Does CBD get you high?

Over the last few years, CBD products have swept the nation, becoming somewhat of a ritual for many. However, people often confuse CBD with THC, wrongly assuming that CBD gets you high. We're here to bust that myth!

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is the non-psychoactive compound found in hemp plants. It is related to the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network of cells and receptors that regulates various cardiovascular, nervous and immune functions and helps control how the body achieves balance.

THC, short for tetrahydrocannabinol, is another natural component found in the hemp plant, but it has different effects to CBD. THC is a psychoactive compound that typically leads to high feelings when consumed. It binds with the receptors in the brain, producing a high or sense of euphoria. CBD, on the other hand, is not psychoactive and therefore cannot get you high

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By Chloe PalmerJan 13, 2022

Why do people believe CBD gets you high?

The misconception that CBD makes you high is a natural byproduct of the fact that both compounds can be extracted from the same plant. However, although it’s true that CBD can be isolated from the cannabis plant, it’s much more commonly extracted from the hemp plant. In the UK, CBD can only be sold if it is extracted from hemp. The cannabis and hemp plant are from the same species, but there is much more CBD in hemp and more THC in cannabis.

Does CBD oil get you high?

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, meaning it does not create a ‘high’ for those who take it. Once extracted from the hemp plant, CBD is added to a variety of products and may provide certain benefits for users, but these are not the same as the perceived benefits of cannabis. CBD-infused items are often promoted as a natural way to unwind or have a moment of feeling calm'.

While high concentrations of CBD may help people find calm, it’s different to the THC effects. CBD does not bind to the CB1 or CB2 receptors in the brain, whereas TBC will bind to the former which causes a high or sense of euphoria..

The effects of CBD vs THC

CBD and THC are believed to have similar medicinal benefits. However, CBD does not cause euphoria.

Additionally, THC can cause hallucinations, a change in thinking, and sometimes an increased appetite. People also tend to feel euphoric. Side effects include increased high heart rate, nausea, memory loss, slower reaction times and red eyes.

What are the common uses of CBD?

CBD can be used in a variety of ways. Doctors may prescribe it to patients as medication to treat epileptic seizures. In a treatment trial conducted by Dr Orrin Devinsky, it was discovered that when patients were given 2-5mg doses of CBD daily the “median reduction in monthly motor seizures was 36.5%.”

CBD products are readily available in many supermarkets, gyms, spas, restaurants, bars and cafes.

Is it legal to use CBD?

CBD is completely legal to use, as long as products meet specific standards to be bought and sold in the UK. In 2016, the MHRA (Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) stated that products containing cannabidiol (CBD) can be listed as medicine if used for medical purposes. However, the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 states that use of THC and its inclusion in any CBD product is strictly prohibited.

Summary

So, now you should have a better understanding of what exactly CBD is and why it should not be confused with other substances that give you a high. Try it for yourself and let us know how you get on!