CBD Facts: 10 Common Myths About CBD

Updated on June 12, 2019

Short for cannabidiol, CBD is currently one of the most popular products in the wellness market today. Unfortunately, there are many myths about CBD oil that are keeping people from trying this healthy natural supplement. We have compiled a list of the 10 most common misconceptions about CBD so that we can share with you the truth behind each.

1. CBD Comes from Marijuana

A common CBD misconception is that it is just another form of marijuana. However, that could not be further from the truth. CBD is a natural compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties while marijuana refers to a variety of the cannabis plant mostly famous for its psychoactive effects. CBD can be found in marijuana, but most CBD on the market today is derived from hemp, the non-psychoactive variety of cannabis.

2. CBD is Psychoactive

Hemp contains virtually no THC, the compound responsible for the mind-altering effects associated with marijuana. As a result, CBD extracts from hemp contain no THC meaning CBD products will not get you high.

3. CBD Shows Up on Drug Tests

Since THC is the only element in cannabis that causes mind-altering effects in users, drug tests only test for THC. As long as you are using CBD products from hemp, you are in good shape, and it will not show up on a drug test.

4. CBD is Banned by the USADA

If you participate in competitive sports, there’s no reason to avoid CBD. The United States Anti Doping Agency (USADA) removed CBD from its list of prohibited substances in 2018 acknowledging athletes can benefit from the healing properties of CBD without gaining without compromising their health or fair competition.

5. CBD is Illegal

Because hemp contains untraceable amounts of THC, the cultivation and marketing of hemp and hemp derived products is entirely legal in the United States. So you can rest assured that if you are using hemp-derived CBD, you are not breaking any laws. According to the 2018 Farm Bill which legalized hemp in the U.S., individual states can still impose certain restrictions on hemp, though these are not likely to interfere with most marketing and consumption practices.

6. CBD is a Miracle Cure-All

It is a well-known fact that CBD may help with symptoms related to anxiety disorders, pain management, and insomnia. However, many blogs and online CBD shops claim to have the answer to all of your health problems including diseases like cancer and Alzheimers. While studies are suggesting CBD could potentially benefit patients suffering from these conditions, there is much more research to be done in order to fully understand the effects of CBD on these patients.

7. CBD is Addictive

One of the main reasons people all over the world are turning to CBD is because unlike many prescription meds and opioids, CBD is non-addictive and non-habit forming. Additionally, CBD produces no significant side-effects making it the perfect supplement to add to your daily routine.

8. CBD is Not Safe for Pets

Upon consumption, CBD interacts with our endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors responsible for vital functions like sleep, pain sensitivity, appetite, and stress. The ECS is also present in mammals like dogs and cats, which is why CBD can also benefit pets.

9. Buying CBD Online is Risky

This CBD myth is not entirely false. Buying CBD online can represent a risk if you are buying from unreliable brands which unfortunately have saturated the market of late. Look for brands with positive online reviews, pharmacist-formulated products, lab test results, and a functioning customer service team available to answer all your questions.

10. CBD is Just a Trend

CBD has been on the rise for years, and we see that growth as continuing. Since its medicinal properties began to be noticed, the presence of CBD in the marketplace has only gotten stronger, and its popularity has increased at an exponential rate.

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