Tag: CBD

Hemp capsules – 100% natural food supplement

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Hemp capsules are a convenient way to take CBD in the form of a dietary supplement that is growing in popularity. Just in time for the product launch in our store, here is the necessary background knowledge. We have compiled everything worth knowing about hemp capsules and asked our producer “Zauber-Blüten” what they have to say about their hemp capsules.

Why hemp capsules?

CBD hemp oil, CBD ointment, CBD flowers, hemp nuts, CBD hash – there are a variety of different CBD products in our store. This begs the question: why do we need a new product now? Connoisseurs already know: all these products have different advantages and disadvantages and therefore all suit different people and applications. The capsules impress with their ease of use: a constant dosage without having to count drops…

The capsules are most comparable to our oils. The capsules are a Broad Spectrum product that aims to make it as easy as possible to take the active ingredients of the plant. Nevertheless, there are some differences between the two products – more about that later.

Our production partner: Zauber-Blüten Hemp GmbH

We offer the hemp capsules in our store in cooperation with our reliable and regional partner“Zauber-Blüten” from Bremgarten AG. With a lot of commitment, two young people there have set up their own business to bring the hemp plant in its best form among the people – the cooperation was quickly a done deal for both sides. When describing the hemp capsules, we also wanted to let the people of Zauber-Blüten have their say:

Timon (Herba di Berna): Why did you decide to produce hemp capsules?
Rita (Magic Flowers): In order to meet the needs of as many customers as possible, different dosage forms are unavoidable. A product made from 100% hemp is an excellent addition to the range. The hemp capsules are easy to take, completely free of THC, and thanks to the cellulose shell also suitable for combination with a vegan diet. In addition, many people find the somewhat bitter natural hemp taste anything but appealing. A neutral capsule can help – and one that fits neatly into your luggage.

Timon: We attach great importance to sustainable production. Of course, it is clear that we only work with partners who aim in the same direction. How could you convince us?
Rita: Our hemp grows exclusively in the region, and the capsules are also produced in Switzerland. Of course, we could buy the “biomass” cheaper abroad. However, the environmental impact of the pointless transport routes would not be justifiable in this way and we would lose the overview and control of our production chain.

Thank you for the information and for your valuable work. Finally: Anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Please be sure to get serious advice! We and our partners are here for you.

How are hemp capsules different from CBD oil?

Unlike the oil, the capsules are made from 100% hemp – including the cellulose capsule. Since the capsule is swallowed whole, it does not taste like hemp. Some think that’s a shame – others are happy about it.

While the effect of the hemp plant remains basically the same, there are differences in time. The active ingredients from the hemp capsules only enter the bloodstream in the intestines – with a delay of about one hour after ingestion.

Effect & Dosage

Through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), hemp capsules can influence a wide variety of processes in our body. Many positive effects of CBD have been demonstrated in studies. However, it is difficult to say exactly how they turn out in general, as they depend on many different factors (e.g. dosage or personal metabolism).

For this reason, it is easiest if you approach the perfect dosage. For this purpose, you can take one capsule of low dosage (10mg) 1x daily at the beginning. If the effect is absent or too weak, you can increase the dose after a few days and see how you perceive taking 2 weak capsules (total 20mg) or 1 strong capsule (25mg). You can continue in this pattern until you reach the dosage that is right for you.
If you suddenly overdose, you will probably experience mild side effects such as increased fatigue or nausea. Not necessarily pleasant, but not dramatic either.

If you want to know more about CBD dosage, check out our post on CBD oil dosage – we covered the whole topic in detail there.

So much for hemp capsules. We are very pleased to be able to expand our range with such a great product. If you have any questions: be sure to contact us. Write us an email or visit us in our specialty store in Breitenrain. And if you already know everything you want to know:

Try hemp capsules now!

