CBD has become a new “catchall” term for products that come from Cannabis/Hemp plants with less than 0.3% THC. The US Agriculture Act of 2018 allowed CBD (Cannabidiol) pronounced ca-nuh-bi-DYE-ol,  to enter the mainstream American culture. This was a new way for people to enjoy some of the incredible benefits of the cannabis plant, without any exposure to THC/Psychoactive Chemicals. Just like with Marijuana products, CBD can be found in pills, vapes, edibles (gummies, baked goods, etc…), oils and creams.

This has been a very positive development to show people the positive benefits from the Cannabis plant. The major challenge though, is that there is currently no federal or governmental oversight over CBD products sold. Currently the FDA does not track if CBD products are effective for their intended use, what the proper dosage might be, how they might interact with FDA-approved drugs, or whether they have dangerous side effects or other safety concerns. In addition, the manufacturing process of unapproved CBD drug products has NOT been subject to FDA review.

There are some wonderful companies that do a great deal of self-testing to ensure their products are pure, clean, without additives or dangerous chemicals, but it is still an “over the counter” product with little oversight.