Southern University Becomes First HBCU to Launch Hemp-Derived CBD Product Line

The Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has announced a partnership with Ilera Holistic Healthcare, as it releases a hemp-derived CBD product line called ALAFIA. This makes Southern University the first HBCU to launch a hemp product line.

Representatives from Southern University and Ilera Holistic Healthcare held a press conference—which included a ribbon-cutting ceremony at H&W Drug Store Dispensary in New Orleans. At the event, people were able to purchase ALAFIA.

“This is an exciting time for healthcare and business here in the state of Louisiana, and Southern University is honored to be a part of it all,” Ray L. Belton, president of the Southern University System said in a statement. “Southern has been a leader in agriculture and the sciences for 140 years while staying true to its mission of access. This CBD venture with Ilera encompasses all of that. We look forward to advancing this vision and serving as a model for other universities.”

ALAFIA, which means ‘inner peace’ in the Yoruba language, is scientifically formulated, lab tested, and pesticide-free. The CBD products will be available at dispensaries in Louisiana as well as other retail locations. ALAFIA will also be made available nationwide for sale and distribution.

“We are excited about the launch of ALAFIA,” said Osagie Imasogie, chairman of Ilera Holistic Healthcare. “Our team created a superior hemp-derived product with patients in mind. We are proud of this partnership with Southern and look forward to announcing the next phase of this groundbreaking rollout.”

The formulated PURE CBD tinctures currently on the market are: Isolate CBD with 500mg ($40) and 1000mg ($80) and Full Spectrum CBD with 500mg ($40) and 1000mg ($80). Additional CBD products will be released soon.

“Our vision has always been patient access and affordability,” said Chanda Macias, chief executive officer of Ilera Holistic Healthcare. “It was imperative for us to bring high-quality products that support health and wellness. Patients now can purchase ALAFIA over the counter without a prescription anywhere it is available.”

For additional information and to learn more about distribution and retail locations, click here.