About Us

American Grown. Family Owned.

About Us: Kentucky Cannabis Co. – Pioneering Kentucky-Grown CBD

Our Kentucky Cannabis Journey Began with a Mission:

In 2013, our company’s story began with a desire to help a family member. This experience fueled our passion for exploring the potential benefits of CBD. With the legalization of hemp in Kentucky, Kentucky Cannabis Company emerged as one of the first six licensed cultivators in the state. Continue reading Colten’s seizure story.

Kentucky-Grown Excellence:

We focus on cultivating high-quality, American hemp varieties rich in CBD, the non-psychoactive compound known for its potential therapeutic properties. We are committed to sustainable farming practices to ensure the quality and purity of our products from seed to shelf.

A Passion for Plant-Based Wellness:

We believe in the power of natural solutions and the potential of CBD to support overall well-being. We are dedicated to ongoing research and development to create innovative, high-quality CBD products.

Empowering Our Community:

We prioritize education and believe in providing users with the information they need to make informed choices about CBD. We offer a comprehensive library of educational resources and collaborate with local healthcare professionals to build a knowledgeable Kentucky CBD community.

Building a Brighter Future:

As Kentucky pioneers in CBD production, we are committed to advocating for safe and responsible use. We are excited to be part of the future of cannabis-based wellness and share that journey with you.

8

Years in operation

2

Retail locations

55

Products

3

Brands

Company of Firsts

Founded in 2014 for family, by family, we have successfully continued to operate today as a vertically-integrated, family-owned business, focused on bettering the hemp industry so all consumers can purchase products they can trust.

We are a company of firsts. The first to plant hemp in the Kentucky soil since its prohibition. The first to cultivate for high CBD hemp the first to produce CBD products in the commonwealth, the first to open an exclusive CBD retail store, Bluegrass Hemp Oil, in Kentucky and United States.

We are passionate about our mission to provide the highest quality hemp products to our customers. We are committed to delivering the highest quality product possible, utilizing only the best practices in our farming and manufacturing processes. We have invested heavily in research and development to ensure our products are produced with the most advanced extraction and production techniques available. We are proud to be an industry leader in hemp production and are constantly striving to improve our products and processes. We are dedicated to being a trusted source for consumers looking for high quality, reliable hemp products.

Bill Polyniak and Kentucky Cannabis Company: Trailblazers in Hemp and CBD

Introduction

The Kentucky hemp cultivation and CBD production landscape saw a significant shift after SB 50’s enactment in 2013. A key figure in this evolution was Bill Polyniak, CEO of Kentucky Cannabis Company. His venture into this industry began as a personal quest to find effective epilepsy treatments for his son, leading to a pioneering role in Kentucky’s hemp narrative.

Early Beginnings

Bill’s foray into hemp cultivation was fueled by the need for reliable CBD products for his son’s idiopathic generalized epilepsy. During this time, available CBD was often either contaminated or of foreign origin. After the legalization of hemp under state-sponsored programs, Bill was among the first in Kentucky to explore the possibilities of high-CBD hemp, a departure from the industry’s focus on fiber hemp.

The Founding of the Kentucky Cannabis Company

In March 2014, Bill, alongside David Hendrick, began cultivating high CBD hemp, marking the birth of the Kentucky Cannabis Company. These plants were transferred to Eastern Kentucky where they were first planted. This initiative was pioneering, particularly at a time when other hemp growers were dependent on imported seeds. Overcoming seed scarcity, Bill and Hendrick managed to transition their first plants to outdoor cultivation successfully by mid-2014.

Dave Hendrick and Bill Polyniak planting the first CBD hemp in Kentucky, marking a significant moment in the state’s hemp history

About Us: Kentucky Cannabis Co. – Pioneering Kentucky-Grown CBD from Seed to Shelf

From Humble Beginnings to Kentucky Leaders in CBD:

Our story began in 2014, fueled by a desire to explore the potential benefits of CBD. With the first harvest of Kentucky hemp plants, Kentucky Cannabis Company emerged as a pioneer in the state’s CBD industry.

A Commitment to Quality and Innovation:

From cultivating high-quality hemp to meticulous extraction and production processes, we are dedicated to providing you with the best possible CBD products. We champion full-spectrum, whole-plant products, believing in the synergistic effects of all the natural compounds found in hemp.

