Heard about CBD but still not sure what it actually is or does? You're not alone. With its rise in popularity, CBD has become a topic of conversation, but the facts can get lost in the hype. This article breaks down what this cannabinoid is all about, how it interacts with the body, and what the research really says about its effects, so you know what to expect.

What does CBD actually mean?

So, what is CBD? This acronym is short for cannabidiol, one of the many natural compounds called cannabinoids found in cannabis.

It's important to note that “cannabis” is a broad plant family that includes both hemp and marijuana. CBD can come from either, but most CBD is extracted from industrial hemp, which is naturally high in CBD and contains only tiny, legally controlled traces of THC.

Because hemp-based CBD doesn’t have the intoxicating properties associated with THC, it's become widely used in oils, capsules, creams, and other wellness products. In the UK, for example, CBD is treated as a novel food when used in edible products, meaning it must adhere to safety and authorisation standards set by the Food Standards Agency.

How is CBD different from THC?

CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are both compounds found in the cannabis plant, but they have very different effects.

The key difference is that THC is intoxicating, causing the ‘high’ effects linked to cannabis, whereas CBD doesn't. It's non-psychoactive, meaning it won't alter your state of mind or impair your ability to function.

This is because THC binds directly to the receptors in the brain that influence mood and perception (specifically CB1 receptors). At the same time, CBD works more indirectly, affecting various systems without triggering a high.¹

In short, CBD won't get you high, and in legal CBD products, THC is present only in trace amounts, if at all.

How does CBD work in the body?

CBD works by interacting with a wide-reaching network within the body known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS helps regulate key functions, such as mood, sleep, appetite, pain, and immune response, essentially working to maintain the body's balance (a state known as homeostasis).

The endocannabinoid system is made up of three main parts:

• Endocannabinoids (natural molecules your body produces)
• Receptors (mainly CB1 and CB2, found throughout the brain and body)
• Enzymes (which break down endocannabinoids after use)

As mentioned, unlike THC, which binds directly to CB1 receptors (mostly in the brain), CBD interacts more indirectly. It doesn't fit these receptors in the same way. Instead, it's thought to influence how the ECS functions overall, potentially influencing its activity.

Beyond the ECS, CBD also influences other important receptors in the body. It interacts with serotonin receptors (5-HT1A), which are involved in regulating mood, anxiety, and the stress response, as well as TRPV1 receptors, which help to regulate pain, inflammation, and temperature.

Rather than acting as a direct trigger, CBD acts as an indirect modulator of these systems, supporting the body's natural systems and promoting balance. This subtle approach helps explain why effects vary from person to person.

How is CBD typically used or taken?

CBD is most commonly taken as an oil or tincture, where drops are placed under the tongue for fast absorption. These products vary in concentration and are often chosen for their ease of use and precise dosing.

Other popular formats include CBD capsules, gummies, and topical products such as creams and balms. While edible forms work systemically throughout the body, topicals are usually applied to target specific areas.

While each method may affect the body differently, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. The choice often comes down to personal preference, lifestyle, and desired effects.

What are the effects of CBD?

Now you're more familiar with the compound, but what does CBD actually do? The cannabinoid is being closely studied for a variety of potential effects, particularly in areas such as:

• Epilepsy
• Anxiety
• Pain perception

Research exploring CBD’s role in pain and inflammation continues to grow, with evidence suggesting potential benefits in modulating pain pathways.² CBD is also being investigated for its potential influence on anxiety, with several recent reviews and meta-analyses reporting promising, but not conclusive results.³,⁴

In fact, the most well-established use to date is in the context of rare forms of epilepsy, where a specific, prescription-only CBD medicine has been approved in several countries. However, this is a medical treatment, distinct from over-the-counter CBD products.

For general wellness purposes, many people report feeling soothed, more balanced, or less tense after taking CBD; however, these outcomes are personal and can vary widely. Factors such as individual body chemistry, product type, dosage, and frequency of use all play a role in how someone might respond.

It's also worth emphasising what CBD doesn't do. CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it won't get you high or alter your state of mind. Unlike THC, it doesn't cause euphoria or intoxication. Instead, it works more subtly, operating within the body’s existing regulatory pathways rather than overriding them.

While early research is promising and personal experiences are often positive, the effects of CBD are not guaranteed to be consistent. It may offer support for wellbeing, but it's not a “quick fix” or a “cure-all”, and more studies are needed to fully understand its role in human health.⁵ Understanding the benefits and risks of CBD helps set realistic expectations and supports informed decision-making.

Is CBD legal?

