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While we generally think of CBD products for humans - you know, tinctures, smokables, and creams -  it’s also becoming increasingly popular for animals. We’re talking dog treats, digestive chews, and even pet-friendly lip balms.  But is CBD *really* safe for pets? And can it actually help them with anxiety, seizures, and joint pain? 
We’ve pulled some studies, stats, and stories to help you make the best decision for you and your pets! ????????(Psst, the research is exciting!)

First, is CBD safe for pets?

As you probably already know, CBD does not have THC. Meaning, CBD doesn’t have psychoactive properties and will not get you (or your pets) “high.” Rather, CBD is known for its calming effects and feelings of general “well being.” 

According to a 2017 World Health Organization report, naturally occurring CBD was shown to be safe and well tolerated in humans and animals, and was not associated with any negative public health effects

That said, research is still limited and more evidence needs to be collected before any firm conclusions can be made. And like always, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet before putting anything new in your pet’s system. 
Note: the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) claims that pets can overdose on CBD products and experience negative symptoms such as vomiting and lethargy. Like any supplement, medication, or special additive, we recommend putting CBD in a safe place out of reach!

What are the potential health benefits of CBD for Pets?

Anecdotal evidence along with a few studies (both old and new) show there is excellent promise when it comes to the health benefits of CBD for pets. Not only is CBD associated with mitigated anxiety and pain reduction, but studies also show it may even help reduce dog seizures.

Again, more research is needed before conclusions can be confidently drawn. But this information is extremely exciting to see and we look forward to reading more studies (hopefully) in the near future.

How to use CBD safely for pets

Interested in CBD products for your pets? Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind and remember: you and your veterinarian know your dog best!

DO:

DON'T

Veterinarian-Approved CBD products for your pets

Our pet tinctures were developed with Dr. Robert Prošek, a double-boarded Veterinary Cardiologist from the South Miami area. We are so excited to offer CBD products for pets that are made with the highest quality ingredients. We don’t use anything that we wouldn’t proudly give our own pets! Everything is manufactured locally and we hold multiple certifications so you can feel good about what you’re giving your beloved pets (read more, here).

Learn more about the difference between CBD for sleep and the potential benefits of CBN

For many of us, aches and pains are part of our daily lives. In fact, it's estimated that 50 million Americans are dealing with chronic pain in one way or another. And all of us seek relief. Because of that, we’re going to answer one frequent question regarding this issue–do CBD balms and topicals really work for pain relief? 

While discomfort can manifest in various ways - like sore muscles after a workout, tight shoulders from slouching over a computer, or pain you can’t pinpoint an exact cause–it’s undoubtedly an uncomfortable and often isolating experience.  If you’re looking for relief (we feel ya!), you may want to consider CBD topical creams and balms in your routine. 

Keep reading for our guide to CBD topical creams, including how they help with pain relief and other potential benefits. Plus, we’re featuring three of our new Restore CBD Topical Balms in the South Tip collection that you can shop online. Each one is designed to help you with pain relief for your sore muscles. ????

What are CBD balms and topicals?

CBD topicals are pretty much exactly what they sound like! CBD balms and topicals are external applications infused with cannabidiol (CBD) that are designed to be applied directly to the skin. These products have gained popularity for their potential therapeutic benefits without the need for ingestion. We love them because they can be applied as needed–like breaks between Zoom calls or after a workout. They’re also easy to carry around with you when you need a little support on the go.

Let’s see an overview of CBD balms and topicals:

CBD Balm

CBD balms typically have a thicker consistency compared to other topicals, and tend to have higher concentrations. They often contain a combination of CBD extract, carrier oils (such as coconut or hemp seed oil), and natural waxes (like beeswax or shea butter) to create a solid, salve-like texture.

Users can apply CBD balm directly to the skin by massaging a small amount into the targeted area. The warmth of the skin helps the balm melt, allowing for easy absorption. Another bonus: balms are less prone to spilling on the go, due to their thicker texture. South Tip’s Restore Balms are actually formulated for the hot South Florida weather with a higher melting point than other products on the market.

