What is CBD?
If you’re confused about the current CBD movement, you’re not alone. It sounds like everyone has their own definition of what CBD is, what it does, and why you should or shouldn’t be using it. Unfortunately, this patchwork of explanations is often woven with truths, semi-truths, and flat-out myths. It’s time to put the rumors to rest once and for all.
This guide will give you the rundown on what CBD is and what to look for when buying it online.
What CBD Is
CBD is short for cannabidiol, a naturally occurring compound found in the flower of the cannabis plant. It’s one of more than 100 known phytocannabinoids found in cannabis (hemp and marijuana). CBD is closely related to another active phytocannabinoid: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main compound that causes the high that cannabis is so well known for.
There are two types of CBD products on the market: CBD-rich and CBD-dominant. CBD-rich products use a strain that has equal parts CBD and THC or more CBD than THC. CBD-dominant products have very little to no THC in them.
CBD most commonly comes in oil form (also called tincture). The concentration of CBD in these oils or tinctures can vary, in addition to the other ingredients and even the methods of extraction. This is why it’s so important that you do research prior to purchasing CBD oil or any other product containing CBD.
What CBD Isn't
There is a misconception that CBD is marijuana and that it can get you high. It isn’t marijuana and it doesn't get you high.
CBD usually comes from two main sources: hemp and marijuana. This is perhaps the cause of much of the confusion surrounding CBD.
Although marijuana has a greater diversity of compounds, it contains both CBD and THC just like the hemp plant. When CBD products are derived from marijuana, the result is an oil that contains THC, the compound responsible for psychoactivity (the high). However, the presence of THC in CBD oil is usually extremely low, usually no more than 0.3%. In some states where medical marijuana is legal, the level of THC can be higher, as much as 5%.
When CBD is derived from hemp plants, users don’t experience the psychoactivity associated with marijuana usage. In fact, many CBD products contain no THC at all.
There’s also the idea that CBD is illegal. This isn’t always the case.
There are a few things that determine CBD’s legality, including how it’s sourced (marijuana versus hemp), the level of THC in the product, and the marijuana laws of the state in which it is sold. Since hemp plants must contain less than 0.3% of THC by law (which isn’t enough to produce any psychoactivity), CBD oil created from hemp faces fewer legal hurdles.
Yes, the legality can be confusing, especially when considering a CBD product that contains THC. If you want to play it safe, opt for a THC-free product since THC is what determines the product’s legality.
Forms of CBD
CBD comes in multiple forms. It’s most commonly sold as CBD oil or hemp oil, but you can also get it in other forms like gel caps or CBD gummies.
What to Look For When Buying CBD
Because CBD derived from hemp is legal even in states where marijuana is not, products like CBD oil are widely accessible.
Ordering CBD products online gives you the best option for variety, but there are a few things you should look for before you purchase.
First, understand that not all CBD products are created equal. CBD oil may come in a variety of strengths and extraction methods. Some companies won’t disclose any details about their extraction method, which should raise some red flags. Some cheap extraction methods may utilize harmful chemicals, such as butane, hexane, or propane, which can leave nasty residues. This not only damages the quality of the product but also your health. These extraction methods are used mostly because they are cheap, so be wary about CBD oils that are low priced.
Also, pay attention to how the cannabis was grown. Some industrial hemp is grown in non-food grade conditions. Hemp plants absorb contaminants in the soil, and the wrong conditions can mean heavy metals or other undesirable traces in your CBD oil.
Wrap Up
CBD is a growing trend in the United States, especially as the veil surrounding the compound is slowly dropping and its benefits are becoming harder to ignore. People are starting to disassociate CBD with the former rumors and myths, but there’s still a long way to go in separating the untruths from the facts.
If you want to try CBD for yourself, it’s best you first consult with your doctor. You don’t need a doctor’s permission to use CBD, but like other dietary supplements, CBD does have an impact on your body.
Got questions about CBD or how to choose the best product? Feel free to contact us today to learn more about our product line and discover what CBD can do for you.