CBD for pets: everything you need to know

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More and more pet owners are becoming interested in the potential benefits of CBD (cannabidiol) for their beloved pets. CBD is extracted from hemp plants and is known to have a variety of positive health effects. In this article, we will take a closer look at how CBD can help pets and what to look for when using it.

What is CBD and how does it work in pets?

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid extracted from the hemp plant. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is also present in animals. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in maintaining balance in the body and regulating various processes such as mood, sleep, pain perception, and inflammation. CBD can help stimulate the endocannabinoid system to support these processes in pets.

CBD oil for pets
CBD oil for pet

Potential benefits of CBD for pets

CBD can help reduce anxiety and stress, which can be especially beneficial for animals with separation anxiety or fear of loud noises. CBD may also have anti-inflammatory properties and relieve pain, which can be especially helpful for pets with arthritis or other painful conditions. In addition, CBD can also stimulate appetite and reduce nausea, which can be beneficial for pets with loss of appetite or digestive issues.

How to use CBD safely for pets

When using CBD for pets, it is important to follow the correct dosage. Each animal is individual, so it is advisable to start with a low dose and observe the effect. There are several forms of CBD products for pets, including CBD oils, treats, and creams. It is important to choose high-quality CBD products that are specifically designed for pets and do not contain harmful additives. Before using CBD, you should also consult a veterinarian to make sure there are no interactions with existing medications.

Possible side effects and precautions

Although CBD is generally considered safe for pets, some animals may experience mild side effects such as drowsiness or decreased activity. In rare cases, pets may also be sensitive to CBD. If side effects occur, one should stop using CBD for the time being and consult a veterinarian. It is recommended to use Broad Spectrum products that do not have THC at all. A safe value is offered by products made specifically for pets:

CBD for the four-legged darling

CBD can provide pets with a number of potential benefits, including stress relief, pain relief, and appetite stimulation. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and can help regulate various processes in the body. When using CBD for pets, it is important to follow the correct dosage and choose high-quality products designed specifically for pets. Side effects are usually mild, but it is advisable to consult a veterinarian before using CBD. By addressing these issues, CBD can be a safe and potentially effective option for supporting pet health and well-being.

How CBD reduces stress in athletes

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Sportler*innen mit CBD-Öl gegen Stress

Stress is a ubiquitous phenomenon in sports. Both before and after a hard workout or competition, athletes can be under tremendous stress. The physical and mental stress can lead to anxiety, sleep disturbances and impaired performance. Fortunately, there is a natural solution that can help athletes reduce this stress: CBD.[1]

Our product test with a competitive athlete

What is CBD and how does it work against stress?

CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating various functions, including stress levels. CBD can help reduce stress by decreasing the production of stress hormones such as cortisol while promoting the release of endorphins, the so-called “happy hormones.”

Less stress before training

Before a strenuous training session or competition, athletes can often be under enormous pressure. CBD can help reduce this stress and promote a calm and focused mindset. By taking CBD products before training, athletes can achieve better stress management and concentration, which can have a positive impact on their performance.

Relaxation after the workout

Stress can also play a role after training or a competition. Sore muscles, exhaustion and mental tension are common side effects of intense sports activities. CBD can help support recovery by reducing inflammation and promoting body regeneration. In addition, CBD can help athletes to switch off faster and find a restful sleep, which is of great importance for regeneration.

CBD compared to other methods of stress reduction.

Compared to traditional methods of stress reduction, CBD offers several advantages. Unlike prescription drugs or tranquilizers, CBD usually has no negative side effects and is not addictive. In addition, CBD is a natural, herbal product. CBD products are available in various forms, including oils, capsules, and topical applications (e.g., ointments), giving athletes flexibility in their use.

Conclusion

CBD can be an effective support to reduce stress in sports. It can be taken before exercise to improve stress management and concentration, and after exercise to promote recovery and regeneration. Compared to other methods of stress reduction, CBD offers many benefits and usually has no negative side effects. If you are an athlete* looking for a natural and effective way to reduce your stress, CBD might be the right choice.

