The U.S. Department is clarifying its position on CBD use, confirming CBD products are "completely forbidden" for military troops except under specific circumstances. This is in spite of the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which took hemp off the controlled substances list.
Patricia Deuster, director of the Human Performance Laboratory at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland, confirmed the news to reporters this week. She states that “it’s a real conundrum. It’s going to be a major issue for the military because it is available [nearly everywhere]."
The Air Force, Coast Guard and Navy are also formally stating their positions on CBD. The Navy writes that “Sailors and Marines are prohibited from knowingly using products made or derived from hemp.” However, this does not apply to topical products including shampoo, lotion and soaps.
Air Force members may use CBD “only when an airman has a valid prescription for Epidolex.” The oral medication treats seizures in two rare forms of pediatric epilepsy. It remains the only FDA-approved drug with CBD. The Navy also approves the use of Epidiolex with a valid prescription.
Matt Rooney, chief of the Policy and Standards Division at Coast Guard Headquarters, spoke with military.com about CBD. He states that coast guard members “should err on the side of caution” with CBD use.
Lazarus Naturals and the Military
Lazarus Naturals continues to support those who serve our country. Our Assistance Programs provides lifetime 60% discounts to veterans. Our Memorial Day weekend sale this year also yielded more than $30,000 for Mission 22. The non-profit organization works to combat the ever-rising veteran suicide rate.
We are also proud to employ many veterans on our team at Lazarus Naturals. Check out our Employee Spotlight with Chris, the Equipment Operator Specialist on our farm in Central Oregon.