FAQs
WHAT IS CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is just one of more than 60 chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. It is usually the second-most abundant cannabinoid, behind THC.
DOES CBD COME FROM MARIJUANA OR HEMP? AND WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO?
Marijuana and hemp are two different types of cannabis. Both come from the same species of plant (Cannabis sativa L). The hemp plant is an entirely different strain of cannabis that contains high quantities of CBD in the stems and buds and almost no trace of THC. If a hemp plant contains more than 0.3% THC, it is considered marijuana and therefore could be considered illegal in many places. Most all CBD-based products come from the industrial hemp plant, although CBD is found abundantly in both.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CBD AND THC?
THC affects the brain by binding to naturally-occurring CB-1 receptors in the central nervous system. CBD is a differently-shaped molecule that binds to CB-2 receptors in cell and body tissues outside the central nervous system.
WILL CBD GET ME HIGH?
No, it will not. CBD is non-intoxicating. THC is the molecule that binds to receptors in our brain and is responsible for an intoxicated feeling. CBD is actually antagonistic to the marijuana high, with research suggesting it may prevent THC molecules from binding to the brain’s receptors, dulling the psychoactive effects of THC.
HOW DO I TAKE CBD?
The majority of CBD products are taken orally by putting oil drops under the tongue and holding for 60 seconds before swallowing. Topical creams and ointments are also very effective, as is smoking or vaporizing CBD-rich strains.
WHAT ARE SOME OTHER CBD-DOMINANT STRAINS OF MARIJUANA?
Charlotte’s Web, ACDC, and Harlequin are probably the most popular CBD-dominant cannabis. Other strains include CBD Mango Haze, Blueberry Essence, Hawaiian Dream, Sour Tsunami, and Darkstar.
WHAT IS CBD OIL?
CBD oil is a liquid cannabis extract that contains almost totally pure CBD. It’s commonly made from seeds of the hemp plant and the stem of industrial hemp.
HOW DOES CBD WORK?
CBD binds to cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). These receptors have been found in virtually every cell and tissue type in the human body, leaving many opportunities for CBD to help throughout the entire body.
IS CBD LEGAL?
In states where medical marijuana is legal, any CBD product is also legal. Outside of these legalized states, things get a little complicated. As long as the CBD product (oil, vape, topical, etc) is produced from the seeds and stalk of the industrial hemp plant (with less than 0.3% THC), it is legal to buy, sell, and ship across state lines.
IS CBD NATURAL?
Yes! CBD is a completely naturally-occurring chemical compound that comes directly from the cannabis plant. There is nothing synthetic about it.
DO ALL MARIJUANA STRAINS HAVE CBD?
Not all marijuana strains have CBD, but every cannabis plant — whether it’s marijuana or hemp — will have CBD in both the stem and seeds.
HOW IS CBD ISOLATED FROM THE CANNABIS PLANT?
CO2 extraction is the best method to extract pure CBD isolate, after which it exists as a clear or white crystal. This method leaves practically zero trace of chemical contaminants in the end product. Alcohol extraction is another popular method. In this process ethanol, butane, or hexane is run through raw plant material to extract the CBD, before evaporating to leave only the active cannabinoid. Infusing vegetable oil is another effective way of extracting CBD.
ARE THERE STUDIES ON CBD?
Yes, there are many. Thousands of scientific studies exist specifically on CBD. Check out Project CBD for robust documentation on the research progress on this incredible drug. Our blog is also a great resource for more information.
WHAT ABOUT CBD TOPICALS… DO THEY WORK?
There are plenty of studies that conclude CBD topicals are effective for a number of circumstances.
WILL CBD SHOW UP ON A DRUG TEST?
A CBD product with minimal THC is unlikely to show up on a drug test. However, low quality CBD products may contain more traces of THC than they claim, in which case it is possible for a screening to pick up on the drug.
HOW DO I KNOW WHAT SERVING OF CBD TO TAKE?
This depends on what you’re using the compound for and how strong the product is. It’s common for people to consume between 10-50 mg of CBD per day total. Make sure to read the label on your product to ensure a proper dosage.
HOW DO I KNOW IT’S SAFE TO PURCHASE CBD ONLINE?
You should first make sure the company you’re buying from is reputable and that the product is made from industrial hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC. Transporting marijuana across state lines (from legal to non-legal states) is against the law, however transporting hemp and hemp-based products is legal.