CBD topical creams and lotions

CBD creams and lotions have a lighter and more liquid consistency compared to balms. They typically include a mix of CBD extract, water, and lighter oils (such as almond or jojoba oil) to create a smooth and easily spreadable texture. Lotions typically require an emulsion, and if the manufacturer didn’t stabilize it correctly, they can separate over time. Balms usually don’t have this issue.

These topicals are applied by massaging the cream or lotion onto the skin. They are absorbed into the skin, and users can target specific areas where they desire the potential benefits of CBD.

CBD topicals have multiple effects and benefits, but let’s see what we’re here for in the first place - do CBD balms and topicals help with pain?

Do CBD creams really help with pain relief?

When it comes to therapeutic benefits and CBD topical creams, the potential is exciting. The research is still very limited, and no conclusive statements can be made (yet). In the meantime, here are some research highlights:

Inflammation & Arthritis

In a review published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, CBD topicals were called a “safe natural compound” that had pain-relieving effects in various animal models. The study also mentioned potential anti-inflammatory effects and its potential influence on anti-arthritic activity. However, the study also mentioned it’s an understudied substance that needs more research. Similarly, a 2016 study discovered that topical applications of CBD could help manage pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.

There are also some exciting findings in recent studies that highlight the potential of topical application of a specific cannabinoid receptor-1 agonist (CB1R) in speeding up the recovery of the skin's protective barrier. This is especially significant in cases of acutely disrupted skin. The research demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects during both acute and chronic skin irritation, aligning with previous study outcomes. While there's room for further investigation to uncover the involvement of other signaling pathways, these initial results suggest that using a topical CB1R agonist could be a promising therapeutic choice for addressing both acute and chronic inflammatory skin conditions. Conditions such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and psoriasis might benefit from this potential breakthrough in skin health research. For now though, the jury is out. Feel free to test out if this may work for you.

Acne, eczema, and psoriasis

The American Academy of Dermatology suggested topical CBD products can be used as a supplementary measure for acne, eczema, and psoriasis. 

Additionally, acne, a prevalent skin condition characterized by elevated sebum (oil) production and inflammation of the sebaceous glands, has garnered attention in recent studies that explore the potential benefits of cannabis oils. In a small, but notable study, a cream with 3% Cannabis seed extract demonstrated efficacy in reducing sebum production over a 12-week period, showcasing the promising potential of cannabinoid-based treatments in addressing acne-related concerns.

When it comes to psoriasis, one key player in this interaction is Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2), primarily found on immune cells. Research indicates that cannabinoids, acting as agonists, directly influence these cells. These immune cells, called T-cells, are critical in the development of psoriasis, as they create a positive feedback loop. In experiments, exposure of CD3+ cells to these compounds resulted in a complete inhibition of their action, which may slow the process of development. Given these findings, cannabinoids present a promising avenue for future treatments, holding potential in addressing the complex dynamics of psoriasis pathogenesis.

Feelings of weakness, numbness, and pain

A 2020 study discovered that CBD oil can achieve “significant improvement in pain” in patients with peripheral neuropathy - damage to nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. These feelings can often result in weakness, numbness, and pain.

Overall, CBD is still in the early stages of research - but it’s encouraging to see these studies that show the vast potential of CBD’s therapeutic benefits.

How much CBD oil or creams should I use for pain? And how long does it take to feel better?

Two of the questions we get a lot are: how much CBD oil or cream should I take for pain relief? And how long does it take to feel the benefits of CBD topicals? 

While every person is different, we find it generally takes about 15 to 45 minutes to feel the effects. We also recommend using a pea-sized amount to the area affected - and going up from there as needed. There’s no “one size fits all” answer for how much cream to use - so listen to your body! 

As for CBD oil, refer to the bottle you’re using for a recommended dosage. Be sure to take note of ingredients and be careful of sensitive areas. Since CBD topicals are mostly marketed for muscle soreness, formulas generally include ingredients similar to Icy Hot that can be irritating in these areas. The ingredients to look out for are: Chili/Mint oil, menthol, and essential oils. We strongly advise against using CBD topicals internally, near the eye area, or on broken skin. 

