Cannabidiol oils, edibles, and treats. To those not well versed in the terminology of hemp horticulture, these items sound like a list of goods one could only hope to obtain in Colorado or another progressive pot state. Surprisingly, a new business has come to Springfield Missouri, bringing these items and more with it!

The store, called "CBD of Springfield", is owned and operated by Emily Christianson and her husband, Chad. The store opened in December and is located on Campbell Ave.

Christianson and her husband are currently the only sources of Cannabidiol (CBD) merchandise in Springfield. Objects sold include lotions, oils, vape juice, and treats- for humans and their canine, feline, or equestrian pals. (Humans purchasing these items must be at least 18 years of age.)

According to Christianson, her CBD products can help consumers with depression, anxiety, arthritis pains, and inflammation. What it will not do, she notes, is get someone high. While most people associate cannabidiol and hemp products with marijuana, the fact is that hemp and marijuana plants are not the same plants at all, but merely in the same family of plants. Christianson explains that her products only have a 0.03% THC content and are not psychoactive.

The questionable business aspect about CBD of Springfield centers around Missouri's strict code for the use of medical marijuana. While very specific cases for medical marijuana were recently legalized in Missouri, the law says that it must be used strictly to treat severe cases of epilepsy.

It further details that a neurologist must verify that a patient has tried at least three other treatment options before allowing a patient to turn to medical marijuana as an option.

Finally, all patients that meet these requirements are then issued a government registration card, verifying that they have met all of the requirements and are then permitted to purchase and partake in medical marijuana and CBD products as a treatment for their epilepsy.

Attorneys throughout Missouri have disagreed on the legality of selling CBD products in Missouri. Two years ago, the state attorney general stopped dozens of stores from selling CBD products, though more retailers have resumed the practice since then.

CBD carries an almost snake-oil-like propaganda of being able to relieve pain or help with nearly any kind of ailment. Though users of CBD oils support this claim, it has little scientific backing, with the only medical diagnosis it has been proven to help is epilepsy.

Medical professionals are in disagreement with the effects, attorneys are in disagreement over the legality, but Christianson remains certain that her business is helping those in need and will continue to do so.