What Is CBD? Cannabidiol, CBD Oil, Potential Benefits and Safety

CBD has become one of the best-known compounds found in cannabis, but many customers are still unsure what it is, how it differs from THC and what different CBD products actually contain.

CBD is short for cannabidiol, a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the Cannabis sativa plant. It can be used to produce CBD oil, flowers, hash, resins, pre-rolls, gummies, capsules, cosmetics and other hemp-derived products.

CBD itself is not generally considered intoxicating. However, products containing CBD may also contain THC or other cannabinoids, depending on the plant, extract and formula used.

This beginner’s guide explains how CBD is produced, how CBD affects the body, the differences between CBD and THC, the main forms available and the safety information customers should review before they buy CBD.

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What Is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of more than one hundred cannabinoids identified in the cannabis plant.

Cannabinoids are natural compounds that can interact with biological systems in the human body. The best-known cannabinoids are:

  • CBD, or cannabidiol

  • THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol

  • CBG, or cannabigerol

  • CBN, or cannabinol

  • CBC, or cannabichromene

The exact cannabinoid content varies between cannabis varieties, flowers, extracts and finished products.

A CBD product may contain cannabidiol alone or a wider spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes.

CBD and the Cannabis Sativa Plant

CBD can be derived from hemp varieties of Cannabis sativa that have been cultivated for low THC content.

The terms hemp, cannabis and marijuana are often used differently according to the country, product and legal context.

Hemp commonly refers to cannabis plants cultivated with a low concentration of THC. Marijuana is generally used, particularly in North America, to describe cannabis containing higher levels of THC.

Botanically, both can come from the Cannabis sativa plant. The practical differences relate mainly to cannabinoid composition, cultivation, intended use and legal classification.

What Is a Cannabinoid?

A cannabinoid is a compound capable of interacting directly or indirectly with biological targets involved in processes such as mood, sleep, appetite, pain perception and immune activity.

The human body also produces its own cannabinoid-like compounds, known as endocannabinoids.

CBD does not act on cannabinoid receptors in exactly the same way as THC. Its mechanisms are complex and are not yet fully understood.

CBD and THC: What Is the Difference?

CBD and THC are both cannabinoids, but they have different properties.

THC is the principal intoxicating compound associated with the “high” produced by cannabis. It can bind strongly to CB1 receptors in the brain and affect perception, coordination, memory and judgement.

CBD does not normally produce the same intoxicating effect.

Although CBD is sometimes described as “non-psychoactive”, non-intoxicating is a more precise expression. Cannabidiol can affect biological and neurological processes, but it does not usually create the intoxication associated with THC.

Can CBD Products Contain THC?

Yes. Some products contain CBD together with small or trace quantities of THC.

This is particularly relevant for:

  • Full-spectrum CBD oil

  • CBD flowers

  • CBD hash and resins

  • Certain hemp extracts

  • Products containing the full plant profile

A product should only be described as THC-free when this is supported by an appropriate laboratory analysis.

Customers should check the THC and THCA results listed on the Certificate of Analysis rather than relying solely on words such as “hemp-derived”, “legal cannabis” or “broad-spectrum”.

CBD Is Not the Same as Medical Cannabis

CBD products sold through a general online store should not be confused with prescription medical cannabis or medical marijuana.

Medical cannabis products may contain CBD, THC or both and are supplied under a medical and regulatory framework.

A retail CBD product is not automatically a medicine simply because it contains cannabidiol.

How Does CBD Affect the Body?

The effect of cannabidiol is still being studied.

CBD appears to interact with several biological systems rather than acting through one single receptor. Researchers have investigated its relationship with cannabinoid signalling, serotonin receptors, adenosine signalling and other pathways.

This complexity means that statements such as “CBD works for everyone” or “CBD guarantees relaxation” are not scientifically responsible.

The effects of CBD may vary according to:

  • The individual

  • The product format

  • CBD content

  • Other cannabinoids present

  • THC content

  • Concentration

  • Frequency of use

  • Other medicines being taken

  • The quality and accuracy of the product

A customer’s experience cannot replace controlled research or professional medical advice.