Milestones and Achievements:

  • 2014: Established Genesis Blend Full Spectrum CBD oil our flagship CBD oil.
  • 2016: Opened the first Bluegrass Hemp Oil store in Lexington. (Current location details can be found here:  Google Maps
  • 2019: Launched Batch Full Spectrum CBD oil, expanding our product range.
  • 2019: Advocated for “Shauna’s Law” to promote access to full-spectrum CBD.
  • 2019: Bluegrass Hemp Oil won Best CBD Company & Best CBD Product awards.
  • 2019: Consolidated operations to a central location in Midway, KY, encompassing everything from cultivation to retail.
  • 2021: Unruffled Pet Oil won a Silver High Times Hemp Cup People’s Choice Award.
  • 2021: Bluegrass Hemp Oil repeated its wins for Best CBD Company and Best CBD Product. 
Iconic Kentucky Cannabis Company building in downtown Midway, Kentucky

Kentucky Cannabis Co.: Kentucky’s Premier Source for Quality CBD

Did you know? Kentucky Cannabis Co. holds the distinction of being the first licensed hemp cultivator for cannabinoid research in the state! Located in Midway, Kentucky, we’ve been passionate about harnessing the potential of Kentucky-grown hemp since 2014.

Our Mission:

We’re dedicated to providing our customers with the highest quality, full-spectrum CBD products. From cultivating our hemp using sustainable practices to meticulous extraction techniques, we ensure every product is safe, potent, and effective.

Why Choose Kentucky Cannabis Co.?

  • Kentucky-Grown Excellence: We believe in the power of Kentucky’s fertile soil and sunshine to produce superior hemp.
  • Commitment to Quality: We prioritize quality control throughout the entire process, from seed to shelf.
  • Full-Spectrum Focus: We champion the benefits of full-spectrum CBD products, harnessing the power of all the natural compounds found in hemp.
  • A Legacy of Innovation: We’re constantly researching and developing new ways to deliver the best possible CBD experience.

Experience the Kentucky Cannabis Co. Difference!

Visit our website or our Lexington and Midway locations to explore our diverse range of CBD products, including tinctures, edibles, topicals, and pet products. We’re here to help you find the perfect CBD solution for your needs.

Conclusion

Bill Polyniak’s journey with Kentucky Cannabis Company stands as a testament to innovation, advocacy, and a commitment to quality. From its origins in seeking epilepsy treatment to adapting to a fast-growing market, the company has established itself as a standard-bearer in hemp cultivation and CBD production. Their ongoing efforts in product development, advocacy, and market leadership solidify their position as industry pioneers and trusted providers of effective, high-quality CBD products.

Our Story

Over the Years

Epilepsy
2/2009

1 SEIZURE TO 100’s

Polyniaks’ son was diagnosed with Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy. With hundreds of seizures and a harmful game of pharmaceutical roulette, they began looking for safer alternatives.

hemp leaf
2012

ADVOCACY

After discovering the benefits of CBD for epilepsy, the founders began advocating for hemp’s legalization in Kentucky.

Kentucky Capitol
2013

SB 50 PASSES

Senate Bill 50 passes in Kentucky – creating a pilot program for hemp research and cultivation.

Washington DC
2/2014

FEDERAL FARM BILL PASSES

Federal Farm Bill of 2014 legalizes hemp for production with Polyniak as the only individual awarded a pilot program for CBD research & production.

KCC logo
2/2014

KCC WAS BORN

 

Kentucky Cannabis Company was founded.

Hemp babies
3/2014

FIRST HEMP PLANTS IN KY

 

KCC brought the first hemp plants to KY since its prohibition. While other companies were waiting for foreign seed to be released by the DEA, we had plants in hand.

1st CBD plant
6/2014

KENTUCKY SOIL

 

Owners Bill Polyniak and Dave Hendrick planted the first high CBD-hemp variety in KY soil.

Genesis Blend Original Strength
10/2014

FIRST KY CBD OIL

 

KCC created and sold KY’s first ever full-spectrum CBD extract – Genesis Blend.

Colten seizure & pharma free
11/2014

SEIZURE & PHARMA FREE

 

After a successful pharmaceutical wean with addition of CBD, Colten is finally seizure and pharma free after 6 years.

Genesis Blend products
3/2015

BHO WAS BORN

 

Bluegrass Hemp Oil (BHO) was founded.

Bluegrass Hemp Oil
11/2016

FIRST CBD STORE

 

KCC/BHO opened the first ever CBD-only store in Kentucky and the U.S.

Oleoresin
2019

KCC CONTINUES TO LEAD

 

KCC remains one of the few vertically-integrated, locally owned and operated hemp CBD business.

Shauna's Law
2/2019

SHAUNA’S LAW

 

KCC files Shauna’s Law – first legislation of its kind – to allow state employees to consume full spectrum CBD products without fear of termination.

Batch 450
6/2019

BATCH CREATED

 

Batch created exclusively for wholesale to support local farmers cultivating high-CBD hemp in KY.

Bluegrass Hemp Oil
8/2019

BHO WINS!

 

BHO wins Herald Leader People’s Choice Awards for BEST CBD COMPANY & BEST CBD PRODUCT.

