Law

The Discrepancies in U.S. Hemp and Marijuana Laws: An Obstacle to Natural Health Solutions

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By John Wick

Introduction

Across the U.S., inconsistencies in cannabis regulations continue to create confusion: while high-THC marijuana cultivation is often allowed, hemp crops testing above 0.3% THC are typically destroyed, even if they barely exceed this threshold. This policy doesn’t just restrict access to beneficial cannabinoids; it also has a direct impact on pioneering companies like Kentucky Cannabis Company and their founder, Bill Polyniak. Polyniak, whose company has seen high-quality hemp crops destroyed due to minor THC fluctuations, says, “Burning high-quality hemp is just the government hurting those that CBD can help the most.” Such a rigid approach to THC limits prevents the development of valuable minor cannabinoids, limiting public access to the full wellness potential of hemp.

The History of Kentucky Cannabis Company

Founded in 2014, Kentucky Cannabis Company was the first in the state to focus exclusively on cannabinoid research, setting the stage for a new era in plant-based wellness. Bill Polyniak, the company’s founder, was motivated to develop a repeatable, dosed full-spectrum CBD oil to help his own son, who was in need of a natural, effective solution. This led to the creation of one of the first full-spectrum CBD oils with consistent dosing, an innovation that not only set industry standards but also paved the way for other hemp companies. With a strong focus on research and quality, Kentucky Cannabis Company continues to lead the way in delivering cannabinoid-rich, full-spectrum products to support public wellness.

What Makes Hemp Different from Marijuana?

At its core, hemp is genetically distinct from marijuana, each naturally predisposed to produce either CBD or THC as the dominant cannabinoid. Hemp, for instance, is genetically designed to be CBD-dominant, similar to how female humans are hormonally dominant in estrogen. On the other hand, marijuana is THC-dominant, akin to how males are naturally higher in testosterone. This predisposition is embedded within the plant’s DNA and remains unaltered by minor cannabinoid variations. Thus, even if a hemp crop exceeds the 0.3% THC threshold by a small margin, it retains its non-intoxicating profile and continues to offer a range of health benefits without psychoactive effects.

The Inconsistencies and Their Impact on Access to Natural Cannabinoids

The rigid 0.3% THC limit for hemp restricts the development of cannabinoids that naturally occur alongside CBD and contribute to its therapeutic benefits. Kentucky Cannabis Company’s products, like their Batch CBD oil, demonstrate the value of a full-spectrum approach that includes these minor cannabinoids, which are known to enhance CBD’s effects. “We worry about the cannabinoid science so you can enjoy the relief,” says Polyniak, emphasizing the company’s commitment to high-quality, effective wellness products.

Key Minor Cannabinoids Restricted by the 0.3% THC Limit and Their Benefits

Restricting hemp cultivation to a strict THC limit not only impacts CBD access but also limits the availability of other beneficial cannabinoids. Here are a few minor cannabinoids affected by these restrictions and the wellness benefits they provide:

  1. CBG (Cannabigerol)
    • Benefits: Often called the “mother of all cannabinoids,” CBG serves as a precursor to other cannabinoids like CBD and THC. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and neuroprotective effects, supporting brain health, immune function, and digestive wellness.
  2. CBC (Cannabichromene)
    • Benefits: CBC has shown promise in promoting brain health through neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells). Its anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and antimicrobial properties make it valuable for conditions like chronic pain and infection.
  3. CBN (Cannabinol)
    • Benefits: Created as THC degrades, CBN is non-psychoactive and is recognized for its calming effects, which support sleep and relaxation. It also has anti-inflammatory and appetite-stimulating properties, beneficial for dogs and humans with appetite loss due to health conditions.
  4. THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
    • Benefits: THCV is unique among cannabinoids for its appetite-suppressing properties, potentially useful for weight management. It also supports blood sugar regulation and may enhance energy, showing promise in studies related to metabolic health and diabetes.
  5. CBDV (Cannabidivarin)
    • Benefits: CBDV, similar to CBD in structure, has shown potential in reducing nausea and managing seizures. It is being researched for its role in treating neurological disorders, particularly epilepsy and seizure-related conditions.

These minor cannabinoids contribute to the “entourage effect,” where multiple cannabinoids work synergistically to enhance their overall effects. Kentucky Cannabis Company’s focus on producing full-spectrum products like Batch CBD oil ensures that these beneficial compounds are available, offering a natural, side-effect-free alternative to traditional treatments.

Why These Disparities Represent Intellectual Dishonesty

Allowing the cultivation of high-THC marijuana while enforcing a restrictive THC limit on hemp demonstrates a clear inconsistency in policy. Kentucky Cannabis Company’s experience underscores this contradiction, as high-quality hemp capable of supporting wellness is destroyed, while high-THC cannabis is allowed to flourish. This policy inconsistency fails to recognize the fundamental difference between psychoactive marijuana and non-intoxicating hemp, limiting access to natural wellness solutions that could significantly benefit the public.

The Path Forward: Advocating for Science-Based Standards

To foster a balanced and scientifically informed approach, policymakers should consider raising the allowable THC threshold for hemp to 1-2%. Such a change would reflect the plant’s natural composition more accurately and allow for greater cannabinoid diversity in consumer products. By rethinking these outdated limits, regulators could empower companies like Kentucky Cannabis Company to deliver a broader range of wellness products that harness the full potential of cannabinoids.

Conclusion

Rethinking THC limits for hemp would open doors to a broader spectrum of cannabinoid-based wellness products, advancing a fairer, more effective approach to public health. Kentucky Cannabis Company’s Batch CBD oil exemplifies the benefits of a full-spectrum approach, providing consumers with safe, natural alternatives to traditional treatments without harsh side effects. By managing the science, Kentucky Cannabis Company makes it easier for consumers to enjoy the relief and wellness benefits that nature intended—in a safe, non-intoxicating manner suitable even for kids.

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