Most people have heard of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), but many people are not familiar with Cannabidiol (CBD). What exactly is cannabidiol’s place in Oregon’s Medical Marijuana Program (OMMP)?

CBD is one of only at least 113 active cannabinoids identified in cannabis, but it can account for up to 40% of the extracts from cannabis.

At the risk of oversimplifying, the THC in marijuana is what gets you high, and the CBD in marijuana is what makes you feel better. CBD is a major non-psychotropic constituent of cannabis, and it has multiple pharmacological actions, including but not limited to: anxiolytic, antipsychotic, antiemetic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Cannabidiol is currently being studied for its:

Anti-Seizure Effects
Neuroprotective and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Analgesic Effects
Anti-Tumor Effects
Anti-Psychotic Effects
Anti-Anxiety Effects
Efficacy for Treating Substance Use Disorders

Is Cannabidiol (CBD) Legal?

Cannabis and marijuana are legal in Oregon– both as medicine and for recreation. However, it’s debatable whether cannabidiol oil can be sold outside of Oregon even though it’s not technically “cannabis” or “marijuana.” It’s an extract, or a derivative.

About a dozen states in the country have industrial hemp programs, and as of 2016 there were about 77 people in Oregon licensed to grow hemp. It’s estimated that Oregon’s crop of industrial hemp covers about 1,200 acres of farmland. But Federal restrictions have made it difficult for producers to get seeds legally, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration still views industrial hemp as a controlled substance (a drug).

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabidiol
http://www.leafscience.com/2014/02/23/5-must-know-facts-cannabidiol-cbd/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22129319
https://www.drugabuse.gov/about-nida/legislative-activities/testimony-to-congress/2016/biology-potential-therapeutic-effects-cannabidiol
http://www.oregonlive.com/marijuana/index.ssf/2016/09/industrial_hemp_industry_takes.html