There is no shortage of contemptuous articles written about cannabidiol (CBD), and they are often structured using the same formula.
The headlines used in such pieces are frequently phrased as some variation of “CBD: Myth or Medicine?”
CBD is typically described as a “hot wellness trend,” with a long list of the products it has been added to—shampoos, mascaras, and more. Exaggerated claims often made by CBD enthusiasts are then highlighted, such as:
CBD CURES CANCER!
If you bathe in CBD daily, you’ll live forever! (That one might have been fabricated for effect.)
By the time the article attempts to explore whether any legitimate science exists behind these claims, readers may be led to believe that CBD is nothing more than an overhyped, celebrity-endorsed fad embraced by millennials who are perceived to lack better judgment.
While this dismissive tone may seem harmless, real harm can be done when such misinformation is absorbed by social workers, therapists, school administrators, and others in positions of influence.
For instance, a family’s 7-year-old daughter was taken into protective custody for four days simply because her CBD seizures were being treated with CBD oil (disclosure: this article was written by me).
Or consider athletes who have lost scholarship opportunities because CBD oil was used to manage seizures—despite violating school drug policies. In other cases, children have been denied school enrollment because their use of CBD oil was found to violate policy.
In short: clarification is essential when it comes to false or misleading claims about CBD that continue to circulate. To help with this, let’s examine five common myths that are often spread about CBD.
Myth 1: CBD Is Illegal
To clarify: CBD is not illegal. The Cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa) is known to produce over 140 natural compounds known as cannabinoids. Among these, only two—CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)—are recognized as primary active ingredients.
THC is classified as the psychoactive component that causes a “high.” This is why the UK government has set a legal THC limit of 0.2% in medicinal cannabis products.
CBD, on the other hand, is considered non-psychoactive and, when properly extracted, can be used in various consumer products legally.
Myth 2: CBD Gets You High and Sedated
As previously stated, CBD is classified as a non-psychoactive compound and therefore cannot induce a “high.”
However, many users have reported feeling a calming or uplifting sensation.
This sensation has been linked to the effect CBD has on serotonin receptors in the brain. Studies on animals have shown that serotonin activity can be influenced by CBD, which may explain its role in stress and mood regulation. Still, more research is required.
Myth 3: A Drug Test Will Be Failed If CBD Is Used
Currently, CBD is not tested for in standard drug screenings. These tests are designed to detect THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis.
As long as THC is not present in your CBD product, a drug test will not be failed.
However, it’s crucial that products are checked carefully. If THC is included, even in trace amounts above 0.3%, a positive drug test may be returned.
Myth 4: CBD Is Snake Oil
CBD is often dismissed as snake oil because of its wide range of perceived benefits. However, what’s happening can be explained by CBD’s interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
This system is responsible for regulating numerous processes including immunity, mood, and organ function. CBD is used to support balance within this system, which is why different effects may be observed across users.
Myth 5: CBD Provides Immediate Results
When I first tried CBD, it was assumed that results would be immediate. A few drops were taken, but no immediate relief was noticed.
This experience is common. For most people, noticeable effects are only experienced after consistent use over days or weeks.
CBD’s impact should not be compared to taking a fast-acting pill. It requires patience and long-term observation.
If no improvements are noticed after a couple of months, it might be time to try a different brand or formulation. A CBD journal is recommended to help track your usage and results.
Persistence is required—and though it can be frustrating, many users have later reported being thankful they didn’t give up.
Conclusion
According to observational studies, CBD-rich treatments have been shown to be helpful for symptoms of pain, anxiety, and depression—particularly in those with moderate to severe conditions.
However, no benefit has been found in cases with only mild symptoms.