CBD oils for a relaxed workout

Terpenes: Why cannabis is fragrant

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Cannabis is known for its different aromas and flavors. From citrusy notes to earthy nuances and floral scents, the range of smells and tastes that cannabis can produce is broad. But what exactly gives cannabis its distinctive scents? The answer lies in the terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants and are responsible for their unique smells and tastes. Enjoying the different flavors are also an essential part of cannabis consumption.

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are organic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the smells and tastes we associate with these plants. Terpenes are also found in essential oils and are used in many industries, such as cosmetics and perfumery. There are more than 20,000 known terpene compounds, and each has its own unique properties.

The role of terpenes in nature

Terpenes are a kind of natural defense mechanism for plants. Some terpenes are known to repel pests and insects, while others help protect plants from disease. The scents can also help pollinate plants by attracting pollinators.

A bee on a fragrant lavender bush.
Photo by Dustin Humes on Unsplash

Terpenes in cannabis

Cannabis contains a variety of terpenes, all of which help create the plant’s characteristic smell and taste. The variety of cannabis flavors is enormous: peppermint, cinnamon, pine, cocoa, lemon, grapefruit, mango, pineapple, blueberry, raspberry and much more. While it takes a lot of practice for a sommelier to pick up the scents of wines, it’s a different story with cannabis. The differences are so great that they are immediately noticeable.

So far, more than 200 terpenes have been detected in the hemp plant. The compounds that actually occur depend on genetics and growing conditions. Some of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis are myrcene, limonene, humulene, pinenes, linalool, and caryphyllene.

6 common cannabis terpenes and their effects.
Different terpenes in cannabis: the most important information.

Research currently assumes that terpenes in themselves have an effect on the body – even independently of cannabinoids. In contrast to THC and CBD, however, this has hardly been researched.
What has already been demonstrated, however, is the role of terpenes in the “entourage effect”: the presence of terpenes alters and enhances the efficacy of cannabinoids, for example, in the treatment of anxiety disorders. [1] Therefore, so-called “full-spectrum products” are very popular. Unlike isolates or synthetic cannabinoids, these natural products contain all the active ingredients of the hemp plant.

Full-Spectrum hemp oil in the store

Other fragrances in cannabis

Chemical structure of an ester compound

Terpenes are not solely responsible for the scent of cannabis. There is a whole range of other chemical components that influence the aroma.

  • Esters: These volatile compounds are known, for example, for the banana or strawberry scent they can create. Thus, the scent of the genetics “Strawberry Banana” is significantly influenced by the ester compounds present.
  • Aldehydes: Aldehydes are found in vinegar, for example, and also have a significant influence on the aroma there. Exactly how they affect the scent of cannabis is still quite unclear. However, it has already been demonstrated that the aldehydes can characterize the aroma even in the smallest quantities.[2]

These two examples show that besides the interesting world of terpenes, there are many other exciting topics that should be investigated in more detail. Especially for breeding, but also for the more precise description and the conscious selection of the right variety for the highest enjoyment, a more detailed research of these fields is central.

Discover our fragrant CBD flowers!

Beauty and relaxation with CBD cosmetics

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CBD is increasingly used in cosmetic products. This article is about the use of natural CBD in cosmetic products and what benefits it can have for the skin. Learn more about how you can care for yourself and relax with CBD cosmetics.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural ingredient of hemp. Unlike THC, it is not psychoactive, which means that it has no intoxicating effect. However, it is known to have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

CBD ointment as cosmetics at Herba di Berna
CBD ointment from Herba di Berna

How does CBD work in cosmetic products?

CBD can be used in cosmetic products to improve skin care. It interacts with the skin’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) and can reduce inflammation, soothe and moisturize the skin, and improve its appearance.

The benefits of CBD in cosmetic products

CBD in cosmetic products has many benefits. It can help relieve skin problems such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. It also has antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from environmental damage and reduce signs of aging. In addition, CBD cosmetics can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which can lead to an overall sense of relaxation and well-being.

