CBD: What It Is and What You Need to Know Before Choosing
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the substances found in cannabis. It does not cause intoxication, unlike THC. In recent years, CBD has become available in creams, lip balms and oils.
In this article, you will learn what CBD is, how it differs from hemp seed oil, what research shows and why CBD is currently not permitted in food products in the EU.
In brief. In the EU, foods and food supplements containing CBD are considered a novel food that has not yet been authorised.1 There are currently not enough safety data on the oral use of CBD.2 CBD may be used in cosmetics if cosmetics rules are followed.3
CBD, THC and hemp seed oil: how do they differ?
| Substance | What it is | What is worth knowing |
|---|---|---|
| CBD (cannabidiol) | A cannabis substance that does not cause intoxication4 | Listed as Cannabidiol on a cosmetics label.3 |
| THC | A cannabis substance that causes intoxication4 | Strictly regulated in many countries. |
| Hemp seed oil | An oil pressed from hemp seeds | Listed as Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil on the label. It is a nourishing oil, not a CBD product. |
Example. If a cream is labelled "hemp" (in Lithuanian, "kanapių"), this does not mean that it contains CBD. Check the ingredients: CBD will be listed as Cannabidiol.
Why is CBD not yet permitted in food supplements in the EU?
In the EU, food products containing CBD are considered a novel food. Such products can only be sold once their safety has been assessed and authorisation has been granted by EU institutions.1
During the assessment of CBD, it became clear that data are lacking on its effects on the liver, digestive tract, nervous system, hormones and mental health. As a result, its safety as a food has not yet been confirmed.2
What this means for you. If you come across "CBD oil" or "CBD gummies" sold for oral use, be aware that their safety as a food has not yet been assessed in the EU.
What does research show?
CBD is best studied as a prescription medicine. A CBD medicine registered in the EU is prescribed for the treatment of some rare and severe forms of epilepsy in children.5 It is prescribed, and its use is supervised, by a doctor.
There is currently not enough evidence that CBD helps with anxiety, insomnia or pain.4
CBD may cause drowsiness and diarrhoea, change appetite and affect the liver. It may also interact with some medicines.4
CBD in cosmetics
In cosmetics, CBD is most often combined with hemp seed oil and other moisturising ingredients. Such products are intended for skin care, for example to moisturise dry skin or care for the lips.
How to read the label:
- Look for Cannabidiol in the ingredients – only then does the product contain CBD.
- Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil – hemp seed oil.
- Cosmetic products cannot be intended to treat diseases, so claims such as "treats eczema" or "for psoriasis" are misleading.
Before using a new cream, test it on a small area of skin. If redness or itching appears, stop using the product. If your skin stays dry for a long time, itches or develops a rash, consult a doctor.
Selected cosmetic products with CBD
Commercial information. The products listed here are available in our shop. This is not an effectiveness ranking. Before buying, check the ingredients and instructions for use on the product page.
HISKIN Rapid Relief Ointment for dry and sensitive skin - CBD and prebiotics 120 ml
Ointment for dry and sensitive skin with petrolatum, hemp seed oil, cannabidiol and prebiotics (inulin). Apply to dry areas of skin and massage in.6
TOŁPA Clinical Boost Hyaluronic Acid + CBD Oil Moisturizing Face Cream 40 ml
Moisturising facial cream with hyaluronic acid and hemp oil with CBD. Intended for dehydrated skin that feels tight.7
REVERS Hemp Seed Oil & CBD Care Lip Balm with hemp oil 4g
Lip balm with hemp seed oil and CBD. Apply a thin layer several times a day, especially in windy or cold weather.8
Frequently asked questions
Can CBD cosmetics cause intoxication?
No. CBD does not cause intoxication, and cosmetics are applied to the skin.4
Can CBD show up in a drug test?
Some CBD products may contain traces of THC. If you undergo drug testing, discuss this with your doctor or employer.4
Can CBD be used during pregnancy?
There are not enough data on the safety of CBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it should not be taken orally.4 As for cosmetics, consult your doctor.
Scientific references
- European Commission. Novel Food status catalogue: Cannabinoids. ec.europa.eu
- EFSA NDA Panel. Statement on safety of cannabidiol as a novel food: data gaps and uncertainties. EFSA Journal. 2022;20(6):7322. doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7322
- European Commission. CosIng – cosmetic ingredient database: Cannabidiol. ec.europa.eu
- NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know. nccih.nih.gov
- European Medicines Agency. Epidyolex (cannabidiol). EPAR. ema.europa.eu
- HISKIN. Rapid Relief Ointment, 120 ml. Product information.
- Tołpa. Clinical Boost Hyaluronic Acid + CBD Oil, 40 ml. Product information.
- REVERS. Hemp Seed Oil & CBD lip balm, 4 g. Product information.
Disclaimer. This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Cosmetic products containing CBD are not intended to treat diseases. The legal status of CBD products may differ between EU countries and may change.
