Welcome to our comprehensive guide to CBD. Here, we aim to answer all your questions about cannabidiol, a compound that has garnered significant attention in the health and wellness industry.
This guide is designed to help you understand what CBD is, how it works, and how it might benefit you. Whether you are new to CBD or looking to expand your knowledge, we’ve compiled the most common questions and answers to guide you.
Let’s start!
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound from the Cannabis sativa plant. It’s known for its potential therapeutic effects, providing relief for pain, anxiety, and inflammation without causing a high. CBD is available in various forms such as oils, gummies, and topicals.
What does CBD stand for?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is one of the many compounds found in cannabis and hemp plants. It is known for its potential therapeutic properties without the psychoactive effects of THC.
What is CBG vs CBD?
CBG, or cannabigerol, and CBD, or cannabidiol, are both non-psychoactive cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. CBG is often considered the “mother of all cannabinoids” because other cannabinoids are derived from its acidic form.
While CBD is more abundant and researched for its potential to alleviate anxiety, pain, and inflammation, CBG is less common and is being studied for its possible antibacterial properties and ability to treat conditions such as glaucoma and inflammatory bowel disease.
Is hemp and CBD the same?
No, hemp and CBD are not the same. Hemp refers to a strain of the Cannabis sativa plant grown primarily for industrial uses of its derived products.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a chemical compound extracted from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant and other cannabis plant varieties, known for its potential therapeutic properties.
Hemp plants are specifically cultivated to have high CBD and low THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) levels.
Is CBD marijuana?
No, CBD is not marijuana. CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound that can be extracted from both marijuana and hemp plants, which are both forms of Cannabis sativa.
However, unlike marijuana, CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce the “high” associated with THC, the main psychoactive component of marijuana.
Where does CBD come from?
CBD comes from the Cannabis sativa plant. It is primarily extracted from hemp, a variety of cannabis that contains high levels of CBD and very low levels of THC, making it the preferred source for CBD products to ensure minimal psychoactive effects.
What does CBD do?
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes including mood, pain sensation, and immune functions.
What is CBD used for?
CBD is used for various health and wellness purposes. It is commonly used to help manage anxiety, reduce pain, support sleep, and alleviate symptoms of conditions like chronic pain and inflammation.
Some also use it for its potential neuroprotective properties and to support overall well-being.
What is full spectrum CBD?
Full spectrum CBD refers to CBD products that contain all of the naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3% by law in the U.S.), terpenes, and other cannabinoids.
This type of CBD is believed to offer the “entourage effect,” where the combined effects of the plant’s components are thought to work together synergistically to enhance the overall therapeutic benefits.
Does full spectrum CBD have THC?
Yes, full spectrum CBD contains THC, but in very low concentrations—up to 0.3% by law in the United States. This trace amount is not typically enough to produce psychoactive effects.
What is broad spectrum CBD?
Broad spectrum CBD includes a range of cannabinoids and other compounds found in the cannabis plant, similar to full spectrum CBD, but it has all THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) removed. This makes it a good option for those who want the benefits of the entourage effect without any THC.
What is kratom CBD?
There is no such product as “kratom CBD”; they are separate entities used individually for their respective properties.
Kratom is derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa, a tree native to Southeast Asia. It acts on opioid receptors and has stimulant and sedative effects depending on the dose.
CBD, on the other hand, is derived from the cannabis plant and interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to help regulate various physiological functions without producing a high.
What is the difference between CBD and THC?
CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are both cannabinoids found in cannabis plants but have different effects on the body. THC is psychoactive and CBD is non-psychoactive.
While both have medicinal properties, their legal status, effects on the mind and body, and usage can vary significantly.
Does CBD have THC?
CBD products themselves do not inherently contain THC. However, the presence of THC in CBD products depends on the type of CBD used:
- Full spectrum CBD contains up to 0.3% by federal law in the U.S.
- Broad spectrum CBD typically has all THC removed.
- CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, containing no other cannabinoids, including THC.
Thus, whether CBD products contain THC depends on the extraction and purification processes used.
Is CBD a hallucinogen?
No, CBD is not a hallucinogen. It does not produce hallucinogenic effects or the “high” typically associated with THC.
Is CBD addictive?
