As recreational use of marijuana ramps up, entrepreneurs are trying their hand at cashing in on the green rush.
At the East Coast Cannabis Business Expo in midtown Manhattan, creative start-ups are finding new applications for cannabidiol-or CBD, for short-the cannabis compound that has medical properties.
That compound, CBD, should not be confused with another marijuana compound tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, which is the component that causes users to get high.
Some unique ventures are focused on CBD-related, medical applications. One small business is targeting cannabis treatments for injured athletes; while another is focusing on cannabis products for pets.
Marijuana sales overall are taking off as recreational use of cannabis is legal in Colorado and Washington state, and pot can be purchased for medicinal use in 23 states and Washington, D.C.
San Diego-based HempMeds has developed cannabis pet food, treats and oils that help animals that may suffer from anxiety, digestive issues, seizures and more.
Rob Streisfeld, a consultant for HempMeds, says CBD is naturally found in the cannabis plant, and will not get your dogs and cats stoned.
“It’s non-psychoactive, so it doesn’t get your pets high,” Streisfeld said.”It does have tremendous benefits and potential to help with seizures, anxiety and all other benefits regarding neuro-protection.”
