CBD is the hot topic of the moment, with many websites, online stores, and blogs discussing it extensively. This compound found in hemp, although relatively little-known and often misunderstood, is growing in popularity. It is therefore important to take stock of the information circulating about it so that we can make the most of it and fully enjoy its many benefits. In this article, we’ll try to dispel common misconceptions about CBD to determine whether or not they’re true.
CBD is a drug
Although CBD is often associated with cannabis, it does not have the same psychoactive properties as THC, which is also present in cannabis. Since this is still a relatively new field, you may feel overwhelmed by all the technical terms and information available.
In fact, based on a study by the European Industrial Hemp Association, it has been determined that the cannabinoid CBD is not considered a drug (see the study here). In fact, the concept of a drug or narcotic is associated with the cannabinoid THC, or Δ-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, which is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis used for recreational purposes.
In contrast, CBD is believed to work by stimulating the body’s central nervous system’s CB1 and CB2 endocannabinoid receptors, without altering the mind or causing dependence. CBD is used as a wellness product with numerous benefits, and it is important to clear up this common confusion and recognize that CBD is a safe and non-toxic compound. That said, the widespread belief that CBD is a drug is incorrect.
In France, CBD is illegal
This is the most common misconception: it is often mistakenly believed that CBD is illegal. The Council of State recently overturned the ban on the sale of CBD, emphasizing that CBD is not considered a narcotic due to its lack of psychotropic effects and addictive potential (see the ruling here). However, this is subject to two conditions:
- That hemp-derived CBD contains less than 0.3% THC;
- And that hemp be included in the European catalog of authorized agricultural plant varieties.
Consequently, the consumption of CBD with a low THC content, regardless of its form (oil, flowers, etc.), poses no risk to public health. This is why the legality of CBD is closely tied to the THC concentration and the source of the final product.
CBD gets you high
Contrary to a common misconception, it is important to note that CBD does not produce the same effects as THC, which is the main psychoactive component of cannabis. And as mentioned earlier, CBD does not possess the psychoactive properties of THC. This means that it does not cause psychotropic effects such as euphoria or altered mental states. By interacting with our endocannabinoid system (ECS), its ultimate goal is to help our body regain its balance and maintain homeostasis—that is, the stability of the internal environment. CBD may have positive effects on these physiological processes without inducing any psychoactive effects.
CBD is addictive
The notion that CBD can contribute to THC addiction is a common misconception often linked to the previous one. However, in reality, the opposite is true. In fact, CBD may play a key role in combating addictions—including those to alcohol, THC, nicotine, and others—by influencing the reward system.
See also: CBD: A Help in Quitting Smoking, According to a New Study
CBD Cures Diseases
It is common to hear this misconception in the media, but it is incorrect. Relieving, reducing, or alleviating certain symptoms does not necessarily mean a cure. To date, no medical research has demonstrated a cure induced by CBD, but promising results have been observed in clinical trials involving certain patients. No cannabinoid is officially recognized as a medical treatment. However, research on cannabinoids continues, as the endocannabinoid system is involved in many areas of medicine, including neurodegenerative, neurological, neuropsychiatric, autoimmune, and metabolic diseases.
CBD is a medication
It is commonly believed that CBD can be used as an alternative to medication. While CBD may have beneficial effects in relieving certain symptoms, such as pain, anxiety, or insomnia, it is important to emphasize that CBD should under no circumstances be considered a substitute for appropriate professional medical treatment. Medical conditions often require integrated and holistic approaches, with treatments tailored to each individual based on their health status, medical history, and other factors. Furthermore, you should never stop taking prescribed medication in favor of CBD without the advice and supervision of a healthcare professional.
CBD does not cause any side effects
Another common misconception is that CBD has no side effects. Indeed, most people consider CBD to be safe and well-tolerated. However, it may cause side effects in some people. That said, these side effects are rare and mild. They may include dry mouth, mild diarrhea, or drowsiness. It’s important to note that everyone’s metabolism is different, which may explain these variations. It’s worth noting that these symptoms disappear once you stop taking CBD.
All CBD products are the same
People tend to assume that all CBD products are of equal quality, but that’s not true. With the recent surge in popularity of this compound, many brands are jumping on the bandwagon to sell it. As a result, you see these products everywhere, in many different forms such as herbal teas, flowers, oils, and so on.
However, the quality of CBD-containing products can vary significantly. This could be due to several factors, including: the extraction method, the source of the CBD, the manufacturers’ practices, and so on. That is why not all CBD products are created equal. Therefore, it is essential to choose high-quality products. To ensure their effectiveness and safety, choose a supplier that:
- Made from organic hemp;
- Complies with applicable standards and conditions;
- And, most importantly, which company tests its products in a laboratory?
In fact, low-quality products may contain contaminants, toxic solvents, or varying levels of CBD, which can compromise their effectiveness and safety. That’s why it’s important to choose high-quality CBD products that meet all necessary standards—just like those offered by High Society.
According to the World Health Organization, CBD, in its pure form, poses no health risks. In fact, cannabidiol has no toxic or psychotropic effects, making it relatively safe to consume. Studies that have identified potential risks associated with CBD have generally used massive doses well beyond the amounts typically used when consuming CBD for wellness or medical purposes. However, to date, no maximum daily dose of CBD has been established.
Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, CBD may interact with certain medications. The French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM) notes, however, that CBD may increase the levels of certain medications in the body, which can lead to increased toxicity. That is why it is essential to consult a healthcare professional—especially if you are already taking medication—to avoid any complications.
CBD helps you fall asleep
It’s important to know that even though CBD can be incredibly helpful for improving sleep quality, it’s not a magic sleeping pill that will put you to sleep as if by magic. In fact, it doesn’t cause daytime drowsiness or automatically knock you out. On the contrary, it is believed to support various bodily functions and could help you have more energy during the day thanks to more restorative sleep at night. In fact, CBD is thought to act as a regulator in various bodily systems. As a result, it may contribute to a gradual improvement in sleep-wake cycles. Therefore, it would be inaccurate to say that CBD directly promotes falling asleep.
In short, CBD is a promising natural compound that has generated significant interest due to its potential effects on health and well-being. However, there are still many misconceptions and misleading claims about CBD. It is therefore essential to educate yourself properly in order to fully reap the potential benefits of CBD.
