CBD seems to be all the rage—but what exactly is it, and is it safe for our children and furry friends? David Baker, owner of Nature’s Bloom, a retail shop specializing in CBD products, believes so.
CBD stands for cannabidiol. According to Harvard Health Publishing, a health resource blog by Harvard Medical School, CBD is the second most prevalent of the active ingredients of cannabis. It is derived directly from the hemp plant, and does not in itself cause a high of any sort.
Harvard Health Publishing goes on to point out that, according to the World Health Organization, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential…. To date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”
Baker supports these statements and notes that CBD is legal in Arizona.
“CBD is not the same as weed; it’s less than 0.3% THC, which is the legal amount,” he clarifies. “Therefore, you do not need a medical card to purchase products from the store. That’s a big misconception we see a lot. Anyone can come in and purchase helpful CBD products, no card needed.”
He adds that he and his team are not medical professionals, and that he recommends that customers should check in with a trusted veterinarian or doctor before giving CBD to pets or children.
CBD for Kids
“At our shop, we hang our hat on our oil,” Baker says. “It tastes good, which helps kids to take it easier—the best way to do it is with a couple of drops under your tongue for 60 seconds.”
Most of his customers who ask about CBD for their children are parents and caregivers who are concerned about their children’s behavioral, anxiety, and sleep issues.
CBD is known to be used in children for seizure disorders (like epilepsy), according to experts, but Baker has also seen it used for children on the autism spectrum, as well. He can point to many success stories from local customers who saw behavioral problems improve with their children.
Baker also believes that CBD is known to be a natural inflammatory and helps with cell regeneration.
“Because of this, it’s great for kids who do sports,” he says. “Our salves are really popular with local sports teams.”
CBD for Pets
When it comes to our furry friends, Baker says that smaller animals can take a half strength dose of CBD oil and larger animals can do a full strength dose.
“I’ve seen CBD help older dogs with mobility issues, and it helps with aches and pains,” he says. “It also helps with anxiety and puts animals in a better mood.”
He adds that he’s also seen it used in animals for seizures.
“Pets receive the oil really well; you can put it on their lips or have them lick it off your fingers,” Baker shares. “While I don’t know of any side effects in animals besides drowsiness, make sure to check with your vet first.”
With all of his clients—kids, pets, and adults—Baker says that his shop has a personalized touch and helps everyone with questions and dosing information. He encourages those who are interested in CBD to ask medical professionals, do their online research, and in-person questions at the shop—or over the phone—are always welcome.
To learn more, visit NaturesBloom.net or call 480.704.4322. Nature’s Bloom is located at 4995 S. Alma School Road and products are available online, as well.
