For centuries, cannabis flowers have been used as a recreational drug. The substance responsible for the cannabis plant's high-inducing effects is the cannabinoid, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), but there's also THC compliant smokable CBD flower (fewer than 0.3 percent THC levels).
In recent years CBD (cannabidiol) based extracts have made a huge impression on its consumers; and now smokable flower CBD is proving to be a big hit, too. So, if CBD flower doesn't get you high, what is the buzz all about?
What's the Difference Between Smokable CBD Flower and Recreational Cannabis?
People often describe recreational cannabis as marijuana, and low THC cannabis strains as hemp. Although the latter description is correct, in reality, it's all cannabis.
Whether it be recreational cannabis or hemp, the plant's other host of compounds such as other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids will be present. The ratio and presence of these other molecules bare no factor in determining the plant's classification.
The only criteria to warrant the plant as "hemp" is its low levels of THC. Under a bureaucratic system, anything over 0.3 percent of THC is classified as cannabis.
So, effectively, smokable CBD flower can be described as cannabis that doesn't get you high.
If it Doesn't Get You High, Then How Does it Feel to Smoke CBD Flowers?
Although CBD is non-intoxicating, that doesn't mean that smoking CBD flowers do not affect your brain. CBD is often misdescribed as non-psychoactive - which is misleading.
Medical cannabis research is still in its infancy, however, CBD clinical trials have showcased cannabidiol as a potential remedy to a list of ailments, particularly stress-relieving properties. Many people who have smoked CBD flowers back up such claims as they report an overall relaxing and calming sensation. Therefore, by definition, CBD is psychoactive but non-intoxicating.
In addition to cannabidiol, CBD smokable flower also has its own unique terpene profile. Terpenes are the plant's catalog of molecules responsible for the bud's aroma and taste. This consequently leads to an identical smell that cannabis dispences.
CBD smokable flowers are a welcomed addition to the impressive catalog of CBD products. In addition to CBD gummies, CBD vapes, CBD, and CBD capsules, there's CBD oils - the most popular cannabis-derived extract.
In essence, CBD is CBD, regardless of the product. Whether you take CBD oil via a dropper or smoke CBD flower, its effects are the same; what changes are the effects longevity and absorption rate.
When you inhale CBD you can feel its effects almost instantly, but they are shorter-lasting. Whereas CBD oils generally take between 45-60 minutes to feel its effects, but they last for much longer as the digestive system releases the cannabidiol gradually, in a similar way that it does with the nutrients of your food.
An additional benefit of smokable CBD flower is that it is widely available in high concentrations. Most CBD oils are generally available at strengths between 3 to 20 percent. Whereas CBD flowers can sometimes exceed 20 percent of cannabidiol.
Is CBD Flower Legal?
Globally, the CBD industry is a legal nightmare. Within the United States, the passing of the 2018 Hemp Farm Bill added much-needed clarity. CBD is now legal in all 50 states, thus decriminalizing the sale and possession of cannabis flower that contains under 0.3 percent trace of THC.
Over in Europe, the confusion is rife. Cannabis is illegal throughout the continent; at best, a short handful of countries have decriminalized the plant, or legalized it for medical purposes, albeit with strict policies. Whereas CBD and its extracts are legal throughout the continent. However, the THC levels may vary when determining if the plant is hemp or recreational cannabis. EU law states that if a plant contains over 0.2 percent THC, then it is cannabis, however, the Italian government has allowed a legal limit of 0.6 percent, and the European Independent nation, Switzerland, has set a limit of one percent THC.
Be that as it may, CBD flower is illegal in most territories. This is a consequence of the confusion. For example, CBD- extracts and hemp cultivation is legal within the UK, as is medical cannabis, however, smokable CBD flower is illegal to both sell and possess.
The reason for such strict policies is the draconian view on cannabis and the inability to understand the differences. If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck...
Buying Smokable CBD Flower
When it comes to buying smokable CBD flowers, there are a few things that you should be aware of. First and foremost, look for a reputable supplier. There is a difference between hemp strains. What can be smoked, and what cannot be smoked.
CBD-based products are made using industrial hemp, which should not be smoked. If you want premium CBD flowers, then opt for quality looking buds, that do not have seeds and/or stalks.
In addition to loose CBD hemp buds, you can also buy CBD smokable flower pre-rolls and CBD hemp cigarettes.
Conclusion
Smokable CBD flowers and recreational cannabis are merely distant relatives. They share the same catalog of molecules such as minor trace cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes; but they differ by THC ratios.
Whether you smoke cannabis for recreational purposes or cannabinoids remedial benefits, then smokable CBD flower is something that you should try. And if you haven't tried CBD at all, then why not? Relax, it won't get you high!
Really enjoying reading all the info. in the blogs…..awesome stuff…..education and awareness…keep kicking butt over there in Antonito…..Chuck