How Is CBD Made?

The production process depends on whether the final product is a flower, resin, oil, edible or cosmetic.

CBD Flowers

CBD flowers are harvested from low-THC cannabis or hemp plants selected for their cannabidiol content.

The flowers may be dried, trimmed and prepared for sale while retaining their natural cannabinoids and terpenes.

Different flowers can vary in:

  • CBD content

  • THC and THCA levels

  • CBG and other cannabinoids

  • Aroma

  • Terpene profile

  • Density and appearance

  • Cultivation method

  • Origin

CBD Hash and Resins

CBD hash and resins are concentrated products created from the trichomes or extracts of hemp flowers.

Their texture may range from soft and oily to dry and crumbly. Their cannabinoid concentration can differ from that of the original flower.

A laboratory report is especially useful when comparing CBD hash, pollen and resin products.

CBD Oil

CBD oil is normally produced by combining a cannabis or hemp extract with a carrier oil.

Common carrier oils include:

  • MCT oil

  • Hemp seed oil

  • Olive oil

  • Other food-grade oils

CBD oil should not be confused with ordinary hemp seed oil. Hemp seed oil is obtained from the seeds and naturally contains little or no cannabidiol unless CBD extract has been added.

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate is a purified form of cannabidiol intended to contain very little of the other cannabinoids and plant compounds.

It may be added to oils, gummies, capsules, cosmetics or topical products.

Full-Spectrum CBD

Full-spectrum CBD contains a range of compounds from the cannabis plant, potentially including:

  • CBD

  • CBG

  • CBC

  • CBN

  • Terpenes

  • Flavonoids

  • Trace amounts of THC

The expression entourage effect is sometimes used to describe the theory that several plant compounds may act together. This concept does not guarantee a particular benefit or result.

Broad-Spectrum CBD

Broad-spectrum CBD is intended to retain several cannabinoids and plant compounds while removing or greatly reducing THC.

The actual composition should be confirmed through product documentation and laboratory testing.

What Types of CBD Products Are Available?

CBD is sold in many different formats. Each format has its own ingredients, concentration and intended method of use.

CBD Oil and Tinctures

CBD oil and tinctures are generally supplied in bottles with a dropper.

The label may show:

  • Total milligrams of CBD

  • Bottle volume

  • CBD percentage

  • Ingredients

  • Suggested serving information

  • Spectrum type

For example, 10mg of CBD may refer to the quantity in a serving, while 1000mg may refer to the total content of the bottle. Customers should always check exactly what the figure means.

CBD Flowers, Hash and Pre-Rolls

Flowers, hash, resins and pre-rolls retain a broader botanical profile than isolated cannabidiol.

Customers should review the THC level, cannabinoid analysis and product description before purchasing.

CBD Gummies and Edibles

CBD gummies and other edibles contain CBD in a food format.

Adding CBD to foods or selling it as a food supplement can involve specific safety and regulatory requirements within the European Union.

The consumption of CBD in edible form should not be treated as automatically safe simply because the product resembles an ordinary sweet or supplement.

CBD Capsules

CBD capsules provide a predefined quantity of an oil or extract.

Customers should check the amount contained in each capsule as well as the total CBD content of the package.

CBD Topical Products

Topical CBD products include creams, balms, massage oils and cosmetics applied to the skin.

A topical product has a different intended use from a food, tincture or prescription medicine.

CBD Vapes

CBD vape products can contain cannabidiol, carrier ingredients, flavourings or terpenes.

Customers should review the full ingredient list and avoid assuming that a product is safe simply because it contains CBD.

What Are the Potential Benefits of CBD?

The potential benefits of CBD have attracted considerable scientific and public interest.

Research has examined CBD in relation to areas such as:

  • Certain forms of epilepsy

  • Anxiety

  • Sleep

  • Chronic pain

  • Inflammation

  • Neurological conditions

  • Substance-use disorders

However, research into a compound is not the same as proof that every retail CBD product is safe and effective for those purposes.

