Is CBD a drug?

CBD, which has been in the spotlight for some time now, has proven to be a compound rich in beneficial properties for both the body and the mind. This 100% natural ingredient, found in many products today, comes from a strain of hemp called Cannabis Sativa. Given its origin, this leads us to ask: Is cannabidiol a drug? Let’s try to answer that right away!

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid naturally produced by the cannabis plant. It is sought after for its many health benefits. As an anti-inflammatory agent, this molecule may help reduce symptoms associated with flare-ups of osteoarthritis, chronic inflammation, and skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. As a pain reliever, cannabidiol may be helpful in reducing chronic pain, rheumatism, muscle aches, migraines, and toothaches. By interacting with serotonin, CBD is believed to have sedative effects.

But that's not all—CBD may also help combat insomnia and improve sleep quality by shortening REM sleep phases and lengthening deep sleep phases. In addition, CBD appears to act as an anxiolytic, naturally regulating mood and anxiety.

In an effort to understand how the cannabinoids in cannabis (THC in particular) produce their effects, scientists have turned their attention to a major component of our bodies: the endocannabinoid system (with which THC interacts, which explains its psychotropic effects).

This system includes endogenous cannabinoid molecules (produced by our bodies), the receptors to which they bind, and the corresponding systems of synthesis, transport, and degradation.

Many major physiological mechanisms are influenced by the endocannabinoid system. In particular, it affects appetite, the digestive system, neural plasticity, learning, inflammation, and emotion.

CBD also interacts with the receptors of this major system. However, this molecule also binds to dozens of other receptors found in most organs and tissues of the human body. These include, for example, receptors for serotonin, dopamine, and excitatory and inhibitory amino acids (GABA). As a result, the effects of CBD extend far beyond the endocannabinoid system alone.

However, one should not conclude that the binding of CBD to a receptor known to be involved in a function or disease in the human body automatically results in a therapeutic benefit.

In fact, as with all active substances, much of the data on effects observed in vitro or in animals cannot necessarily be extrapolated to clinical, therapeutic, or adverse effects in humans.

In cannabis, THC is the best-known cannabinoid. The problem is that it has strong psychoactive and psychotropic effects that put the user in a state of euphoria. This is the main reason it is used “recreationally.”

However, this cannabinoid is believed to have therapeutic effects. As such, THC may help combat nausea, sleep disturbances, and loss of appetite. One thing is certain, however: when THC is consumed in high doses, it causes anxiety and paranoia.

In recent years, we have learned more about the potential benefits of CBD. Unlike THC, this cannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant is said to have no adverse side effects and, most importantly, does not produce a "high."

From a therapeutic standpoint, it is said to be highly effective in limiting the psychotropic effects of THC, helping people who suffer from anxiety or insomnia. CBD is said to have an effect that greatly helps relieve joint and muscle pain and provides relief for patients with multiple sclerosis and epilepsy.

Finally, some recent research on cannabis highlights other surprising effects of CBD at high concentrations. CBD may limit the proliferation of cancer cells caused by certain types of cancer. It may also significantly reduce the risk of arterial necrosis following a heart attack. This could further lower blood sugar levels.

In France, CBD is permitted only if it comes from approved hemp varieties, specifically the plant’s stems and seeds, and if it does not contain THC. As such, it is not considered a drug, but it is directly subject to legislation governing the use of cannabis, which is a highly regulated plant.

Any CBD derived from unauthorized strains with high THC content cannot be sold in France. It can therefore be said that CBD is not considered a drug in France and that it is perfectly legal to purchase and consume products containing it, as long as they comply with French regulations.

Globally, the CBD landscape is evolving, with each country developing regulations to govern its production and distribution. For informational purposes only, the WHO has recommended against classifying CBD as a controlled substance, stating that cannabidiol does not appear to be harmful to health.

Cannabidiol comes in many forms, including CBD e-liquids, flowers, and oils. Some CBD products can be consumed or added to the food you eat. Furthermore, it’s even more convenient to consume edible products. These include chocolate, honey, tea, gum, herbal tea, ice cream, and CBD candies. Other forms are designed to be sprayed or applied to the skin. This applies to most cannabidiol-based cosmetic products: creams, sprays, lotions, balms, and ointments. Everyone can choose the method that best suits their personal needs and preferences.

Often confused with CBD-based e-liquids, oil extract is one of the most popular forms among consumers. Because its effects are potent, it is important to be monitored by a doctor while using it.

This oil is different from e-liquids and CBD-infused olive oil. It is a pure cannabis extract with little or no THC. It can be purified to remove chemicals and can be identified by its bright color. However, it sometimes contains terpenes and vitamins.

The dark-colored, raw version is simply mixed with vegetable oil. The higher the percentage of CBD it contains, the more concentrated it is.

CBD flowers are carefully cultivated and selected. Currently very popular, they bear some resemblance to THC, both in appearance and scent. In addition to having a pleasant taste, they have no psychoactive effects. They are selected based on the desired cannabidiol content.

This variety is particularly well-suited for people who don’t want to “get high” or experience the harmful effects of THC. To discover the best that hemp has to offer, our“CBD Flower of the Month”features a limited-edition gem each month, handpicked by our experts for its quality and unique aromas.

Most often sold in 10- to 50-ml bottles, e-liquid is one of the most popular forms among consumers. A common way to use it is with an e-cigarette. It is often flavored with natural terpenes, but the flavors vary widely:

• Lemon;
• Vanilla;
• With orange;
• Banana;
• With red berries.
   

Vaping CBD helps heavy smokers quit smoking. This effect is mainly due to the product’s relaxing properties. It generally produces an immediate effect. This makes it particularly beneficial for people who are restless or have trouble sleeping.

Herbal tea is brewed with hot water. Since they contain no THC, these teas improve concentration and help you fall asleep.

Some CBD herbal teas are very relaxing, while others are especially beneficial for digestion.

CBD candies and edibles are delicious. They come in a variety of flavors.

Jelly-like, fruity, but often without sweetener—there’s something for everyone: spicy, sweet, and peppery. You can even find them in stores shaped like teddy bears, bottles, pyramids, and rings.

Although CBD is generally safe to use, it can still cause side effects. Among the most common are digestive issues, drowsiness, and fatigue, the frequency of which increases with the amount consumed and the daily dose.

There is also a risk of interactions with many medications, which increases as the dose of CBD consumed rises. This can potentially lead to higher blood levels of some of these medications and, as a result, side effects in some cases. This is the case, for example: 

• thyroid hormones, 
• antiepileptic drugs, 
• tacrolimus, an immunosuppressant used to prevent the rejection of a transplanted organ, anti-inflammatory drugs, or antidepressants.

Children (over-the-counter), pregnant women, and people with liver or kidney disease should not take CBD.

For other potential users, it is recommended to adjust CBD doses based on the number of milligrams consumed per dose. It is also important to note that CBD intake should not exceed 150 to 200 mg per day. Furthermore, such use should be short-term—that is, less than one month—to avoid delays in diagnosis and a reduced chance of recovery.

If you are currently taking medication, it is best to consult a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, before taking CBD. This is because they will assess the risk of drug interactions, starting at a dose of 50 mg per day.

Finally, if you have a chronic illness, it is also recommended that you consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking cannabidiol for therapeutic purposes.