DeKALB — The effectiveness of Tru-Releaf, a CBD lotion, will be tested on student-athletes at NIU and the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point as part of a study of the product, Botanics and Health Incorporated announced.

The news release from Botanics and Health Inc. said the study is slated to begin once student-athletes return to campus. Spring sports and practices have been canceled by the university due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Botanics and Health Inc.’s release said the study “will confirm Tru-Releaf, a topically applied pure CBD lotion, is tetrahydrocannabinol-free, reduces pain, aids post-workout recovery and most importantly, does not increase levels of THC or CBD in the human body.”

“Scientific studies show CBD taken by mouth can lead to liver and other internal organ failure, but many manufacturers and retailers continue to press consumers to take it without any scientific proof it works,” said B&H CEO and Tru-Releaf developer Michael Shultz. “This study will prove that pure topical CBD is effective and a safe method to use CBD, one that does not allow CBD or THC to accumulate in the bloodstream as oral CBD products can.”

As part of the study, NIU and UW-Stevens Point will receive a portion of proceeds from purchases made by school supporters and alumni. Tru-Releaf bottles are available at a discounted $35 for school supporters, with $5 from every bottle purchased going back to the respective university.

Full-spectrum CBDs like Tru-Releaf containing less than 0.3% of THC, don’t come back positive for drug testing, thus making it a substance allowed by the NCAA.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated as the story develops.