The growing interest in CBD’s therapeutic benefits has put this cannabis-derived compound in the spotlight. If you have been attracted to its potential health benefits, you might wonder: Can CBD get you high? Is CBD psychoactive?

Keep reading to learn more about CBD and how taking CBD makes you feel.

What is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the several active organic compounds derived from cannabis plants. It is a popular option for people who want to reap therapeutic rewards. This compound has many benefits, including relieving inflammatory and neuropathic pain. 

The other well-known active element is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is psychoactive, giving you a “high” feeling.

CBD products contain one of the below formulations:

• Full-spectrum CBD – contains all compounds of the hemp plant, including THC
• Broad-spectrum CBD – contains all compounds of hemp plants, excluding THC
• CBD isolate – contains only pure CBD and is free from THC and other compounds.

There are many CBD oil-infused products on the market, such as CBD oils, CBD capsules, CBD edibles, CBD topicals, and vaping products.

Can Hemp-Derived CBD Oil or Marijuana-Derived CBD Oil Make You High?

CBD is extracted from both hemp and marijuana plants.  

Hemp-derived CBD is legal at the federal level in the United States, and the THC content must contain no more than 0.3%, as outlined in the 2018 Farm Bill. With such trace amounts of THC, it is unlikely to cause you to feel high.

The legalities around marijuana-derived CBD and the amount of THC vary from state to state. Marijuana-derived CBD has higher levels of THC ranging from 5%-30%, so it could potentially give you a high. The intensity of the high depends on the ratio between CBD and THC and what CBD formulation is in the CBD product.

How Does CBD Interact With Your Body?

The human body has cannabinoid receptors in the brain that act like light switches. When these receptors are activated, they can turn on or off bodily functions. The cannabinoid-1 receptor (CB1) is a significant reason for the difference in how THC and CBD affect your body.

CBD unlocks many benefits when activating CBD1 receptors, including pain relief, which may reduce inflammation and make you feel less anxious or relaxed.

When THC activates the CB1 receptor, it could make someone feel high.  

What Does it Feel Like to Take CBD?

While more research on CBD is needed, some studies have found CBD derived from hemp plants to be tranquil and relaxing. It may lessen swelling, help relieve pain, improve sleep quality, and reduce anxiety without any psychoactive effects.

Sometimes, people describe it as neutralizing discomfort and agony or relieving tension. That seems to affect some people by itself, and others perceive greater sensory perception and peace.

CBD could help:

• relieve stress
• increase concentration
• cope with discomfort
• aid in maintaining calmness

Can CBD Cause You to Fail A Drug Test?

Routine drug tests usually screen for only THC, not CBD. To ensure your CBD product is free from THC, opt for one with a hemp CBD isolate formulation. Some products will also indicate their product is free from THC. 

It is essential to research the manufacturer you are purchasing from. Some less reputable manufacturers may have low production standards, which could contaminate the CBD products and lead to a positive drug test result or other concerns.

Whether you are looking to purchase CBD products with or without THC, follow these guidelines:

• Research the manufacturer to ensure they are using high-quality ingredients
• An independent third-party lab tests the products
• The manufacturer is reputable and stands behind its products
• The manufacturer offers a FAQ section and can be contacted with any questions
• There are plenty of positive independent reviews

The Bottom Line

It is essential to note CBD oils are not all created equally, and many factors contribute to the levels and quality of THC and CBD.

If a CBD product contains less than 0.3% THC (CBD from hemp, marijuana-derived broad-spectrum CBD, or CBD isolate), chances are you won’t feel high. Marijuana full-spectrum CBD products have higher THC levels, so they could make you feel intoxicated, and these intoxicating effects are not close to smoking or consuming recreational marijuana.

CBD has become more popular due to its many therapeutic effects. With demand for CBD oil-infused products on the rise, more research is being conducted.

Do your due diligence and only purchase CBD oil-infused products from trusted manufacturers like Keoni CBD and Blush Wellness. Consider speaking with a healthcare provider if you have any questions. 

References

1. A, Sunda F; Arowolo. “A Molecular Basis for the Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Fibrosis Properties of Cannabidiol.” FASEB Journal: Official Publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32885502/
2. Brand, Danielle Simone. “How Much CBD Should I Take the First Time?” Greatist, Greatist, 24 Mar. 2020, https://greatist.com/health/how-much-cbd-should-i-take-the-first-time/
3. Zhornitsky S; Pelletier J; Assaf R; Giroux S; Li CR; Potvin S; “Acute Effects of Partial CB 1 Receptor Agonists on Cognition – A Meta-Analysis of Human Studies.” Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32791166/
4. What Is the Endocannabinoid System? – Goodrx. https://www.goodrx.com/classes/cannabinoids/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system
5. Bergamaschi MM; Queiroz RH; Chagas MH; de Oliveira DC; De Martinis BS; Kapczinski F; Quevedo J; Roesler R; Schröder N; Nardi AE; Martín-Santos R; Hallak JE; Zuardi AW; Crippa JA; “Cannabidiol Reduces the Anxiety Induced by Simulated Public Speaking in Treatment-Naïve Social Phobia Patients.” Neuropsychopharmacology: Official Publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21307846/