What is CBD
Cannabidiol, better known by its abbreviated name CBD, is a molecule extracted from cannabis. The hemp plant contains dozens of cannabinoid compounds, the best known of which are CBD and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). CBD is a chemical compound present in cannabis in the same way as THC, but in greater quantities than the latter.
Extracted from cannabis plants, cannabidiol comes in an oily form, which is then easily incorporated into a liquid solution. CBD can then be consumed as an essential oil or vaping liquid for electronic cigarettes. As a result of fashion, the name CBD can also be found on the packaging of many products, particularly cosmetics. This marketing use of CBD terminology only indicates that a certain amount of CBD, often small, is contained in the finished product.
Unlike THC, CBD has no psychoactive effect on the body. Moreover, it does not cause addiction. It cannot therefore be described as a drug. It is for these reasons that its use within a legal framework and under certain conditions is allowed.
The democratisation of its use in Europe benefits from a certain legal vagueness which makes it considered as “legal cannabis”. Its therapeutic benefits have been studied for several decades and recognised in a number of medical fields, hence its other nickname of “therapeutic cannabis”.
CBD is marketed as crystals, flowers or pollen in their most natural configuration. In the form of a processed product, there are e-liquids and essential oils or solid capsules. The cosmetics industry will use CBD extracts whose quantity and quality will be difficult to control.