What Is CBD?
CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, offers calming effects without the high. Discover its benefits, uses, and top products from Mood.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a unique compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s part of a group of over 100 known substances called cannabinoids, which also include Delta-8 and Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
There’s plenty more to learn about CBD. Let’s take a look at the basics, including its effects, how to enjoy it, its legal status, and more.
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Table of Contents
What Are Cannabinoids?
CBD and Other Cannabinoids
The Endocannabinoid System Explained
CBD and the Endocannabinoid System
What Are the Benefits of CBD?
CBD Products: What To Try
Vapes
Edibles
Concentrates
Flower
Tinctures
Topicals
Is CBD Legal?
How Much CBD Should You Use?
FAQs About CBD
High-Quality CBD Oil and More From the Mood Shop
THCa Moonrocks
Sleepytime THC Gummies
1:1 THC & CBD Mixture
The Bottom Line on CBD
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a naturally occurring Cannabis Sativa constituent. It is one of over a hundred currently known cannabinoids — unique compounds that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Unlike THC, the most famous cannabinoid, CBD is non-intoxicating, which means it doesn’t produce a “high.” This quality makes CBD appealing for folks looking to explore cannabis' potential health benefits without the intense effects of a cannabinoid like Delta-9 THC.
The Types of Products on the CBD Market Today
CBD comes in quite a few different forms, with each offering its own unique benefits and absorption rates.
CBD oil or tinctures, which are taken under the tongue, are the best option for quick absorption into your bloodstream. However, they're far from the only products on the CBD market.
Edibles, like CBD gummies or capsules, offer a more gradual release of CBD that can provide a subtle calm feeling in lower doses and more intense soothing effects at higher doses.
Another popular method of enjoying CBD is vaping, which provides fast-acting effects but may not be ideal for everyone.
Forms of Cannabidiol Extracts Sold Online
There are three main types of CBD products: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate.
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD contains all cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC, and benefits from the “entourage effect,” a phenomenon that sees cannabinoids and terpenes working together to produce unique effects.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD also contains multiple cannabinoids but has the THC removed, appealing to folks who want to experience the entourage effect without any THC exposure.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate, on the other hand, is pure CBD with no other cannabinoids, which is an ideal option for anyone who doesn't want to potentially fail a drug test due to trace amounts of THC or other ingredients.
In-Depth: What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are natural cannabis-derived compounds with a wide array of effects. CBD is one of the cannabinoids that we know the most about, along with THC.
These are just a few of the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant:
Cannabidiol (CBD): The main subject of today's discussion, cannabidiol (CBD), is found in the cannabis sativa plant. CBD use is associated with feelings of relaxation.
Delta-8 THC: This variation of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is psychoactive, meaning it will get you high. However, Delta-8 is only found in small amounts in cannabis plants, and it has about half of the psychoactive power of Delta-9 THC.
Delta-9 THC: Delta-9 is what people typically are referring to when they talk about THC. It’s the cannabinoid that is most responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
Delta-10 THC: This form of THC is structurally very similar to Delta-9, but it differs in its potency and the onset of its effects. We know less about this cannabinoid than Delta-8 and Delta-9.
THCa: Short for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, THCa is the acidic precursor to THC. It turns into Delta-9 THC when exposed to heat.
THCp: Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCp) is a powerful cannabinoid that has a much stronger binding affinity to cannabinoid receptors than THC. However, it’s only naturally present in cannabis in small amounts.
THCv: Sometimes called “diet weed,” this cannabinoid is known for its impact on appetite. It may also intensify the effects of THC and other psychoactive cannabinoids.
How CBD Works With Other Cannabinoids
While Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10 THC, along with several other cannabinoids, are all psychoactive, cannabidiol (CBD) isn’t.
Although CBD doesn’t have psychoactive effects on its own, it often coexists with other cannabinoids that will get you high.
For example, you can find non-medical and medical cannabis concentrates that include a mix of psychoactive Delta-9 THC with CBD.
CBD + THC = a Mellower High
When paired with other cannabinoids, CBD can produce a more balanced, mellow high. Its natural calming effects can offset the intensity of highly potent cannabinoids like Delta-9 and THCp, making it a fantastic option for beginners.
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The Endocannabinoid System Explained
Cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids impact the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in your body.
This super-complex network, which is linked to the nervous system and brain, along with other organs, is made up of endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes.
Here’s how these components work together to respond to cannabinoids like CBD:
The endocannabinoids in the ECS are naturally occurring compounds in your body that are very similar to cannabinoids.
Your body’s CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors are located in your brain, central nervous system, immune system, and other organs.
These receptors interact with the endocannabinoids produced by your body and the cannabinoids found in cannabis.
Enzymes break down endocannabinoids after your body has processed them.
These parts of the endocannabinoid system work together to create a complex response to cannabinoids like CBD.
CBD influences the endocannabinoid system in unique ways, including making you feel calm, happy, and content.
