inhalers are becoming more common. With far fewer side effects than smoking or vaporizing, this will probably be the preferred method in the near future. The 4th option for inhaling CBD is a nasal spray. You get the added benefits of soft tissue absorption, via the sinuses. This method of CBD delivery is the most efficient but also has the most potential drawbacks. If it's the quantity and expedience you're looking for smoking and vaporizing are the method to go with. Most aerosol and nasal inhalers have relatively small amounts of CBD per dose. Because inhalation bypasses the digestive system, it's not filtered out of the body as quickly as other methods do. Not the easiest method of CBD delivery, Inhalation will always require some tools and prep-time to get the most out of. It can be difficult if not impossible to measure doses with smoking and vaporizing, while with aerosol and nasal inhalers, it is rather straightforward. AS you might expect, inhaling CBD may not be for everyone. The Wrap-up It's not necessarily an either-or situation. Understanding what your trying to achieve with CBD might lead you to a combination of consumption methods. Now, you're better informed to make those decisions. It's always advisable to check with your doctor before taking CBD, for any possible medication-related interactions. Top Shelf Hemp Co. makes no health claims about CBD-Cannabidiol. Everything expressed in this blog post is based on the opinion of the author and information sourced online.

CBG is a lesser-known cannabinoid, increasing in popularity in recent years. At Top Shelf Hemp Co., we want to make sure our customers stay educated on the latest information related to all of our products. In this blog post, we’re going to discover more about CBG. What is CBG? Cannabigerol (CBG) is a natural compound found in hemp, CBG is often referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids”. CBGA, the acidic precursor to CBG, is found in high quantities in the cannabis plant. Nearly all the CBGA is transformed into CBDA or THCA, precursors of the CBD and THC you’re most likely familiar with. Under normal circumstances, only about 1% of a hemp plant becomes CBG. This makes it a “minor” cannabinoid. Due to recent advancements in breeding and cultivation practices, hemp strains have been developed that approach 25% CBG. It’s formed during the flowering cycle, through the decarboxylation of CBGA, which activates the cannabinoid. Decarboxylation begins to occur when heating CBGA to 220F-260F. CBG stimulates both CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. These receptors regulate physiological processes including pain response, appetite, and mood. CBG has exhibited similar effects to CBD, however, it has a host of unique properties currently being researched. When was CBG Discovered? Raphael Mechoulam and Yehiel Gaoni discovered CBG in 1964. At the time it went largely unnoticed. As public opinion slowly shifted in the following years, the importance of CBG as the molecule from which most other cannabinoids can be synthesized, brought it into the spotlight. While medical research is ongoing, it is a very promising chemical compound. Closing Thoughts As the “mother of all cannabinoids”, CBG holds a unique position in modern research. As always we recommend you make your own judgments and consult your doctor before consuming any cannabinoid.

Part of the Top Shelf Hemp Co. mission is to ensure our customers are well informed as to what they are putting in their bodies. This is why taking a critical look at Delta 8 THC is a priority. A Quick History Delta 8 THC was first discovered in the early 1970s and quickly falling out of vogue mid-decade. A handful of studies were done over the next 40 years. It wasn't until the passing of the 2018 farm bill that Delta 8 made its return to mainstream science. The Science Delta 8 is short for delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol. It's an isomer of Delta 9 THC. This means that these compounds have the same components in a different atomic arrangement. It differs from Delta 9 THC, the THC you’re most familiar with, due to the location of a critical chemical bond. While both contain double bonds in their molecular chain, Delta 8s double bond is on the 8th carbon chain rather than the 9th. This is where their common names come from. Research While research is still limited, preliminary studies indicate a relatively gentle psychotropic effect.* It seems to boast an antiemetic effect 200% more potent than Delta 9.* It appears to be much more effective for the treatment of nausea.* It also appears to counteract a lack of appetite to a greater extent than Delta 9.* These features could make Delta-8 an important element in cancer patient treatment.* Combining it with CBD would allow doctors to fine-tune dosage for their patients.* Delta 8 also appears to stimulate the production of acetylcholine.* Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that aids in neuroplasticity, cognition, arousal, and memory within the brain. Studies suggest that Delta 8 may be a valid treatment for conditions such as Alzheimer’s.* We're eagerly awaiting further research on this exciting cannabinoid. Anecdotal Observations Anecdotally, people are using Delta-8 for a myriad of reasons. Its mild psychotropic effect often seems to manifest as slight feelings of euphoria and relaxation*. I’ve personally used it in the past to help treat my insomnia with some success.* Some people are using it for muscular relief, smoking/drinking cessation, and nausea prevention.* Where Delta 8 THC Comes From Delta-8 is found in trace amounts, naturally, in the hemp plant. It’s not a cost-effective means of production to extract it directly from the plant. The most common means of producing Delta-8 is synthesizing it from CBD isolate. Being found in nature, it’s not considered a synthetic cannabinoid, however, this definition is subject to interpretation, as the main source of Delta 8 is a synthetically produced form. Almost all Delta-8 THC on the market today is manufactured from hemp-derived CBD, which makes it, in theory, part of a federally legal chain of origin. Legality The legality of Delta-8 is currently under question because it can be extracted from either cannabis or hemp. Thanks to the 2018 farm bill, hemp can be legally grown and used for extractions all over the United States, making Delta 8 legal in states where Delta 9 THC is illegal federally. The following map outlines states that have currently restricted Delta 8, have legislation pending, only allow it in dispensaries, or have no prohibitive legislation in place, and is current as of the publication of this blog post. Wrap Up Delta 8 THC isn't legal in all states. Its metabolites may trigger many drug tests looking for Delta 9 THC metabolites. As a precaution, you should not take this product if you need to pass a drug test. The research and anecdotal evidence are promising. Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid worth keeping an eye on. Check out the product profiles on our blog for more information on each of our 5 craft edible flavors and 3 infused flower strains. *Top Shelf Hemp Co. makes no health claims about Delta 8 THC. Everything expressed in this blog post is based on the opinion of the author and information sourced online.

