CBD: Expert and Consumer Opinions
Who are CBD consumers and what are their motivations?
According to an Ifop survey, carried out in 2022 for Atelier Populaire, with a sample of 1,000 people representative of the French population aged 15 and over, CBD is popular with consumers for:
41% of respondents use CBD to manage emotional problems related to their professional life, 34% in relation to their personal life. In addition to these anxiolytic uses, CBD is also used to combat chronic pain.
Consumers are of all ages, but the majority are between 25 and 45 years old. A greater number of consumers are male.
Men primarily consume CBD in the form of e-liquid , women in the form of oil . The vast majority of consumers use CBD daily.
What do doctors think about CBD?
A 2017 report from the World Health Organization (WHO) states that CBD is not dangerous to health : " It does not produce the effects generally observed with cannabinoids such as THC. " This report specifies that CBD could have " some therapeutic value ." Moreover, medicine is already using CBD! Indeed, Epidyolex, which is used to treat rare epilepsy in children , contains CBD. However, its prescription is strictly regulated.
Currently, therapeutic cannabis, with products containing CBD and THC , is being tested in a strictly medical setting. In 2021, a national experiment began, led by the French National Agency for the Safety of Medicines (ANSM). It is expected to continue until 2023 and involve 3,000 patients. The indications tested in this study are:
- Some severe epilepsies ;
- Recalcitrant neuropathic pain;
- Symptoms related to diseases of the central nervous system;
- Effects associated with cancer ;
- The suffering of the end of life.
The study will analyze the effects of CBD, THC, the synergy of the two substances and study the effects obtained with different dosages.
Doctors warn that CBD may interfere with the action of certain medications, including antidepressants, oral contraceptives and thyroid medications. Some side effects have also been reported, including drowsiness, decreased appetite, digestive problems, fever and fatigue. Therefore, medical advice is strongly recommended before starting to take CBD oil .
Furthermore, the medical profession recommends avoiding smoking cannabis flowers, as the inhaled smoke carries harmful substances, and advises choosing good quality CBD, especially without additives.
The government's opinion on CBD
In France, according to Article R. 5132-86 of the Public Health Code, " the production, manufacture, transport, import, export, possession, offer, transfer, acquisition or use of cannabis " in the form of plants, resin and derivative products is prohibited. However, " the cultivation, import, export and industrial and commercial use of cannabis varieties without narcotic properties " is permitted.
The ministerial decree of December 30, 2021 authorized, on the basis of this exemption, " the cultivation, import, export and industrial and commercial use of only those varieties of cannabis sativa L. whose delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content is not higher than 0.3% ", while prohibiting the sale to consumers of flowers and leaves in their raw state, even with a THC content of less than 0.3%. By decision of the Council of State of January 24, 2022, the execution of this last provision was suspended, the interim relief judge considering " that there is a serious doubt about the legality of this general and absolute prohibition measure due to its disproportionate nature. "
For its part, the European Union has declared itself in favor of the commercialization of CBD as long as it does not contain more than 0,3% THC. However, some restrictions apply to foods containing CBD: each food containing CBG must be approved by a national food authority before being marketed.
CBD consumption as seen by police officers and gendarmes
CBD, a non-psychotropic molecule, is not considered a drug in France. Purchasing and consuming CBD is legal provided the products contain less than 0.3% THC. And it's this compound, THC, that makes all the difference in the event of a traffic stop!
THC, contained in cannabis, is a psychotropic substance, not legal, and is sought during saliva and urine tests conducted by law enforcement, unlike CBD. If your product contains more than 0.3% THC, your test is likely to be positive . You will then be fined and it will be difficult to contest it, as purchasing products that comply with regulations is your responsibility.
Swiss CBD, according to law enforcement, should be avoided in particular because its THC content can be as high as 1%! If you want to check the legality of your products, self-tests for saliva are available in pharmacies . However, these tests are less sensitive than those carried out by law enforcement.
Regarding the possession of CBD products, police officers and gendarmes advise keeping packaging and receipts . If you have any doubts about the origin and nature of your product, you risk having it confiscated for analysis.
Police and gendarmerie also draw attention to the fact that during checks carried out with a detection dog, the animal will not differentiate between CBD and cannabis, as the products are olfactorily too similar!
Finally, law enforcement is urging caution when driving after consuming CBD, as it can cause drowsiness in some people.
What do scientists think about CBD?
Scientific studies have been conducted, or are currently underway, to study the effects of CBD on the body.
Does CBD help you sleep better?
The presence of myrcene, a naturally sedative substance, in CBD products may facilitate sleep, as it is known to have beneficial effects on anxiety. However, a study incorporating a placebo should be conducted on this aspect to scientifically confirm the benefits of CBD in sleep disorders.
CBD in anxiety management
CBD does not cure anxiety, however, its effect on post-traumatic stress and anxiety disorders has been documented. It is believed to regulate the production of serotonin, a hormone that manages mood stability.
CBD in burnout and exhaustion syndromes
Results of a 2021 study published in JAMA Network Open suggest that " CBD is effective in reducing symptoms of burnout ."
The opinion of hemp producers
In France, during the year 2022, 21,700 hectares will be cultivated with hemp. 1,278 producers cultivate hemp. The hemp sector remains a small one, however, Ludovic Rachou, president of the Union of Industrialists for the Valorization of Hemp Extracts, mentions " a market estimated at 700 million euros for CBD-based products in the first year in the event of regulatory changes, with annual growth of around 100% for food supplements with CBD. "
The market is proving promising, and producers are primarily seeking clarified regulations and harmonization of legal THC levels, which currently vary across European countries, from 0,3% in Germany to 1% in Switzerland.
Consumer opinions on CBD in France
Surveys conducted by sellers among their customers, as well as consultations on consumer forums, generally show that, regarding CBD intake and its effects, opinions are overwhelmingly positive. Consumers use CBD to manage pain, stress, and anxiety. They appreciate CBD's effectiveness and report very few side effects.
CBD and sleep: what are the opinions?
When it comes to using CBD for sleep, opinions are almost unanimous on the effectiveness of the product.
Testimony of Sandrine, 40 years old: " I have an autoimmune disease with severe pain and insomnia problems. I have been using CBD in oil form and also as an infusion for 1 month. Now, I sleep well and that hasn't happened to me for a long time! I was also able to stop taking morphine which was giving me a lot of complicated side effects. "
Testimony of Kévin, 27 years old: " I consume CBD to combat an insomnia problem mainly in the form of flowers, at around 10g . I am a very regular user and it has been 2 years since I started. Concerning the effects, it all depends on the variety that I am going to take. The effects will not be the same, or at least not of the same intensity from one flower to another, but my sleep has clearly improved. ".
CBD and anxiety: what are the opinions?
Regarding anxiety management through CBD use, opinions on discussion forums attest to the anxiolytic effects of CBD.
Testimony of Alexis, 34 years old: " I have been using CBD to combat my anxiety attacks, in the form of flowers, by smoking them, for 6 months now. I no longer have anxiety attacks since I started using CBD! "
Testimony from Isabelle, 50 years old: " I use CBD because I am naturally stressed, I have anxiety attacks and it causes me various pains... I have only been using CBD in the form of 10% oil for 2 weeks and the effects are already being felt. I no longer have any anxiety at all. "
What are the opinions on CBD and migraines?
Testimonial from Pascale, 64 years old: " I take CBD for my migraines, in the form of 10% oil as a long-term treatment (15 drops every evening). I started CBD 4 months ago. My pain has significantly diminished and has become acceptable thanks to CBD. I have gone from migraines every morning to maybe 4/5 in the last 4 months! Needless to say, the results are astounding. "
CBD and osteoarthritis
People using CBD for osteoarthritis find that the product provides relief in managing their pain.
Testimonial from Diane, 60 years old: " I suffer from severe osteoarthritis. I consume CBD in oil form by putting a few drops under my tongue several times a day. I started a year ago. CBD has succeeded in reducing my pain and better controlling it. "
Testimony of Guylaine, 52 years old: " I have suffered from spondylitis since the age of 20... I use CBD to fight fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis , in the form of CBD oil . Currently I take 30% full spectrum oil at a rate of 2 to 3 drops, 3 times a day. CBD gives me a relaxing effect but does not yet relieve me as much as I would hope. I persevere because I want to take as little medication as possible. "
CBD and Fibromyalgia
Testimonial from Céline, 48 years old: " I started taking CBD for various pains, particularly fibromyalgia, in the form of broad-spectrum oil, twice a day. I started CBD 15 days ago and my pain has significantly decreased and become acceptable thanks to CBD. "
Testimony of Thomas, 32 years old: " I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2017. Drug treatments work in the early stages but then come the side effects and unwanted side effects. I tried CBD about a year ago now, and I can only say good things about it . The positive effects are felt quickly, bringing comfort in daily life for my Fibromyalgia which affects the nervous and muscular system. I have not had any side effects such as addiction or withdrawal effects. "
How to consume CBD?
