(cannabidiol) is one of over 60 active chemical compounds (or ‘cannabinoids’) in the marijuana plant. It’s usually the second-most abundant cannabinoid, behind THC.

Marijuana and hemp are two different varieties of cannabis that come from the same species of plant (Cannabis sativa L). In general, CBD is found abundantly in both. However, it’s important to note that CBD is typically found in the seeds and stem of marijuana – not in the flowering buds (which is the part that you smoke). The hemp plant is an entirely different strain of cannabis that contains high quantities of CBD throughout (stem, buds, etc), and practically zero traces of THC. If a hemp plant contains more than 0.3% THC, it is then technically a “marijuana” plant. Most all CBD-based products come from the industrial hemp plant.

THC affects the brain by binding to naturally-occurring CB-1 receptors in the central nervous system. CBD is a differently-shaped molecule that binds to CB-2 receptors in cell and body tissues outside the central nervous system.

No, CBD will not get you high. It’s non-intoxicating. Like we just said THC is the molecule that binds to receptors in our brain and is the one responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. In fact, CBD is antagonistic to the marijuana high; some research expresses its potential to prevent THC molecules from binding to the brain’s receptors (hence the reason why it’s often used to subdue the ‘paranoia’ effects of super-potent THC strains).

Most CBD products are taken orally via oil drops that are placed under the tongue and held for 60 seconds before swallowing. Topical creams and ointments are also effective, as is smoking or vaporizing CBD-rich marijuana strains like ACDC or Charlotte’s Web.

CBD oil is a liquid cannabis extract that contains virtually pure CBD. It’s commonly made from seeds of the hemp plant (CBD hemp oil) and the stem of industrial hemp.

CBD functions by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. These receptors have been found in virtually every cell and tissue type in the human body (hence the seemingly endless array of CBD uses).

In states where MMJ is legal, any CBD product (whether it comes from hemp or marijuana) is of course perfectly legal. Outside of these legalized states (including shipping from legal to non-legal states), things tend to be a little less clear. According to ProjectCBD.org, “Federal law prohibits U.S. farmers from cultivating hemp as a commercial crop, but the sale of imported, low-THC, industrial hemp products is permitted in the United States.” Technically, this means that as long as the CBD product (oil, vape, topical, etc) is produced from the seeds and stalk of the industrial hemp plant (with less than 0.3% THC), it is permissible to buy, sell, and ship across state lines. (However, in articles like 2014’s Farm Bill, the exact rule seems to be a little less clear). All in all, the fact remains that millions of people buy and use CBD products every day of their lives, and this option is only getting more popular and widespread with each passing day.

The only significant danger/side effect of the drug is in vaping CBD oils that were produced using a thinning agent, such as propylene glycol. When burned/vaped, propylene glycol produces formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen. CBD oils produced by CO2 extraction are much safer and purer than oils that were produced with liquid alcohol/thinning agents. Other than that, most research has concluded that CBD is perfectly safe with no known side effects, though some users have reported drowsiness, lightheadedness, low blood pressure, and dry mouth.