At Top Shelf Hemp Co. educating our customers is a large part of our mission. CBD has become a hot topic in recent years. Let's take a closer look at what exactly CBD is. A Quick History Decades of active prohibition may lead some to believe that the therapeutic benefits of CBD are recent revelations. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Evidence suggests that the first use of cannabis-derived medicine dates back to 2737 BC. Chinese Emperor Sheng Neng used cannabis-infused tea to assist with a host of issues including rheumatism, gout, malaria, and even improving his memory. Throughout history, cannabis has made its mark. We would have to wait over 4,500 years for human knowledge to begin to unravel the mysteries of the cannabis plant. The credit for discovering Cannabidiol (CBD) goes to American chemist Roger Adams in 1942. While Cannabinol (CBN) had been identified two years earlier, Adams has the distinction of being the first to isolate a cannabinoid. At the time because of their limited understanding of the cannabinoid structure, early scientists were unable to determine which compounds caused which effects. It took a year for researchers to determine the stereochemistry of THC, revealing the cannabinoids' direct relationship to the euphoric effects of cannabis. As a result, they were able to determine that CBD was not a mind-altering compound. Over the next 80 years, CBD research was hindered due to its close association with the cannabis plant. The political policies of active prohibition slowed research to a crawl. Minor legal victories continued scientific interest in cannabis research, and a slow change in public opinion would help pave the way for the federal Farm Bill of 2018, legalizing hemp cannabis. How is Cannabidiol Different from Marijuana? Cannabidiol or CBD is the second most common active ingredient in cannabis. While CBD is an essential element in medical marijuana, commercially it is derived from the hemp plant. Many sources would lead you to believe that the hemp plant and marijuana are different species. This is not the case. From a scientific standpoint, the taxonomy of hemp and marijuana are identical. Breeding and cultivation are the major contributing factors in whether a cannabis plant is considered hemp or marijuana. This is why all legally grown commercial cannabis is lab tested. If a hemp plant exceeds .03% Delta 9 THC it is destroyed. Is CBD Legal? CBD is available across the United States. At the state level, it's legal status is contingent. Every state has its own laws and regulations regarding CBD. In the past the federal government's position on CBD has been confusing, placing CBD and marijuana in the same category of drug. With the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, the federal government legalized CBD products as long as products maintain less than 0.03% Delta 9 THC. Delta 9 THC is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis. It’s recommended you check state laws before purchasing CBD in your state. The Science CBD is being promoted by celebrities and athletes. You can find it being added to almost any product you can imagine. Top Shelf Hemp Co. is prohibited from making any health claims. Below is a link to an archive of professional research studies from 1980-2019, where you can make your own informed opinion. https://www.cannabis-med.org/studies/ww_en_db_study_search.php * Wrap Up CBD has a fascinating history. Consuming CBD certainly has its benefits. It's advisable to check your local and state law for any new developments. Continue educating yourself on cannabinoids, and check out www.topshelfhemp.co when you're ready for a more first-hand experience. *Top Shelf Hemp Co. makes no health claims about CBD-Cannabidiol. Everything expressed in this blog post is based on the opinion of the author and information sourced online.

