What is a CBD flower?

You want to take cannabidiol (CBD) and you're wondering:

• where does this CBD come from?
• what are the benefits of this type of product?
• what are the risks?

Let's take a closer look at CBD flower.

What is CBD flower?

CBD flower is in fact a flower of the hemp, The CBD flower is made from legal strains with a maximum THC content of 0.2%. It's called CBD flower because these varieties contain a majority of cannabidiol, in proportions of up to 5-6%, unlike illegal varieties with higher THC levels.

Hemp flowers can be male or female, and only develop seeds when pollinated. Separating male and female plants encourages flower growth in the latter. Once mature, the flowers of unpollinated female plants can be harvested, «cleaned» and marketed.

Is CBD legal in France?

Cannabidiol and CBD-based products are legal in France. Several interpretations clash over the legality of CBD flower, and the restrictive view of the CBD trade rules that to be offered for sale, CBD-based products must meet the following conditions:

• they must be derived from authorized hemp varieties appearing on the official list published by the government
• they must not contain more than 0.2% THC
• only seeds and fibres may be used. The use of flowers is prohibited, whether for raw use or to extract CBD. However, the import of flowers and CBD is authorized under the principle of free circulation of goods in the European Union.

How are CBD flowers grown?

As the industrial and commercial use of CBD flower is complex in France, the European industry is taking massive advantage of this vacuum. Hundreds of companies producing CBD hemp have sprung up in Switzerland, Spain, Italy and Portugal. Several types of production can be distinguished:

• production at home, in the garden, for own use
• agricultural production, in fields
• greenhouse production

CBD flowers: what are they used for?

CBD flowers on the market have no psychotropic effect. Nor are they a medicine, and should not be used in place of or in addition to medical treatment.

CBD flower is best used as an herbal tea or vaporizer to avoid the harmful effects of combustion. Regular users of CBD flowers report soothing effects that reduce anxiety and stress, or certain pains and inflammations. Consulting a health professional may be advisable if you wish to consume this type of herbal tea.