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Is CBD Legal in Iowa? 2025 Iowa CBD Laws
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Is CBD Legal in Iowa? 2025 Iowa CBD Laws

Feb 11, 2025

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Iowa might be known more for corn than hemp, but both crops are equally suited for the state’s ideal agricultural environment. A state that’s usually friendly toward farmers, Iowa has mainly supported its agricultural entrepreneurs in cultivating hemp, the nation’s latest cash crop.

Recent laws in Iowa, however, have residents and visitors wondering — is it still legal to buy CBD in Iowa? How legal is CBD in the state? Learn all the details in this guide, including where to buy the best CBD in Iowa.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound found in hemp (Cannabis sativa) that doesn’t get you high. Similar to THC, CBD is entirely natural and not synthesized in any way. CBD is very unlike THC, however, in its total lack of intoxicating properties.

Instead of getting you high, CBD is lightly relaxing, which users report helps them get to sleep at night and overcome anxiety. CBD has also become a significant target of scientific research due to its potential benefits against severe or chronic pain, and let’s not forget the use that made the cannabinoid famous in the first place — preventing epilepsy.

How is CBD Different from Marijuana?

CBD is very different from marijuana from both chemical and legal perspectives. Rather than being mere versions of each other (the scientific term is “analogues”), CBD and THC are entirely different — you can’t turn one into the other without significant lab equipment, and the cost is prohibitive in any case.

CBD certainly doesn’t turn into THC or “marijuana” before, during, or after its use, and CBD is considered an entirely separate substance from THC for regulatory purposes. That was the main point of the 2018 Farm Bill: separating CBD from THC to allow the online CBD market to thrive.

Is CBD Legal in Iowa in 2025?

Yes, CBD remains legal in Iowa in 2025, but the state moved in 2024 to significantly restrict its overall cannabis and hemp industry, potentially impacting the availability of your favorite CBD products at local Iowa stores. House File 2605 has involved new requirements and restrictions that have considerably affected CBD-related businesses operating in the state. Iowa residents are strongly advised to purchase their CBD online due to these challenging factors.

Iowa CBD Laws: What You Should Know

Iowa has historically been friendly to hemp agriculture. The state remains supportive of its hemp farmers but has moved to significantly restrict the sale of hemp products in Iowa retail stores. While targeted at reducing the sale of dangerous synthetic THC products, these measures have inadvertently hurt in-state CBD sales, pushing hemp users to buy their CBD online.

Here’s a brief chronological history of the four laws that most strongly impact your ability to buy CBD in Iowa today:

  • Medical Cannabidiol Act (2014): While this law placed more restrictions on CBD than it removed, the Iowa Medical Cannabidiol Act did at least move the cause for legal hemp a bit further forward.
  • House File 524 (2017): This law mainly expanded Iowa’s medical cannabis program. It allowed the state’s first cannabis dispensaries to open, some of which offered CBD products.
  • Iowa Hemp Act (2019): This law mainly mirrored the federal 2018 Farm Bill, allowing CBD products in Iowa that contain less than 0.3% THC. The Iowa Hemp Act marked the start of the state’s precedent of unreasonably restricting hemp sales, however.
  • House File 2605 (2024): This bill very clumsily attempted to eliminate Iowa’s synthetic THC market but mainly forced innocent CBD shops to shut down. Marked by considerable partisan squabbling, HF 2605 has ushered in a dark era of Iowa hemp.

How Old Do I Have to Be to Buy CBD in Iowa?

As of 2024, you now have to be over the age of 21 to buy products containing any THC at all in Iowa. This means full-spectrum CBD products, which contain up to 0.3% THC, are only legal to buy in Iowa if you are over 21 years old. This restriction only applies to CBD sales that take place in Iowa, however, not online.

Do I Need a Prescription to Buy CBD Oil in Iowa?

No, you can buy CBD oil in Iowa without a doctor’s prescription. To buy CBD oils containing more than 0.3% THC, however, you must receive a medical marijuana recommendation from a qualified physician.

Can I Buy CBD in Iowa?

Yes, you can buy CBD in Iowa, but buying CBD in-person in the state may now be challenging thanks to HF 2605. To be sold on shelves in the state, consumable hemp products must now adhere to incredibly strict labeling requirements and not contain any more than 10mg THC per container.

