What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) has become widespread in the health space, seen as a legitimate product for those with certain issues. Its popularity has grown in the UK, with around 1 in 5 adults using CBD.

To the uninitiated, you may have an idea about CBD being related to cannabis, but are unsure of much else about it. That’s normal; there are many misconceptions around CBD, particularly its uses and whether it is legal.

We’re going to take a closer look at what CBD is, what CBD side effects there might be, and its legal status in the UK.

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol is a chemical that is extracted from the cannabis plant. It’s just one of over 100 naturally occurring cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, and unlike some of the other chemicals in cannabis, it is non-intoxicating.

CBD has become more popular in recent years because of the rise in wellness and self-care. CBD is a natural substance that is marketed in many places as a helpful supplement that can easily be fitted into daily routines and a more holistic approach to health.

It is now easily and legally available and comes in oils, gummies, drinks and other ways so that people can use CBD non-invasively.

Where Does CBD Come From?

The confusion around CBD stems from the many names that come up when you start talking about it. Cannabis, marijuana, hemp and cannabinoids are all familiar terms related to CBD that can muddy the waters.

The Cannabis Plant

• Cannabis sativa is the entire cannabis plant.
• Marijuana is the name for the dried leaves, flowers, stems and seeds that are harvested, which contain higher amounts of THC.
• Hemp is another variety of the cannabis sativa plant that contains less than 0.3% THC.

Most commercially available CBD products in the UK are made from industrial hemp, so they contain very little THC.

Hemp contains very low levels of THC because it has been bred and cultivated over centuries to be used as rope and paper, so the psychoactive properties (caused by THC) were bred out so these items could be safely used.

Understanding Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds that act on cannabinoid receptors in the body, found mostly in the cannabis plant.

CBD is a well-known cannabinoid; others include:

• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)
• CBN (cannabinol)
• CBG (cannabigerol)

How Does CBD Work?

CBD is thought to work by acting on your body’s endocannabinoid system.

The ECS is a complex system of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. Endocannabinoids are molecules similar to cannabinoids that you produce naturally.

The ECS is involved in regulating various bodily processes such as:

• Sleep
• Mood
• Appetite
• Memory
• Pain control
• Immune system
• Reproduction

All of this means it is vital in maintaining balance in your body.

It works differently from THC on this system because THC binds directly to receptors, causing the psychoactive effects. It’s also believed that it affects the system indirectly, stopping the breakdown of your body’s natural endocannabinoids, helping to maintain that internal balance longer.

What Is It Commonly Used For?

People choose to use CBD oil and other products to help with a range of issues, including:

• Anxiety
• Stress
• Sleep
• Chronic pain
• Inflammation
• Epilepsy

Most of the products offered legally in health shops and widely available contain small amounts of CBD. The evidence for their effectiveness is largely anecdotal and lacks strong scientific support.

For people with a rare or severe form of epilepsy, the NHS offers a CBD product called Epidyolex. They also offer medical cannabis to people undergoing chemotherapy and suffering from multiple sclerosis.

In the UK, only certain prescription CBD medicines have regulatory approval for specific medical conditions. Because of this, CBD products cannot be marketed with medical claims without authorisation.

Does CBD Get You High?

CBD does not produce the intoxicating effects that are associated with cannabis. The chemical that produces that type of high is THC.

As explored above, THC produces the “high” associated with illegal marijuana because the chemical binds directly to receptors. This triggers a release of dopamine, causing a state of euphoria.

CBD instead acts on other receptors, not binding to any, to produce calming effects without the intoxication.

Some products, such as oils and cannabis edibles, may contain trace THC depending on formulation and regulations, but as long as the trace amount of THC is below 0.2%, they can be legally sold in shops in the UK.

CBD vs THC: What’s the Difference?

Is CBD Legal in the UK?

Pure CBD is legal in the UK. However, it is hard to isolate CBD from other cannabinoids, so trace amounts of other ones are often found in CBD products. As a result, all CBD products must be derived from an approved industrial hemp strain and contain no more than 1 mg of THC per finished pack.

CBD products sold as food supplements must be designated as novel foods by the Food Standards Authority, complying with safety and labelling regulations.

Products with medical claims have to be classified as medicines, needing a license to market and sell by the MHRA.

CBD products can be easily found online, but these may contain illegal amounts of THC. You should instead always buy products from reputable manufacturers.

Are There Any Side Effects or Risks?

Some people who use CBD may experience side effects, including:

• Dry mouth
• Nausea, diarrhoea, stomach cramps
• Drowsiness
• Reduced appetite

CBD may also interact with medications, disrupting their metabolism. CBD can affect medications such as blood thinners, antidepressants and heart medications.

Before using any CBD product, you should speak to your GP, especially if you:

• Take medication regularly
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have underlying medical conditions

Reach Out for Advice and Support

Asana Lodge is a private drug and alcohol rehab that offers expert resources and addiction treatment services for those who need them.

For a confidential chat, even if you just want to ask “what does CBD do”, call us now at 01908 489 421.