The most frequently asked questions about CBD

CBD (cannabidiol) is now found in many hemp-derived products. Despite its popularity, it still raises many questions: what exactly is CBD? Is it legal? What is the difference between CBD and THC? How do you choose a quality oil or flower?

This FAQ brings together the main questions consumers ask in order to better understand cannabidiol and hemp-based products. The answers provided are intentionally general and informative to help you make better-informed choices.

What is CBD?

What does CBD mean?

CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is a cannabinoid naturally produced by the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L.).

Cannabidiol belongs to a family of more than one hundred cannabinoids identified in hemp.

Is CBD a drug?

CBD is a molecule naturally present in hemp. Unlike THC, it is not sought after for its psychoactive effect.

It is therefore important to distinguish between the hemp plant, CBD and THC, which are three different concepts.

Is CBD natural?

Yes. Cannabidiol is naturally produced by the plant. The CBD extracts used in oils, flowers or resins generally come from hemp varieties specifically cultivated for this purpose.

CBD and THC

What is the difference between CBD and THC?

CBD and THC are two different cannabinoids.

• CBD stands for cannabidiol;
• THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol.

They have similar chemical structures but different properties.

Do CBD products contain THC?

It depends on the product.

Full Spectrum products may contain a very small amount of THC when permitted by regulations. Broad Spectrum or Isolate products are made differently.

Can CBD oil contain THC?

Some Full Spectrum oils may contain traces of THC in accordance with applicable regulations. Other oils are formulated without detectable THC, depending on their manufacturing process.

Different CBD products

What are the main products available?

CBD is now available in many forms:

• flowers;
• resins;
• oils;
• capsules;
• cosmetics;
• infusions;
• e-liquids;
• pet products.

What is the difference between Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum and Isolate?

Full Spectrum extracts contain several cannabinoids and terpenes naturally present in hemp.

Broad Spectrum extracts have a similar composition but are made so that they contain no detectable THC, depending on the process used.

Isolates contain only purified cannabidiol.

Which CBD oil concentration should you choose?

Oils are available in different concentrations: 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 30% and higher.

A higher concentration simply means that one drop contains more CBD. It does not indicate better quality.

Quality and manufacturing

How can you recognise a quality CBD product?

Several factors can be taken into account:

• origin of the hemp;
• extraction method;
• clearly stated composition;
• traceability;
• manufacturer's reputation.

What is the best extraction method?

Supercritical CO₂ extraction is widely used today because it makes it possible to obtain precise extracts while preserving many compounds naturally present in hemp.

Is the cultivation method important?

Yes.

Indoor, Greenhouse and Outdoor cultivation each have different characteristics regarding aromas, appearance, flower density and production costs.

Storage

How should CBD oil be stored?

CBD oil should generally be kept in its original bottle, tightly closed, protected from light and heat and away from significant temperature fluctuations.

How should CBD flowers or resins be stored?

Flowers and resins are best stored:

• in an airtight container;
• protected from light;
• in a cool, dry place;
• with suitable humidity.

Legality

Is CBD legal in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, hemp-derived products containing less than 1% THC may be marketed, subject to compliance with the regulations applicable to their category.

Each type of product remains subject to specific requirements concerning its manufacture, labelling and marketing.

Can you travel with CBD?

Regulations vary considerably from one country to another.

Before travelling, it is recommended that you check the rules in force in the destination country, as well as those applicable during any transit.

Choosing a CBD product

Which product should you start with?

There is no universal answer. The choice depends in particular on:

• the type of product you are looking for;
• the desired concentration;
• the type of spectrum;
• personal preferences.

Is the most expensive product necessarily the best?

No.

The price depends on many factors: hemp quality, extraction method, concentration, analyses performed, manufacturing and the origin of the raw materials.

How can you compare two CBD oils?

It is preferable to compare:

• the concentration;
• the price per milligram of CBD;
• the type of spectrum;
• the manufacturer's reputation.

General questions

Does CBD have an odour?

Hemp-derived products generally have a characteristic odour, mainly from the terpenes naturally present in the plant.

Why are CBD flowers different from one another?

The differences are due in particular to:

• the variety;
• the cultivation method;
• the harvest;
• drying;
• curing;
• storage conditions.

Why do prices vary so much?

The price depends, among other things, on:

• the quality of the hemp;
• the cultivation method;
• the yield;
• the extraction;
• the packaging.

Are laboratory analyses important?

When a report is available for a reference, it provides data on the sample examined, for example, on cannabinoid concentrations. Check the batch and the parameters tested. Its publication depends in particular on the brand's authorisation.

Why should you find out more before buying?

The CBD sector is evolving rapidly and the products available are highly varied. Understanding the essential concepts — cannabinoids, terpenes, concentrations, cultivation methods, types of extracts and regulations — makes it easier to compare products and make a choice suited to your expectations.