CBD has developed quite the reputation, but some still wonder; “is CBD psychoactive”?
People who’re just getting started with CBD are often filled with questions-
Where does CBD come from? What does it do to my body? Will it get me high?
These are all valid things to be curious about, but the answers aren’t always easy to find. When CBD was legalized in 2018, the scientific community immediately sprung into action. Though countless clinical trials have been initiated, CBD has not been legal long enough for scientists to develop a comprehensive understanding of its effects and benefits.
Fortunately, we aren’t completely in the dark. When it comes to CBD, there is an endless world of possibilities that still need to be explored, we do have a clear understanding of some of the fundamental ways in which it interacts with your body.
One of the most common questions people have about CBD products is whether or not they’re psychoactive. Compounds contained in hemp extracts are believed to be highly beneficial and millions of people utilize them daily, but will they get you high?
How CBD Interacts with the Body
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a powerful compound referred to as a cannabinoid. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Each of these cannabinoids interacts with the body in different ways.
Scientists believe that some cannabinoids can make you sleepy, others can make you hungry, and their range of potential effects is almost endless. New cannabinoids are still being discovered and the ways in which they affect the body is being studied more than ever before.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This is a complex series of retrograde neurotransmitters and cannabinoid receptors that are found in various parts of the body.
There are two primary cannabinoid receptors referred to as CB1 and CB2. The CB1 receptor influences the central nervous system and the CB2 receptor influences the peripheral nervous system.
CBD is unique in that it indirectly interfaces with both the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Scientists believe that this interaction causes the effects people have grown to know and love.
The Confusion Surrounding CBD
Though CBD is immensely popular, there’s still a fair bit of confusion amongst the general public.
CBD is extracted from the hemp plant which is a member of the cannabis family. Hemp (cannabis sativa) and Marijuana (Cannabis Indica) are relatives with very different reputations.
Marijuana is well known for its ability to make users feel “high”. It is a highly-psychoactive member of the cannabis family due to its concentration of specific cannabinoids.
Because Hemp and Marijuana are from the cannabis family, people tend to confuse them. These plants have some similarities, but they’re distinctly different.
Hemp vs Marijuana
Hemp and Marijuana are from the same family and contain the same cannabinoids, but in very different concentrations.
Marijuana has particularly high concentrations of THC. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive compound that’s famous for making people feel “high”.
Hemp also contains THC, but in much lower concentrations. Industrial hemp used to make CBD products must legally contain less than 0.3% THC. This is such a minuscule amount that it can’t possibly elicit a psychoactive reaction.
Though some CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, it isn’t nearly enough to get you high.
Is CBD psychoactive? Absolutely not.
Different Spectrums of Hemp Extracts
There are a variety of beneficial compounds that exist in the hemp plant. Some people want to experience all of them and others prefer specific sets of compounds.
Hemp extracts are available in various spectrums. Each spectrum contains different selections of compounds and it’s a good idea to be familiar with what they are and how they’ll affect you.
Full-Spectrum extracts contain terpenes, amino acids, CBG, CBD, and trace amounts of THC (>0.3%). This specific combination of compounds is believed to elicit the “entourage effect”, where the compounds work synergistically to become more powerful.
Broad-Spectrum CBD contains many of the same compounds, but none of the THC. This is a great option for those who’re regularly subject to drug-tests.
CBD Isolate contains 99.9% pure CBD. Isolates are for purists who want nothing but the power of CBD. These are often used by professional athletes who want to stay compliant with the World Anti Doping Association guidelines.
Will CBD Get You High?
One of the things people love about CBD is being able to experience the benefits of cannabis without any of the hazy side effects.
CBD products are 100% non-toxic and non-psychoactive. This means they won’t get you high or make you sick, even when using extremely high doses. These products are also non-habit forming, but often very delicious, so you might find yourself eating a few extra gummies from time to time.
If you’re interested in enjoying the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects check out our complete selection of premium CBD edibles!
