CBD stands for “cannabidiol” (the pronunciation: Canna-Bi-Diol) and is one of the numerous chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. Cannabis has over a hundred naturally-occurring cannabinoids, among which is CBD. CBD, alongside THC, is the most researched cannabinoid in cannabis plants. 

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system consists of cannabinoid receptors, which compounds like CBD and THC bind to. When CBD interacts with these receptors, it prompts different physiological processes that help regulate pain perception, metabolism, mood, and so on.

Manufacturers obtain CBD from either hemp or marijuana. However, CBD is often derived from hemp to avoid the addition of high amounts of THC. Hemp contains only trace amounts of THC. On the other hand, larger levels of THC are derived from marijuana. 

CBD that comes from marijuana may contain more THC, which may not be ideal for people who want to avoid THC. In the United States, legal hemp must have 0.3 percent THC or less. Therefore, hemp-derived CBD shouldn’t contain more than 0.3 percent THC.

CBD can be extracted from a cannabis plant, but it doesn’t have the same ability to create a “high” or state of euphoria as marijuana or THC. THC is the psychoactive compound people associate with cannabis or marijuana. 

CBD doesn’t produce a high like THC. Instead, it’s well-known for its therapeutic effects, such as helping people with anxiety and depression. Although some CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, it’s not enough to cause a high.

CBD is considered a safe substance. So far, there is no evidence of public health issues associated with the use of pure CBD. However, CBD has possible side effects, such as changes in appetite, dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue. It can also interact with certain medications you are taking. 

Also, while marijuana is addictive, current studies show that CBD doesn’t have effects of abuse or dependence. So, CBD is not addictive. In fact, preliminary evidence suggests it may help treat drug addiction.

CBD shouldn’t show up on drug tests. However, CBD can lead to a positive drug test result. Many CBD products contain trace amounts of THC. If there’s enough THC in the product, it can show up on a drug test. 

Furthermore, keep in mind that the CBD industry is unregulated. So some products can contain higher amounts of THC than the label indicates. Improper labeling is not as uncommon as you might think. If you use CBD regularly, you want to purchase from reliable brands that conduct third-party testing.