Scented CBD bath balls in cosmetics assortment
Scented bath balls with CBD

Use of CBD in cosmetic products

CBD can be used in various types of cosmetic products, such as moisturizers, oils, shampoos or bath balls. It is important to note that the dosage of CBD in cosmetic products varies. For this reason, it is recommended to choose CBD cosmetics specifically designed for use on the skin.

CBD cosmetics as shampoo by Herba di Berna
CBD shampoo in different sizes

Conclusion

CBD cosmetics can be a great addition to your skincare routine. It offers many benefits for the skin and can help keep it healthy and radiant. If you’re interested in using CBD cosmetic products, you should choose high-quality products from trusted brands and make sure they’re specifically designed for use on the skin.

Store CBD cosmetics now!

Instructions for planting hemp

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In our webshop we sell not only harvested and processed CBD products, but it also has cuttings or already somewhat larger young plants on offer. With these, you can grow your own CBD flowers. In this post we explain how to plant hemp best.

To the cultivation store

From cutting to young plant

When the cuttings have arrived, they need to be transplanted into a larger pot. In this case, it is worth using a good organic soil from a specialty store. Potted cuttings grow best with plenty of light and at a temperature of 15-21 degrees. High humidity pleases the hemp plants.
After about 2-4 weeks, the plants should be large enough and well rooted so that they can be planted out.

Plant hemp

Well-rooted seedlings (purchased or home-grown) can be planted outside as outdoor plants. Preferably right into a garden bed or anywhere else in the garden. A large pot is also a possibility, but the plant will be limited in its growth.
Plants should be planted outside no earlier than May 20. Advanced growers can dare to do it earlier, but if possible, the hemp plants should not be exposed to frost.

Another important note: slugs love young hemp plants! So a snail-free location is of great advantage.

Light requirement

Light conditions greatly affect the plant, so you should pay attention to this issue.
To grow, the plants need at least 18h of good (rather blue) light a day. The formation of flowers occurs at 12h of darkness and 12h of light during the day, with the dark phase being decisive. In outdoor cultivation, the flowering phase is initiated by itself due to the shorter days.

Water requirement

Hemp plants basically have a high water requirement. The exact amount depends on many factors such as plant size, temperature, humidity, location (and pot size). The plant copes better with too much water than with too little.
The simplest indicator is the color and consistency of the soil. It should always be a little dark and in any case not become hard and brittle.
If the leaves hang limply down it needs more water.

Potted plants need liquid more often. Drip trays should be emptied after watering or omitted altogether. Stagnant water is never good because the roots do not get enough oxygen.

Hemp plants with too much water (left) and with severe water deficiency (right).

Nutrient requirements

In good soil hemp grows even without additional fertilizer. However, fertilizer can accelerate the growth and increase the yield. Our recommendation: the fertilizer from Biobizz, which is available for purchase in our store.

The leaves show how the nutrient supply of the plant is:
Very dark, almost somewhat purple leaves that curl downward and show brown spots indicate overfertilization. The plant has too much nutrients.
A well-supplied plant will have leaves that are a dark, rich green based on the light.
Light green leaves that tend to droop downward show that some fertilizer could be added. When the edges of the leaves become quite light, dark veins appear and the leaves curl upwards the plant needs a fertilizer.

Well-fed hemp plant (left), malnutrition (center) and leaves of an overfertilized plant (right).

Climate conditions

During the growth phase, the plant thrives best with high humidity and temperatures between 15 and 21 degrees.
Towards the end of the flowering period you need to be careful not to mold the flowers, too much moisture is not good. Potted plants can be protected from rain. In the garden, there is little choice but to check the plants regularly and harvest them immediately at the first infestation.
More generally, diseased leaves (fungi such as powdery mildew or mold or pest infestation) should be removed quickly in each case, thus preventing or at least slowing down the spread.

