Week 38: Common Cannabis Questions Answered

Even after learning the fundamentals, questions arise. This article addresses the most common questions people ask about cannabis products, providing clear, straightforward answers.

Will CBD Get Me High?

Short answer: No.

Explanation: CBD is non-intoxicating. It doesn't produce the "high" associated with marijuana. That effect comes from THC. CBD products from hemp contain trace amounts of THC (0.3% or less) that aren't enough to produce intoxication. Some people report feeling more relaxed or calm with CBD, but this isn't the same as being high.

Will I Fail a Drug Test?

Short answer: It depends on the product and test.

Explanation: Standard drug tests look for THC metabolites, not CBD. However:

• Full-spectrum products contain trace THC that could theoretically accumulate with heavy use
• Some less reliable products may contain more THC than labeled
• CBD isolate and properly tested broad-spectrum products pose minimal risk
• If drug testing is a concern, choose CBD isolate or verified zero-THC products

How Much CBD Should I Take?

Short answer: Start with 10-25mg daily and adjust based on experience.

Explanation: There's no universal dose—individual responses vary significantly. Begin conservatively, maintain that dose for a week, assess your experience, and adjust incrementally if desired. Some people find their optimal dose is quite low; others prefer higher amounts.

How Long Until I Feel Effects?

Short answer: Depends on the product type.

Explanation:

• Sublingual oils: 15-45 minutes
• Edibles/capsules: 45 minutes to 2+ hours
• Topicals: 15-45 minutes (localized)
• Inhalation: Minutes

For CBD specifically, effects are often subtle rather than dramatic. Some people notice something on first use; others require days or weeks of consistent use.

Is CBD Legal?

Short answer: Hemp-derived CBD is federally legal; state laws vary.

Explanation: The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp (cannabis containing ≤0.3% THC) federally. CBD products derived from legal hemp are federally legal. However, some states have additional restrictions. Also, FDA has not approved CBD as a food additive or dietary supplement ingredient, creating some regulatory gray areas.

Can I Travel with CBD?

Short answer: Domestic travel is generally fine; international travel is risky.

Explanation:

• Domestic US travel with legal hemp products is generally permissible
• TSA's focus is security, not drugs, but state laws at your destination matter
• International travel with any cannabis product—even legal hemp—can be problematic. Many countries prohibit all cannabis
• When in doubt, don't travel with cannabis products

Can I Give CBD to My Pet?

Short answer: Pet-specific CBD products exist; consult a veterinarian.

Explanation: Animals have endocannabinoid systems similar to humans. Pet CBD products are formulated for animal sizes and needs. However, dosing differs significantly from humans, and not all human products are safe for pets. Always use products specifically designed for animals and consult with a veterinarian first.

Does CBD Have Side Effects?

Short answer: Generally well-tolerated; some people experience mild effects.

Explanation: Reported side effects in some users include:

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness (especially at higher doses)
• Changes in appetite
• Digestive upset

CBD can also interact with certain medications. Most people tolerate CBD well, but individual responses vary. If you experience concerning side effects, reduce dose or discontinue use.

How Do I Know If a Product Is Good Quality?

Short answer: Third-party testing, transparent sourcing, clear labeling.

Explanation: Quality indicators include:

• Third-party lab testing with accessible COAs
• Clear labeling of cannabinoid content
• Transparent information about hemp source and extraction
• Reasonable pricing (not too cheap to be quality)
• Positive reputation and reviews
• Compliance with legal THC limits

What's the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana?

Short answer: THC content. Hemp has ≤0.3% THC; marijuana has more.

Explanation: Hemp and marijuana are the same plant species (Cannabis sativa). The legal distinction is based solely on THC content. Hemp is defined as cannabis containing 0.3% THC or less—not enough to produce intoxication. Marijuana contains more THC and remains federally illegal.

Can I Take CBD with Medications?

Short answer: Some medications may interact; consult a healthcare provider.

Explanation: CBD is processed by liver enzymes (particularly CYP450 enzymes) that also process many medications. This can affect how medications are metabolized. Blood thinners, seizure medications, and heart medications are among those with potential interaction. Always discuss CBD use with healthcare providers if you take medications.

How Long Does CBD Stay in My System?

Short answer: Varies; typically several days to a couple of weeks.

Explanation: CBD half-life depends on:

• Frequency of use
• Amount used
• Body composition
• Individual metabolism

Regular users retain cannabinoids longer than occasional users. Body fat percentage matters because cannabinoids are fat-soluble. For most people, CBD clears within a few days to two weeks after stopping use.

Why Doesn't CBD Seem to Work for Me?

Short answer: Multiple possible reasons.

Explanation:

• Dose may be too low—try increasing gradually
• Product may be poor quality—verify with COA
• Expectations may be misaligned—CBD effects are often subtle
• Individual biology varies—some people respond less to cannabinoids
• Consistency matters—occasional use may not produce noticeable effects
• You may need a different product type or spectrum

Not everyone responds noticeably to CBD, and that's okay.

Key Takeaways

• CBD won't get you high; it's non-intoxicating
• Drug test risk depends on product type; isolate is safest
• Start with 10-25mg CBD daily and adjust based on experience
• Effect timing varies by product type—be patient with edibles
• Hemp-derived CBD is federally legal but check state laws
• Quality products have third-party testing and clear labeling

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