May 6, 2022

What is CBD? Your Burning Questions Answered

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Zara Kenyon

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Gregor Zorn

If you’ve ever asked, ‘what is CBD?’, you’ve come to the right place. At Cannaray, we’re not just committed to bringing you the most premium products; we’re pioneering better CBD education, too.

That’s why – with insight from Cannaray’s Chief Science Officer, Gregor Zorn – we’re answering your most pressing CBD questions, covering where it comes from, its many uses and whether you can pack it on your next city break.

Here's what you need to know...

1. What Does CBD Stand For?

CBD is a shorter, easier way of saying ‘cannabidiol’, which likely brings you to your next question: ‘what is cannabidiol?’ Put simply, it’s a chemical compound produced by the hemp plant, and one of over 100 chemical plant compounds that can be found in hemp.

2. What's the Difference Between CBD and THC?

When people hear about a compound derived from hemp, some can mistakenly assume it’s going to make them feel ‘high’, but this is only true when THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is involved. THC is responsible for the psychoactive states associated with taking cannabis, but Cannaray’s CBD is THC-free – meaning our products are all non-psychoactive.

3. What Does Hemp Have to Do with CBD?

The words ‘hemp’ and ‘cannabis’ are sometimes used interchangeably, but hemp is actually just one type of Cannabis Sativa plant. Its leaves are abundant in CBD, so it’s a great natural source for the supplement. However, its seeds are not, meaning if you see ‘hemp oil’ or ‘hemp seed oil’ for sale, you shouldn't confuse it with CBD oil.

4. Is CBD Legal?

The legality of CBD depends on the country you’re living in. As such, it’s always advisable to research the laws around Cannabis in your country (or any countries you’re visiting) before purchasing CBD products.

In Europe

EU regulations state that CBD is allowed, providing the products contain no more than 0.2% THC. However, it’s down to each country to decide how they interpret these guidelines, with some opting to make it legal, and others ruling against all Cannabis products. For example, the UK, France, Germany, and a host of others all say that CBD products can be sold, as long as they’re below the THC limit. However, some countries, such as Denmark and Iceland, have banned CBD, while Austria, Belgium, Finland and a number of other countries state you need a prescription first.

In the United States

According to federal law in America, CBD that’s grown from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC is legal. That means you are allowed to buy it in all 50 United States. 31 of those states also allow for the medical use of marijuana, while 11 have made recreational use of marijuana legal.

5. What Does Taking CBD Feel Like?

Now you know that CBD doesn’t cause you to feel ‘high’, what does it feel like? “Taking CBD doesn't change your consciousness,” explains Gregor. “You can still function fully and totally normally”

"This is why CBD has been rising in popularity as a natural supplement across the globe. At present there is little evidence to date of any unwanted side effects and no evidence of addictions. Therefore if taking CBD can help you as an individual — even though it's effects are still being studied — then you have very little to lose by giving it a try"(1)

Girl eating Cannaray CBD Orange Flavoured Gummy

6. How Long Does CBD Stay in the System?

One of the many benefits of CBD is that its results are long-lasting, namely because it takes a while for the enzymes in your body to metabolise it. Typically, the compound stays in your system for three to five days after use, but this timespan can vary from one person to the next. There are a number of factors that affect how long it stays in your system, including the amount of food you eat, how much CBD you use, how often you use it and, of course, your genetic make-up.

How Long Does CBD Stay in Your System?

11. What Should You Look For in CBD?

High-Quality Plant Extract:

When it comes to high-quality CBD, how the plant is extracted is a vital factor, and every brand approaches this process differently. Our CBD is triple lab tested for purity to ensure a quality and safe CBD product every time.

Bioavailability:

For the uninitiated, CBD bioavailability relates to how much of the product is absorbed into your bloodstream, and how effective it will be. It plays a huge role in every product we create, including our CBD Oils, which are blended with coconut oil – a carrier oil that ups absorbency and tastes delicious.

Transparency:

Look to CBD essentials made with transparency at the forefront; brands that are proud of their extraction process and the way their products are sourced. You’re in the right place at Cannaray, as every CBD capsule, CBD oil or CBD topical that arrives at your doorstep comes with a serial number, so you can track the full production process.