What Is CBD? Everything You Need to Know About Cannabidiol
CBD is everywhere — from the shelves of health shops to the pages of medical journals. But what is CBD, really? Cannabidiol CBD is one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, and unlike THC, it does not cause a high or any mind-altering effects. This single distinction has transformed CBD from an obscure plant compound into one of the most talked-about wellness ingredients in the United States and across Europe.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain what CBD is, how it works in the body, what the research says about the effects of CBD, the difference between CBD and THC, and where to find the best CBD products at a discount.
What Is CBD and Where Does It Come From?
Cannabidiol CBD is a naturally occurring compound extracted from the hemp plant — a variety of the cannabis plant bred to contain less than 0.3% THC. The hemp plant contains over 100 different cannabinoids, but CBD and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the two most well-known.
CBD comes from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of hemp. It is not the same as marijuana. While both hemp and marijuana belong to the cannabis family, hemp is legally defined by its low THC content — below 0.2% in the European Union and below 0.3% in the United States. In Europe, the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled in 2020 (the landmark Kanavape case) that CBD is not a narcotic, confirming the legality of hemp-derived CBD products across EU member states.
Unlike THC, CBD does not cause euphoria or mind-altering effects. The World Health Organization has concluded that CBD does not present risks of abuse or dependence. This is why products containing CBD derived from hemp are widely available throughout Europe and in many other countries worldwide.
Few stories have shaped public perception of CBD as much as that of Charlotte Figi. Born in 2006 in Colorado, Charlotte suffered from Dravet syndrome, a rare form of epilepsy that caused hundreds of seizures per week. After conventional treatments failed to provide relief, her parents turned to a CBD-rich cannabis extract. The results were remarkable -- Charlotte's seizures dropped dramatically. Her story became a catalyst for CBD research and legislation across the United States, and the specific hemp strain used was named "Charlotte's Web" in her honour. Charlotte passed away in 2020, but her legacy continues to influence how millions of people think about cannabidiol.
How CBD Works in the Body: The Endocannabinoid System
To understand the effects of CBD, you need to know about the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a biological system found in all mammals, made up of receptors distributed throughout the body — in the brain, the nervous system, the immune system, and in organs and tissues.
The CB1 and CB2 Receptors
The two main receptors in the endocannabinoid system are:
- CB1 receptors: found primarily in the brain and the central nervous system. THC binds directly to CB1 receptors, which is why it produces mind-altering effects. CBD does not bind directly to CB1 receptors — this is the key reason CBD does not cause a high.
- CB2 receptors: distributed in the immune system and peripheral tissues. CBD can interact with CB2 receptors, modulating the body's inflammatory and immune response.
Serotonin Receptors and Beyond
CBD also interacts with other receptors in the body, including the serotonin receptor (5-HT1A). This interaction may explain some of the potential benefits of CBD for mood, anxiety, and general well-being. Research suggests that CBD may help regulate serotonin signalling in the brain, producing a calming effect without the side effects associated with pharmaceutical drugs.
The endocannabinoid system plays a role in regulating sleep, pain, mood, appetite, and immune function. By interacting with this system, CBD may support the body's natural balance — a state known as homeostasis.
A remarkable scientific fact: the human body produces its own cannabinoid-like molecules, called endocannabinoids, which were only discovered in the early 1990s. The first endocannabinoid identified was anandamide, named after the Sanskrit word "ananda" meaning bliss. Your body's endocannabinoid system contains more receptors than any other receptor system -- there are more CB1 receptors in the brain than there are receptors for serotonin or dopamine. This helps explain why plant-derived cannabinoids like CBD can interact so broadly with the body, potentially influencing everything from mood to immune function.
What Are the Benefits of CBD? What Research Shows
Research on the effects of CBD is growing rapidly. While more studies are needed, here is what the current evidence suggests about the potential benefits of CBD.
Pain and Inflammation
CBD may help manage pain and inflammation. Studies have shown that CBD can interact with receptors in the body that are involved in the pain response. Some research suggests that CBD products may be useful for people with chronic pain conditions, including arthritis and neuropathic pain. CBD does not carry the same risk of addiction associated with opioid medications.
