What is CBD

CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural ingredient of the hemp plant that, unlike THC, does not produce intoxicating effects. It is increasingly used for therapeutic purposes and is considered well tolerated.

What exactly is cannabidiol (CBD)?

CBD, spelled out Cannabidiol, is a chemical compound from the group of cannabinoids. These compounds occur almost exclusively in the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa) present. Among more than 100 known cannabinoids, CBD is the best researched after THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) – with a crucial difference: CBD acts non-psychoactive. This means it does not cause a "high" and does not alter consciousness. Therefore, it is increasingly considered safe and suitable for everyday use, especially in low doses in the form of dietary supplements or cosmetics.

Cannabidiol is extracted from the Industrial hemp obtained – a hemp variety that has only a very low THC content of under 0.2% (in the EU). Through modern extraction methods, especially CO₂ extraction, CBD can be isolated in high purity from the plant parts and then added to various products: oils, creams, capsules, teas, or suppositories.

Origin and history of CBD

Hemp extracts were already used for medicinal purposes in ancient China and ancient Egypt. However, the modern history of cannabidiol only begins in the 20th century. 1940 CBD was first isolated, 1963 was deciphered by the Israeli scientist Raphael Mechoulam its chemical structure. Only in the last two decades has CBD come more into focus as studies on its diverse mechanisms of action and potential applications have appeared.

How does CBD work in the body?

CBD acts on the so-called Endocannabinoid System (ECS) – an endogenous regulatory system that is responsible, among other things, for pain perception, sleep, mood, appetite, and immune reactions. In the ECS, messenger substances (endocannabinoids) dock to receptors (CB1 and CB2). However, CBD interacts with this system not directly agonistically, like THC, but influences it modulating:

• CBD inhibits the enzyme FAAH, which breaks down the body's own messenger substance anandamide. Anandamide is responsible for the "feel-good feeling." By inhibiting this enzyme, the anandamide level increases.
• CBD affects other receptor systems, such as Serotonin receptors (5-HT1A), which plays a role in anxiety, depression and pain.
• It unfolds anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which have been demonstrated on various biochemical levels.
• CBD modulates a variety of receptors in the human body and is therefore considered a multimodal substance.

More about this in the blog post "CBD Effect".

Is CBD legal?

In many European countries, including Germany and Austria, CBD is generally legal, provided certain conditions are met:

Products that meet these requirements may be freely sold – in pharmacies, drugstores, or online shops.

What is the difference between CBD and THC?

The Main difference is located in the Effect on the central nervous system:

CBD is considered balancing, calming, anti-inflammatory – without a “high.” THC, on the other hand, specifically activates the CB1 receptors in the brain and leads to a feeling of intoxication, which is why it is classified under the Narcotics Act falls.

What forms of CBD are there?

CBD is now available in numerous forms – depending on the intended use:

Particularly interesting is the application in Suppository form, for example with gynecological complaints or prostatitis – since the active ingredient quickly enters the bloodstream through the mucous membrane without passing through the digestive tract.

Are there side effects with CBD?

CBD is considered well tolerated. Nevertheless, side effects can occur in sensitive individuals or at high doses:

• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Interactions with medications (e.g. blood thinners, some antiepileptic drugs)

It is important to coordinate intake with a doctor, especially in cases of chronic illnesses or existing medication.

How do you recognize good CBD?

Not every CBD product delivers what it promises. Pay attention to:

• Laboratory certificates (COA) with THC and CBD content
• Transparent origin of the hemp plants (organic quality, EU-certified)
• Gentle extraction (e.g. CO₂ method)
• No additives or contaminants
• Reputable providers with clear information on ingredients and dosage

An example of high-quality suppositories are the CANNEFF® SUP – they combine CBD with hyaluronic acid, which creates a synergistic effect especially for the intimate area (moisturizing, regeneration, inflammation relief).