As hemp and cannabis products have risen in popularity in recent years, you’ve probably heard the terms CBD and THC mentioned multiple times. But what is the difference between CBD and THC, and do they have different regulations?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is obtained from the cannabis sativa plant and contains only a small amount of THC (it’s believed that CBD blocks some of the psychoactive effects of THC – more on that below). CBD is believed to have a relaxing effect which can potentially help users with conditions such as anxiety.

You’re probably most familiar with CBD oil, but it’s increasingly used within a variety of products including food and cosmetic products such as skincare. CBD’s rise in popularity is likely due to its link to anxiety and pain relief, although CBD products are legally considered a food product and cannot be marketed as medicine.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has similar “chemical makeup” to CBD, but its effects on users are quite different. THC is more often associated with smoking cannabis, which is currently a Class B, schedule 2 drug and is illegal in the UK unless medically prescribed.

Both CBD and THC are both cannabinoids found in the cannabis sativa plant, and their main difference is how they affect users.

THC is known as a “psychoactive” cannabinoid, often used recreationally to get a “high” or to relax. CBD, on the other hand, is not thought to change the way you feel, however it is associated with helping to relieve anxiety and pain.

They also have very different side effects, with THC often causing red eyes, a dry mouth and sometimes memory issues, while CBD has been linked to lack of appetite, although more research needs to be conducted. Both THC and CBD have the potential of causing a negative reaction.

THC is usually removed from CBD products, and CBD products can only contain a maximum concentration of 0.2% of THC.

In the UK and EU, CBD products are considered to be a Novel Food by the European Commission. In order to market your CBD products legally in the EU, you must submit a novel food application to the European Commission and gain authorisation. You can learn more about submitting a novel food application here.

THC is currently illegal in the UK as is it a Class B drug, with the government stating that:  

“Cannabis is a very harmful, very dangerous drug that can cause huge mental health problems and addiction.”

In summary, although CBD and THC come from the same plant, they are quite different and are therefore regulated differently. 

If you are a CBD product manufacturer, we offer a range of services to help you comply with regulation and get your products on the market legally.
To learn more and get a quote, email info@inter-scientific.com.

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