Even though cannabis is more widely accepted, the legality of CBD continues to be questioned. More and more people are wondering what this cannabinoid is and how they can benefit from it. CBD is one of more than 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis sativa and while it is not intoxicating, it has been shown to have a wide variety of medical benefits. From treating chronic pain to reducing anxiety and alleviating symptoms of depression, CBD seems to be something that everyone can benefit from. CBD can be consumed in a variety of ways, including vaping, edibles, and tinctures. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and there are more and less known consumption devices. If you prefer using a dry CBD flower, for example, you can opt for the traditional bong or Grasscity’s portable unique blunts. You can explore the different ways to take CBD but make sure you get dosage guidance. And despite the growth in popularity, there remain unanswered questions about the legality so this blog will dive into more details about this active ingredient as well as its legal status.
What is CBD?
CBD is one of the main active ingredients in the marijuana plant which consists of over 100 cannabinoids. The main distinction between CBD and THC, which is the other main active ingredient, is the fact that CBD is not psychoactive so don’t expect to experience a high when you consume this ingredient. Today, CBD is famed for its many medical health benefits and medical marijuana has become a massive industry that sees millions across the world choosing to heal using this natural alternative. Many medical professionals also recognize the benefit of this substance and many studies and research has been conducted proving the benefits it holds. This has resulted in CBD becoming legalized because it contains no THC.
How it can be consumed
CBD can be consumed in several ways with the most common being:
- Dry herb vaporizer: This is a battery-powered device used to vape CBD. Dry herb vaporizers heat the herb at a controlled temperature instead of burning it and this process creates a vapor that is believed to be much healthier than traditional inhalation methods of consumption.
- Edibles: This involves consuming food or drink products that contain CBD and when consumed, they get broken down in your digestive system and liver which delivers long-lasting effects.
- Topicals: Topicals are CBD-infused lotions and creams that can be applied directly onto the skin’s surface to target specific problems areas such as muscle pain or joint stiffness.
- Tinctures: Tinctures are a liquid that is formed by dissolving dry herbs in alcohol. You consume this sublingually.
Tinctures are very popular in the medical marijuana community and are one of the easiest and safest ways to administer CBD.
What benefits does it offer?
A lot of light has been shining on the marijuana industry and as a result, we have become awakened to the many health benefits of CBD. A few examples of conditions that can be treated by CBD include:
- Pain: CBD is most commonly used to treat pain and it does this by acting on several biological processes in the body. CBD affects the endocannabinoid receptor activity which not only reduces pain but also inflammation.
- Anxiety and depression: CBD can treat anxiety and depression by altering serotonin levels as well as inducing a state of relaxation and calm.
- Epilepsy: CBD famously helps stop seizures by activating certain cells in our nervous system called CB1 receptors.
Where is it legal?
All around the world you will find that the cannabis laws vary with regards to possession, distribution, consumption as well as what medical condition it can be consumed for. According to EU law, which applies to all countries in the European Union, CBD oil cannot contain more than 0.2% THC. Some other countries follow their own cannabis-specific laws which result in CBD either being partially legal or not legal at all. The following countries have legalized CBD:
- Australia ( CBD oil)
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark (requires a prescription to obtain CBD)
- France
- Greece
In countries and states where CBD is legalized, you can purchase it at dispensaries, online, or even in supermarkets. A strict regulation though is that there cannot be more than 0.3% THC in the CBD products purchased. There are also 3 main types of CBD: a pure form of CBD called CB isolate, full-spectrum CBD, and broad-spectrum CBD.
For more in-depth information on the use of CBD, be sure to visit the comprehensive resources available at https://cfah.org/.
Precautions
Do not consume CBD while on pharmaceutical medication and before consuming, consult your doctor to determine the correct dose. Some side effects may include tiredness and laziness.
