CBD oil with THC is gaining more and more interest as people discover the potential benefits of combining these two main components found in cannabis. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" that people associate with cannabis consumption - but it was also shown to have therapeutic effects on ailments like chronic pain [1] and cancer pain [2]. CBD (cannabidiol) on the other hand is a non-psychoactive compound with its own set of potential beneficial properties [3].
In some regions (including the UK and EU) the legal status of CBD oil with THC varies depending on the exact THC content. Generally - CBD oil and other CBD products like gummies, capsules and vapes made from industrial hemp with less than 0.2% THC are considered legal. At this level there is no risk of intoxication caused by the THC. By carefully balancing the amounts of CBD and THC consumers can experience the benefits of both compounds without unwanted side effects. It's important to keep local regulations in mind and choose a reputable brand that offers legal products.
Understanding CBD and THC
Cannabis is a plant that contains over 100 different cannabinoids. The two most well-known ones are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
CBD is a non-psychotropic compound - meaning it does not produce the "high" typically associated with cannabis use [4]. It is generally considered legal in European countries and the UK. CBD has gained popularity for its potential wellness benefits such as stress reduction [5], pain relief [6] and better sleep [7]. Research is however still in its infancy and strong scientific evidence for these claims is only slowly emerging.
THC is the psychoactive component of the cannabis plant responsible for the "high" experienced when consuming marijuana. Because of this effect THC in levels above 0.2% is not legal in the UK and in Europe. There are however exceptions in some European countries for the medicinal use of cannabis, and doctors can write a prescription for medical cannabis products.
Is Cannabis Oil Legal?
CBD oil with THC exceeding levels of 0.2% is classified as a controlled substance under the legal definition of marijuana.
On the other hand, so-called full-spectrum CBD oil products containing traces of under 0.2% THC are legal. They fall into the same classification as broad-spectrum CBD and pure CBD oil without any THC. CBD oil without any THC can be safely consumed within the recommended dose at a maximum of 70mg of CBD per day [8]. When using CBD oil of any kind it is crucial to start at a low dose and gradually increase it to find the optimal dose for your needs. This way you can avoid experiencing unwanted side effects while reaping the potential health benefits.
At Harmony we offer CBD products without THC that adhere to the stringent regulations in the UK and EU. Our products can be safely used without running into any legal issues.
Exploring the CBD Oil and Hemp Market
When looking for a new CBD brand it's crucial to do your research. The quality of CBD products can vary significantly between brands. At Harmony we follow strict guidelines and quality control procedures to ensure our products always meet the highest standards. We also offer a great satisfaction guarantee and promise you'll get your money back should you be unhappy with our products.
Keep in mind to carefully read product labels and find out the amount of CBD per serving and whether it's a full-spectrum product with traces of THC. Some research suggests that the potential benefits of CBD could be enhanced if taken with a minimal amount of THC, other cannabinoids and terpenes [9]. If you're interested in this so-called entourage effect, check out our Harmony Flow Vape Pen.
When exploring the CBD market in the UK and EU - keep in mind that regulations may differ from those in the US since the release of the farm bill. Be aware of the legal requirements and guidelines for CBD products in your area before making a purchase. Ensuring you buy from a trustworthy brand and follow the suggested dosage guidelines will surely help you experience CBD in the best possible way.
written by
anna falk - head of product
As the Head of Product at Harmony, Dr Anna Falk leads the development of our products and provides expert tips for your wellness. With over 10 years of experience in the research and development of natural products, her work is based on rigorous scientific studies.
Anna is an award-winning, internationally published researcher with a PhD in Organic Chemistry. She applies her expertise to develop Harmony's certified products that support your overall well-being. From research to development, she ensures that our products are of the highest quality and meet the highest standards.
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[1] McDonagh MS, Morasco BJ, Wagner J, Ahmed AY, Fu R, Kansagara D, Chou R. Cannabis-Based Products for Chronic Pain : A Systematic Review. Ann Intern Med. 2022 Aug;175(8):1143-1153. — link to source
[2] Meng H, Dai T, Hanlon JG, Downar J, Alibhai SMH, Clarke H. Cannabis and cannabinoids in cancer pain management. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care. 2020 Jun;14(2):87-93. — link to source
[3] Larsen C, Shahinas J. Dosage, Efficacy and Safety of Cannabidiol Administration in Adults: A Systematic Review of Human Trials. J Clin Med Res. 2020 Mar;12(3):129-141. — link to source
[4] Iseger TA, Bossong MG. A systematic review of the antipsychotic properties of cannabidiol in humans. Schizophr Res. 2015 Mar;162(1-3):153-61. — link to source
[5] Blessing EM, Steenkamp MM, Manzanares J, Marmar CR. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders. Neurotherapeutics. 2015 Oct;12(4):825-36. — link to source
[6] Svensson CK. CBD for the treatment of pain: What is the evidence? J Am Pharm Assoc (2003). 2020 Nov-Dec;60(6):e80-e83. — link to source
[7] Shannon S, Lewis N, Lee H, Hughes S. Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. Perm J. 2019;23:18-041. — link to source
[9] Ferber SG, Namdar D, Hen-Shoval D, Eger G, Koltai H, Shoval G, Shbiro L, Weller A. The "Entourage Effect": Terpenes Coupled with Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2020;18(2):87-96. — link to source