Even if the product only contains a minuscule amount of the cannabinoid, the Iowa state government now requires that all hemp products containing any THC whatsoever feature a large and frightening warning label that misconstrues its perceived dangers.

That’s only one challenge Iowa CBD retailers now face — or rather, did face. Most of them have gone out of business.

Can I Buy CBD Online?

Yes, you can buy CBD online in Iowa — whether or not it complies with Iowa’s misguided state laws. Neither the Iowa Department of Agriculture nor any other state agency can countermand the Commerce Clause of the US Constitution, which allows for free trade between states.

Even if you’re in Iowa at the time you make the purchase, US law dictates that CBD purchases occur in the state where the company is incorporated, not the state where the purchaser is located. So, you can buy any CBD you like online (as long as it complies with federal law) and have it shipped to your Iowa address.

Can I Buy CBD in Stores?

You may still be able to find a few lonely hemp-derived CBD products on the shelves of Iowa stores. However, the state’s new perspective on CBD has driven almost all CBD-specific retailers out of business.

General retailers that carried a few CBD products have now mostly gone back to viewing the Cannabis sativa plant as more trouble than it’s worth. You’ll be lucky to find any CBD products on Iowa shelves at all, and anything you find is almost guaranteed to be low-quality.

Are CBD Gummies Legal in Iowa?

Yes, CBD gummies are legal in Iowa. The state has not placed any restrictions on edible CBD products specifically. Like all other Iowa CBD products, however, CBD gummies must comply with strict requirements to be sold in the state. Don’t expect to find many CBD gummies nearby in Iowa, therefore — you’ll be better off shopping online.

What is the THC Limit in Iowa?

In accordance with the 2018 Farm Bill, the THC limit for CBD products in Iowa is 0.3%. Iowa goes one step further, however, by requiring that all individuals buying products with any THC in them at all be over the age of 21.

Can I Sell CBD in Iowa?

Yes, it is legal to sell CBD in Iowa. Individuals seeking to produce CBD products, however, must follow complex regulatory requirements, including submitting “fingerprint cards.” Businesses seeking to sell CBD, on the other hand, must abide by strict labeling regulations. Overall, it’s quite hard to sell CBD in Iowa — even though it shouldn’t be.

Conclusion

It’s true that regulating cannabis can be hard. Some cannabinoids are intoxicating, and others aren’t. Some cannabinoids aren’t cannabinoids at all — Spice and K2 have ravaged American communities, leading lawmakers to seek answers.

The solution isn’t making it harder for innocent people to get their CBD, however. Thankfully, American federal law allows you to buy your CBD online — regardless of how far official perspectives on CBD in Iowa have (or haven’t) evolved.

Buy your CBD online, and enjoy the entire American market at your fingertips… without having to settle for whatever passes for CBD near you in Iowa. Offering the highest-quality and most-certified CBD in the USA, trust Colorado Botanicals as your Iowa CBD source.

Sources

  1. General Assembly of the State of Iowa. (2014). Medical Cannabidiol Act. In CHAPTER 1125 (pp. 1–4). https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/publications/iactc/85.2/CH1125.pdf
  2. General Assembly of the State of Iowa. (n.d.). House file 524. https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/publications/LGE/87/HF524.pdf
  3. General Assembly of the State of Iowa. (n.d.). Senate File 599. In Senate File 599. https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/publications/LGE/88/SF599.pdf
  4. Iowa HF2605 | 2023-2024 | 90th General Assembly. (n.d.). LegiScan. https://legiscan.com/IA/text/HF2605/id/2933490
  5. Is CBD oil legal in Iowa? | IowaCannabis.org. (n.d.). Iowa Cannabis Information Portal. https://iowacannabis.org/cbd
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Is CBD Legal in South Dakota? Laws, Restrictions, & More

