Is it weed? Does it get you high? Is it legal?

This curious substance has created a lot of conversations recently, and the buzz doesn’t seem to be dying down. Since CBD appears to be here to stay, let’s get to know what this substance is and how it works.

Cannabidiol, most commonly known as CBD, is one of the many cannabis compounds extracted from the cannabis (marijuana) plant. Cannabis is commonly associated with getting “high” or “stoned”, due to the high THC levels (with psychoactive properties) in the leaves and flowers of the plant, which is the part users smoke or ingest.

CBD, on the other hand, is quite different.  

What is CBD?

CBD does not have psychoactive properties, meaning users do not experience a high or altered state. Instead, CBD produces positive effects to the nervous system, making it a go-to for those suffering from certain conditions. CBD has been proven to ease nausea, pain, epilepsy, depression, anxiety, muscle spasms, and various other symptoms.

Because this all-natural compound has been proven to greatly help medical patients, it is becoming more common for people to turn towards a CBD remedy. Almost all medications have the possibility of negative side effects, while CBD has little short-term side effects and absolutely no long-term side effects. According to a report from the World Health Organization, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential…. To date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”

This then leads to questions: is this safe for both children and adults? Is this substance legal?

In short, yes, it is safe to give CBD to children and/or adults. In medical cases, speaking to a doctor is always advised in order to figure out proper dosages for specific symptoms. But, if you are an adult looking to ease stress or anxiety, you can also just simply buy off the shelf CBD products. Since CBD products are present in your neighborhood stores and there are no real dangers that come from this natural substance, you would assume that it is legal, right? Well…kind of.

The legality of CBD depends on where it comes from, which can be derived from a marijuana or a hemp plant. If your CBD comes from a hemp plant, it is legal.

But, if your CBD comes from a marijuana plant, it is likely only legal in states that have legalized marijuana. This is due to the difference in CBD concentration and the possibility of high levels of THC. Marijuana is specifically harvested for its buds containing high levels of THC, anywhere from 1% THC to 20% THC. Hemp plants, however, are harvested for their stalks and seeds, which contain very little to no THC. For marijuana to be considered hemp, it must have no more than 0.3 percent of THC.

When CBD is extracted from a hemp or marijuana plant, it is in the form of oil. CBD oil can be smoked, baked into different food items, made into drinks, put into pill capsules, included in topical lotions, and more!

Whether you are looking to explore the recreational world of CBD or looking for some medical relief, do your research and investigate what form of oil might work best for you. Overall, CBD is not something for us to be wary of. In fact, it is a very positively impactful substance that has been able to help a lot of people with certain ailments.

CBD continues to be researched among experts, so expect to hear more about it in the future!

Photo by Demi Pradolin on Unsplash

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Lindsey Czajkowski works as a Design Coordinator at the Free People home office. Her interest in fashion influenced her move to Philadelphia, but the delicious food scene, diversity, and opportunity within Philly is what made Lindsey immerse herself in the city. You’re likely to find Lindsey at work in the Navy Yard in South Philly, out to eat around Northern Liberties, or shopping in Center City or in a park trying to pet a strangers dog. View all posts by Lindsey Czajkowski