Exploring Non-Cannabis Complimentary Ingredients in Cannabis Products – The Scoop with Alec Dixon of SC Labs

AD: Cacao is an incredible ethnobotanical plant of ancient times, with a long history of use in ceremonial and medicinal contexts, particularly in Central and South America. Its rich flavor and phytochemical diversity includes anandamide—one of the primary endogenous cannabinoids produced within the mammalian body—as well containing theobromine content. When infused with cannabinoids, there might be synergistic effects that enhance the overall sensory experience. This makes it an excellent choice for edibles and topical products. Cacao also contains antioxidants and nutrients that can amplify wellness benefits when paired with cannabinoids.

However, cacao is not without its challenges, being that it is a phytoremediator of cadmium and other heavy metals in soil. These contaminants are particularly concerning, because they can accumulate in cacao and then subsequently in cannabis edibles, posing significant health risks if consumed regularly. Brands need to be vigilant in testing and sourcing cacao from regions where cadmium (and other heavy metal) accumulation isn’t an issue. Additionally, brands should prioritize organic or sustainably grown cacao that has been rigorously tested for safety.

When we’re talking about cacao in edibles, we’re also talking about it as a carrier. It’s a medium for cannabinoids, which means anything the cacao is exposed to—whether it’s toxins in the soil or the fermentation process—becomes part of the final product. A lot of these issues can be avoided by testing the cacao itself before infusion happens, but this requires brands to go above and beyond compliance standards. It’s about protecting consumers and ensuring quality every step of the way.

AD: Beeswax is a phenomenal ingredient, especially in topicals and salves. Its natural properties as a thickening agent and carrier for cannabinoids make it a staple for products like balms, creams, and lotions. Beeswax is also rich in Vitamin A, which supports skin health, making it an ideal ingredient for therapeutic applications.

But beeswax, like cacao, can carry its own risks. Beeswax can absorb pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and industrial pollutants—especially if the hives are near agricultural or urban areas with high levels of chemical use. Additionally, some apiaries may use chemical treatments, such as coumaphos to control pests in hives, and residues from these chemicals can end up in the wax. These toxins not only compromise product safety but also diminish the therapeutic value of the final product. Brands must source beeswax from apiaries that follow sustainable and pesticide-free practices to avoid costly compliance testing batch failures, as well develop trust in the supply chain partners where they regularly source beeswax from.

Another issue to consider is the environmental context in which beeswax is produced. Bees are incredibly sensitive to their surroundings, and their wax reflects the purity—or contamination—of their habitat. If hives are near areas with heavy industrial activity or pesticide use, even trace levels of contaminants can accumulate in the wax over time. For products meant to promote health and wellness, those contaminants are unacceptable. This is why SC Labs often advises clients to work with beekeepers who practice rigorous environmental stewardship, ensuring that the wax is as clean and pure as the cannabis it accompanies.

Beyond safety, there’s also a growing consumer expectation for sustainability and transparency in sourcing. Clean beeswax, free from environmental and chemical pollutants, not only elevates the quality of the product but also aligns with consumer values around eco-friendly and ethical production. By taking extra care with sourcing, brands can meet both safety standards and market demands.

AD: Essential oils are incredibly versatile and have a long history in aromatherapeutic and medicinal use. In cannabis and hemp products, they can enhance both the aroma and therapeutic effects. Lavender oil, for instance, is known for its calming properties, while peppermint oil can invigorate and provide relief for muscle soreness.

At the same time, essential oils can carry hidden risks. Many are sourced globally, often from regions with less stringent safety regulations. Common contaminants include pesticide residues like chlorpyrifos and imazalil, phthalates (plasticizers), residual solvents like benzene and hexane, and even heavy metals like mercury and lead. Some essential oils, particularly citrus oils, can also oxidize and produce allergenic compounds if improperly stored or handled. These contaminants can significantly impact the safety profile of a product, especially when inhaled or applied to the skin. Just like with the inputs mentioned earlier, brands should work closely with suppliers who prioritize clean, sustainable production and ensure every batch of oil is thoroughly tested.

Storage and handling of essential oils are equally critical. Essential oils are sensitive to light, heat, and air exposure, which can cause oxidation and the formation of harmful byproducts. For example, oxidized citrus oils can release compounds that are not only allergenic but also potentially toxic when inhaled. This highlights the importance of working with suppliers who practice proper extraction and storage techniques and ensuring rigorous testing at multiple points in the supply chain.

Ultimately, the integration of essential oils into cannabis products presents incredible opportunities for innovation, but it also requires a high level of vigilance. Brands that prioritize the safety and purity of their oils will not only deliver superior products but also earn consumer trust in an increasingly discerning market.