The CQuell story starts in 2016 when our team of researchers, physicians, compounding pharmacists and other scientists came together with a shared interest in creating  a truly beneficial product for skin using hemp extracts and oils.  Our hemp & cannabinoid scientists proposed a theory: the plant and seed oils, along with specific terpenes and other naturally occurring hemp-derived molecules could be soothing when applied to dry, sensitive, and itchy skin; all symptoms of eczema as well as many other common skin issues. Our physician partners were skeptical, much like you may be, so we had to first make sure that it worked, was safe, & non-intoxicating. This inspiration sparked four years of research, culminating with the launch of CQuell.

In our search for answers, we reviewed published, peer-reviewed studies and research on the benefits of hemp and found the data suggests that cannabinoids, terpenes and other hemp-derived molecules represent some of the most biocompatible oils and lipids found in nature. We even had some of our research published and the National Eczema Association asked us to write an article.

You may not have heard of a cannabinoid or terpene, or these terms may be old news to you. Either way, a quick explanation may help.

Cannabinoids

Beginning with the discovery of the body’s own endocannabinoid system (ECS)  in the 20th Century, a vast network of receptors and molecules were found to interact throughout the human body, including in and on the skin. These receptors and molecules are the subject of many research studies, but it is currently thought that the ECS primary function may be to help bring balance and maintain homeostasis throughout the body and other systems.  Because many skin issues may be related to imbalances, it is thought that the ECS may play a role. 

Phytocannabinoids (read: made by a plant) represent a group of compounds found in the hemp plant. The term “phytocannabinoids” was proposed for the particular cannabinoid compounds found in hemp and now also extends to these same compounds as they continue to be discovered in other plant forms.  Of the 100+ identified phytocannabinoids produced by the hemp plant, CBD is one of the most abundant.  These plant-derived compounds can be found in the flowers, stalks, and the extracts and oils of the hemp plant, which can then be combined into many products, including lotions, creams, and balms. 

Terpenes

Terpenes are plant and fruit derived molecules responsible for scent. The identifiable scent of pine, citrus, lavender, chamomile, cinnamon and black pepper each stem from the plant’s terpene profile. Terpenes are the primary constituents of most essential oils and frequently used as natural fragrances. Each hemp variety (often referred to as strain, although this term is technically appropriate for bacteria, not plants) has its own signature blend of terpenes, but most contain high levels of myrcene and pinene, which gives hemp its characteristic scent. Interestingly, some terpenes can be irritating in high concentrations, while other terpenes like bisabolol (derived primarily from chamomile, but also found in certain hemp varieties) have been shown to soothe sensitive skin in independent studies. Terpenes, like cannabinoids, can be in liquid form and easily added to creams and lotions. 

Key Ingredients in the ECS Complex™

While the various therapeutic compounds found in the hemp plant offer promise in many ways, formulations for sensitive skin require extensive knowledge and research. When extracted, isolated, carefully selected and then re-combined in the correct ratios, these beneficial plant-derived compounds act to reinforce the skin’s natural barrier function and soothe dry, irritated and sensitive skin. CQuell is the result of this careful analysis and formulation process. We have researched an ideal blend of cannabinoids, terpenes, and biomimetic molecules to soothe sensitive skin. 

Our patent-pending Exclusive Cannabinoid Synergy (ECS) ComplexTM leverages the benefits of five key ingredients:

• Hemp Oil: Hemp oil is extracted from varieties of the hemp plant. It has no intoxicating effects but contains naturally occurring CBD.
• Hemp Seed Oil: Oil from the seeds of the hemp plant that has an ideal ratio of linoleic to oleic fatty acids.
• Bisabolol: A terpene found in many plants including hemp and chamomile flowers, bisabolol has been shown to soothe sensitive skin
• Palmitamide MEA: Palmitamide MEA is a synthetic form of PEA, an endocannabinoid or a cannabinoid that occurs naturally in all mammals. Palmitamide MEA is biomimetic, meaning that it mimics the biochemistry of the human body. It is extensively used and tested in formulations for sensitive and dry, itchy skin.
• Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD is naturally occurring non-intoxicating cannabidiol that is found in the hemp plant.

Our formulas are safe & notably free of any intoxicating substances*, and have been proven to be safe in multiple human safety studies.**

1) Frontiers in Plant Science, February 2016, pages 1-17

*HPLC analysis below LOD or N/D  

**Data on file, CQuell 2019-2021