5 things to know about CBD

We're all more or less familiar with tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis that interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, altering our sense of pleasure, perception of time and memory.

Other cannabis compounds that affect the brain, particularly cannabidiol or CBD, are less well known. Visit CBD-rich cannabis varieties are used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and treat serious illnesses such as epilepsy, diabetes and arthritis. But what is CBD ? Here are 5 things you need to know about a molecule sometimes described as a «miracle».

CBD doesn't get you high

U.S. studies of CBD have concluded that cannabidiol has anti-inflammatory, anti-seizure, and neuroprotective properties, in addition to reduce cancer cell proliferation in breast or brain cancer, or of slow the development of Alzheimer's disease. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a euphoric or psychoactive effect.

CBD works in tandem with THC

CBD lengthens the duration of THC's effects, and also stimulates neurogenesis, the creation of new brain cells, in adult mammals. Although CBD and THC act via different channels on the body, they seem to share several medical benefits. Also known as the entourage effect, CBD is just one of the 80 cannabinoids discovered to date.

You don't have to smoke it

Some patients smoke CBD-rich varieties, such as those created by the CBD Crew. Some CBD products such as creams or capsules, or simply vaping, have recently undergone a surge in popularity. By choosing different consumption methods from the simple spliff, the effects of CBD are felt just as much, in addition to not exposing your lungs to potentially harmful smoke.

CBD is legal in France

If CBD products contain less than 0.2% of THC and are made from hemp plants that do not exceed this level, a CBD product may contain less than 0.2% of THC. CBD is legal in France. You can already find hemp herbal teas, CBD e-liquids for vaping or edible products. The CBD content is indicated on the packet.

It is not yet well understood

CBD is still a poorly understood substance, with a lack of clinical studies on humans. Research is hampered by the prohibition of cannabis and the variable quality of the products now available legally. In other words, as long as cannabis is illegal, it will be difficult for research to make progress on this promising molecule.