For more than three decades, Mary Frances Smith was dedicated to making Bridgeport High School run efficiently.  Known for her attention to detail, it’s no surprise that when it came to her newest venture, she would take the time to research it before ever making her plans public.

 

In November, Smith plans to open HempWorks,  a CBD Oil shop that will also have a small coffee shop on-site.  Shortly after retiring last fall, she began seeking relief from pain in her hip.  Rather than trying pain medication or surgery, she decided to explore one of the newest options for pain relief: cannabidiol, a compound found in hemp plants.

 

“Everything I was reading about CBD oil stressed how important it was to have a high-quality oil,” said Smith.  “Because it is a new treatment, there are many scam artists out there trying to rip off customers with low quality products.  I researched multiple brands to decide to sell Real Scientific Hemp Oil, a proven brand that I have test-marketed with my customers.”

 

CBD Oil is legal and does not have the psychoactive ingredients commonly associated with the THC found in marijuana.  Research has shown that it directs the body to use more of its own cannabinoids, which have proven to reduce inflammation and chronic pain.  The FDA recently approved a version of CBD oil for the treatment of epilepsy and its therapeutic properties are being explored for the treatment of everything from cancer to diabetes to Alzheimer’s disease.

 

“I noticed an improvement in my hip pain within two months of starting the CBD oil and wanted to give our community the opportunity to experience a healthy alternative for pain relief,” said Smith. 

 

HempWorks will host an educational seminar during its soft opening in mid-October.  Smith will be reviewing the benefits of CBD oil, what to look for when purchasing it, and the research needed to ensure a safe, quality product.  Factors to explore include concentration levels, extraction methods, and the manufacturing process since hemp absorbs both the good and bad from the air, water and soil.

 

The official opening of HempWorks will be on November 1.  It will be located next to Artworks in the Shoppes of Averil Place plaza at 601 S. Virginia Avenue in Bridgeport, previously home to The Nest.

 

Along with a wide-range of CBD oil products, including edibles and salves, the store will also offer regular coffee and tea as well as CBD-oil infused options for the beverages.

 

At this point, Smith plans to be the only employee for HempWorks and is excited to open her own business after 33 years serving as a teacher and assistant principal for Harrison County Schools. 

 

“This is a quality product that offers proven benefits and I am eager to share it with the community to help improve the quality of life for those with health issues,” she said.