Current hemp has low CBD content, but science is changing this
Hemp typically does not have high levels of cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabis, on the other hand, does, but it also contains high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that makes cannabis less likely to receive widespread recognition. Given the incredible health benefits of CBD, being able to increase CBD levels in legalized hemp would be a great alternative and, thanks to science, it might soon be possible.
CBD genetics is leading to the creation of rare, high-CBD hemp seeds that are also rich in terpenes. These seeds have a significant amount of resin with virtually no THC, making them a perfect alternative for expanded distribution of CBD’s powerful benefits.
The CBD-rich hemp will also help farmers. They will be able to cultivate consistent, high-CBD plants that will find more popularity on a global level, given the need for CBD across the world, and seed production will be easier to manage. Producing and distributing hemp seeds that are legal under federal guidelines will offer a more flexible working environment.
Seth Crawford, a cannabis breeder in Oregon who offers CBD-rich hemp seeds, explains, “You have to help small farmers adapt to changing market conditions and to make high-value products that are useful to people. But then you also have to be able to get it to the folks who are running plant material through a C02 system and trying to extract 30,000 pounds at a time.”
Crawford’s facility has also begun to breed other seeds that contain minor cannabinoids, including cannabichromevarin (CBCV), cannabidivarin (CBDV) and cannabigerol (CBG). These have not received the same fame as THC and CBD, but have also been identified as having substantial medical properties.