One of the biggest CBD trends we’ve seen is smoking natural hemp flower. Tinctures, concentrates and edibles started out strong in the CBD world, but even with all these options available, natural hemp is still just as popular. Oils and edible CBD materials are great for long-lasting effects for pain relief and seizures, but for conditions that require instant relief like anxiety or insomnia, inhaling a substance is the quickest way to feel the effects.

What is hemp?

Hemp flower looks exactly like cannabis, and it is even of the same species. But hemp is legal for one differentiating factor: it needs to have less than 0.3% THC content to even be considered “hemp.” In the past, the hemp plant has mostly been used for clothes, textiles and building materials because of its extremely strong and dense fibers. Also a popular food source, hemp is very nutritious as its been used for milk, oil and cheeses for centuries. It’s a rich source of healthy fats, magnesium and protein. Topically, it’s been proven to soothe inflammation in the skin, deeply moisturize without clogging pores and even alleviate atopic dermatitis.

Why choose hemp?

Because of the negligible amount of THC present, hemp has a high level of CBD. If a plant has high levels of THC, CBD levels will be low. That’s why hemp is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of smoking the natural herb without the paranoia or “high” feeling. When ingested, CBD can provide long-lasting, subtle relief for a number of conditions. But when you burn and inhale the natural flower, the “[vaporized cannabidiol] goes directly into the bloodstream and within minutes starts working in the areas of the body – and brain – that need it most,” according to Dr. Leah Zachar. Plus, many CBD patients find smoking the most soothing and therapeutic form of medicating.

What’s the best way to consume hemp?

In order to get the full experience of smoking hemp, it’s important to have a quality piece that fits your lifestyle. CBD users choose hemp because they enjoy the taste and sensation of smoking it, so pipes and bowls that accentuate the flavors are ideal. Our Ooze “Piper” silicone chillum is a simple, durable and easy to clean hybrid product that’s perfect for hemp flower. If you prefer something a bit more discreet, our Drought vaporizers convert dry hemp into vapor for a smooth, odorless hit.

Hemp itself is also a lot more accessible as a form of medication because it’s not highly regulated and is legal in all states. In 2018, hemp was determined not a Schedule 1 drug. This means hemp can be purchased in every state, no matter what the legislation on cannabis is, even online. Even with the lack of regulation, there are certified online hemp brands like Plain Jane that sell natural, organic hemp flower and are making hemp even more of a demanded method of CBD.

As long as you do your research on each hemp brand or product you’re thinking about investing in, you can use hemp’s immediate benefits for tons of health conditions. To learn more about hemp-derived CBD, head over to Hemp-Derived CBD vs. Marijuana-Derived CBD.