CBD and Severe Forms of Epilepsy

A purified prescription cannabidiol medicine has been authorised in Europe for specific rare and severe forms of epilepsy, including Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome and tuberous sclerosis complex. It is prescribed and supervised by specialist doctors. [1]

This authorised medicine is not equivalent to an ordinary CBD oil, flower, gummy or food supplement sold online.

Its medical use does not justify claiming that general retail CBD products can treat epilepsy or other conditions.

Does CBD Help with Pain, Sleep or Anxiety?

Some customers use CBD hoping it may help with sleep, anxiety, discomfort or chronic pain.

Research remains incomplete, and results can vary according to the dose of CBD, formulation, condition studied and quality of the evidence.

Greenhouse CBD Malta does not recommend CBD as a treatment for a medical condition and does not guarantee health benefits.

Customers seeking medical uses for cannabidiol should consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Is CBD Safe?

CBD should not be presented as risk-free.

Official health authorities warn that CBD may cause side effects, interact with medicines and affect the liver. The safety of long-term use and of many non-prescription products remains uncertain. [2]

Possible side effects of CBD may include:

  • Drowsiness

  • Changes in alertness

  • Diarrhoea

  • Changes in appetite

  • Gastrointestinal discomfort

  • Interactions with medicines

  • Changes in liver enzymes

The presence and severity of side effects can depend on the product, dose, individual and other substances being used.

Can CBD Interact with Medicine?

Yes. Medicines can interact with CBD because cannabidiol may affect the way certain substances are metabolised by the body.

Anyone taking prescription medication should speak to a doctor or pharmacist before using an ingestible CBD product.

CBD should not be used as a reason to stop or replace prescribed treatment without professional medical advice.

CBD During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

Pregnant or breastfeeding customers should not rely on general online advice when considering CBD.

The FDA advises against the use of CBD, THC and cannabis products during pregnancy or breastfeeding because of unanswered safety questions and potential risks. [3]

What About High Doses of CBD?

High doses of CBD used in medical research or prescription medicines should not be confused with quantities found in ordinary retail products.

There is no universal dose of CBD suitable for every person or product.

In February 2026, the European Food Safety Authority established a provisional safe intake level of 0.0275mg per kilogram of body weight per day for CBD as a novel food—approximately 2mg per day for a 70kg adult—while emphasising significant remaining data gaps. This figure is not a personal dosing recommendation and does not apply to prescription cannabidiol medicines. [4]

Greenhouse CBD Malta therefore does not prescribe a dose of CBD or recommend that customers begin with an arbitrary quantity.

How Can You Check the Quality of a CBD Product?

The quality of a CBD product cannot be determined from packaging or price alone.

Read the Product Label

Check whether the label clearly lists:

  • CBD content

  • Total volume or weight

  • Ingredients

  • THC information

  • Manufacturer or supplier

  • Batch number

  • Intended use

  • Warnings

  • Storage instructions

The quantity listed on the label should correspond with the available laboratory report.

Check the Certificate of Analysis

A Certificate of Analysis, or COA, may show:

  • CBD and other cannabinoids

  • THC and THCA

  • Terpenes

  • Pesticides

  • Heavy metals

  • Residual solvents

  • Microbiological results

Not every COA includes every test. A cannabinoid analysis alone does not prove that the product was tested for contaminants.

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Match the COA to the Batch

The report should ideally identify the same product and batch number as the item being sold.

A generic certificate used for multiple products or harvests offers less reassurance than a current, batch-specific report.

Avoid Unsupported Claims

Be cautious when products are advertised using phrases such as:

  • Guaranteed pain relief

  • Safe for everyone

  • No side effects

  • Medically approved CBD

  • Treats anxiety or insomnia

  • Works immediately

Retail CBD products should not be promoted as medicines unless they have obtained the required medical authorisation.