CBD Topical vs. Oral

Unlike CBD smokables, gummies, or tinctures - CBD cream goes on your skin and not in your mouth. This means the effect of a topical is more immediate and localized since the skin has its own receptors; it doesn’t need to enter the bloodstream to work.  Using CBD orally can either be through the capillaries of the mouth (like a tincture under the tongue) or eating/swallowing a gummy or capsule.  Absorbing under the tongue is faster as it goes directly into the bloodstream without having to be broken down in the liver.  We have an ever-expanding list of tinctures that are all vegan and keto-friendly!

Shop our CBD Topical Balm Products

Need some extra healing love on your shoulders? Back of your legs? You can easily apply our CBD Topical Balm over the area you could use some relief - and gently massage it until it’s absorbed into your skin. Repeat as needed. Just don’t forget to wash your hands after use. 

Each formula includes 2,000 mg of CBD or a combination of CBD and Delta-8 THC. To put this in perspective, according to Healthline, CBD is considered high potency if it has at least 50 milligrams (mg) of CBD per 1 milliliter serving.

All of our CBD and CBG Topical Creams are vegan-friendly, lab-certified, and made in the U.S.A. without any animal testing.

Dealing with tossing and turning?

Find out how CBD can potentially help you sleep!

Have you heard about the new cannabinoid in town? CBN is known for its calming and restful benefits, but wait until you hear all about its effects and use cases! 

Since there are so many cannabinoids (113, at least), and we know it can be hard to keep track of what’s what, so we’ve prepared a guide on CBN. Buckle up; you’ll find out everything about CBN’s effects, potential benefits, and details about our lavender CBN tincture. 

Whether you’re looking for something new to incorporate into your self-care routine or simply want to learn more about CBN, we’ve got you covered. 

Whether you’re looking for something new to incorporate into your self-care routine or simply want to learn more about this lesser-known cannabinoid, we’ve got you covered. 

What is CBN (Cannabinol)?

CBN, which stands for cannabinol, is a cannabinoid derived from hemp plants. However, you probably won’t find any CBN in a young cannabis plant. Unlike its more famous cousins, CBN appears in the plant only after it has aged and been exposed to enough oxygen. 

CBN originates from THC, but it’s non-psychoactive–meaning it won’t induce a high, making it a sibling to CBD in terms of its legal and safe consumption.

Fun fact: CBN was the first cannabinoid to be extracted by scientists in the late 19th century - decades before CBD and THC.

What are CBN Benefits?

Ok, we’re not going to pretend CBN will cure everyone’s insomnia or stop all anxious thoughts from entering your mind - we wish! 

But we do think that CBN benefits lie in being a great addition to your wellness and nighttime routine, especially when combined with CBD or other bedtime rituals

While research on CBN is still limited, there are exciting potential benefits, such as aiding the body in getting better sleep and reducing inflammation.

Promoting better sleep

CBN is known for supporting the body to achieve better, more restful sleep. While there aren’t many studies, one research stands out with its promising conclusions. According to 2023 research, a nightly dose of 20mg of CBN could be particularly beneficial for those experiencing overall sleep disturbances. 

This includes challenges such as the frequency of waking up during the night, a common issue for many struggling with sleep. What makes CBN especially appealing is its ability to address these sleep concerns without adversely affecting daytime alertness and energy levels, making it a great alternative to melatonin.

Stay tuned for more studies!

Embrace relaxation

CBN can benefit your sense of relaxation and calmness. It can help you unwind and manage stress and anxiety better while you work toward achieving a more peaceful state of mind. 

Potential pain relief

A 2019 study with rats found CBD and CBN could reduce pain. It also found the combination of CBN and CBD was more effective together than either was on their own, which is known as the entourage effect. The study’s conclusion: CBN and CBD may be able to relieve pain from TMJ (temporomandibular disorders) and fibromyalgia.

Reducing inflammation

A study showed CBN is an anti-inflammatory agent with the potential to affect arthritis positively. Seeing as the CDC reports that 23% of all adults in the U.S. have arthritis, this would potentially help tens of millions of people.

Ultimately, more studies are needed before any substantial claims can be made about the benefits of CBN. If you’re interested in trying CBN - or really, any cannabis product - we encourage you to talk with your doctor, listen to your body, and check in with yourself about how you feel.

