Hemp, marijuana and CBD are related, yet distinct products from one another. All three come from the cannabis sativa plant; however hemp only contains 0.3% THC which does not cause psychoactive effects like marijuana does.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid that works with the body’s endocannabinoid system to alleviate symptoms and promote overall wellbeing. Hemp-derived CBD is currently legal in all 50 states; however, some states still regulate it as a controlled substance.
Legality
Although hemp has been legalized under the Farm Bill, CBD-containing products are currently only legally available in certain states due to DEA restrictions which treat marijuana, THC and hemp as Schedule 1 substances like heroin and cocaine. Companies selling products containing CBD should examine each state’s specific laws and regulations regarding good manufacturing practices (GMP) as well as labeling requirements when selling these products.
No product that claims to treat disease or condition without FDA approval remains legal, while the DEA has taken swift action against companies making unsubstantiated therapeutic claims regarding CBD-infused products. Furthermore, companies that market such products without proper substantiation of such claims cannot add it to food products such as beverages, soups, sauces, dips, spreads or plant-based alternatives to meat products without first meeting certain criteria relating to GRAS status. West Virginia however takes a more permissive stance toward hemp-derived CBD in both food supplements and food products whereas federal law does not.
Safety
CBD made from hemp is generally safe to consume, though some consumers may experience side effects like drowsiness or diarrhea. People with certain medical conditions should seek advice from their physician prior to using hemp-derived CBD, and also be sure it does not interfere with any medications you are already taking.
Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant with low concentrations of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for making people “high”. Hemp has long been used as an industrial material – in rope production, clothing fabrication and sail making as well as food. Even Thomas Jefferson himself grew hemp himself.
Hemp-derived CBD products are legal across most of the US if they contain less than 0.3% THC; however, some products marketed as hemp-derived CBD contain higher THC concentrations than required by law; the FDA advises avoiding such products and only using those tested by third parties to ensure its safety and potency.
Medicinal properties
Hemp-derived CBD has become increasingly popular as an anticonvulsant and pain reliever. Although preclinical and pilot studies provide encouraging results, physicians should carefully weigh both its potential benefits and risks when prescribing this substance to their patients.
CBD extracted from hemp contains low THC concentration (0.3%) and is legal across all 50 states. Marijuana with THC content has been shown to treat certain conditions such as nausea, glaucoma and multiple sclerosis but its use is illegal under federal law.
West Virginia allows the sale of cosmetic products containing hemp-derived CBD that meet all regulatory requirements in their state, provided they do not add more of the ingredient themselves. Manufacturers who have not added hemp-derived CBD must clearly label its presence, with hemp seed protein providing essential amino acids arginine and methionine for health benefits.
Applications
Hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant, commonly used for centuries as a source of ropes and clothing as well as food, supplements and beauty products. Additionally, hemp contains low levels of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive element found in marijuana that makes people feel high.
CBD, a nonpsychoactive compound found in hemp, works with the endocannabinoid system to relieve pain and other symptoms while offering antioxidant protection. Hemp-derived CBD has become increasingly popular with consumers seeking relief for anxiety or other medical conditions.
At present, neither the safety nor efficacy of hemp-derived CBD products have been fully demonstrated, which creates uncertainty as to their suitability for products requiring premarket approval, such as drugs, dietary supplements and foods. Furthermore, many product claims lack scientific backing – one study of 105 topical cannabinoid products found 18% overlabeled while 58% underlabeled their CBD and THC contents respectively.