Across Europe, CBD is legal in many countries, but the rules vary widely. Its status typically depends on how the product is produced, its THC content, and whether it’s sold as a food, supplement, cosmetic, or something else.

Most European nations allow CBD products as long as they contain only trace amounts of THC—usually 0.2–0.3%, though some countries enforce even stricter limits. Because industrial hemp naturally contains very low THC, it is the primary source of legal CBD throughout Europe.

Many countries also classify edible CBD products as “novel foods”, meaning they must undergo safety evaluations and authorisation processes before being sold. While the specifics differ from one nation to another, manufacturers are generally required to meet quality standards and demonstrate the safety of their products.

Some European regulators also issue guidance on daily intake or advise against CBD use during pregnancy or while taking certain medications. Although these recommendations aren’t uniform across all countries, they reflect growing efforts to ensure consumer protection.

In short, CBD is legal in much of Europe when it contains minimal THC, complies with local regulations, and avoids medical claims. As always, choosing reputable brands and verifying independent lab reports is crucial for ensuring product quality and safety.

Is CBD safe for most people?

For most healthy adults, CBD appears to have a good safety profile when used responsibly. It's generally well tolerated, with side effects, if they occur, typically being mild. These may include dry mouth, fatigue, changes in appetite, or digestive discomfort, though not everyone experiences them.⁶

However, it's worth noting that CBD can interact with certain medications, especially those that are metabolised by the liver enzyme CYP450. This includes some types of blood thinners, antidepressants, and epilepsy treatments. These interactions may alter how your body processes medication, so it's essential to consult a healthcare professional if you're taking any prescription drugs.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) also advises that pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid CBD, and recommends a maximum daily intake of 70 mg for healthy adults, unless under medical supervision.

CBD is generally considered safe for most, but like any supplement, it's not risk-free. Start with a low dose and increase it gradually. If you have any concerns or health issues, consult your doctor.

What does CBD not do?

While CBD has gained popularity in wellness circles, it's important to distinguish between realistic expectations and marketing hype. Despite what some headlines might suggest, CBD is not a miracle cure. It's a natural compound with interesting potential, but it's not a treatment for all ailments, and its effects can significantly vary between individuals.

CBD also doesn't cause a high, making it suitable for daytime use and appealing to those seeking balance without altered consciousness or impairment.

It's important to note that not everyone will feel the same effects. Some people report noticeable benefits, such as improved calmness or soothing sensations, while others may feel little to no difference.

CBD is promising, but not a magic solution. It won't fix everything, and it won't affect everyone in the same way; that's worth keeping in mind when exploring it for your own well-being.

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Should you try CBD?

CBD is a natural compound that interacts with the body's regulatory systems, particularly the endocannabinoid system, and may support a sense of calm or balance in some individuals. While it doesn't produce a high, and it's not a cure-all, many people use it as part of their overall wellness routine.

That said, CBD affects everyone differently, and its benefits aren't guaranteed. It's important to understand what CBD can and can't do and to approach it with realistic expectations.

Ultimately, the decision to use CBD should be based on your individual needs and preferences, and when in doubt, it's always worth discussing with a healthcare professional. Being informed is the first step toward making the right choice for your well-being.

References

1. Manzoni OJ, Manduca A, Trezza V. Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol polypharmacology in neuropsychiatric disorders. Trends in Pharmacological Sciences. Published online January 20, 2025. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tips.2024.12.005 ↩︎
2. Cásedas G, Martín de Yarza-Sancho, Víctor López. Cannabidiol (CBD): A Systematic Review of Clinical and Preclinical Evidence in the Treatment of Pain. Pharmaceuticals. 2024;17(11):1438-1438. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17111438 ↩︎
3. Han K, Wang JY, Wang PY, Peng YCH. Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) in anxiety disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychiatry Research. 2024;339:116049. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2024.116049 ↩︎
4. Carly, Vieira RP, Araújo-Junior OS, et al. The Impact of Cannabidiol Treatment on Anxiety Disorders: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials. Life. 2024;14(11):1373-1373. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111373 ↩︎
5. João Luís Q. Simei, Diogo J, João Francisco Pedrazzi, et al. Research and Clinical Practice Involving the Use of Cannabis Products, with Emphasis on Cannabidiol: A Narrative Review. Pharmaceuticals. 2024;17(12):1644-1644. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17121644 ↩︎
6. Peters EN, Yardley H, Harrison A, et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, repeated-dose pilot study of the safety, tolerability, and preliminary effects of a cannabidiol (CBD)- and cannabigerol (CBG)-based beverage powder to support recovery from delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2023;20(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/15502783.2023.2280113 ↩︎