Any other potential effects of CBN?

Other studies show there’s a potential link between CBN and appetite stimulation. This would offer a good alternative to THC for those who want the benefits without the intoxication.
Some research also shows that CBN may be a potent antibacterial agent. The idea is that CBN may help heal infections that some antibiotics struggle to fight off.

CBN vs CBD: What’s the Difference?

While both CBD and CBN are derived from hemp plants and offer a range of potential effects and benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC, there are some key differences between them.

Understanding this distinction can help you choose the right CBD or CBN product for your self-care routine. Let’s start:

CBD is found in high concentrations in cannabis plants and extracted directly from the plant.

CBN is a byproduct when THC ages and breaks down due to oxidation and exposure to light and heat. It’s found in older cannabis plants in much smaller quantities compared to CBD.

You can easily find CBD products, but what about CBN? It’s often found in cannabis products formulated specifically for sleep, such as tinctures and edibles. 

We know CBN may help you with sleep, but what about CBD? You just have to find out how CBD can potentially help you sleep as well!

If you want to know more about how CBN stacks up against other cannabinoids, we’ve got you covered! Explore the difference between CBN and CBG for more insights.

CBN and Lavander Oil Products

We’ve got big news! At South Tip, we decided to combine two of our favorite oils - lavender, and CBN - in one tincture for maximum relaxation. 

Why lavender? Lavender is a perennial that’s proven to promote sleep and improve energy levels: 

This CBN tincture is designed to be easily absorbed under the tongue and has a long shelf life, so you can enjoy it without feeling rushed by an expiration date. Plus, this liquid extract is an accessible and approachable way to try CBN if it’s new to you.

CBN Products For Your Best Nightly Routine

Choosing the right CBN product for your nighttime routine involves understanding your specific needs and preferences and the qualities and formulations of available products.

Opt for CBN products that have been third-party lab tested, with accessible reports confirming their CBN content and purity. Focus on brands that have positive reviews and strong reputation for quality and customer service. 

When starting with CBN products, it’s important to go low and slow. Begin with a low dose to see how it affects you and adjust according to your needs.

Do you know which CBN product ticks all the boxes?

CBN & Lavender Rest Tint or our Sleep Gummies! We hope they add that little extra something to your self-care routine.

Want to know more about the link between CBD and sleep?

Find out how CBD can potentially help you sleep!

Looking for the calming effects of CBD with a touch of THC’s euphoria? Delta-8 THC, often referred to as “weed light” or “diet THC”, might just fit the bill. This cannabinoid strikes a unique balance between CBD and THC, attracting those seeking mild psychoactive effects alongside CBD’s well-known benefits. 

Delta-8 THC has been gaining traction as a popular choice for those exploring beyond traditional cannabinoids. But with popularity, some problems also arise…

If you’re diving into the world of Delta-8 for the first time, you’ve landed in the right spot to learn more. At South Tip, we take pride in educating you about all things Cannabis to help you consume these products in a safe and legal way. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the characteristics that set D8 apart from other cannabinoids, especially CBD, and provide an up-to-date overview of its legal status. Recent legislative changes, particularly in Florida, have added layers of complexity to its accessibility and legality. 

Whether you're just curious about this intriguing compound or looking to enrich your wellness routine, we’re here to clear up the confusion and keep you informed.

What is Delta-8?

First, Delta-8 THC is a newer product. Research is still ongoing, and much of the current understanding of Delta-8 comes from animal studies, with limited human research. That said, here’s what we do know: 

Delta-8 is one of over a hundred cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant, sharing the spotlight with well-known compounds like Delta-9 THC—which is famed for inducing the psychoactive "high"—and CBD, which is prized for its calming, non-intoxicating effects.

In this sense, Delta-8 THC has similarities to Delta-9 THC because it does get you “high.” 

However, the strength of the “high” is often anecdotally said to be milder and smoother than other Delta-9 THC products. This subtler impact has earned Delta-8 the nicknames “weed light” and “diet THC.”