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CBD and the Endocannabinoid System
Cannabidiol (CBD) has a unique effect on the endocannabinoid system that we don’t yet fully understand.
Current research tells us that CBD can both activate and block the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system and also impact the serotonin and opioid receptors in the brain.
Researchers also think that CBD may affect processes like muscle contraction, cell growth, and the secretion of certain hormones, leading some experts to view CBD as a potential treatment for chronic pain and other conditions. More research is needed, though, and CBD shouldn't be considered medicine at this time.
What Are the Benefits of CBD?
Your experience with cannabidiol (CBD) will vary based on how you choose to enjoy it — and so will the potential health benefits that you get from your experience.
When you use CBD on its own, you won’t feel any psychoactive effects. However, the cannabinoid may make you feel calm and relaxed. You might also feel a bit sleepy while using CBD products.
If you’re using CBD alongside other cannabinoids like THC, the effects may change. For example, THC and CBD interact in unique ways, with CBD sometimes leading to a more balanced, mellow high.
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CBD Products: What To Try
There are plenty of different ways to enjoy CBD, either on its own or with psychoactive cannabinoids.
These are some of our favorites:
Vapes
You can use rechargeable or disposable vapes to enjoy expertly crafted combinations of your favorite cannabinoids, including CBD.
If you want a high-potency mix of CBD with THCa, vaping is one of your best options. Since hitting a vape creates heat that vaporizes the THCa, the cannabinoid becomes Delta-9 THC, which will get you high.
Using a vape is especially appealing if you don’t want to set up a bong or dab rig every time you want to enjoy cannabis. While those methods for enjoying CBD and other cannabinoids can be fun and rewarding, vaping is definitely low-maintenance in comparison.
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Edibles
Edibles are yummy cannabis-infused snacks that come in a wide variety of forms. They can be sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, and they often feature CBD alongside some form of THC.
When you take a bite of an edible, you won’t feel the effects immediately. However, the high from an edible may last longer than what you’d expect from other cannabis consumption methods.
Using edibles that contain CBD may help you get a more chill, balanced high. Bear in mind, though, that these products aren’t always meant to be enjoyed all in one sitting — a little bit goes a long way.
Your options for edibles include classic candies like gummies and taffy, as well as ice pops, drinkables, and more. Each of these types of edibles can vary in strength and flavor, so feel free to experiment with different options until you find what works best for you.
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Concentrates
Concentrates are cannabis extracts of the Cannabis Sativa plant that are extremely rich in cannabinoids — sometimes including CBD.
A cannabis concentrate is also loaded with terpenes, which are flavorful, aromatic compounds that enhance your experience. Each strain of cannabis has its own unique terpene profile, which you’ll continue to notice more prominently as your palate develops.
When using concentrates, you only need a small amount to get high. You can vaporize a bit of your favorite concentrate using a dab rig, a bong, or a vape, or you can mix it in with flower in a joint.
Some of the best concentrates to try include hash, diamonds, moonrocks, and dab badders, all of which are available in the Mood Shop.
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Flower
Some cannabis strains are naturally high in CBD.
Smoking flower with high CBD content can get you a milder, more relaxing high, which is a perfect option for nighttime or weekend chilling.
Cannabis flower can vary in potency and effects, and the Mood Shop makes it easy to know what to expect from the flower you choose.
We categorize all of our American-grown flower based on mood. Whether you want to feel focused, happy, chill, energized, or otherwise, we have you covered.
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Tinctures
Tinctures often contain highly concentrated CBD, sometimes along with other cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC.
These products may be psychoactive, so make sure you read the label if you don’t intend to get high!
When using a tincture, you'll take a serving sublingually (under your tongue). CBD Tinctures usually include some tasty natural flavors to make each serving more enjoyable. If you’ve ever taken a dietary supplement that came in a dropper, it’s a similar experience.
The liquid typically absorbs quickly, so you can expect to feel any psychoactive effects within as little as 30 minutes.
However, the effects of a non-psychoactive tincture (one containing only CBD) may be harder to notice at first.
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Topicals
CBD is easy to find in topical form. Creams, lotions, and other topicals containing CBD are staples at dispensaries and health food stores.
It’s worth mentioning that these topical products won’t get you high. They’re designed to soothe your skin and are often combined with aromatic ingredients like essential oils.
We recommend trying CBD topicals if you want to get the most out of cannabidiol without consuming any cannabis products.
However, it’s always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before using any medicated products on your skin, especially if you're using other medications to treat a skin condition.
Is CBD Legal?
At this point, cannabidiol is easy to find across the US. However, like the recent overhauls to medical marijuana legislation, this change has been a long time coming.
In 2015, the FDA changed the regulations around research on CBD’s effects, opening the door for clinical trials and future legalization.
Not long after, in 2018, the Agriculture Improvement Act (also known as the Farm Bill) changed the way that all hemp-derived products are regulated and opened up access to CBD in many states by taking them off of the list of controlled substances established by the Federal Controlled Substances Act.