Anxiety and Stress
One of the most popular uses of CBD is for anxiety. Clinical studies have found evidence that CBD may help reduce anxiety and stress by acting on serotonin receptors in the brain. A 2019 study published in The Permanente Journal reported that 79.2% of participants experienced reduced anxiety after taking CBD. For a deeper look, read our guide on CBD and anxiety.
Sleep
Many people use CBD to improve sleep quality. CBD may help by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation before bed. Some consumers report falling asleep more easily and experiencing more restful sleep. Learn more in our article on CBD and sleep.
Epilepsy — The Approved Medical Use
The most significant medical use of CBD is in the treatment of epilepsy. Epidiolex, a prescription drug containing purified CBD, has been approved for the treatment of seizures in patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. In Europe, Epidiolex received marketing authorisation from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2019. In the United States, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved it in 2018. Epidiolex remains the only CBD-based prescription medicine with full regulatory approval.
Neuroprotective Properties
Some research suggests that CBD may have neuroprotective properties, making it a subject of interest for conditions like multiple sclerosis and other neurological disorders. More research is needed to confirm these findings.
Important: CBD Is Not a Cure-All
CBD products are not medicines. The potential benefits described above are based on ongoing research and consumer experiences. If you have a medical condition, consult your doctor before using CBD. CBD should not be used as a replacement for prescribed treatment.
CBD vs THC: The Key Differences
Understanding the difference between CBD and THC is essential for anyone interested in cannabis products.
| CBD (Cannabidiol) | THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) | |
|---|---|---|
| Mind-altering effects | No — CBD does not cause a high | Yes — THC produces euphoria |
| Psychoactive | No | Yes |
| Legal status (EU) | Legal (hemp-derived, less than 0.2% THC) | Controlled substance |
| Legal status (US) | Legal (hemp-derived, less than 0.3% THC) | Varies by state |
| Addiction risk | None (confirmed by WHO) | Possible |
| Drug test | Generally does not cause a positive result | Will cause a positive result |
| Medical use | Epidiolex (EMA/FDA-approved for seizures) | Medical cannabis (prescription) |
CBD does not cause the mind-altering effects associated with THC. It does not produce euphoria, does not impair judgement, and does not cause dependence. This is why hemp-derived CBD products are legal across the European Union (with less than 0.2% THC) and in the United States (with less than 0.3% THC under the 2018 Farm Bill).
Both THC and CBD are cannabinoids found in cannabis, but they interact with the body in fundamentally different ways. While THC binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, CBD does not — which is why CBD does not cause the "high" associated with marijuana.
Is CBD Legal? The Regulatory Landscape
The legal status of CBD has evolved significantly in recent years, both in Europe and worldwide. Here is what you need to know.
CBD in Europe: The Primary Legal Framework
In the European Union, CBD products derived from hemp are legal when they contain less than 0.2% THC. The landmark ruling came in April 2026, when the Court of Justice of the European Union (the Kanavape case, C-663/18) established that CBD is not a narcotic under EU law. This ruling confirmed that EU member states cannot prohibit the sale of CBD lawfully produced in another member state, ensuring the free movement of CBD products across Europe.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is currently evaluating CBD under the Novel Food Regulation. Until EFSA completes its assessment, CBD food supplements and edibles are subject to varying national rules across member states. However, CBD cosmetics, topicals, and hemp-derived products for external use are widely available and sold legally throughout Europe.
Individual European countries may set their own additional rules — for example, some countries allow CBD food supplements while others restrict them pending EFSA approval. Always check the specific regulations in your country.
CBD in the United States
In the United States, the 2018 Farm Bill legalised the cultivation of hemp and the sale of hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% THC, removing hemp from the controlled substances list. Since then, the market for CBD products has grown rapidly in the United States.
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has approved only one CBD product — Epidiolex — as a prescription drug. The FDA has not approved other CBD products for medical use and has stated that CBD products should not be marketed as dietary supplements or added to food without FDA approval. Despite this, CBD products are widely sold across the United States in health food stores, online shops, and speciality retailers, with regulations varying from state to state.
