What is CBD? Understanding cannabidiol

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the main cannabinoids naturally found in hemp (Cannabis sativa L.). For several years, it has attracted growing interest in Switzerland and many other countries thanks to the wide range of products containing it: CBD flowers, oils, resins, cosmetics, infusions and e-liquids.

Unlike THC, CBD is not sought after for its psychotropic effects. It does not produce the feeling of euphoria generally associated with cannabis rich in THC. This difference largely explains why cannabidiol now holds an important place in the legal hemp market.

What does CBD mean?

The abbreviation CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is one of more than one hundred cannabinoids identified in the cannabis plant. Other well-known cannabinoids include THC, CBG, CBC, CBN and CBDV.

Cannabinoids are molecules naturally produced by the plant. Their quantity varies according to the hemp variety, cultivation methods, harvest and extraction processes.

CBD and THC: what are the differences?

CBD and THC come from the same plant, but their properties differ.

• THC is mainly known for its psychotropic effects.
• CBD is not sought after for these effects.

This is why CBD products marketed in Switzerland comply with a specific regulatory framework, particularly regarding their maximum THC content.

How is CBD obtained?

CBD can be consumed directly in the form of hemp flowers or extracted to make different products.

The most common extraction methods are:

• supercritical CO₂ extraction;
• ethanol extraction;
• certain mechanical methods, depending on the products.

After extraction, CBD can be used on its own or together with other compounds naturally found in hemp, such as terpenes, flavonoids and other cannabinoids.

What are the different types of CBD?

Full Spectrum

Full Spectrum CBD contains several cannabinoids as well as the terpenes and flavonoids naturally found in hemp. It may contain trace amounts of THC where regulations allow this.

Broad Spectrum

Broad Spectrum retains several natural hemp compounds but is generally formulated to remove THC or reduce it to a minimum.

CBD Isolate

The isolate consists almost exclusively of cannabidiol. The other cannabinoids and terpenes are removed during production.

Which products contain CBD?

Today, cannabidiol is available in many categories:

• CBD flowers;
• CBD hash and pollen;
• CBD oils;
• capsules;
• cosmetics;
• infusions;
• e-liquids;
• products for animals, subject to the applicable regulations.

Each category has its own characteristics, method of use and regulatory requirements.

How do you choose a CBD product?

Before buying a CBD product, several criteria can be taken into account:

• the origin of the hemp;
• the cultivation method;
• the type of extract (Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum or isolate);
• the CBD concentration;

Compare the composition, format and information shown on the label.

Is CBD legal in Switzerland?

Yes, CBD is legal in Switzerland under certain conditions. Products marketed must in particular comply with the requirements applicable to their category and with the legal limit concerning THC content.

This regulation has enabled the development of a Swiss CBD market recognised for its quality and controls.

Why is CBD so popular?

Cannabidiol attracts many consumers looking for hemp-derived products that do not produce the psychotropic effects of THC. The range has expanded considerably in recent years, with products suited to a wide variety of uses.

At the same time, scientific research continues to study CBD and its interactions with the body. Knowledge is evolving regularly, which explains the growing interest in cannabidiol.

Conclusion

CBD is now one of the best-known cannabinoids derived from hemp. Found in many product categories, it differs from THC through the absence of sought-after psychotropic effects. Understanding what cannabidiol is, how it is obtained and how to choose a quality product makes it easier to approach the world of CBD with greater confidence and better information.