Hemp flower comes from the bud of a female cannabis plant. Bred and cultivated to possess high levels of CBD. There's a notable difference between the run-of-the-mill CBD flower you can find anywhere and the highest quality top-shelf CBD. The origins of the term "top-shelf" come from British newsagent's shops commonly storing materials with adult content on the top shelf where it is both less visible and harder to reach without being seen. Eventually, the term crossed the pond. In America, it became common in bars to indicate the highest quality alcohol. It has since been adopted by the cannabis industry to denote premium caliber products. A Google search will demonstrate that most stores claim to have top-shelf smokable hemp products. Hemp flower that earns the top-shelf title all share similar characteristics. Here's how to ensure you're getting the best product. How to establish top-shelf status? Back to our Google search. "Top-shelf CBD flower" yields over 1,900,000 results. How can you ensure that you're getting real high-quality smokable CBD? The following criteria can be used to determine if the company is using the term indiscriminately or their claims are genuine. Potency The benefits of smoking hemp flower are 2 fold. Inhaling CBD allows it to pass through the lung's air-blood barrier and get into the body in about 15 minutes. Monitoring the amount of CBD you're ingesting is also a simple process. We'll touch on this more shortly. One of the primary reasons people smoke CBD hemp flower is for its quick effect on the body. If the percent of CBD in the flower is low, the effects might not even be noticeable. It's recommended that you seek out companies that offer easy-to-access to 3rd party lab reports, commonly know as COA's in the industry. If they aren't available online, email them to inquire. All hemp products must be lab-tested for a Delta-9 THC content under .03%. At the very least, a lab test can be used to determine what percentage of CBD is in the hemp flower. You'll also be able to see the percentages of other cannabinoids like CBGA, CBC, CBDV and CBN, which all have a unique impact on the body. Top-shelf hemp flower will typically have a CBD percentage in the double digits ranging from around 12-26%. This means that if you smoke a 1 gram preroll with a CBD level of 26%, you're ingesting 260mg of CBD. To put this in perspective most human studies use dosages anywhere between 20 and 1,500mg per day. Understanding the percentage of CBD you're getting is only the first step in identifying top-shelf hemp flower. If the percentage of CBD is low, it should not be considered a top-shelf hemp flower. A high percentage of CBD is the #1 indicator of the highest quality smokeable CBD. Appearance It's not uncommon for consumers to make a return to the hemp flower after a substantial hiatus. Some have never seen or consumed hemp. There's nothing to worry about. If you've ever shopped for produce, you have a basic understanding of what constitutes a fresh plant. Overall color, moisture content, and the right firmness. Those same rules apply to top-shelf smokeable hemp as well. Fortunately, those skills we've all developed in the produce aisle directly apply to hemp as well. Looking at hemp bud, there are 2 things to keep in mind. A quick inspection for debris. High-quality hemp flowers will be free of loose trimmings. It should have a short stem, cut so that it almost disappears. It should also be trimmed into a compact shape, with fan leafs removed. A rushed or shaggy trim should be avoided. The coloration can vary between various hemp strains. The bud of a top-shelf hemp flower should primarily be green. You might notice tan-colored stigma, thick hair-like structures. There are often thick small structures similar to a leaf. These are the bract and calyx. They can vary in color from green to purple in color. In general the more vibrant the colors, the higher quality hemp you are dealing with. The key to a visual inspection is the trichome structure. These are the fine, white, sticky formations that give the bud a furry look. If the trichomes look frosty, it's a relatively fresh bud. A glistening hemp flower will be brimming with CBD. In regards to purchasing top-shelf hemp online, always look for high-quality images and seek out product reviews from customers who have purchased the particular strain you're looking interested in. Between the images and reviews, it's best to trust your instincts. Aroma Taking your analysis to the next level can be difficult online, however, it's not impossible. You should look into the terpene profile of the strain you're interested in. Terpenes are volatile hydrocarbons found in essential oils. They are found in large quantities in the hemp plant, giving each strain its distinct smell. With the potential to express over 200 different terpenes in varying amounts, an individual strain's terpene profile can play an important role in the effects a given flower will have on your body. Information on terpenes is often available on a lab report. However, this information isn't always present in a report. Given the opportunity, we recommend you use your nose. The 4 most common terpenes are Mycerene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene. Each has a distinct odor and effect. Mycerene has a strong earthy smell. In high enough quantities it's often described as "skunky". Mycerene is also found in thyme, mango, and lemongrass. It is said to have a calming effect. Limonene has a citrusy smell, reminiscent of lemon or orange zest. It's also found in junipers. It's thought to help relieve stress. Caryophyllene has a strong, spicy, sometimes peppery scent. It's also found in pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. It's known to stimulate the body's endocannabinoid system. Pinene has a fragrant and earthy smell, reminiscent of a pine forest. Pinene is found in rosemary, basil, and pine needles. It's said to help with pain and inflammation. If the percentage of CBD is low or any or all of these scents aren't present in the hemp strain you're considering, it should not be considered a top-shelf hemp flower. A high percentage of CBD and a pungent smell are indicators of the highest quality smokeable CBD. In addition to the terpene profile, the curing process can greatly impact the aroma of a hemp flower. If done correctly the smell and flavor of the hemp flowers are preserved for up to two years. If it smells like fresh-cut grass it's a sign that the chlorophyll in the plant is decomposing into ammonia. This is an indication of a rushed or faulty curing process, and should never reach you, the consumer. If a bud smells like mold or mildew, do not consume it. This is a result of mold contamination. This typically happens during the plant's growth phase. If it is dried incorrectly or comes into contact with water mold can grow. Mold can be harmful if inhaled. If a hemp flower smells off, it's best to avoid consuming it. Flavor Profile Our sense of smell and taste are closely related. The flavor profile of a top-shelf hemp flower should closely resemble the aroma. For online purchases researching terpene profiles and reviews is highly recommended. It's not always possible for hemp flower flavors to taste exactly the same as they smell. When lighting a preroll or bowl, you're adding the elements of heat and combustion to the equation. With this in mind, high-quality CBD flowers taste very similar to their aroma. It's important to keep this in mind when looking for top-shelf hemp strains. Growing Conditions The growing conditions a hemp plant finds itself in are often the determining factor in whether it can be considered a top-shelf CBD product or not. What practices are farmers using to ensure the highest quality plants? Are they growing organically? Does the farm use sustainable growing methods? Do they avoid pesticides and harsh chemicals? Was the hemp grown indoors or outdoors? Your CBD bud's origins hold a lot of bearing on its quality. The origin of where the hemp grew holds a lot of weight in terms of its quality. The best hemp plants will be free of any impurities including heavy metals, pesticides, yeast, and mold. Price "Good work ain't cheap, cheap work ain't good." Norman Collins had the right idea. It takes quite a lot of effort to produce a top-shelf hemp flower and get it into the customer's hands. Having said that the difference in price between high-quality CBD flower and the average bud is relatively modest. A gram of top-shelf hemp flower runs between $7-$10, where a mid-grade gram will run you around $6. If you see hemp flower below $6 a gram claiming to be 'top-shelf', this is a sign to be on your guard. Remember the traits we discussed. Trust your instincts and do your research. If you're looking for a discounted price, consider reaching out to stores and asking about a bulk discount. Leave a Review If you've made it all the way through the article, congratulations are in order. If you have experience with Top Shelf Hemp Co. products, we're asking that you leave a review on your favorite products, here. Due to federal regulations, we can not accept reviews with claims that our CBD products may be used to cure, treat, or aid conditions such as anxiety, inflammation, depression, PTSD, ADHD, Cancer, or any other health conditions. With that in mind, there's still plenty to review. For more information on our products check out our product profile pages here, or go straight to the store here.

