We continue our fun series of Vendor Highlights so you can learn more about tha makers and processes behind what you find at Jewelweed's. Today, we are talking with Annika McCann, founder of Primal Botanical. Annika creates certified organic, full spectrum CBD products using organic hemp flower grown in northern Vermont.
- Let's start at the beginning... What is the origin story of your business? How and why did you start?
I've been an herbalist for more than 30 years, so I've been making medicine from plants for a long time! I learned about cannabis as a medicinal plant in herb school but didn't give it much thought because it was illegal and so expensive.
Around eight years ago, my teenage daughter was struggling with some significant mental health issues and needed to be hospitalized. I was trying everything I could possibly think of to help her. I read about CBD and anxiety, and decided to give it a try. I was astounded by the effect it had on her - within three days, she had stabilized and was much more calm and in control of her emotions. I honestly believe CBD saved her.
That really got my attention! I resolved to learn all I could about the benefits of CBD.
- What did you want to do/be as a child?
As a teenager, I was very concerned about the nuclear arms race. I studied Russian in high school and college, and traveled to the USSR. My goal was to work in international relations.
- Do you see this childhood dream present in some shape or form today?
Not at all! I ended up on a very different path!
- What are the foundational values of Primal Botanical? What is really important to you?
As an herbalist, I am a big believer in whole-plant medicine. So much of the CBD on the market is highly processed in a lab. CBD isolate has had most of the beneficial compounds in the hemp completely stripped away. I extract CBD myself from hemp flower grown just a few miles from my home and also use CBD concentrates made with Vermont-grown hemp.
I also believe in full transparency. My products are tested for potency and contaminants, and I post all the lab results on my website.
- What is the story behind the name of your business?
One definition of primal is “essential or fundamental”. Our bodies make our own cannabinoids; we would not be able to survive without them. That's pretty essential! Plant cannabinoids, like CBD, can supplement our body's supply when our own cannabinoids are deficient (which is common). I use “primal” in my business name as a nod to the essential nature of cannabinoids.
- Being an entrepreneur is not always easy; what has inspired you to keep going in the low moments?
Being the solopreneur owner of a tiny business definitely has its challenges! When I'm feeling discouraged, I go back and read some of the testimonials, reviews, and thank-you letters my customers have written. It's incredibly gratifying to know that something I created has made a huge difference in someone's health and quality of life.
- What is your favorite of all the products you create, and why?
That's a tough question! I use all of my products myself, but I think my very favorite is my Head & Neck CBD body butter. It feels great on the skin, relieves tense muscles and achy heads, and smells like heaven.
- What practices bring you joy and inspiration?
Being outdoors in nature feeds my soul!
Thank you, Annika, for answering our questions!
Annika has great free guides on her website: a Buying Guide, Dosing Guide, Oil Instructions, and Topical Instructions. Get yours to learn more about Primal Botanical's products and how they can best work for you. You can follow Annika on Instagram here.
We love the bath salts: they are wonderful after a full day of work, hike, or simply daily life! Stop by the shop to get yours; we always make sure we have them in stock.