For some, CBD is wrongly associated with so-called recreational cannabis and its psychotropic effects. But it is very important to distinguish CBD from other molecules. Let's review it together, so you can clearly understand how CBD is different from a drug, and why you can consume it safely.
Better understanding what defines a drug
This is the starting point of our article: what exactly is meant by “drug”? According to the WHO website, any substance that acts on the central nervous system by altering sensations, perceptions, mood, emotions, motor skills, or states of consciousness is called a drug.
A drug causes physical and/or psychological dependence. The website distinguishes different types of drugs:
- Those thought to have a calming effect: alcohol, tranquilizers (medications), cannabis, opiates.
- Those that seem to stimulate: cocaine, ecstasy, amphetamines.
- Those that cause hallucinations: hallucinogenic mushrooms, LSD.
It is also noted that the word drugs here refers to both licit drugs (alcohol, nicotine, medications), as well as illicit ones (cannabis, heroin, cocaine).
CBD does not work like these drugs. CBD is a molecule from the hemp plant, which is non-psychotropic. Therefore, it does not cause a high or a feeling of euphoria. It does not alter perceptions and does not cause any identified state of dependence, according to the World Health Organization.
According to a 2018 WHO report, “CBD does not show any effect indicating a potential for abuse or dependence.”
Differences between CBD and THC
Many people confuse CBD and THC. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is another cannabinoid found in the hemp plant. These two molecules, CBD and THC, therefore have the same origin, but their commonalities end there.
THC is psychotropic. Indeed, it directly affects the brain by acting on the state of consciousness. This results in a “high” and an alteration of perceptions.
Whereas CBD is not considered psychotropic, as it does not cause any alteration of perceptions or euphoric effect. It is because it does not alter the state of consciousness and does not disrupt cognitive functions that it is not defined as a drug in most countries where it is legal. In fact, the CBD molecule interacts with our endocannabinoid system.
If you want to know what the dangers of CBD are, we can enlighten you further on the Puffy blog, side effects and contraindications, you will know everything.
Why choose CBD
Well, you have understood that CBD has nothing in common with drugs as they are defined on the government website and by the WHO.
Why consume CBD in the end? What would be its benefits, its strengths? CBD consumers prefer to consume this cannabinoid for several reasons, including its potential benefits:
- its action on everyone's general well-being
- relaxation, overall relaxation but without a high
- improved sleep
- help falling asleep
- relief of certain pains
- reduced stress, reduced anxiety.
And these potential positive effects therefore cause neither addiction nor loss of control, nor a harmful effect such as a bad trip.
For convinced consumers, CBD is to be incorporated into a daily wellness routine. You can thus consume it at any time of the day, depending on your personal or professional pace. At the end of the day to relax, before bedtime to sleep better, in the morning to relax and better approach your day, or after sports.
Among the strengths of CBD, we also find the variety of formats in which the molecule is presented: dried CBD flowers, disposable puffs or THC vape refillable with CBD, THC gummies, oils, syrups, cookies…And, do not hesitate to find these different formats on the Puffy online store!