Is CBD Legal in South Dakota? Laws, Restrictions, & More

South Dakota is remarkably strict on cannabis but surprisingly tolerant of CBD. As long as CBD products are compliant with the federal 2018 Farm Bill, they’re usually alright to use and own in South Dakota. The situation gets a bit murkier as you start to peruse South Dakota’s CBD laws in more detail — which we’ll do over the course of this full guide. Is it legal to own CBD or have it shipped to your address in South Dakota? If so, how legal is it? Also, why should Colorado Botanicals be the brand you choose for your CBD needs? Read on for the answers to all these questions and more — everything you need to know to buy and use CBD in South Dakota safely and responsibly. What Is CBD? Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural cannabinoid found abundantly in cannabis. Next to THC, it’s the second most-common cannabinoid, but that’s not to say CBD and THC are just alike. Both cannabinoids have medicinal benefits, it’s true, but CBD is more medicinal without any of THC’s intoxication. CBD makes you feel pleasantly relaxed — but not high — and it might help with conditions that THC marijuana doesn’t alleviate. CBD vs. Marijuana CBD is different from marijuana in terms of both its chemical composition and legal status. Federal laws on the subject can get vague, but for most intents and purposes, THC is the only cannabinoid officially defined as the illegal drug “marijuana” anymore. The 2018 Farm Bill separated CBD and other hemp cannabinoids from the DEA’s definition of this Schedule I illicit narcotic — the primary legislative move that allowed the domestic CBD industry to be born. To its credit, South Dakota was one of the first states to recognize the fundamental difference between CBD and marijuana — legislators in the state passed a bill that preempted the 2018 Farm Bill a full year prior, allowing CBD commerce in their state to get a jump start. The road has been rocky ever since, however, with South Dakota’s elected representatives having a hard time agreeing on how to regulate CBD hemp products — and especially marijuana. Is CBD Legal in South Dakota? Yes, CBD is legal in South Dakota. Multiple state laws have reinforced the federal position that Cannabis sativa products containing less than 0.3% THC are industrial hemp instead of marijuana. With some minor caveats, any CBD products legal at the federal level are also legal for sale in South Dakota. Even if they aren’t, it’s still legal to buy those products and have them shipped to South Dakota (assuming the products in question comply with federal hemp laws). Current Restrictions and CBD Laws in South Dakota Spanning the course of nearly a decade, South Dakota’s attempts to contain the CBD phenomenon can’t be described as lacking vigor. What the state’s continuous fights over CBD policy betray, however, is a lack of coherent public policy — a degree of incoherence that has occasionally affected both sellers and users of CBD in South Dakota. To give you a better idea of the context at play, here are the primarily laws on CBD in South Dakota — both those that passed and those (at least in one case) that were vetoed: Senate Bill 95 (2017) Even prior to the Farm Bill’s passage, politicians throughout the United States had caught wind that massive changes to CBD policy were upcoming. South Dakota voted proactively in 2017 to allow CBD — but with a considerable catch: Only FDA-approved products were allowed, and CBD remained a Schedule IV drug. Federal Farm Bill (2018) In 2018, the people of the United States voted through their representatives in Congress to make cannabis plants with less than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis “industrial hemp” instead of “marijuana.” This legislation had a sweeping impact throughout the nation as individual states were called upon to shape their specific hemp policies. House Bill 1191 (2019 — Vetoed) South Dakota lawmakers attempted to pass a law in 2019 that would have put South Dakota more in compliance with the federal 2018 Farm Bill. Governor Kristi Noem vetoed the bill after it passed both state legislative bodies. House Bill 1008 (2020) In 2020, legislation finally passed that allowed South Dakota farmers to start producing CBD-rich hemp products. Considerable obstacles were still to be faced, however, before South Dakota’s hemp industry could begin to stabilize. Initiated Measure 26 (2020) Almost immediately after CBD became legal in South Dakota, so did medical marijuana, leading to instantaneous legal definition and enforcement issues. Fascinatingly, South Dakota citizens voted on this measure directly, making it an Initiated Measure instead of a House or Senate Bill. House Bill 1125 (2024) The intervening years since South Dakota legalized hemp have clearly seen their share of difficulty. In 2024, legislators in the state banned synthesized or chemically altered cannabinoid products. While this doesn’t directly affect CBD, it does show that managing the state’s cannabinoid industry has become an increasing concern for South Dakota lawmakers. How Old Do You Have to Be to Buy CBD Oil in South Dakota? You do