The prevalence of CBD-based products is fast increasing, and with this increase comes a natural host of questions about what exactly CBD is, and what it can be used for.

There is, of course, the scientific description of CBD: the cannabis plant produces more than 70 chemicals, called cannabinoids, and one of the best-known active chemicals is cannabidiol (CBD), a major phytocannabinoid which counts for up to 40 per cent of Cannabis extract.

However, there are many more practical questions that arise when considering purchasing a CBD-based product. How do you know if it is safe? How much should you be taking? And what are the main differences between different kinds of products?

Read on to learn some facts about CBD that may help you make a more informed decision about your CBD use. 

CBD oil is not the same as hemp oil

Both CBD oil and hemp oil come from hemp. However, they are not the same thing. CBD is typically derived from the flowers (or flower buds) of the plant, while hemp oil is made from the plant’s seeds, and doesn’t actually contain any cannabinoids (including CBD itself).

Therefore, if you are looking to reap the benefits of ingesting CBD, you should be looking specifically for a CBD oil rather than a hemp oil! This is a common mistake made by many people when they try CBD products for the first time. 

CBD has non-psychoactive effects

The unpredictability of potential psychoactive effects is a common concern. It’s one shared by many people who are just starting out on their CBD journey. Rest assured, however, that CBD is far less psychoactive than THC. It does not cause a “high” or stoned feeling.

This makes it a great option for people looking to try cannabis but without any of the psychoactive effects!

CBD is considered a dietary supplement

Industrial hemp plants are typically low in THC. However, they can be found to produce high CBD percentages. CBD obtained from industrial hemp is federally legal in the United States. In fact, it is regarded as a dietary supplement or a food provided it contains less than 0.3% THC.

This means you don’t need a prescription to obtain it! 

The effects of CBD can be enhanced by the presence of other cannabinoids

As mentioned earlier, CBD is only one of over 70 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. When some of these other cannabinoids are incorporated in CBD-based products, the benefits and effects of CBD can be seen to increase.

CBD oils that include multiple cannabinoids are called full-spectrum CBD oils. This is because they make use of this “entourage” effect to obtain the widest-reaching version, or “full spectrum” of the product’s possible effects. 

CBD is not always smoked

Many people think CBD (like THC) needs to be smoked, but this is not true.

CBD can be available in many different forms, such as topical oils, capsules, gels that go under your tongue, gummies, edible oils, and more. This makes it all the more easier to choose a CBD product that is right for you and fits well with your lifestyle.

For example, at biocbd+ we offer CBD-based products in three different forms. First, our one-a-day Total Body Care capsules. We also have our Topical Oil, and finally, our Organic Fruit Slices gummies. This way there is something for everyone!

The bottom line

Buying and comparing CBD products can be confusing. This can even be disheartening when there is so much conflicting information out there. Additionally, although CBD products are federally legal in the United States, it is important to note that they are not regulated by the FDA. Therefore, we encourage you to always do your own research to determine whether a CBD product is right for you.

For more information on CBD and the products we offer, check out our FAQs page.