Harvest

The flowers are harvested when about three quarters of the flower hairs are brown and the rest is still white.
To harvest, the plant is cut, the large leaves are plucked off and the remaining whole plant is hung in a dry and well-ventilated place.
Flowers that are too dry very quickly disintegrate into dust while moist flowers have a high risk of mold.

Ready for harvest

More on the topic:
– Detailed wiki on hemp cultivation: irierebel.com

CBD and Long Covid

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More than two years into the pandemic, it is becoming increasingly apparent how dramatic the impact of “Long Covid” will be. In whom the symptoms persist and for what reason is unclear, even experts are at a loss. Affected people, still in a fog of fatigue, breathing difficulties, headaches and various other symptoms months later, still have to wait for effective therapies. Could CBD help?

Long Covid Symptoms and CBD

The FOPH lists, among others, the following typical symptoms of “post-Covid 19 disease” [1]: excessive fatigue and exhaustion, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties, cognitive impairment, headache, insomnia, muscle fatigue, and muscle pain.
For many of these symptoms, regardless of the cause, there is evidence that CBD is an effective treatment. Studies are investigating diverse uses of CBD products and many people are sharing their positive experiences on social media. With this starting point, it is obvious that CBD is increasingly being used in long covid therapy as well.

Effect of CBD against long covid

There are many testimonials on the internet from people who turn to CBD products (mainly CBD oils) to fight persistent symptoms. In the Long Covid Switzerland Facebook group there are many people who tell about an excellent effect. Sleep problems are reduced with evening use of CBD oil, but eye problems, neurological symptoms, and lung problems also seem to decrease with CBD use.

In addition to these field reports, which are based on the observations of individuals, there are also research projects on the subject. For example, Indian researchers* conducted a study that demonstrated a potential for therapeutic effects against neurological impairments caused by Corona.[2] However, so far these results are based only on laboratory data, the significance of which is difficult to translate to human application. Another study, funded by Drug Science UK, aims to further investigate the potential of CBD treatments against long covid. No results have yet been obtained.
Further, there have been several studies that have looked at CBD and covid in general. You can find a compilation in this blog post.

What does that mean for us?

It certainly seems as though medical cannabis products, as well as commercially available CBD oils, may be of relevance in the treatment of Long Covid. However, it is also clear that science has not yet reached the point where an effect can be proven with certainty. Two years is a short time in science, especially when it comes to an area like cannabis, where medical research in general is not very advanced.
For us at Herba di Berna AG, this means the following: First, we hope for the fastest possible progress in medical research on cannabis. Secondly, we are making a special offer to Long Covid sufferers so that they can at least try using CBD oils: We are currently offering 30% off our CBD oilswith the discount code “cbd-genesung”.

Sources:
– [1] Coronavirus: post-covid 19 disease (BAG).
– 2] In silico inquest reveals the efficacy of cannabis in the treatment of post-Covid-19 relate neurodegeneration (ResearchGate)
– [3] Feasibility of Cannabidiol for the Treatment of Long COVID (clinicaltrials.gov).

Comment on VKCS article “Health risk in many foods containing CBD”.

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At the beginning of February, the Association of Cantonal Chemists of Switzerland (VKCS) went public with a media release on CBD-containing foods. The communication left the hemp industry in no good light: 85% of the products were objected to and 73% were even criticized as posing a health risk – without further specification.

Important for our consumers: The tested products of Herba di Berna can all be consumed without health concerns.

IG Hemp, the cannabis industry’s trade association, was aware of the product inspections conducted by the VKCS. However, IG Hemp did not know about the details and results. The information about which products were objected to also did not find its way to the industry association.