not have to be a specific age to buy CBD oil in South Dakota. Neither the state of South Dakota nor the federal government have voted to impose an age limit on CBD purchases. Such limits are quite rare nationwide. Where to Buy CBD in South Dakota Given the state’s conflicting stances on the cannabinoid, CBD stores near you aren’t likely to carry the exact products you’re looking for. You’re better off going online for your CBD right from the start, but we’ll give each option a fair shake below: Online On the internet, you can buy whichever CBD gummies or CBD oils you please and have them shipped straight to your South Dakota address — that’s your right as an American citizen regardless of what any state government might have to say. Greater competition and transparency have pushed online CBD quality into the stratosphere — experience the internet CBD revolution today. CBD Stores Even if products from hemp plants are legal in South Dakota, the state’s cultural climate wasn’t particularly friendly toward cannabis to begin with. Recent tussles over cannabis rights certainly haven’t alleviated tensions — most savvy South Dakota shop-owners have decided to steer clear of such a controversial issue. Dispensaries South Dakota is home to a few rudimentary medical cannabis dispensaries that most aficionados from other states wouldn’t even recognize as having anything to do with marijuana at all. Even if you manage to gain entry to one of these dispensaries, your chances of finding any CBD products are slim to none. Vitamin Stores Vitamin shops, natural food stores, and food co-ops aren’t very likely to carry CBD in South Dakota. This sparsely populated, isolated, and rural state is slow to change, and cannabis has become something of a contentious topic with dangerous synthetic cannabinoids on the rise. You’re much better off buying your CBD online. Can You Sell CBD in South Dakota? Yes, it is legal to sell CBD containing less than 0.3% THC in South Dakota. Prospective hemp growers, processors, or sellers can submit their applications to the South Dakota Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources. Frequently Asked Questions Are CBD gummies legal in South Dakota? Yes, CBD gummies are legal in South Dakota — provided they comply with federal law by containing less than 0.3% THC. The same bill that legalized hemp production in the state also legalized CBD-rich hemp products — CBD gummies included. Do I need a prescription to buy CBD in South Dakota? Hemp derived products like CBD are available without a doctor’s prescription in South Dakota. A medical cannabis program does exist, however, that can equip patients with CBD on a prescription basis. Is Delta-8 legal in South Dakota? Hemp-derived THC products like delta 8 are illegal in South Dakota due to a 2024 law. The same goes for any altered or synthetic cannabinoids. Is THCA legal in South Dakota? The status of THCA law in South Dakota is highly complex and ultimately hinges on the intent of the user. If you intend to convert THCA into THC, it is illegal. If you intend to use it in its original form, however, it is legal in South Dakota. So far, this frivolous legal distinction has proven unenforceable. Still, it’s probably best to stay away from THCA in South Dakota. Is Delta-9 legal in South Dakota? No, delta 9 THC is illegal in South Dakota except in the context of a very narrow medical marijuana program. The cannabinoid is considered “marijuana” and is illegal for adult use in the state. Conclusion South Dakota has had a drug problem for decades, and it has only gotten worse with the advent of synthetic cannabinoids like Spice and K2. Even “semi-synthetic” forms of THC like delta 8 and HHC are plenty dangerous, souring sentiment in South Dakota squarely (albeit unfairly) against cannabis and all it stands for. Thankfully, public sentiment in a single state doesn’t determine federal law. The US Constitution dictates that you’re fully within your rights to buy CBD products manufactured in other states and have them shipped to your address in South Dakota. As the most proactively certified CBD producer in the nation, trust Colorado Botanicals with all your South Dakota CBD needs. Sources 2005 Senate Bill 95 | South Dakota Legislature. (2005, March 2). South Dakota Legislature. https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Bill/19737 H.R.2 - 115th Congress (2017-2018): Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018. (n.d.). Congress.gov | Library of Congress. https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2 Arj. (n.d.). 2020 House Bill 1008 | South Dakota Legislature. South Dakota Legislature. https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Bill/11477/61810 Constitutional Amendment A and Initiated Measure 26 Overview. (n.d.). https://sdaho.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/CA-A-IM26.pdf 2024 House Bill 1125 | South Dakota Legislature. (2024, February 29). South Dakota Legislature. https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Bill/24425 South Dakota Inspection, Industrial Hemp Program. (n.d.). https://danr.sd.gov/Agriculture/Inspection/IndustrialHemp/default.aspx

