What is CBD?

About this episode

What is CBD? CBD is short for Cannabidiol, which is one of the chemical components found in cannabis. Not being psychoactive, CBD is legal in many countries. But it’s also claimed that CBD has several health benefits. That’s why demand has been growing around the world for a few years now. Cannabis is illegal in most countries, mainly because it contains the psychoactive chemical Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short. But cannabis also contains CBD, which has an almost identical structure to THC, just without causing a high. Furthermore, the greater the quantity of CBD in cannabis, the lower the effect of THC on the brain. That’s because it doesn’t directly trigger the cannabinoid receptors found in our bodies.   So CBD is allowed in a lot of places, and it’s been federally legal in the United States since 2018. However, many states have restrictions on which CBD products are allowed. Because there are almost endless possibilities when it comes to potential derived products. We’re talking vape kits, oils, sweets, creams, toothpastes, shampoos and even pet products.   The enthusiasm for CBD products is such that expected market growth in the US is 700%. In Europe, dedicated stores are popping up across many major cities. And the clientele age ranges anywhere from 30 to 80 years old. It’s claimed that CBD has a range of medicinal and relaxing benefits. It’s classed as an anti-inflammatory agent, which means it could have a painkilling effect for sufferers of Crohn’s disease. It could also be used to treat psychosis, anxiety or epilepsy. All the same, scientific research is lacking and doctors have a hard time saying what dose of CBD would have positive effects. While that remains blurred, brands and stores are pushing CBD hard, promoting claims about its benefits in all forms, and selling more and more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices