Despite its rising popularity as an alternative treatment for various conditions, CBD has also dipped its toes into controversy. This shrouded the substance in myths for some time—myths that either has part of the truth or none at all. And what’s essential about tackling these myths is how near and far they are from facts, from origins to their uses. CBD continues to stand in both extreme usefulness to extreme harm, but is that really the case?
Perhaps this case started because of one undeniable fact: this line of products severely lacks studies. According to scientists and experts (check it out), CBD has surpassed science with its hype. Compared to its counterparts, you can rarely find CBD articles around the net, may it be the absence of interest or freedom. Any of these can be a contributing factor to the substance dilemma. With that said, in this article, we’ll be presenting the top myths and deliver the truth behind them.
Myth #1: CBD Is The Same As Marijuana
CBD—also known as Cannabidiol—is a phytocompound found in all cannabis plants, including marijuana. However, this does not mean CBD is marijuana. Marijuana is a cannabis plant known for its psychoactive properties, which root from the phytocannabinoid THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). Therefore, if anything should be compared, it’s THC and Cannabidiol.
In terms of cannabis plants, the two that should adequately be contrasted are hemp and marijuana, respectively. Hemp is primarily used for Cannabidiol products like oils, natural strains, vape juice, and other available products. It is also the preferred plant over marijuana due to its cannabinoid count, especially when the products are animal-centered. Hemp has almost 55% CBD, while marijuana has as little as 3%.
Myth #2: CBD Can Get You High
One of the most misunderstood concepts is that psychoactive effects vary from compound to compound, and Cannabidiol is a beneficial product that does cause the user to get stoned. This is because of its differently structured anatomical framework and how it interacts with the receptors scattered around the peripheral and nervous system.
Therefore, when you ingest cannabidiol-derived products, it’s impossible to get high no matter how much you take in. This is the main reason why Cannabidiol is well-loved by many users that want to control certain conditions without fearing the side-effects marijuana often brings (psychoactive effects that get in the way of daily activities and work). It also gives users a negative drug test, which is excellent for those living in states that considered marijuana illegal.
Myth #3: Cannabidiol Can Cause Addiction
It is well-known that CBD has one remarkable characteristic: it can’t cause addiction or dependence. According to a WHO report (found here: https://www.who.int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/5.2_CBD.pdf), they have stated there is no potential for addiction or abuse in humans. This means although there is a cap to how much your intake should be, there’s no harm in accidentally going over it.
Another study has indicated that Cannabidiol can actually help those suffering from addiction to get over their cravings. A study done for heroin abusers have shown great promise with Cannabidiol as a potential craving suppressor, even in the face of triggers and stimulants. Two groups were formed, one given Epidiolex, a prescribed CBD drug, and one given placebo.
The first group, which was given Cannabidiol, showed obvious signs of increased craving suppression, even after showing a video with many triggering images. This effect lasted as long as a week. The placebo group showed no change, and some even an increased urge after the video was showed. Experts surmised it was because of the neurological effects of CBD on the experimental group.
Myth #4: Hemp Seeds And CBD Oil Are The Same Things

Though both of these are derived from hemp, Cannabidiol and hemp seed oil cannot be more different from each other—at least, with their uses and origin. While hemp seed oil is extracted from only hemp seeds, CBD oil is taken from leaves, stalks, and flowers. Hemp seed oil is sometimes used as a carrier oil for Cannabidiol, which means it gets infused in the product often than it is used on its own.
Hemp seed oils are an excellent pair for CBD products because of their added benefits. It contains omega fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, rare for other carrier oils like sunflower and olive oil. It also compliments cannabidiol oil well due to their origin, enhancing the product’s effects further through the entourage effect.
Myth #5: CBD Affects Everyone Similarly
Just like traditional medicine, Cannabidiol’s effect also varies from person-to-person. This is due to each human body’s biological functions, states, and a plethora of conditions that happen simultaneously. These effects are heavily relied on by Cannabidiol and its duration and impact. Therefore, it’s unwise to conclude CBD can work on anyone because it did to you, or vice versa.
The ECS also plays a role in this situation. Some ECS need more support than others, which can be due to genetic, environmental, or medical factors in play. Therefore, how Cannabidiol is processed and metabolized is ultimately affected, and thus some experience little to no changes from using Cannabidiol, while others feel it profoundly in their first try.
In Other Words
Before you finish your conclusion, try Cannabidiol first. These myths are called myths because there is little to no kernel of truth in them. If there are, they’re twisted versions some people made up due to the stigma associated with marijuana. Cannabidiol can very well help your health and body, so give it a try.