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Does CBD Make You Last Longer? The Truth

Does CBD Make You Last Longer? The Truth

Satisfaction in the bedroom doesn’t always come easily, but for some men, CBD can be part of the solution. “Lasting longer” is an issue that affects 20-30% of men in sexually active age groups, meaning it’s a widespread problem that countless men are hoping to solve. Since anxiety is one of the main causes of premature ejaculation, it’s natural to look to CBD’s relaxing effects for help. CBD also affects the operation of your serotonin system, which is critically involved in sexual function. Should you try CBD as a remedy for lasting longer? Always consult with your doctor if you aren’t sure, but we’ll provide all the relevant evidence in this guide to help you make an educated decision. What Does "Lasting Longer" Mean? “Lasting longer” is a euphemism for lasting longer during sex before you orgasm as a man. Whatever the reason, ejaculating before you intend to can reduce both your sexual pleasure and the pleasure of your partner — not to mention pregnancy scares! Lasting longer during sex is a natural priority for sexually active men, and it’s possible some of the effects of CBD might indirectly help. How CBD Works in the Body The main way CBD works in the body that might impact your ability to last longer during sex is the cannabinoid’s impact on your serotonin system. Serotonin is a massively important neurotransmitter that’s tasked with managing everything from metabolism to mood. There are a few different ways that improving serotonin flow in the body might help with male sexual performance: Improved mood: Serotonin is the main neurotransmitter behind feelings of satisfaction. A sense of calm pride can help you muster the bedroom performance you’re looking for. Reduced anxiety: Especially when premature ejaculation has been a problem for a while, it’s normal to feel anxiety during sex. Calming your serotonin system might reduce your anxiety. Increased blood flow: Studies show that increased serotonin expression improves blood flow, boosting both your sexual performance and ability to gain and maintain an erection. Does CBD Help You Last Longer? The Evidence The scientific evidence so far collected does indicate that CBD may help with lasting longer and male sexual performance in general. The topic of CBD and erectile dysfunction has already been researched at considerable length, for instance, and CBD’s impact on the serotonergic system is well-known. What’s lacking is direct evidence that CBD helps with erectile dysfunction. The topic has not been explored in human clinical studies, and the animal evidence that exists is highly inconclusive. The theory that CBD can help men last longer in bed has considerable grounds for being taken seriously, but until direct studies are conducted, we’ll need to keep our conclusions conservative. How CBD May (Indirectly) Help You Last Longer There’s no evidence that CBD directly causes increased sexual duration in men, but some of CBD’s properties might help nonetheless — primarily the cannabinoid’s ability to soothe the nerves and calm the body. CBD is so relaxing, in fact, that it may inadvertently cause sleepiness during sex… but you might prefer that to cutting your sexual experience short! Tips for Using CBD to Last Longer Using CBD the right way will increase your chances of improving your sexual performance: 1. Take CBD 30 minutes before sex Oral CBD products (CBD oils, CBD gummies, etc.) take around 30-45 minutes to reach their peak effects. So, take your CBD products around half an hour before you expect to have sex. 2. Stay away from topical CBD Topical CBD products are alluring since they directly affect your problem area. CBD lotions, creams, and even lubes probably shouldn’t be applied to your privates — it’s not the CBD so much as the other ingredients that might pose problems. 3. Start with a low dose To avoid CBD making you so relaxed you forget about sex altogether, start with a relatively low dose of the cannabinoid — say a 10mg CBD gummy. Then, scale up your dose as you get used to CBD’s effects. 4. Choose high-quality CBD Only the best CBD will do in the bedroom. Bad flavors and toxic contaminants are terrible turn-offs — but there’s nothing sexier than a premium CBD product that offers excellent effects. How Much CBD to Use to Last Longer in Bed New CBD users should stick to 10-25mg for the best improvements to sexual performance. If you’re used to the cannabinoid already, you might want to try using 25-50mg CBD to see if that helps you last even longer. Just remember that too much CBD can make you sleepy — choose your CBD dosage with care. Can CBD Help Increase Sexual Desire? It isn’t known as much as an aphrodisiac on its own, but CBD comes from the Cannabis sativa plant, which has been used to make sex more enjoyable and stimulating since the dawn of human history. THC, the primary intoxicating component in cannabis, appears to increase sexual desire — using THC makes you have sex more frequently, at least. To