Is CBD Legal?

CBD laws vary between countries and product categories.

A statement that CBD is legal in the UK, permitted under the United States Farm Bill or excluded from the US Controlled Substances Act does not determine whether the same product is compliant in Malta.

Within Malta, certain cannabinoid products containing no more than 0.2% THC are not treated as cannabis for the purposes of Maltese drug laws. However, the product type, composition, intended use, labelling and other Maltese and EU requirements may still matter. [5]

The phrase “CBD is legal in Malta” should therefore be understood with reference to the specific product rather than as an unlimited rule.

CBD oil, flowers, hash, cosmetics, vapes and edibles can fall under different regulatory categories.

[READ: IS CBD LEGAL IN MALTA?]

How to Choose a CBD Product

Before purchasing, consider the following points.

Choose the Product Format

Decide whether you are looking for:

  • CBD flower

  • CBD hash or resin

  • Pre-rolls

  • CBD oil

  • Broad-spectrum or full-spectrum extracts

  • THC-free formulas

  • Gummies or capsules

  • Topical products

Check the Concentration

Compare the percentage, total CBD quantity and product size.

A higher concentration is not automatically better and does not determine whether a product is suitable for an individual.

Review the Ingredients

Check for:

  • Carrier oils

  • Flavourings

  • Added terpenes

  • Sweeteners

  • Allergens

  • Additional cannabinoids

Look for Laboratory Information

Choose products that provide transparent cannabinoid and THC information.

Ask for Professional Advice When Needed

A retailer can explain a label, concentration or product format. A retailer should not diagnose a condition, recommend CBD as medical treatment or replace a healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions About CBD

Does CBD Make You High?

CBD itself does not normally cause the intoxication associated with THC.

However, some CBD products may contain THC, so customers should check the laboratory results and avoid driving if they feel impaired.

Is CBD Addictive?

Current evidence suggests that pure CBD does not produce the same dependence pattern as THC-rich cannabis. However, products may contain other cannabinoids or ingredients, and long-term safety data remain incomplete.

Is CBD the Same as Marijuana?

No. CBD is an individual cannabinoid. Marijuana is a general term often used for cannabis containing intoxicating levels of THC.

A CBD product can be derived from hemp or other cannabis varieties.

Where Is CBD Sold?

CBD is sold through specialist online stores, selected retailers, health food stores and other commercial outlets.

Availability alone does not guarantee quality, safety or legal compliance.

Can Greenhouse Recommend CBD for a Medical Condition?

No. Greenhouse CBD Malta provides general product information but does not recommend CBD to treat or prevent disease.

Customers seeking medical advice should contact a qualified healthcare professional.

Is CBD Oil Legal?

The legal status of CBD oil depends on the country, THC content, ingredients, intended use and regulatory classification.

Customers in Malta should consult our dedicated legal guide and review the documentation for the specific product.

Are CBD Products Safe and Effective?

A product can only be described as safe and effective for treating a condition when supported by the required clinical evidence and regulatory authorisation.

Most retail CBD products have not been authorised as medicines.

Can I Take CBD with Other Products?

CBD may interact with medicines, alcohol, sedatives and other substances.

Speak with a doctor or pharmacist before using CBD if you take medication or have a health condition.

Can I Buy CBD in Malta?

Greenhouse CBD Malta offers selected CBD products with delivery across Malta and Gozo, subject to stock, product requirements and current regulations.

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What to Remember About CBD

CBD is a cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp plants. It differs from THC because it does not normally produce the same intoxicating effect.

CBD can be found in oils, flowers, hash, pre-rolls, gummies, capsules and topical products, but these formats are not interchangeable.

Before using CBD:

  • Check the cannabinoid and THC information

  • Read the complete label

  • Review the available laboratory report

  • Avoid unsupported medical claims

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions

  • Consult a healthcare professional when appropriate

  • Check the legal status of the specific product

CBD may be widely available, but informed purchasing still requires attention to composition, quality, safety and regulation.

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