We sat down recently with Paul Harney, co-founder of The Hemp Division, for a quick lightning round of basic questions that are most often asked by people who are CBD curious. Paul and his brother, Mike, started THD in 2018 because they wanted to provide people with the highest quality CBD, which starts with growing their own hemp plants and ends with creating the final product. From hot teas to bottled cold beverages, tinctures, and an ever-expanding line of products, Paul is excited about being able to bring all-natural, from the roots up CBD products to people interested in upping their wellness routine.
Much like his natural, honest, and potent CBD products, here are some of Paul’s natural, honest and succinct answers to some of the most frequently asked CBD questions!
THD: Let’s start with a super brief overview of the basics: What is CBD? How is it different from marijuana?
Paul: CBD is one of more than 100 chemical compounds called cannabinoids that are found in the cannabis plant, Cannabis sativa. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis, which means it causes the sensation of getting high that’s often associated with cannabis. However, unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive.
THD: If I’ve never tried CBD, where would you suggest I start?
Paul: Start small and work your way up. Everybody reacts differently, and often it takes some time to see how your body reacts to different levels.
THD: What kind of effects might I expect when I take CBD?
Paul: I think the most common effect is relaxation. And a general calming of the mind.
THD: How do I know what CBD dosage is right for me?
Paul: It really depends on what you are looking for. Are you looking to sleep or for pain relief? Maybe that is a higher dosage. If your goal is to focus, you might go with a lower amount along with some caffeine.
THD: Will CBD make me sleepy? Is it safe to take CBD and drive?
Paul: CBD really reacts differently to all people. So there is no one-size-fits-all answer. And no, we don't recommend driving while taking CBD.
THD: What do customers say they like about CBD?
Paul: I think the most common effect people are looking for is sleep. But the next most common is better focus, and that is where the caffeine comes into play. And if you get to the right spot, it can be very effective to calm and focus the mind.
THD: How do you like to incorporate CBD into your routine?
Paul: I use CBD primarily to focus or to relieve minor aches and pain. I enjoy drinking the Focus hot tea or the Glide bottled tea in the afternoons.
THD: Anything else you’d like to share with readers about how to best use CBD to enhance their daily life?
Paul: Know your personal goals and what you want CBD to help you with and then start small, listen to your body and give it a little bit of time to work. Don't just expect it all to happen in one day.
THD: Any other big updates to share?
Paul: Customers are loving our newest product, Yuzu with Rosemary Sparkling Elixir. It’s a perfect summer sip. Any day now, fingers crossed, we’ll have CBD gummies – excited about that! And we think it’s pretty big news that The Hemp Division is license number 7 to be a THC Cultivator in the state of New York. Huzzah!