Justus Wheeler spends most of his days with his white German shepherd, Bear, at his shop, Modern Botanicals. Wheeler is the co-owner of the specialty shop, with Brandon Smith. It offers cannabidiol, or CBD, products derived from industrial hemp.

Smith has a separate job but is passionate about spreading awareness of CBD.

Wheeler said understanding CBD is the first step he takes with a new customer. Where marijuana is bred to have a large quantity of THC, the psychoactive chemical, hemp is bred to have a large quantity of CBD, which has a range of uses from anti-inflammatory to anti-anxiety. The hemp used to make CBD products is patented and owned by the federal government, and it carries none of the legal concerns marijuana does. Hemp and CBD products also can’t get you high, so everyday use is not a problem.

The CBD products offered at Modern Botanicals are approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a dietary supplement. “We wanted to exist because we wanted to be that place where people knew they were safe in the products we offer; they know what they are getting, and they know what they are getting is safe,” Wheeler said.

Wheeler and Smith opened the shop in July and have seen relatively good business, and word has spread. Products range in price from $15 to $500, and Wheeler said the average customer spends around $50 during a visit. Wheeler expects prices to drop in 2017 since he said he has seen a growth of interest in CBD products nationally. Wheeler said that as popularity grows, he hopes to see Modern Botanicals grow as well, with a goal of opening more locations.

Since CBD products are dietary supplements, Wheeler can’t say they cure or fix anything, just help. CBD is a cannabinoid, which plays a role in cellular function of the body. Products offered at Modern Botanicals are vetted by Wheeler, who sends products to a lab that verifies the concentrations are accurate, and he says all products at his store are at least 99.7 percent derived CBD from hemp. They offer tinctures, topical treatments, edibles, drinks, beauty supplies, hair and skin products, vape liquid and even cat and dog edibles. Wheeler said he enjoys being able to visit with customers and help them find the right product. He said he normally spends about 30 minutes with each customer.

“I have a big heart, and that’s a huge part of why I enjoy working here,” Wheeler said. “I can’t sit down with someone without wanting them to be healthy and happy. It’s just what I believe.”

Since Modern Botanicals has opened, Wheeler said the reception has been positive, which he appreciates. Wheeler said that since CBD is derived from cannabis, it sometimes carries a stigma because of its close relation with marijuana. But he hasn’t experienced that since opening. He was even approached by the Chamber of Commerce, which welcomed them to the community. He said it surprised him but also made him feel welcome.

While the uses for CBD products vary, Wheeler said he hopes more people will become aware of it and its potential to help certain ailments. And he will continue to come in nearly every day, with Bear, who helps him greet customers.

“Whether you are suffering from everyday anxiety, PTSD or post- or pre-surgery pain, our bodies are receptive to the cannabis plant,” Wheeler said. “There are more benefits from the cannabis plant than just trying to get high, and the worst thing that can happen is that it doesn’t work for you.”

— Reporter, 541-548-2185, cbrown@redmondspokesman.com