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Cannabidiol (CBD) has been increasingly sought after over the past five years for its many health and wellness benefits. The CBD market is booming. Investing in CBD is a thriving business.
CBD FR – Reference site on French hemp
Welcome to CBD FR, the website dedicated to news and information about CBD. Because of its many benefits, this natural product derived from hemp has been generating a lot of buzz in recent years.
As a reminder, CBD, or cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid just like THC. However, unlike Tetrahydrocannabinol, which is illegal in France, CBD products are perfectly legal as long as they contain no more than 0,3% THC.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, commonly known by the acronym CBD, is a cannabinoid found in hemp. The substance is notably one of the main components of Cannabis Sativa, along with THC. Indeed, these are the two most prevalent cannabinoids, ahead of CBN, CBC, and CBG.
According to the WHO, CBD would have no health risks. It is well tolerated by humans and has a good safety profile. Moreover, cannabidiol presents no risk of addiction or abuse.
CBD Products Available on the Market
Cannabidiol is available in various forms on the market. The most common CBD products are:
- CBD oil;
- CBD flower;
- CBD infusion;
- CBD capsules;
- CBD candies;
- CBD cream;
CBD Oil
CBD oil is a 100% natural product composed of a vegetable oil base and cannabidiol. The natural product may also contain other cannabinoids and terpenes. There are different types of CBD oil:
- Full Spectrum CBD oil: the product is composed of a vegetable oil base, CBD, and all the other cannabinoids found in the composition of hemp, with a THC content not exceeding the legal threshold of 0,3%;
- Broad Spectrum CBD oil: the product consists of a vegetable oil base to which all the cannabinoids present in hemp are added, except THC;
- CBD isolate oil: containing only the vegetable oil base and pure Cannabidiol.
The other cannabinoids support the properties of CBD to provide optimized effects. This is what is regularly referred to as the entourage effect.
Furthermore, it is important to note that the concentration of Cannabidiol can vary considerably from one product to another, ranging from 5% to 40%. This information is crucial, particularly for product dosing.
In addition, CBD oil is generally sold in a bottle of 10 to 30 ml. The dropper cap allows for precise dosing and easy handling of the product.
CBD oil is used via sublingual administration. You must place the drops under your tongue, let them act for 30 to 60 seconds, then swallow them with a large glass of water. This method of consumption offers fast results thanks to absorption through the oral mucosa.
However, you can also pour drops of Cannabidiol oil into your meals, on a sugar cube, in yogurt, in fruit juice, etc. Caution! The product must not be subjected to high temperatures, at the risk of losing all its qualities.
CBD Flower
CBD flower is an extract of the hemp plant. In appearance, it is similar to THC flower, a narcotic strictly prohibited from production, marketing, and consumption in France. Cannabidiol flower has a THC level lower than 0,3%.
On the market, you can find CBD flowers from different cultivation methods:
- outdoor: grown outdoors;
- indoor: grown indoors;
- Greenhouse: grown in a greenhouse.
CBD flowers are consumed as an infusion. You can also take them by inhalation through vaporization. Avoid smoking CBD flowers. Indeed, the fumes produced by combustion can be toxic.
CBD Infusion
You can obtain CBD tea and herbal tea from retailers specialized in the sale of Cannabidiol.
CBD herbal tea contains fruits or CBD plant extracts. CBD tea is obtained from hemp leaves.
Preparing a CBD infusion requires special considerations. Cannabidiol is notably a fat-soluble product. You must therefore infuse the CBD extracts as herbal tea or tea in boiling water and fat (oil, butter, etc.).
CBD Capsules
CBD capsules come in the form of a capsule containing Cannabidiol. This type of product is the most practical. On the one hand, dosing is made easier. On the other hand, intake does not require any special preparation. You simply take the capsules with a large glass of water. Furthermore, you can easily carry the products with you on all your trips.
CBD Candies
Those with a sweet tooth tend to choose CBD treats. The confections come in different shapes: soft candies, berlingots, lollipops, lozenges, chewing gums, gummies, etc. You can also opt for a wide variety of flavors, each as delicious as the next. CBD sweets turn your treatment into a truly enjoyable experience.
Caution! CBD candies are exclusively reserved for adults. Indeed, CBD consumption is prohibited for minors.
CBD Food Products
You can also find other CBD food products on the specialized market. You notably have the choice between honey sticks or jars, coffee capsules, jam, culinary oils, syrups, and many other everyday foods containing CBD.
CBD Cream
Cannabidiol is also available as a topical cream for local treatments. The product should be applied to the area to be treated with a light massage to allow the molecule to penetrate beneath the epidermis. CBD is thus absorbed by the body.
CBD E-Liquid
CBD e-liquid is a classic e-liquid enriched with Cannabidiol. The product is used with an electronic cigarette. Vaping CBD is said to help with smoking cessation. Moreover, the vapor produced by vaping is said to be less toxic than the smoke from combustion.
As with classic e-liquids, you can choose from a multitude of CBD e-liquid flavors.
CBD Products for Animals
Our four-legged companions can also benefit from the advantages of CBD. Indeed, there are food products specifically formulated for animals available in the dedicated market. You can notably purchase sublingual oils, treats, kibble, or even pâtés.
Caution! Tetrahydrocannabinol is toxic for dogs and cats. CBD products for animals must therefore contain no trace of THC.