We're proud to announce the first of many informational podcasts from Top Shelf Hemp Co. Cutting through the static, we're looking at the research, interviewing the community, and bringing you the latest news from around the country. Listen here or stay up to date by following us on Sound Cloud. https://soundcloud.com/topshelfhempco

Gold Hill Flower is a staple strain for CBD. With a smooth flavor profile and a robust scent, it’s great for kicking your feet up and enjoying your day. Click this link to go directly to the Top Shelf Hemp Co. store, https://www.topshelfhemp.co/product-page/gold-hill COA Overview 16.14% CBD .76% THC You can see the full certificate of analysis below, or download a PDF version here.

A pungent mix of gasoline & diesel overtones. While its incredible aroma is fuel dominant, subtle undertones of woody spice & earthy hops are at play. KLR Gas has a flavor profile as complex as it is potent. Click this link to go directly to the Top Shelf Hemp Co. store, https://www.topshelfhemp.co/product-page/klr-gas COA Overview 12.49% CBD .7% THC You can see the full certificate of analysis below, or download a PDF version here.

Users often report a "heady" sensation. It's not uncommon for this strain to make people especially chatty & highly energized. It's recommended to take it in the early morning to avoid interfering with one's sleep cycle. Click this link to go directly to the Top Shelf Hemp Co. store, https://www.topshelfhemp.co/product-page/hawaiian-haze COA Overview 15.83% CBD .77% THC You can see the full certificate of analysis below, or download a PDF version here.