CBD

All drug use has risks. This page is for information only and does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have medical concerns about your drug use, please speak to a medical professional.

THC and CBD are the two most notable cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. THC is known for its mind-altering effects such as euphoria. The effects of CBD are more subtle. CBD counters negative effects from THC by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

In the UK, CBD is sold as a food supplement. 'Food supplements' are a wide range of products that include vitamins and minerals.

Appearance

CBD can come as an edible, oil, capsule, balm, paste or vape liquid.

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Cannabinoids
CBD is not thought to have a psychoactive effect which means it doesn't get you high.

Legality

Legal.

In its pure form, CBD is not controlled by the Misuse of Drugs Act (1971), but cannot be sold as a medicine without a license.

How it’s taken

CBD might be may be absorbed under the tongue or swallowed in a capsule. It may be found as a vape liquid or applied as a balm.

Dose

The following information on dosage was taken from PsychonautWiki, but this should not be taken as a recommendation: duration and effects of any drug will depend on purity, regularity of use, other medications or drugs you have taken, your body and how it is taken (route of administration).

Oral:

Light: 5–15 milligrams (mg)
Common: 15–30 milligrams (mg)
Strong: 30-60 milligrams (mg)

Accessed October 2020

General information on dosing.

Effects

CBD products are made from plants with no/low THC content (like hemp), or from CBD that has been isolated (separated) from other cannabinoids, and therefore people taking it will not experience a ‘cannabis high’.

Many people report that CBD helps to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, inflammation and pain.

Not everyone will react to CBD in the same way. People who have the same condition could respond differently to the same CBD extract and dosage.

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Risks

Some CBD products can contain nut oils so it is not recommended if you have a nut allergy.
CBD should be avoided while pregnant as there is not enough research into its effects.
There are also known interactions with some medications and medical conditions. You should research interactions with medications or any medical conditions you may have. Speak to a doctor before making any changes to medical treatment.
Only buy from a reputable and trusted supplier (and be aware that if the product is tested to contain THC it is a controlled drug and is therefore illegal to possess).

Detection time

People taking CBD have reported the following detection time, but this cannot be taken as a recommendation; detection of any drug will depend on purity, regularity of use, other medications or drugs you have taken, your body and how it’s taken.

The levels of THC found in CBD legally sold products sold in the UK are unlikely to be detected in any drug screening