Under this bill, CBD and other cannabis products are labeled hemp as long as they contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by weight.
In addition, the Farm Bill labeled any products over the 0.3% Delta-9 THC mark as marijuana, which is still illegal in the US.
In the 2020s, you can order CBD products online and get them shipped to most states. However, it’s always smart to familiarize yourself with federal law and your state’s specific regulations before you order these products from the Mood Shop.
How Much CBD Should You Use? Safety Concerns and More
A systematic review of CBD research conducted back in 2020 revealed that the human body can tolerate up to 3,500 milligrams of a CBD product per day without adverse effects.
However, everyone has their own tolerance level for cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids. That’s why we recommend starting out with a small serving of a CBD product and seeing how you feel. The same goes for THC.
In addition, the amount of CBD you should use may depend on what type of CBD product you choose. For example, your body absorbs topicals and tinctures differently. Pay attention to the recommended daily amounts on the CBD product you pick, and you’ll stay within a safe and beneficial range.
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FAQs About CBD
Q: Will CBD get me high?
A: CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, so it won’t have any of the intoxicating effects of cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC.
However, you will get high while using CBD alongside psychoactive cannabinoids. For example, if you enjoy a gummy infused with both THC and CBD, you’ll get high and feel the calming effects of cannabidiol.
Q: Will CBD make me fail a drug test?
A: Use of CBD may cause you to fail a drug test. This is especially the case if you’re enjoying CBD alongside psychoactive cannabinoids like THC.
Traces of THC and other cannabinoids can stay in your system for up to 90 days, so it’s best to skip all cannabis products, including CBD, anytime you have a drug test coming up.
Q: Does CBD have flavor?
A: CBD doesn’t have a particularly strong flavor on its own — it’s a little bit earthy. However, if you’re using a CBD tincture or another product, you’ll most likely enjoy some added flavors that complement the natural terpenes (flavor and aroma compounds) found in CBD.
Q: How is CBD different from THC?
A: Both CBD and THC are cannabinoids, but CBD is non-psychoactive.
Q: Will CBD make me feel sleepy?
A: Everyone has their own unique response to CBD use and the use of other cannabinoids. The effects of high doses of CBD can also vary depending on the concentration of the cannabinoid that you use. So, you may feel sleepy or tired if you use high doses of CBD in the evening.
Q: Is CBD FDA-approved?
A: Some products that include CBD as an active ingredient are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, while others aren’t. Visit FDA.gov to learn more.
Q: Do CBD Products Have Side Effects?
A: Most people tolerate CBD use very well, but it can sometimes cause some mild side effects like dry mouth or changes in your appetite. It also has some known drug interactions with other medications— ask your doctor before using CBD if you take blood thinners or thyroid medications.
Q: What is full-spectrum CBD?
A: “Full-spectrum” is a term used for CBD products that contain multiple cannabinoids. For example, a CBD product like a tincture containing a mix of Delta-8, Delta-9, Delta-10, and CBD is full-spectrum.
Q: What is medical cannabis and how does it relate to CBD?
A: Medical cannabis, sometimes called medical marijuana, is any product that uses cannabis plant compounds, primarily cannabinoids like THC and CBD, to relieve symptoms associated with various health conditions.
While THC has psychoactive effects, CBD (cannabidiol) is non-psychoactive and widely used in medical cannabis for its potential anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and anxiety-reducing properties without causing a "high." More clinical trials are still needed for conclusive information about the impact of CBD use on physical and mental health
High-Quality CBD Oil and More CBD Products From the Mood Shop
THCa Moonrocks
THCa Moonrocks are a super potent concentrate combining THCa flower, gooey THC distillate, and CBD kief. Including CBD in the mix makes for an intensely relaxing high.
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Sleepytime Delta-9 THC Gummies
These yummy gummies come in three fruity flavors, all infused with a combo of THC, CBD, and CBD for a deeply relaxing high.
You can expect to feel the effects within 45 minutes to two hours, so a gummy a little bit before bed is a perfect part of your nighttime routine.
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1:1 THC & CBD Tincture
This tincture is all you need for a complete and utter chillout. With a distinctly citrusy flavor and a precise mix of Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 THC, Delta-10 THC, and CBD, it’s a compact and convenient way to enjoy a powerful high.
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The Bottom Line on CBD Products
Let’s recap:
Like THC, CBD is a cannabinoid — a chemical compound naturally found in the cannabis plant.
However, unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, which means it won’t get you high. This cannabinoid still has some noticeable effects, though; it may make you feel calm and relaxed and possibly a bit sleepy.
Starting off with a small amount of CBD and seeing how it affects you is the way to go. You can also try several forms of CBD, like edibles and tinctures, to find a product that you love.
Visit the Mood Shop to find more high-quality CBD products.
Prices subject to change.
Sources
Beyond the CB1 Receptor: Is Cannabidiol the Answer for Disorders of Motivation? | NIH.gov