As a manufacturing company, quality assurance of our products and consumer protection are important to us. While the VKCS appeals to precisely these values and calls on the manufacturing companies in duty to improve, we see the problem at the regulatory level. At the moment, Swiss cannabis policy is in a state of regulatory chaos that is almost impossible to navigate. Comprehensive regulation also seems sensible to us, but it must be uniform and comprehensible to ensure legal certainty for us. For example, we support the “Postulate Minder”. This proposal, which was adopted by the Council of States last year, aims to make the various forms of the hemp plant more economically viable through coherent, up-to-date regulation. Hopefully, Parliament will remedy this situation as soon as possible so that we, as manufacturing companies, know better which quality guidelines we have to adhere to.

Official statement of IG Hemp

High purity CBD effective against COVID-19?

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In January, researchers at the University of Chicago published a study that showed potential efficacy of CBD against the replication (propagation) of Sars-CoV-2. The researchers used this publication as an opportunity to call for further research on this topic. The results of the study would suggest an effect, but are still far from a confirmed medical outcome. It is also emphasized that this study refers to cells treated with high-purity CBD in the laboratory – a fundamentally different situation than taking commercially available CBD products. So the topic should be pursued, without now feeling that you can protect yourself against Corona with a CBD joint.

CBD stops the multiplication of Covid 19 viruses

The study was conducted because it was suspected that CBD might have an impact on disease progression due to anti-inflammatory properties. The hope was that CBD could mitigate the effects of a “cytokine storm” (an overreaction of the immune system). However, with an impediment to viral replication (virus replication), the researchers observed a very different effect. “No one in their right mind would have ever thought that it blocked viral replication, but that’s what it does,” commented one professor involved.

Does highly purified CBD also work in humans?

For the experiment, human lung cells were treated with highly purified CBD for two hours. These were then exposed to coronavirus and the change in viral load over time was observed. The viruses were able to enter the treated cells, but replication was severely hindered. The study results could be confirmed with similar results in animal experiments on mice. However, in order to properly assess the effective potential, further trials are needed, especially those on humans.

More research is needed!

For us, this means: We are pleased about successful research projects regarding the medical application of cannabis. However, it is also important to us that this research takes place in a serious framework. Thus, there are many reasons to be pleased with the results of the study, especially after the last two years in a state of emergency. If CBD does indeed help against covid-19, that is wonderful news that definitely needs to be followed up on. At the same time, it is imperative that we exercise restraint: this study does not demonstrate any protective effects of commercial CBD products. The effects of treating single cells with high-purity CBD are very different from the effects that a CBD joint or ingesting CBD oil has on the human body.

Sources:
– Hemp Industry Daily: Another CBD study suggests COVID-19 protection, but consumers warned not to treat themselves
– uChicago News: Researchers recommend clinical trials for CBD to prevent COVID-19 based on promising animal data
– Full study: Cannabidiol inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication.

A relaxed Valentine’s Day

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Soon it will be Valentine’s Day again. An exciting day that can be both stressful and beautiful. In either case, relaxation is the name of the game, whether it’s getting through the day unscathed or making sure it’s memorable. Many studies suggest – and many people say it from their own experience – that CBD has a calming and stress-reducing effect.

To enjoy a relaxing Valentine’s Day there are many different ways to ingest CBD products. Besides the famous joint, there are, for example: vaporizing CBD or taking CBD oils (although these are then not emptied in one day 😉). In addition, there are also particularly relaxing care products: In our assortment we offer various CBD bath balls and a homemade CBD ointment. A bath for two, followed by a romantic massage – that would be something for an unforgettable evening?

Do you still need a gift for your loved one? Also there worth a look in our store: In addition to the mentioned care products, we offer various treats with hemp. To enjoy these things, the recipient does not have to be a pissed-off hemp fan – everyone can enjoy a delicious chocolate for dessert. Until the end of February 2022 there is a Valentine’s Day discount in our store: With the discount code “LOVE” you benefit from 25% off (almost) the entire range. (EU goods are excluded from the promotion).

We hope that our tips and our products will contribute to a relaxing and memorable Valentine’s Day. We wish you success and an enjoyable February 14.