CBD for pets
8/2019

UNRUFFLED CREATED

 

In partnership with Oven Art, KCC creates all-natural, CBD infused pet products.

Midway, KY
10/2019

KCC LAYS ROOTS IN MIDWAY

 

KCC combines all operations and consolidates to one local campus in Midway, KY.

Bluegrass Hemp Oil
8/2020

BHO WINS – AGAIN!

 

For the 2nd year in a row, BHO wins Herald Leader People’s Choice Awards for BEST CBD COMPANY & BEST CBD PRODUCT.

Unruffled Pet Oil - CBD for Pets
5/2021

UNRUFFLED PET OIL WINS!

 

Unruffled Pet Oil wins 2nd place in the High Times Hemp Cup.

Bluegrass Hemp Oil
8/2021

BHO WINS – FOR A 3RD TIME!

 

For the 3rd year in a row, BHO wins Herald Leader People’s Choice Awards for BEST CBD COMPANY & BEST CBD PRODUCT.

Comprehensive Kentucky Cannabis Company FAQ

About CBD Products

What CBD Products Do You Offer?

We provide a wide selection of CBD products, designed to cater to various needs and preferences, including:

  • Tinctures (oils)
  • Edibles (gummies, chocolates, etc.)
  • Topicals (creams, lotions, salves)
  • Pet Products (tinctures, treats)

You can explore our full selection of products at our online store.

How Do I Choose the Right CBD Product?

Our knowledgeable staff can help you select the right product based on your unique needs. Consider factors such as:

  • Delivery method (ingestion vs. topical application)
  • Desired dosage
  • Target benefits (pain relief, relaxation, etc.)

What are the Potential Benefits of CBD?

Though research on CBD is still ongoing, studies suggest that CBD may offer benefits such as:

  • Reducing stress and promoting relaxation
  • Supporting pain management
  • Improving sleep quality
  • Reducing inflammation and alleviating anxiety

We recommend reviewing credible sources or consulting healthcare professionals for more information on potential benefits.

Are Your CBD Products FDA Approved?

No, the FDA does not currently approve CBD for treating specific medical conditions. However, all our products undergo third-party lab testing to ensure they meet the highest standards of safety, potency, and purity.

Can I Use CBD While Taking Other Medications?

It's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before using CBD, especially if you're taking other medications. CBD may interact with certain medications, and professional guidance can help avoid potential complications.

What is the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana?

Both hemp and marijuana are varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant. The key difference lies in their THC content:

  • Hemp has less than 0.3% THC, making it non-psychoactive.
  • Marijuana contains higher THC levels, which can cause a psychoactive effect or "high."

Is Recreational Cannabis Legal in Kentucky?

No, recreational cannabis is not legal in Kentucky. Only hemp-derived products, such as CBD oil with less than 0.3% THC, are legal for sale and use. For medical cannabis, there are specific rules and allowances under Kentucky law.

Is Cannabis Use Safe?

While many people use cannabis and hemp-derived products safely, potential side effects may include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Altered perception

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any cannabis product, particularly if you have pre-existing conditions or are on medication.


About Cannabis Legalization in Kentucky

Is Cannabis Legal in Kentucky?

As of now, recreational cannabis is not legal in Kentucky. However, hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal under state law, following federal guidelines set by the 2018 Farm Bill.

Is Medical Cannabis Legal in Kentucky?

Medical cannabis is partially legal under certain circumstances. In 2023, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear signed an executive order allowing patients with qualifying medical conditions to legally possess and use medical cannabis obtained from other states. Kentucky itself does not yet have a fully operational medical cannabis program.

Are Cannabis Dispensaries Allowed Under New Kentucky Law?

No, cannabis dispensaries are not yet allowed under Kentucky law. However, individuals who meet certain medical criteria may possess cannabis purchased legally in other states. Kentucky is still working towards implementing a structured medical cannabis program.

Does Kentucky Have Legal Cannabis?

Kentucky does not currently allow the recreational use of cannabis, but hemp-derived CBD products are legal. Medical cannabis is available in limited cases through an executive order, but no dispensaries are operational within the state.

How Far Is Kentucky From Cannabis Legalization?

Kentucky is making gradual progress toward medical cannabis legalization, but recreational cannabis remains illegal. The 2023 executive order allowing medical cannabis for specific conditions marks a step forward, but more legislative action is required for comprehensive legalization.

Is Medical Cannabis Oil Legal in Kentucky?

Yes, medical cannabis oil is legal in Kentucky under limited conditions, specifically for patients who qualify under the 2023 executive order. The oil must be legally obtained from another state. However, hemp-derived CBD oil containing less than 0.3% THC is fully legal and widely available in Kentucky.