Are CBD products safe to use and will they make you “high”…?

CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are both compounds derived from the cannabis plant, but they have key differences in their effects and legality.

1. Psychoactive Effects:
   • CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the “high” typically associated with cannabis. This makes it ideal for people looking for therapeutic benefits without altering their mental state.
   • THC, on the other hand, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, responsible for the “high” feeling.
2. Legality:
   • In South Africa, CBD is legal if it complies with specific regulations, such as:
     • It should be consumed within the recommended dosage of 20mg per day.
     • The total strength of CBD in a product must not exceed 600mg.
     • Products like yours, from a SAHPRA-certified licensed facility, meet these legal standards and are tested to ensure compliance.
   • THC-based products are strictly regulated, and products with high levels of THC are illegal without specific medical prescriptions due to their psychoactive nature.
3. Safety and Usage:
   • CBD is generally considered safe when used within the prescribed limits. For your products, this means a recommended dosage of no more than 20mg per day.
   • THC, while having some therapeutic benefits, may cause unwanted side effects like euphoria, anxiety, and impaired cognitive function, particularly when consumed in large amounts.
4. Therapeutic Benefits:
   • CBD has been widely studied for its potential to help with anxiety, pain, inflammation, and even some seizure disorders, all without intoxication.
   • THC can also provide pain relief and other therapeutic benefits but with the added psychoactive effects.

For your consumers, the key message is that CBD products are legal, safe, and non-psychoactive, provided they follow the guidelines set by authorities like SAHPRA. Education around this will help clarify misconceptions and ensure responsible usage.