The Benefits of CBD
Cannabidiol possesses multiple properties that are beneficial to the body. Various scientific studies demonstrate that CBD notably integrates properties such as:
Pain-relieving
The Cannabidiol molecule acts on the receptors of the endocannabinoid system to inhibit the sensation of pain. The natural product would be effective in relieving ailments related to chronic diseases such as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and osteoarthritis. CBD would also act by soothing menstrual pain, migraines, muscle pain, and joint pain. The cannabinoid could notably replace analgesic medications. Its analgesic effects are proven by dedicated scientific research.
Anti-inflammatory
CBD also acts on the immune system. Inflammation notably represents a set of reactions of immune system cells to cope with external aggressions. Cannabidiol considerably limits cell responses. It thus prevents inflammation. Consequently, CBD proves effective in treating inflammatory conditions of varying severity, including joint diseases. The product also helps relieve flare-ups related to inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema.
Relaxing and calming
Cannabidiol possesses calming potential. The cannabinoid acts by regulating the functioning of the nervous system. It therefore contributes to fighting psychological disorders. Studies even prove that CBD would be effective against seizure attacks in people suffering from epilepsy. The natural substance would also show beneficial effects in the treatment of schizophrenia and would prevent degeneration of the nervous system.
Furthermore, CBD (re)balances the internal clock and increases the production and secretion of serotonin: the sleep hormone. It thus helps fight sleep disorders. Cannabidiol would notably help restore quality, restorative sleep. Additionally, by stimulating the production of hormones responsible for well-being, Cannabidiol promotes relaxation of the body and mind.
Moreover, Cannabidiol releases physical, psychological, and moral tension. The product thus helps soothe stress and anxiety.
Anti-nausea
CBD also contributes to regulating the digestive system. The natural product derived from hemp notably soothes contractions in the small intestine. It thus prevents nausea and vomiting.
Experiments and scientific observations also demonstrate that CBD would have strong potential to inhibit the growth of tumors and cancers. The Cannabidiol molecule would also promote growth and would present antibacterial and antifungal properties.
The Side and Adverse Effects of CBD
CBD can also cause side effects generally related to product overdose. An interaction with medications and poor-quality product can also cause undesirable or opposite consequences. The main adverse side effects that specialists have been able to observe are:
Drowsiness
By increasing serotonin production and exerting its relaxing actions, CBD can cause a state of drowsiness, or even completely put the consumer to sleep. The latter then loses all concentration. This represents a real danger, particularly for people who must attend to occupations requiring heightened vigilance such as driving a vehicle or machinery, handling a tool, a machine, etc.
Digestive disorders
A Cannabidiol treatment can have opposite effects on the body. Indeed, the molecule can cause digestive disorders generally manifesting as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or loss of appetite.
Dry mouth
Furthermore, taking Cannabidiol can trigger dry mouth. This can prove bothersome. This side effect results from the fact that CBD influences the balance of the salivary glands. Accompany the intake of the product with a large glass of water or another drink to immediately rehydrate your mouth.
Is CBD Legal in France?
French law strictly prohibits the production, sale, and consumption of cannabis with euphoric effects. The addictive and narcotic actions of certain varieties of cannabis notably come from THC. This substance is prohibited, unlike CBD, which is a cannabinoid with multiple health benefits. Moreover, the Cannabidiol molecule has no psychoactive effects and does not lead to dependence. Therefore, CBD is not considered a narcotic. It is legally authorized for production, marketing, and consumption in several European countries such as France.
Nevertheless, it is essential to note that the cultivation and use of CBD are governed by strict and precise regulations in France. French legislation on this subject has undergone significant changes over the years.
French Cannabidiol Regulations until 2021
The use of Cannabidiol in France was governed by the decree of 22 August 1990 until 30 December 2021. This law imposes:
- the limit of THC content in CBD products to less than 0,3%: beyond this threshold, THC exerts its narcotic and addictive effects;
- the exclusive use of Cannabis Sativa L. seeds and fibers for extracting CBD.
Subsequently, an opinion from the French Ministry of Justice, dated 23 July 2018, supports the legal THC rate in hemp plants at less than 0,3%. This legislation stipulates, however, that CBD-derived products must contain no trace of THC.
CBD Regulations in France since 2022
Later, the decree of 30 December 2021 implements the prohibition of the marketing and use of CBD leaves and flowers. Indeed, it is almost impossible to visually differentiate these CBD extracts from THC leaves and flowers. This law was adopted to optimize the control of drug flows on French territory. However, this decree was suspended on 24 January 2022, with the democratization of devices for measuring THC levels in hemp extracts. Indeed, these devices make it possible to quickly and easily distinguish CBD leaves and flowers from THC leaves and flowers.
To date, the production, sale, and consumption of CBD extracts and CBD products with a THC level lower than 0,3% are authorized in France.
Where to Find Good Quality CBD in France?
Faced with growing demand, retailers specialized in the sale of Cannabidiol are multiplying on the French market. Take the time to verify the reliability of the retailer and ensure the quality of the products offered. Favor merchants who sell their own Cannabidiol productions, following the safety and quality standards in force in France.
The GreenStore notably ranks among the most reliable online sales websites dedicated to legal CBD on the market. The platform offers a very wide variety of Cannabidiol products at the best price.
The Difference Between CBD and THC
CBD and THC are both the main cannabinoids found in the composition of hemp. Cannabidiol differs from THC in that it has no psychoactive effect. The natural product is therefore not considered a narcotic. Quite the contrary, CBD is especially known for its multiple therapeutic benefits.
Does CBD Cause Addiction?
CBD does not cause addiction. On the contrary, it even helps reduce dependence related to THC or tobacco. This is why some specialists recommend consuming CBD to increase your chances of quitting your addictions.