potentially enjoy these sexual benefits of THC without getting high, consider full-spectrum CBD. This type of CBD extract contains up to 0.3% THC — not enough to cause intoxication, but potentially enough to offer performance-enhancing and aphrodisiac properties. Does CBD Make Sex Better? The overall sentiment is that yes, CBD does make sexual intercourse more enjoyable and satisfying. It might not improve sex quite to the degree of THC, but not everyone wants to get high while making love. Sexual health means different things to different people — CBD making the sexual experience more relaxing might be exactly what you’re looking for. Does CBD Help with ED? CBD might help with erectile dysfunction (ED) both due to specific effects of the cannabinoid and because CBD appears to improve male sexual activity overall. Erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation are related issues with similar root causes, and there’s evidence that CBD might help with both of these common male sexual issues. Risks and Side Effects CBD has very few risks compared to other sexual wellness aids. It will not cause you to have a dangerously prolonged erection or put you at risk of a cardiac event. CBD can interact negatively with certain prescription drugs, however — consult with your doctor before proceeding. It’s also true that CBD commonly causes sleepiness — you could become too tired to consummate the sexual act if you take high doses. Reducing blood pressure is also a common side effect of CBD — proceed with caution if you already struggle with hypotension. There’s also a chance that cannabis use in general might negatively affect male fertility. But, if your concern is sexual performance specifically and not the reproductive aspect of the act, a few lazy spermatozoa might not be a cause for worry. CBD Products Intended to Improve Sex Quite a few CBD products specifically designed to improve sex are available on the internet. In most cases, you’re better off with regular CBD oils or gummies, but here are your options: CBD oils for sex Some CBD oils are infused with aphrodisiacs or otherwise formulated specifically to help with male sexual performance. Watch out for these so-called “performance-enhancing” ingredients, though. CBD lube Applying CBD directly to your genitals is a proposition you’re right to receive with some skepticism. It’s rare for even normal lube to be made safely, and adding CBD into the mix only complicates matters. CBD flower and vapes Smoking cannabis to improve sex is as old as time, and CBD flower is now available online as a non-intoxicating alternative. The effects of inhaled CBD only last a short time, however, and there’s a distinct chance you’ll burn a hole in your favorite sheets. Summary: Can CBD Up Your Bedroom Game? Sexual anxiety is a normal issue in men with many different potential root causes. Even when sexual arousal and sex drive are not issues, simply lasting long enough during sex to ensure mutual satisfaction can be a source of both frustration and pain. Many men have received relief from this frustration by using CBD. Unlike smoking cannabis with THC, which can cause mental confusion or “make things too real,” CBD is gentle and non-intoxicating — while still seemingly offering many of the same benefits against sexual dysfunction as normal cannabis. Whether or not Freud was right about it being the meaning of life, sexual satisfaction is certainly an important aspect of living well. It’s our sincere hope that CBD improves your sex life — trust Colorado Botanicals for the highest-quality certified CBD on the internet. Sources Raveendran, A. V., & Agarwal, A. (2021). Premature ejaculation - current concepts in the management: A narrative review. International Journal of Reproductive BioMedicine (IJRM). https://doi.org/10.18502/ijrm.v19i1.8176 De Gregorio, D., McLaughlin, R. J., Posa, L., Ochoa-Sanchez, R., Enns, J., Lopez-Canul, M., Aboud, M., Maione, S., Comai, S., & Gobbi, G. (2018). Cannabidiol modulates serotonergic transmission and reverses both allodynia and anxiety-like behavior in a model of neuropathic pain. Pain, 160(1), 136–150. https://doi.org/10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001386 Houston, D., & Vanhoutte, P. (1986). Serotonin and the vascular system. Drugs, 31(2), 149–163. https://doi.org/10.2165/00003495-198631020-00004 Rodríguez-Manzo, G., & Canseco-Alba, A. (2023). The endogenous cannabinoid system modulates male sexual behavior expression. Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, 17. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1198077 Shiff, B., Blankstein, U., Hussaen, J., Jarvi, K., Grober, E., Lo, K., Lajkosz, K., & Krakowsky, Y. (2021). The impact of cannabis use on male sexual function: A 10-year, single-center experience. Canadian Urological Association Journal, 15(12). https://doi.org/10.5489/cuaj.7185 Payne, K. S., Mazur, D. J., Hotaling, J. M., & Pastuszak, A. W. (2019). Cannabis and Male Fertility: A Systematic review. The Journal of Urology, 202(4), 674–681. https://doi.org/10.1097/ju.0000000000000248

