Cannabidiol, or more popularly known as CBD, has been getting a lot of buzz in the health and wellness world. Everything from CBD tinctures, topicals and vape carts are now readily available. Those seeking natural relief from a variety of ailments have been able to do so with this therapeutic cannabinoid.
CBD is a cannabinoid that can be obtained from both hemp and cannabis plants. Depending on which variety of plant you are wanting to obtain CBD from, will determine whether you will need to be a registered medical cannabis patient or not.
With CBD becoming more and more popular, there has also come more confusion. So, we’ve broken it down for you:
First off, what is CBD?
CBD is a phytocannabinoid found in both hemp and cannabis plants. CBD interacts with the CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system and can provide relief from pain, anxiety, inflammation, insomnia and depression (just to name a few). CBD is non-psychoactive and is well tolerated amongst many people even at high doses.
What’s the difference between Hemp and Cannabis?
Cannabis is a family of plants that includes sativa and indica species. And while cannabis that contains THC, often referred to as “Marijuana”, can be obtained from both indica and sativa species, Hemp is derived only from the cannabis sativa family. Hemp contains <0.3% THC and is naturally high in CBD. Cannabis (or Marijuana) in contrast, typically contains higher amounts of THC and small amounts of CBD.
Hemp and hemp-derived products are federally legal to obtain in the United States while the high THC cannabis and cannabis-derived products are not.
Hemp derived CBD vs Cannabis derived CBD
Like previously stated, CBD can be derived from both hemp and cannabis plants. CBD derived from hemp contains only CBD, while CBD derived from medical cannabis tends to contain secondary cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and other minor constituents to help produce a wide array of benefits.
Since hemp-derived CBD is federally legal, it can be purchased from a variety of sources. Cannabis-derived CBD on the other hand, can only be purchased in Maryland through a medical dispensary.
CBD derived from cannabis is for medical purposes and is highly regulated and must undergo rigorous testing and quality standards. CBD derived from hemp does not have these requirements.
Do I need a medical card to obtain CBD?
The short answer, no. If you want to purchase hemp-derived CBD then you do not need to be a medical cannabis patient. However, if you want to obtain CBD that has been derived from medical cannabis, then you will need to be a registered patient.