According to a report from the US Cannabis Council, Delta-8 THC shows a lower affinity for the CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which are primarily responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids. This means that while it can still stimulate these receptors, it does so less potently than Delta-9 THC, possessing up to 75 percent of Delta-9's psychotropic strength.

With Florida’s recent move to limit the sale and distribution of Delta-8 and similar cannabinoids, understanding the evolving legal environment is crucial for consumers and businesses alike.

So wait, is Delta-8 THC Legal?

There are multiple reasons for new regulations around D8 and its legality. The study found that commercial Delta-8 THC products are largely unregulated and often mislabeled, without a “lab tested” label, showing discrepancies between advertised and actual cannabinoid content, which could be one of many potential reasons for regulatory bans.

So, D8 was technically legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, which states that if a product is derived from hemp that naturally contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry-weight basis, it is legal.

However, Florida has recently developed new legislation that tightens the rules around Delta-8 THC, categorizing it alongside other controlled substances and regulating its concentration in products, both in individual doses and overall package limits.

Effective October 1, 2024, the sale and possession of Delta-8 THC products will be limited to licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers, if Governor DeSantis signs it. For more in-depth information, check out our blog post that covers everything you need to know about the Delta-8 Ban in Florida.

This legislation not only upholds the existing THC cap of 0.3% by weight but also imposes stricter limits on the amount of THC allowed per serving and per total package—eliminating previous allowances such as up to 15 mg of THC in a 5-gram gummy. 

This adjustment tightens control over dosage and enhances consumer safety, requiring consumers to be registered medical marijuana patients to purchase and use Delta-8 THC products in Florida legally.

Does Delta-8 Get You High?

Delta-8 THC is known for its psychoactive effects, though these are generally milder compared to those of its more famous cousin, Delta-9 THC, which is the primary active ingredient in marijuana. 

Users of Delta-8 often report a less intense but still noticeable high, which can include feelings of relaxation, euphoria, and potential pain relief without the anxiety and paranoia that some associate with high doses of Delta-9 THC.

The experience of a "high" from Delta-8 THC can vary based on several factors, including the user's body chemistry, the potency of the product, and the method of consumption. For instance, inhaling Delta-8 through vaping can produce quicker, more pronounced effects compared to ingesting it through edibles, where the onset is slower but potentially longer lasting.

 CBD vs Delta-8: Differences & Similarities

CBD (cannabidiol) and Delta-8 THC (D8) are both cannabinoids derived from cannabis plants, each known for potentially promoting a sense of well-being. You can consume them in similar forms, including gummies, tinctures, edibles, and smokable flowers, making them both accessible and versatile for users.

The primary difference between CBD and Delta-8 lies in their psychoactive effects. Delta-8 THC contains psychoactive properties similar to THC, meaning it can induce a mild "high," which CBD does not. This makes Delta-8 popular among those seeking both the therapeutic benefits and the euphoric effects associated with THC without the intensity of Delta-9 THC.

In terms of research and understanding, CBD has been studied more extensively than Delta-8. While both cannabinoids are still being explored, CBD has been the subject of broader scientific study and public discourse, partly due to its earlier rise to prominence and legal status. 

As interest in Delta-8 THC grows, it is anticipated that more research will follow, expanding our knowledge of its effects, D8 dosage, benefits, and optimal uses.

Are there benefits to D8?

We’ve heard consumers experience an overall improved sense of well-being after using Delta-8 THC. This can range from enhanced anxiety management to pain relief to a more energized mood. Exciting, right? 

Here are some additional potential benefits attributed to Delta-8 THC:

It's important to remember that research into Delta-8 THC, particularly studies on humans, is still in the early stages. More comprehensive studies are necessary to substantiate these benefits and understand the full scope of Delta-8 THC's therapeutic potential. 

However, the positive feedback from current users is encouraging and highlights the need for further research into this intriguing cannabinoid.

 How to use D8 products

Since recent developments, you can only use D8 products that contain less than 0.3% of D8.

But by exploring Delta-8 THC products online, you'll encounter a wide array of options, including D8 gummies, brownies, D8 tinctures, blunts, and even rice crispy treats. Whether you prefer edibles, smoking, or sublingual applications, there's a Delta-8 product to match your consumption preferences.

