CBD could soon be illegal in NC. These are 3 alternatives with the same health benefits
As state lawmakers stall on approving the legality of hemp, the substance could be illegal to use in North Carolina by Friday.
Hemp, which is used to make popular CBD products, was legalized in North Carolina several years ago, but only under a probationary pilot program, The News & Observer reported. That temporary authorization is scheduled to expire at the end of June.
A bill that could implement hemp protections before the industry becomes illegal has already passed the House and currently sits in the Senate Rules and Operations Committee.
RELATED: Hemp, CBD likely will be illegal in NC by Friday, barring last-minute legislative action
Although the health benefits of CBD have long been debated, at least 1 in 10 Americans use the substance to treat pain, anxiety, stress, headaches and inflammation, according to the most recent Gallup poll.
If CBD becomes illegal, here are three alternatives you can use to treat a variety of health conditions.
Ginger
Ginger provides a range of health benefits, including nausea relief and bloating reduction, according to Emma Slattery, a clinical dietitian at Johns Hopkins Medicine.
The plant is also thought to have anti-inflammatory uses, but studies have yet to show if it has any impact on conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or respiratory infection, Slattery said.
For those who want the health benefits of ginger, Slattery recommends pairing it with food and beverages instead of taking supplements, which may contain additional ingredients.
Magnolia bark
Studies have shown that magnolia bark may relieve stress and anxiety, improve sleep and reduce inflammation in the body, Cecilia Snyder wrote for Healthline.
A review of the compounds found in magnolia bark found it is safe for human consumption and carries little risk of side effects, according to Snyder.
Magnolia bark extract is available in pill form and can be purchased at many retail stores.
Clove Oil
Clove oil, an essential oil derived from clove trees, has been used to ease the digestive tract, relieve pain and treat respiratory conditions, Jill Seladi-Schulman wrote for Healthline.
There are many ways to use clove oil, including sprays, massage oils, and lotions, Seladi-Schulman said.
Using clove oil could result in side effects like skin irritation and allergy flares, and those who have had recent major surgery, have peptic ulcers or have hemophilia should not use it, she explained.
Will medical marijuana still be illegal in NC?
Medical marijuana remains illegal in North Carolina and it’s unlikely that will change soon.
A separate medical marijuana bill passed the Senate with almost a unanimous vote, but has stalled in the House due to conservative opposition, The News & Observer reported.
If the bill is approved, only those with life-threatening conditions would be eligible for a prescription.
RELATED: Who would qualify for a medical marijuana prescription in NC?
News & Observer staff writers Lars Dolder and Will Doran contributed to this report.