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Does CBD Pass Into Breast Milk? What Studies Reveal

Does CBD Pass Into Breast Milk? What Studies Reveal

Even though cannabinoids can enter breast milk, many breastfeeding mothers are unconcerned about using cannabis — is the same true for users of CBD, the non-intoxicating form of cannabis? Science hasn’t yet revealed very much regarding the safety of using CBD while breastfeeding, but mothers who use CBD are generally much more responsible than cannabis users at large. You don’t want to get high — you just want what’s right for your baby. Should you stop using CBD at all while breastfeeding? Can CBD make its way into breast milk, and can it then harm your baby? We’ll answer all these questions throughout the course of the guide, providing real data you can use to make responsible decisions. What is CBD? Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid naturally found in cannabis. While it’s mildly relaxing, CBD doesn’t produce anything close to a “high” — CBD lacks THC’s intoxicating attributes, and it’s generally considered safer to use than THC. Also unlike THC, CBD is considered “industrial hemp” and is legal by federal law. Many mothers rely on CBD before they’re pregnant for help with sleeping or stress relief, and they naturally want to know whether it’s safe to start using CBD during the postpartum period. Is CBD Safe While Breastfeeding? The safety of using CBD while breastfeeding is unknown. CBD lacks many of the negative attributes of THC, but it still impacts the endocannabinoid and endocrine systems of you and your infant, potentially in negative ways. In some cases, the benefits of using CBD while breastfeeding may outweigh the potential dangers. Always consult with your doctor before you start using CBD as a breastfeeding mother. Why Some Breastfeeding Mothers Consider Using CBD It’s natural to want to try using CBD while you’re breastfeeding. Some common reasons that postpartum mothers might want to use CBD include: Postpartum pain: The process of your body recovering from having a baby is painful and uncomfortable. CBD is generally seen as a “side effect free” remedy for pain that’s safe and natural. Stress & depression: CBD also often has a soothing effect on the mind. The postpartum period is fraught with unexpected stresses and strong waves of depression — both of which CBD is often seen as alleviating. Help with sleep: Countless thousands of people have experienced relief using CBD gummies for sleep. With sleep so hard to come by during the postpartum period, CBD is an attractive solution. Improving overall health: During normal times in life, it’s common to use CBD as a general health aid. Pregnancy is a delicate period, however, with its own rules regarding what’s healthy and what’s not. CBD Breastfeeding Studies: Does CBD Pass Into Breast Milk? According to the studies, yes, CBD does enter breast milk when you use it while breastfeeding. A 2024 research review confirmed that “cannabinoids are stored in adipose tissue, can easily reach the mammary gland, and can be secreted in milk.” Furthermore, it noted that “the endocannabinoid system is intimately connected to the endocrine system,” finding that “interactions of exogenous cannabinoids with the endocannabinoid system might modify release of critical hormones… that regulate milk production and secretion.” So, not only does CBD enter your breast milk if you use the cannabinoid while breastfeeding, but it might also alter your ability to produce milk.  How Much CBD Passes Through? Early research indicated that as little as 1% of the cannabinoids you use enter your breastmilk. By 2018, however, scientists began admitting that up to 8.7% of the cannabinoids you ingest can end up in your breast milk — though that’s with inhaled THC. Overall, it might be reasonable to assume that around 5% of the CBD you use enters your breast milk. That means if you use 100mg CBD, your baby will end up ingesting around 5mg. Potential Side Effects of Taking CBD While Nursing Using CBD while breastfeeding could result in reduced breast milk production and developmental issues in your baby. However, we know very little about the types of side effects that might occur for both you and your baby if you use CBD while breastfeeding. The vast majority of the research on this subject has concerned maternal marijuana use — in other words, THC cannabis consumption. THC is rightfully seen as the bigger threat since a startling number of mothers use THC cannabis. THC-rich cannabis products are almost unrecognizably different from CBD, however, making data comparisons difficult. What we do know is that using recreational or medical marijuana during pregnancy and while breastfeeding has the potential to seriously harm your baby. The relative dangers of THC to adults aside, prenatal and postnatal exposure to an intoxicating substance is an entirely different matter. Any mothers struggling with substance use should seek community assistance immediately to avoid infant marijuana exposure. What Do Health