What is CBD?
2 min readCBD, or cannabidiol, is one of many naturally occurring compounds found in the hemp plant. It belongs to a group of compounds called cannabinoids. CBD has grown steadily in popularity over recent years, both in skincare products and in wider conversation about natural ingredients. Here we cover what CBD is, where it comes from, and what is worth knowing.
Where does CBD come from?
CBD is extracted from industrial hemp, a variety of the plant Cannabis sativa that contains very little THC. Hemp has been cultivated for thousands of years for a wide range of uses. Today, CBD is extracted from the flowers and leaves of the plant and formulated into products such as oils and creams.
At CBD Reykjavík, all CBD comes from organically grown hemp and is tested by independent laboratories to verify quality and purity.
CBD and THC: what is the difference?
This is the most common question. Both CBD and THC are cannabinoids from the same plant family, but they act differently:
- THC is the compound that causes intoxication and is restricted except in very limited quantities.
- CBD does not cause intoxication. It is not psychoactive.
Products from CBD Reykjavík are cosmetics that contain CBD and are not intoxicating.
The cannabinoids: CBD, CBG, CBN, and CBC
CBD is the best-known cannabinoid, but the plant contains many more. The main ones you will see listed on products are:
- CBD (cannabidiol): the most common and most studied.
- CBG (cannabigerol): often called the mother cannabinoid.
- CBN (cannabinol): forms as the plant ages.
- CBC (cannabichromene): one of the less widely known cannabinoids.
When an oil retains the full range of these compounds it is called full-spectrum. When the oil contains only trace amounts of THC while the other cannabinoids remain, it is broad-spectrum. We cover the difference in detail in the article about full-spectrum and broad-spectrum oil.
What forms does CBD come in?
The two most common formats at CBD Reykjavík are:
- CBD oil: available in multiple strengths, with lemon or mint. Browse the range in the CBD oil collection.
- CBD cream: nourishing cream for skin over muscles and joints. See the CBD creams.
Oil strength is given in percentages and milligrams, for example 24% or 2400mg. A higher number means greater strength. If you are new to CBD, starting with a lighter strength is a common approach.
Is CBD legal in Iceland?
CBD products are sold in Iceland as cosmetics. We cover the legal side in more detail in the article is CBD legal in Iceland.
Frequently asked questions
Is CBD intoxicating?
No. CBD is not psychoactive and does not cause intoxication, unlike THC.
Does CBD contain THC?
Full-spectrum oils can contain very small amounts, and broad-spectrum oils contain only trace amounts of THC. Our products are made to strict quality standards.
What is the difference between CBD and hemp?
Hemp is the plant itself. CBD is one of the compounds extracted from it.
Which CBD product suits beginners?
Many people start with a lighter-strength oil or a cream. Browse the CBD oil collection to compare strengths.
