Frequently Asked Questions

CBD is short for cannabidiol, one of many active compounds from the cannabis plant. These compounds are called cannabinoids, with CBD being the second most abundant cannabinoid, behind tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

CBD and THC are both cannabinoids, but there are some key differences in how they interact with the body. THC binds directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), causing them to overstimulate which triggers that ‘high’ feeling. Conversely, CBD doesn’t bind to the receptors at all, but rather, prevents the enzymes in the ECS from breaking down the body’s naturally occurring endocannabinoids. In doing so, CBD is non-intoxicating, promoting a healthy function of the ECS without the ‘high’ effect.

No. As mentioned above, CBD is non-intoxicating. On the other hand, THC molecules do cause a ‘high’ because they bind to CB1 receptors in the brain.

CBD oil is a liquid cannabis extract containing high concentrations of cannabidiol. It is produced through a manufacturing process involving the hemp plant. Specifically, CBD is extracted, along with other cannabinoids and is suspended in a carrier oil (typically coconut oil or hemp seed oil, noting that there are other varieties). It can vary in strength, which is determined by the concentration of cannabidiol. Strong CBD Oil has a high concentration of CBD, while weaker oils have lower concentrations of CBD, because they contain other cannabinoids. Always read the label and check third-party lab reports to understand exactly what you’re taking.

This all depends on the type of product you’re using. CBD drops are the most common product – simply place a few drops under the tongue and hold for about 60 seconds before swallowing. For other products, always read the label for instructions.

Yes, CBD is a naturally occurring active compound produced by the cannabis plant.

This is complicated because there are no official guidelines. Typically, users consume between 10-50mg per day. It is best to start with a lower dosage and only increase if needed.

Not all brands are created equal in quality. Follow these steps to ensure you buy safe CBD Products.

1: Source of hemp: The USA uses safe extraction methods.

2. Certificate of Analysis (COA): Reputable online stores provide their COA’s on their website. These certificates confirm the cannabinoid content, which should show a THC level of 0.3% or less. The COA also confirms that there are no contaminants.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that CBD is generally safe for human consumption, with few side effects and little potential for abuse or dependence. Side effects experienced can include headache, nausea, and diarrhea, usually resulting from taking too much.

Yes. CBD oils and CBD isolate powders are commonly used ingredients in cooking. Consumers typically do this to disguise the earthy taste of hemp.

No. Marijuana strains have varying quantities of cannabinoids in their flowers, and each strain has a unique cannabinoid profile. Some strains have less than 1% CBD (a negligible amount),however, others have extremely high quantities of CBD. It all depends on the strain.

While marijuana is typically associated with high THC levels, there are some strains high in CBD. These strains are popular among the medical community.

• ACDC
• Charlotte’s Web
• Harlequin
• CBD Mango Haze
• Blueberry Essence
• Hawaiian Dream
• Sour Tsunami
• Darkstar

No. CBD is a non-intoxicating substance.

Typically, drug tests are looking for things like THC metabolites, which are the resulting compounds left over from the body processing THC. CBD is not a substance used to get high, thus, tests aren’t checking for CBD metabolites. Also, CBD products contain less than 0.3% THC (they have to by law), so in order for this to register on a drug test, you would have to take 2000mg of CBD each day to hit this level. 

If you take a low quality product, the THC levels may be higher than 0.3%, putting you at risk of failing a drug test. Always look for high quality products and more specifically, Certificate of Analysis reports (found on company websites) which will confirm the THC levels.

Project CBD is a non-profit organization dedicated to documenting the ever-growing research on CBD. Make sure to read some of the studies they showcase.

There are a variety of ways to extract CBD from hemp. The main extraction methods include the following.

Solvents: Some manufacturers use solvents to extract cannabinoids, however, this isn’t a desirable method because the final product may contain harmful residue. 

CO2 extraction: This is considered to be the safest, and most effective extraction method. Using recyclable carbon dioxide, heated and pressurized, it acts as a solvent, stripping the cannabinoids from the plant matter. Unlike other solvents, CO2 is perfectly safe for human consumption, and therefore, there is no final product contamination.

During the extraction process, multiple cannabinoids are extracted from the plant and for products labeled ‘CBD Isolate’, the extraction process includes a filtration method which filters the extract until only cannabidiol remains.

CBD works by influencing the endocannabinoid system (ECS) – a network of receptors found throughout the body; the primary receptors, CB1 and CB2, are found in the central nervous system and immune system, respectively. 

Specifically, the body creates molecules called endocannabinoids, which bind to these receptors to trigger various physiological functions. 

The ECS maintains homeostasis and ensures that the body continues functioning at an optimal level. When the endocannabinoids have done their job, the body creates enzymes to destroy them. 

When you ingest CBD, it may inhibit the enzymes that get rid of the endocannabinoids, and as a result, there are more endocannabinoids in the system to carry out various functions. 

This mechanism may ensure that the individual stays healthy.