CBD 101: An Introductory Course

CBD (in the form of oils, creams, lotions, edibles and more) has entered mainstream America! Their presence has been noted in the fields of food and beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. With projections for this industry to surpass $20 billion dollars by the year 2024, healthcare providers need to be aware of the ever-growing consumer usage, as well as the medical and legal implications for its users.

CBD is defined as cannabidiol. It is an active chemical in the Cannabis Sativa plant (also known as marijuana or hemp). While CBD is one of over 80 chemicals (known as cannabinoids), by itself it does not cause a “high”. According to the World Health Organization, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential. Furthermore, to date, there is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD. The issue at hand is actually the origin of the CBD ingredients. While delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the major active ingredient in marijuana, cannabidiol is also obtained from hemp, which contains only very small amounts of THC.