CBD is consumed in different forms. Oil and flower are the most well-known, however, CBD resin, CBD wax, or e-liquid can be good alternatives.
CBD Flower Reviews
The flowers come in a variety of flavors and CBD concentrations. CBD flowers can be used as an infusion, as an aromatic herb in food, vaporized, or inhaled. Smoking CBD flowers is strongly discouraged, as the smoke is harmful to the lungs. Instead, use it in the form of a CBD herbal tea, which has received very positive reviews thanks to its ease of preparation.
The benefits of CBD flowers according to consumers:
- Wide variety of aromas and concentrations;
- Easy to consume as a herbal tea;
- Excellent value for money.
The disadvantages of CBD flowers according to consumers:
- The taste may bother some people;
- Vaporization, which is particularly interesting, requires investing in a vaporizer beforehand.
CBD Oil Reviews
CBD oil can be used topically, in massages, or as a cosmetic product. It can be consumed orally, by adding CBD oil directly to food or placing a few drops under the tongue. It can also be mixed with your e-liquid. Users of full-spectrum CBD oil find this formula, which contains all the cannabinoids in hemp, particularly effective.
Benefits of CBD oil according to consumers:
- The possibility to choose between different concentrations;
- The ease of taking.
The disadvantages of CBD oil according to consumers:
- High price for concentrations over 10%;
- Trial and error to find the right dosage at first.
CBD Capsules Reviews
CBB capsules are swallowed with a glass of water, like dietary supplements. They are ideal for people who are wary of the taste or smell of CBD.
The benefits of CBD capsules according to consumers:
- Easy grip;
- Control of quantities consumed;
- Long-lasting action;
- Lack of taste.
The disadvantages of CBD capsules according to consumers:
- Capsule dosage often a little low.
CBD Resin Reviews
CBD resin is a sticky nectar with a sap-soaked interior. It is generally used by inhalation using a vaporizer. The active ingredients are then directly distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream from the lungs. CBD resin can also be ingested by adding it to culinary preparations, either by grating it or letting it melt.
The benefits of CBD resin according to consumers:
- Powerful effect due to high CBD concentration;
- Wide variety of taste and concentration.
The disadvantages of CBD resin according to consumers:
- Vaporizing requires investing in a vaporizer beforehand.
CBD E-Liquid Reviews
CBD e-liquids are liquids to be inhaled with a specific tool: the electronic cigarette.
The benefits of CBD e-liquid according to consumers:
- Easy to use;
- Fast effects;
- Wide variety of aromas.
The disadvantages of CBD e-liquid according to consumers:
- Equip yourself with an electronic cigarette beforehand.
CBD Wax Reviews
CBD wax is highly concentrated in cannabidiol. This product offers a texture somewhere between oil and wax. CBD wax can be added to food or inhaled in liquid form through an e-cigarette.
The benefits of CBD wax according to consumers:
- Its CBD concentration which can reach 80%;
- Varied smells and flavors depending on the plan from which it comes;
- The choice in how to consume it.
Disadvantages of CBD wax according to consumers:
- Its price is a little high.
CBD Crystals Reviews
CBD crystals can be used in several ways. They can be dissolved in your e-liquid, consumed orally, placed under the tongue, or applied topically when incorporated into carrier oil (massage oil or cosmetic products).
Benefits of CBD Crystals According to Consumers:
- Immediate effects;
- Absence of THC;
- Varied consumption methods.
The disadvantages of CBD crystals according to consumers:
- Short duration of effectiveness;
Your opinions on FamousCBD
When purchasing CBD online, reviews provide valuable insight. Regarding Famous CBD Shop, consumer reviews attest to the quality of the products offered, both in terms of their taste and effectiveness.
Yoan's testimonial: " Honestly, top quality and very good price, I won't look anywhere else! Thank you Famous! "
Customers also praise the quality and speed of product delivery, as well as the responsiveness of customer service.
Order your CBD from Famous CBD
Whether you're looking for flowers, resin, oil, etc., Famous CBD offers a complete range of high-quality products in terms of taste and smell. Our products strictly comply with current legislation; the THC content is always less than 0,3%. The entire Famous CBD team is working hard to ensure your delivery as quickly as possible (within 24-48 hours if ordered before 2:30 p.m.). Plus, delivery is free with no minimum purchase!