No, CBD is not considered addictive. Studies, including those cited by the World Health Organization, indicate that CBD does not produce psychoactive effects, which significantly reduces the risk of dependency associated with its use.
Does CBD expire?
Yes, CBD does expire. Like many other products, CBD oil and other CBD products have a shelf life, typically ranging between 1 to 2 years. The exact lifespan can depend on factors such as the extraction method, the formulation, and how the product is stored.
Keeping CBD products in a cool, dark, and dry place can help preserve their potency and extend their shelf life.
Can you smoke CBD?
Yes, CBD can be smoked. CBD flower, which is the bud of the hemp plant, can be smoked in a similar manner to marijuana.
Additionally, there are CBD-rich pre-rolls and concentrates available that are specifically designed for smoking.
Is CBD safe?
Yes, CBD is generally considered safe for most people. It is well-tolerated at typical doses and is not associated with serious side effects. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as fatigue, changes in appetite, or gastrointestinal issues.
Can I take CBD?
As with any supplement, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting CBD, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.
Is CBD bad for you?
Generally, it is not. However, like any substance, it can cause side effects in some individuals. It is important to use CBD responsibly, follow dosage recommendations, and consult with a healthcare provider.
How long does CBD last?
The duration of CBD’s effects can vary depending on several factors including the method of consumption, the individual’s body weight, metabolism, and the dosage taken. Generally:
- Inhaled CBD (via smoking or vaping) typically takes effect quickly and can last for a couple of hours.
- Oral consumption (like CBD gummies or capsules) can take longer to kick in, usually from 30 minutes to two hours, but the effects can last for four to six hours.
- Topical applications are more localized and the duration can vary widely based on the formulation.
For most people, the effects of CBD will last between four to six hours.
How long does CBD stay in your urine?
CBD can stay in your urine for different lengths of time depending on several factors, including the frequency of use, the dosage, and your body’s metabolism.
For occasional users, CBD might be detectable in urine for about 3 days after last use.
For regular users, CBD can be detectable for up to 15 days or more.
Can CBD show up on a drug test?
It is important to note that most standard drug tests typically look for THC, not CBD, although some CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC that could potentially influence a drug test result.
Can you overdose on CBD?
It is highly unlikely to overdose on CBD in the traditional sense, as it is generally considered to be non-toxic. CBD does not interact with the brainstem areas controlling respiration, so lethal overdoses from CBD alone are virtually non-existent.
However, consuming very large amounts of CBD may lead to undesirable side effects such as extreme drowsiness, gastrointestinal issues, or mood changes.
Always use CBD products according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and consult with a healthcare provider, especially when considering higher doses.
Can you fly with CBD?
Yes, you can fly with CBD within the United States if it contains less than 0.3% THC and is derived from hemp. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has adjusted its policy to allow products like CBD oil as long as they comply with the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018.
However, it is important to research the laws regarding CBD in the destination you are traveling to before flying with CBD products.
How does CBD make you feel?
CBD does not produce a “high” like THC, but users often report feeling more relaxed and less anxious after taking it. Some people may also experience a mild sense of alertness.
The effects can vary widely depending on the dosage and the individual’s body chemistry. In some cases, people might also experience drowsiness or changes in appetite.
Does CBD make you hungry?
CBD does not typically stimulate appetite in the same way that THC does. THC is known for its ability to increase hunger, often referred to as “the munchies”. However, CBD might indirectly influence appetite in some users by reducing symptoms like nausea and anxiety, which can make eating more appealing if those symptoms are reduced.
Does CBD make you lose weight?
CBD is not typically used as a weight loss supplement, and there is limited direct evidence suggesting that CBD alone can lead to significant weight loss. However, some studies suggest that CBD could help with weight management by reducing and boosting metabolism.
Additionally, CBD might indirectly affect behaviors by potentially reducing stress and anxiety that lead to weight gain, such as stress eating.
Does CBD get you stoned?
No, CBD does not get you stoned. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants, meaning it does not produce the psychoactive effects.
Does CBD make you feel spacey?
CBD typically does not make you feel spacey or disoriented. CBD is non-psychoactive and is generally associated with promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. However, everyone’s body reacts differently, and some people might experience mild dizziness, especially at higher doses.