HOOVER – The owners of a new CBD store off U.S. 280 hope their products help local residents find natural, alternative remedies to common ailments.

Essentera CBD hosted a grand opening event on Monday, May 6, at its location at 5510 U.S. 280, Suite 110.

“Basically, we wanted to give the public an alternative to taking prescription medications,” co-owner Donna Corbin said.

“Our goal is to promote health and wellness,” co-owner Rachel Dunnaway added. “It’s a holistic alternative.”

All of the store’s products contain CBD, or cannabidiol, which is a naturally occurring compound found in cannabis. Though closely related to tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the compound that causes the high associated with cannabis, CBD acts on different receptors in the brain and body and does not cause intoxication.

Essentera CBD offers tinctures, which is an oil taken orally, along with edibles, skin care products, pain cream, coffee and tea and even pet products.

Corbin and Dunnaway said the store has received a positive reception since its soft opening May 1, and both tout the benefits of the products.

Corbin said CBD has helped with her restless leg syndrome, while Dunnaway said her husband experienced relieved pain from a pulled muscle.

“He’s a believer now,” Dunnaway said.

Other ailments CBD may help with include headaches, anxiety, arthritis, seizures, attention deficit disorder and eczema.

Dr. Andrew Mayo, chief medical officer with St. Croix Hospice, attended the ribbon cutting at Essentera to answer questions about CBD.

“These products have potential effects that are beneficial and allow the body to achieve a certain homeostasis,” Mayo said. “We’re seeing this line of potential treatments becoming very popular, and research is starting to become available.”

Part of the popularity of CBD products can be attributed to people seeking treatments other than opioids and other prescription medication because of their potential risks, Mayo said.

“We’re just kind of on the cusp of seeing what the potential benefits of these products are,” he said.

Essentera CBD is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

For more information, find the business’ Facebook page.