Types of CBD Products
The market for CBD products is vast and growing. Here are the most common types of CBD products available.
CBD Oil
CBD oil is the most popular form of CBD. It is made by extracting cannabidiol from the hemp plant and diluting it in a carrier oil. CBD oil allows for fast absorption and comes in a wide range of concentrations. See our CBD oil guide.
CBD Flowers
CBD flowers are the dried buds of the hemp plant with high CBD and low THC. They can be used in a dry herb vaporiser or for making infusions. Discover CBD flowers.
CBD Hash
CBD hash is a concentrate made from the resin of the hemp plant. It has a higher concentration of CBD than flowers and a rich, earthy flavour. Explore CBD hash.
CBD E-Liquids
E-liquids infused with CBD are designed for use in vape devices. They offer a fast-acting way to consume CBD. Terpy is a leading specialist for CBD e-liquids. Browse CBD e-liquids.
CBD Extracts
Concentrates like wax, shatter, and moonrock offer the highest concentration of CBD. These are premium products for experienced users. See CBD extracts.
Where to Buy CBD Products
For high-quality CBD products, the most trusted online shops are:
- JustBob — flowers, hash, oil, extracts. Use the JustBob discount code for 15% off every order
- Terpy — CBD e-liquids for vaping. Use the Terpy discount code for 10% off
- SensorySeeds — cannabis seeds for collectors. Use the SensorySeeds discount code for 10% off
Shop CBD products with 15% off at JustBob
Side Effects of CBD: Is CBD Safe?
The World Health Organization has stated that CBD has a good safety profile. CBD does not cause addiction and does not produce mind-altering effects. However, like any substance, CBD can have side effects in some people:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness (at high doses)
- Changes in appetite
- Potential interactions with some medications
If you are taking medications, it is important to consult your doctor before using CBD products. CBD may interact with drugs metabolised by the liver through the cytochrome P450 enzyme system. This is particularly relevant for people taking blood thinners, anti-seizure medications, or other prescription drugs.
CBD products should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as there is not enough research on the risk to the developing baby.
How to Choose Quality CBD Products
With so many CBD products on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are the key factors to consider.
Third-Party Lab Testing
The best CBD products come with certificates of analysis (COAs) from independent laboratories. These reports verify the CBD and THC content of the product and confirm the absence of contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and residual solvents. If a product does not have lab reports available, look for one that does.
Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, or Isolate?
- Full spectrum CBD: contains CBD along with other cannabinoids, terpenes, and a trace amount of THC (less than 0.3%). The combination of compounds may produce an enhanced effect known as the "entourage effect"
- Broad spectrum CBD: contains CBD and other cannabinoids, but with THC removed
- CBD isolate: pure CBD with no other compounds. Suitable for those who want to avoid any trace of THC
Hemp Source
Quality matters. Look for CBD products made from organically grown hemp. Products derived from European or American-grown hemp tend to have the highest quality standards.
Frequently Asked Questions About CBD
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol CBD, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is one of the most abundant compounds in hemp and does not cause mind-altering effects. CBD is used in a wide range of products including oils, flowers, hash, e-liquids, and extracts.
Does CBD get you high?
No. CBD does not cause a high. Unlike THC, cannabidiol does not produce euphoria or mind-altering effects. It does not bind to CB1 receptors in the brain the way THC does, which is why it does not cause intoxication.
Is CBD legal?
In the European Union, CBD products derived from hemp with less than 0.2% THC are legal — the Court of Justice of the EU confirmed in 2020 that CBD is not a narcotic. In the United States, hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. Regulations can vary by country, so check your local laws.
Does CBD have side effects?
CBD is generally well tolerated. Possible side effects include dry mouth, drowsiness, and interactions with some medications. Consult your doctor if you are taking prescription drugs.
What is the difference between CBD and THC?
CBD and THC are both cannabinoids found in cannabis, but they have very different effects. THC causes mind-altering effects and can cause a high. CBD does not. THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain; CBD does not.
Can CBD help with pain?
Research suggests that CBD may help manage pain and inflammation by interacting with receptors in the body. However, more research is needed, and CBD should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment.