What's the difference between CBD from hemp and CBD from cannabis?

The cannabidiol (CBD) is a powerful cannabinoid and one of the key ingredients in cannabis. It is known for its therapeutic virtues, notably its anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, CBD does not get high. Industrial hemp and Indian hemp come from the same bloodlines, and therefore produce the same effects. cannabinoids, in very different quantities. This is what makes the difference between what is commonly known as «hemp» and «cannabis». Both contain CBD. But how does the CBD in hemp differ from the CBD extracted from cannabis?

Hemp contains low levels of CBD

The molecular structure of cannabidiol is the same whether derived from hemp or cannabis. However, hemp contains a low level of CBD, between 3 and 4%. Its THC content is even lower: between 0.5 and 1%, even for legal French varieties which often exceed (by a small margin) the French legal limit of 0.2%.

Since the CBD concentration in hemp is relatively low, a large quantity is required to produce CBD oil. This increases both the risk of contamination, hemp being a bio-accumulator (it absorbs chemicals from the soil, often undesirable ones such as toxins), and the extraction effort.

CBD works synergistically with other cannabinoids

CBD acts in concert with the various cannabinoids, including THC, in what is known as a entourage effect. CBD derived from hemp has no medicinal terpenes or other cannabinoids found in cannabis-derived CBD.

CBD oil derived from cannabis would therefore be more effective.

Charlotte's Web, a CBD-rich variety

The Charlotte's Web is a cannabis strain with a high CBD content (around 20%) and very low THC content (0.3%). The plant was named after Charlotte Figi, a young Colorado girl suffering from severe epileptic seizures. Her story has enabled many American states to see the therapeutic potential of cannabis.

Mehdi Bautier