Authorities Say About CBD and Breastfeeding? Every single major health authority strongly recommends against using CBD while breastfeeding. Whether it’s the FDA, the CDC, or the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), medical experts advise that the risks of using CBD while breastfeeding outweigh any potential benefits. It’s not that these authorities find CBD to be dangerous overall — it’s just that, in light of the evidence, exposing infants to cannabinoids of any kind does not appear to be a wise decision. Does CBD Affect Breast Milk? Yes, CBD does affect your breast milk — it may reduce your milk production, and it might alter the delicate hormones in breast milk that are vital to infant and toddler development. We don’t know exactly how CBD affects breast milk, and the impact is likely mild. When considering the health of your child, however, it can be prudent to avoid certain substances until your body is your own again. Is CBD Harmful to Babies? Yes, CBD might be harmful to babies even though it’s generally seen as safe for adults. We don’t know enough about CBD to be sure, but many substances that are usually safe are nonetheless dangerous during infancy — that’s why breastfeeding mothers usually abstain from alcohol, prescription medications, and even over-the-counter drugs like aspirin as well. Unless the benefits of using CBD are compelling in your particular case, it’s best to avoid any potential harm to your baby by not using CBD. Different types of CBD affect your infant’s body in different ways, though: CBD Oil and Breastfeeding Internally ingested CBD products like CBD oil are what you want to avoid while breastfeeding. They pass from your digestive tract into your bloodstream where they’re deposited in fatty tissues like your breasts. CBD Topicals and Breastfeeding Interestingly, CBD topicals are generally fine to use while pregnant or breastfeeding. That’s because the CBD they contain doesn’t enter your bloodstream — it remains localized to the area where you applied it. So, just don’t apply your CBD topical to your breasts, and this is one way you can still use CBD while breastfeeding. CBD Gummies and Breastfeeding Since they’re internally ingested, CBD gummies are — unfortunately — not okay to use while breastfeeding. Even broad-spectrum CBD gummies still contain CBD despite the fact that THC is eliminated. It’s best to abstain until your little one is eating on his or her own. Smoking CBD While Breastfeeding Smoking or vaping CBD while breastfeeding has the greatest potential to harm your infant. Not only does doing so introduce CBD into your bloodstream, but it also releases cannabinoids into the air where your baby can inhale them. Even if you use other forms of CBD, at least avoid inhalable products while you’re breastfeeding.  Conclusion: Using CBD Postpartum Even though cannabis use while pregnant and breastfeeding alarmingly doesn’t appear to be much of a concern to THC-using moms, we know CBD users are different. You want only what’s best for your baby, and you now know that the cannabis plant has no place near your developing fetus or infant — even if it’s the type of cannabis that doesn’t get you high. As you start to get your bodily autonomy back, plan for how you’ll reincorporate CBD into your daily routine. You may also decide that CBD is no longer a danger to your baby at a certain point — just check in with your doctor to make sure this is an appropriate time to start using the cannabinoid again. We know you want what’s best for your baby, and that — of course — includes doing what’s best for you as well. Temporary fixes like CBD can be tempting, but in the end, it’s best to stick with what you know is safe. Ask a doctor, and make your own decision — is using CBD while breastfeeding right for you, or is it best to wait until your body is fully your own once again? Colorado Botanicals will be there to supply the world’s best CBD whenever you’re ready. Don’t be afraid to contact us for product recommendations and further tips for mothers who want to use CBD. Sources Castro-Navarro, I., McGuire, M. A., Williams, J. E., Holdsworth, E. A., Meehan, C. L., & McGuire, M. K. (2024). Maternal Cannabis Use during Lactation and Potential Effects on Human Milk Composition and Production: A Narrative Review. Advances in Nutrition, 15(4), 100196. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.advnut.2024.100196 Baker, T., Datta, P., Rewers-Felkins, K., Thompson, H., Kallem, R. R., & Hale, T. W. (2018). Transfer of inhaled cannabis into human breast milk. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 131(5), 783–788. https://doi.org/10.1097/aog.0000000000002575 Castro-Navarro, I., McGuire, M. A., Williams, J. E., Holdsworth, E. A., Meehan, C. L., & McGuire, M. K. (2024). Maternal Cannabis Use during Lactation and Potential Effects on Human Milk Composition and Production: A Narrative Review. Advances in Nutrition, 15(4), 100196. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.advnut.2024.100196

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