What Chiropractors Need to Know About CHABA and Hemp Consumables
The Washington State Department of Health has issued new guidelines regarding the use of Cannabis Health and Beauty Aids (CHABA) and hemp consumables in chiropractic care. This ruling provides clarity on how Washington chiropractors can integrate hemp-based products into their practice—whether for therapeutic application, patient wellness, or retail sales.
But what does this mean for chiropractic professionals? Let’s break it down.
Understanding CHABA and Hemp Consumables: Definitions under Washington Law?
- Cannabis Health and Beauty Aid (CHABA) is a topical product that meets the following criteria:
- Provides therapeutic benefits or enhances appearance
- Contains ≤0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)
- Does not cross the blood-brain barrier (no psychoactive effects)
- Not intended for ingestion by humans or animals
For chiropractors, CHABA products are primarily used in massage therapies, muscle relief applications, and pain management, offering a natural alternative to traditional ointments.
- Hemp Consumables are also approved under Washington law. A Hemp Consumable is a product made from hemp that:
- Is not classified as a cannabis product under RCW 69.50.101
- Is designed for ingestion, inhalation, or absorption inside the body
Hemp consumables include CBD tinctures, capsules, gummies, and hemp-infused beverages, allowing chiropractors to integrate ingestible wellness solutions into their practice.
Unlike CHABA products, hemp consumables include:
✔ CBD tinctures and oils
✔ Edibles such as gummies and capsules
However, chiropractors must be cautious when recommending or selling hemp consumables, ensuring that they remain compliant with both state law and federal FDA regulations.
Can Chiropractors Sell CHABA and Hemp Consumables?
Yes! Chiropractors are permitted to sell CHABA and hemp consumables. However, they must strictly adhere to state and federal laws governing hemp retail sales.
Best Practices for Chiropractors Selling Hemp-Based Products:
✔ Ensure compliance with Washington State’s CHABA and hemp consumable definitions
✔ Verify third-party lab testing to confirm THC levels do not exceed 0.3%
✔ Educate patients about product use and potential benefits
✔ Only source products from licensed, reputable manufacturers
For chiropractors looking to offer topical CBD creams, oils, or hemp-infused balms, this ruling opens up new opportunities for patient care and business growth.
Can Chiropractors Use CHABA and Hemp Consumables in Their Practice?
Yes! According to the Chiropractic Quality Assurance Commission (CQAC), chiropractors in Washington can use CHABA and hemp consumables in their practice—as long as they comply with both state and federal regulations.
This means:
🔹 Chiropractors cannot use any product with more than 0.3% THC
🔹 Even if a patient provides a cannabis-based product, it must meet CHABA or hemp definitions
🔹 All products must align with state law and regulatory bodies
While Stirling does not recommend using any products with THC during working hours, this ruling ensures that while chiropractors can incorporate CBD-based and hemp-derived products, they remain within legal boundaries—protecting both their practice and their patients.
Benefits of CBD Chiropractic Care
CBD and chiropractic care work in tandem by addressing muscle tension holistically, with chiropractors using CBD balms, oils, and tinctures during sessions to augment treatment effectiveness.
Key Takeaways for Chiropractors in Washington State
💡Chiropractors CAN use CHABA and hemp consumables in practice—if they meet state-defined criteria
💡Products MUST contain ≤0.3% THC and cannot be psychoactive
💡Chiropractors CAN sell CHABA and hemp consumables if they comply with legal regulations
💡Verification is crucial—chiropractors must ensure product compliance before using or selling them
As natural alternatives like CBD and hemp-based treatments gain popularity, this new ruling gives Washington chiropractors more flexibility to integrate plant-based wellness solutions into their practice—while staying legally protected. For those selling hemp products, ensuring you source the best CBD oil for chiropractors from reputable manufacturers is essential for meeting patient expectations and compliance guidelines.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Hemp in Chiropractic Care
For chiropractors looking to expand their offerings, partnering with a reputable CBD and hemp supplier is key. Always choose GMP-certified, third-party tested products to maintain quality and compliance. By integrating the best CBD products for chiropractors into their practices, professionals can expand their role in holistic healthcare and patient wellness.
The good news? Stirling Professional offers chiropractors in Washington the opportunity to enhance patient care with natural remedies, while ensuring compliance with evolving hemp regulations. Whether using CHABA products for therapeutic application or offering CBD-infused options for patients, this marks a positive shift toward integrating holistic wellness solutions in chiropractic care.
Stirling Products help
- Reduce patient pain – Formulated to alleviate muscle and joint discomfort.
- Decrease inflammation – Supports natural anti-inflammatory processes.
- Improve sleep quality – Helps patients achieve deeper, more restful sleep.
