This is a collaborative post: The hemp plant is increasingly conquering complementary and alternative medicine and dispelling prejudices against cannabis. The opinion that cannabis is bad per se seems in need of revision, especially when one takes a closer look at the plant’s ingredients and the pharmacologically active components.
But since November 2020, the European Court of Justice has ruled that CBD products (with a THC < 0.2 %) are legal in Europe.
You can now easily order a different kind of CBD oil online in the UK on websites or toy can also go directly in a Tobacco shop that sell CBD.
What is the difference between CBD and THC?
The main difference between CBD and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is that CBD is not psychoactive, in contrast to the intoxicating THC.
It is mainly because, unlike THC, cannabidiol only partially binds to the body’s own endocannabinoid system’s receptors.
As a result, the two substances differ considerably in their effect on a physical and mental level. Therefore, CBD is not considered a narcotic and is consequently not subject to the Narcotics Act.
CBD is often referred to as an antagonist (opponent) to THC. It has a calming and balancing effect on the body and the nervous system, whereas THC has an activating impact.
Is CBD approved in the UK?
One thing is sure: CBD does not have a psychoactive effect and is therefore not considered a narcotic. According to the Narcotics Act, over-the-counter hemp products’ THC content must not exceed 0.2 per cent.3 Because, as already mentioned, this corresponds to the limit value set by the EU Commission for Europe for industrial and food hemp.
As long as a CBD preparation does not exceed this limit applicable in the UK, it can be legally sold and purchased as a dietary supplement (e.g. CBD oil or capsules) or cosmetic. Cannabidiol, with a THC content of over 0.2 per cent, is considered a medicinal product and requires a prescription.
In which forms and consistencies are CBD available?
CBD is available in different forms and consistencies: from dried flowers to CBD oil and capsules to liquids for e-cigarettes and ointments for external use. The market currently seems to be flooded with all kinds of CBD products offered in various hemp shops and on the Internet. In the following, we will go into more detail about the different products.
CBD oil (CBD drops)
CBD oil is the most commonly used dosage form. It is easy to use with a dropper and is available in various concentrations. The higher the CBD content, the more the preparations cost, which does not automatically mean that they are more effective.
The CBD oil is usually designated as a dietary supplement. However, this means that there is no uniformly prescribed composition or method of manufacture. In some cases, the oils differ significantly in terms of their quality.
CBD capsules
CBD capsules are available as an alternative to CBD oil.
The significant advantage: they are tasteless and therefore the right choice if you cannot get used to the intense, sometimes bitter taste of the oil. CBD oils are also available in different concentrations and from different manufacturers.
What can be interpreted as a disadvantage?
The absorption of the active ingredients in the stomach results in a delayed effect compared to the CBD oil, which is absorbed through the oral mucosa and directly into the bloodstream.
What are CBD flowers, and what are they used for?
The CBD flowers are the dried flowers and parts of the hemp plant. However, as already mentioned, CBD flowers are legal with the 0,2% of THC.
CBD liquid for e-cigarettes
The so-called CBD liquids are used for e-cigarettes and partly also in vaporizers. They are available in different concentrations and flavors. These products are typically used with different types of vaping devices, allowing consumers to choose a method that fits their preferences. Some users opt for options such as CBD vape pens, which are designed specifically for use with CBD liquids.
What are CBD crystals used for?
CBD crystals are the purest form of CBD. They are used to produce CBD oil by dissolving the crystals in a carrier oil (e.g. hemp oil from hemp seeds, olive oil or coconut oil) or alcohol. The resulting products are then referred to as CBD crystals or CBD isolates.
CBD tablets
Often the CBD capsules are also referred to as tablets, whereby the tablets refer to higher-dose preparations subject to prescription.
Is there also a CBD ointment?
Yes, CBD is also available as an ointment or gel for topical application to the skin. For example, they can be used to support pain relief.
When can CBD be used?
The application area for CBD is very diverse – the recommendations range from mild headaches and difficulty falling asleep.
Many studies have already been carried out on the areas of application, which indicate that cannabidiol can help with many ailments and diseases and thus alleviate and heal.
You can also find more about the areas of application, as always, the suggestion it is to choose online shop certified as Justbob, for exemple, to be sure to find the best CBD products.