While there is limited information on the "entourage effect" of Delta-8 THC — the phenomenon where various cannabis compounds work synergistically — research is ongoing. 

The interactions between Delta-8 THC and other cannabis derivatives like CBD are still being studied, and we are committed to keeping you informed as new data emerges. This continual learning will help refine usage and maximize the potential benefits of Delta-8 THC products.

Just remember to keep up with new regulations with us, use third-party lab-tested products, and read product labels, and you’ll always know how to use D8 products!

South Tip’s Delta-8 THC Collection (for Florida only!)

At South Tip, we are stoked to offer a collection of Delta-8 THC products! Couple the benefits of D8 with another cannabinoid like CBG - and you’ve got maximum feel-good vibes coming your way. You in? ????

Now that you know all about D8, read our blog about the differences between CBD and CBG.

Ever stare at a ceiling (or screen), mentally calculating how many hours are left before you need to wake up… and how much sleep you’ve already lost, only to find it harder to fall asleep in the first place? If so, you’re not alone!

According to the American Sleep Association, 50- 70 million Americans have a sleep disorder. And 30 percent of adults experience short-term insomnia, while 10 percent have long-lasting insomnia. 

If you’ve already tried ditching caffeine after 2 p.m. and avoiding screens before bed, you may be asking yourself: What else can I do to get to sleep faster? How can I decrease my anxiety before bed? This is where CBD may be useful to help you turn down the stress levels that come with tossing and turning night after night.

How CBD can support you and your nightly routine

CBD, also known as Cannabidiol, is commonly used for medicinal and natural remedy purposes. This is because it interacts with your endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a modulatory system that plays a role in a range of functions and processes, including balancing your body during stressful and anxious situations

Some researchers note that the reason CBD potentially improves sleep is because it can address certain root issues of sleeplessness by calming anxious thoughts, creating an atmosphere of wellness. 

For example, if CBD helps you feel calmer and more relaxed, this may put you in a more comforted state of mind before going to bed. Which ultimately, can help you get to sleep faster and experience deeper rest. But if the root of your sleep issue is due to a specific disorder or health condition, then CBD may not be the best way to address issues for some insomniacs.

 Are there studies that link CBD with better sleep?

Research is still ongoing and more evidence is needed to make conclusive statements about the relationship between CBD and sleep. That said, there are studies and research that suggest CBD could be helpful with stress management and the journey to better sleep. 

Here are just a few of the studies that connect CBD with improved sleep:

Easy ways to build CBD products into your nightly rituals

We generally recommend using CBD products 30 minutes to an hour before you want to go to sleep, especially if you're using CBD with melatonin. But we’ll leave it up to you when CBD makes the most sense in your nightly routine, as it’s different for each of us. 

Also, like with most habits, it’s best to stick with your CBD nightly practice for at least several weeks to see its full impact. 

Tip: We like to combine CBD products with other nightly rituals like drinking tea, writing down thoughts in a journal, and stretching before bed. This way, it’s a part of a bigger process of taking care of ourselves as we transition from one chapter of the day to the next.

CBD products for your pre-sleep routine

With so many CBD products, you have plenty of options to pick the best CBD for your lifestyle.  

Here's South Tip's current list of available CBD products:

Other tips for getting better sleep

There’s no denying sleep is incredibly important for our brain health, memory, and overall mood and well-being. But just because we know something is important doesn’t mean it’s easy - especially when it comes to something as elusive as sleeping. Luckily, there are some tips to keep in mind that can help you feel comforted and calmer before bed. 

One of the best ways to signal your mind it’s time for sleep is through a night time ritual, according to Harvard Medical School. Whether you like to listen to calming music or read a book, these acts help your brain switch to a different bedtime mode. 

Other tips Harvard recommends include: exercising (but not too close to your ideal bedtime), reserving your bed for sleep and sex (no emailing and scrolling), and avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and acidic foods/drinks.  

 Check out our full collection of CBD & CBG

We hope these tips help make your bedtime a little more zen! If you’re ready to try CBD, we offer a wide range of products in both budget-friendly and top shelf options.

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