Do CBD Gummies Have THC in Them?

CBD gummies come in isolates, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum varieties. Isolates and broad-spectrum have no THC, while full-spectrum trace levels of THC. This blog discusses the content of cannabis gummies and their potential effects on the user. 

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a nutrient-dense cannabinoid domiciled in the hemp plant, a strain of cannabis sativa. CBD gummies are chewy palatable foods enriched with Cannabidiol oil. These products have dominated the cannabis industry due to their outstanding qualities; they are discrete, easy to consume, and have varied flavors and colors. Also, their size encourages the users to carry them around without drawing attention.

The cannabis-derived gummies come in three types: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolates. The full-spectrum gummies contain Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an intoxicating cannabis compound. Therefore, gummies with full-spectrum provide the benefits that come with THC, although they could also result in psychoactive effects. 

What are CBD Gummies?

According to Faraone et al. (2021), CBD gummies are infused with Cannabidiol and pre-dosed with different flavors to appeal to a wider range of users. Their size, discreteness, and sweet taste endear them to many users. Due to their small size, you can move around with them in purses or pockets; this enables its users to ingest their daily Cannabidiol dosage while going about their daily activities. One does not need to determine the dose because they come pre-dosed. The precise dosage is beneficial for newcomers who may have challenges measuring the dosage using droppers. Cannabis specialists encourage first-timers to start with low dosages and increase the dosage depending on their body's reaction toward the gummies; a low dose prevents adverse side effects like diarrhea and nausea.

Best (2022) stated that CBD gummies have three formulations: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolates. The formulations have varying benefits, nutrition profiles, and effects. Therefore, consumers can enjoy a variety of gummies depending on the strength they need. CBD edibles, like gummies, undergo the first-pass process before entering the bloodstream. Normally, oral consumption has the lowest bioavailability since the product is lost during the digestion processes; this means that the product that reaches the bloodstream is minimal, giving reduced effects. The results from cannabis-derived products depend on the consumption method and formulation. While oral ingestion takes longer to manifest, these results remain longer than vaping, sublingual, and topical. 

What Are the Strains of the Cannabis Plant?

CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are distinct cannabis derivatives that form the major component of cannabis plants. According to Sawler et al. (2015), the Cannabis plant has two wide varieties called; cannabis sativa (marijuana) and hemp strains. The former contains high tetrahydrocannabinol amounts and low CBD amounts. In contrast, the latter contains high Cannabidiol levels, albeit with low tetrahydrocannabinol. In 2018 an amendment to the 1971 drugs and substance act allowed the consumption, manufacturing, possession, and farming of hemp products. 

However, the law regulated THC at 0.2% or below in the UK. Any merchandise beyond this THC level was classified as illegal marijuana. Therefore, gummies infused with CBD molecules from marijuana contain THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the euphoric and psychoactive effects of marijuana. Although illegal in most countries, some States have legalized it for recreational and medicinal purposes. Regarding hemp, gummies infused with Cannabidiol from this strain may have or lack THC depending on the product variety you choose.

Are There Types of CBD Gummies?

There are three varieties of Cannabidiol used in the gummies: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolates. The full spectrum contains all cannabis compounds, such as terpenes, cannabinol, cannabichromene, cannabigerol, tetrahydrocannabinol, and flavonoids. It contains gummies that have THC content. However, the amount of THC in the gummies is insignificant and cannot intoxicate users. However, it can be detected in pre-employment drug screening tests. Therefore, you should avoid it if you have an impending drug test. 

Its constituents work together to generate an entourage effect. These amplified benefits are greater than those of individual elements. The full spectrum is suitable for everyone seeking the full potential of hemp plants. In contrast, anyone allergic to cannabis elements should avoid full-spectrum Cannabidiol gummies. With CBD gummies, the sweet flavors mask the earthy taste of cannabis, discouraging new users. 

The second type contains all full-spectrum components except THC. Manufacturers conduct further processing on hemp to eliminate THC. So, broad-spectrum Cannabidiol gummies are appropriate for users who desire full cannabis benefits except for this intoxicating molecule. Although it generates an entourage effect, it is lower than its counterpart. Unlike full-spectrum, you can administer this product type and undergo drug tests without THC being identified. 

The isolated CBD gummies contain only the Cannabidiol compound, making them the purest variety; producers eliminate all cannabis compounds except Cannabidiol. The extreme processing gives it the longest shelf-life. However, isolates provide limited benefits compared to other spectrums. The isolates are suitable for consumers who desire the full potential of the Cannabidiol compound without experiencing THC-intoxicating effects. Also, it suits users allergic to THC and other cannabis derivatives, except Cannabidiol.

Where to Buy CBD Gummies?

CBD gummies are found in local and online stores in the UK. However, one should buy from reputable companies which provide high-quality gummies. Some unscrupulous brands contaminate their merchandise with substandard processing techniques. Users should buy CBD gummies that have undergone independent third-party lab tests; the third-party lab testing objectively assesses the product's potency. A certificate of analysis from a brand's website contains the lab test details, including but not limited to extraction methods, cannabis profile, heavy metal contaminants, and the source of hemp.

Conclusion

From the above, CBD gummies have several qualities that every cannabis enthusiast must know. Cannabidiol might come from marijuana (cannabis Sativa) or hemp strains. The former contains low CBD content but higher THC levels. In contrast, the latter has high CBD concentration; CBD gummies infused with marijuana-derived CBD will have THC contents and may cause a positive drug test. Users should purchase their CBD products from reputable manufacturers to prevent buying products contaminated with THC and other harmful chemicals. 

References

Best (2022) Gummies, & Gummies, Best CBD Creams for Pain Relief: Top Hemp Topicals Review

Faraone, Hillier, & McSweeney (2021). A preliminary investigation into participants' reactions to a sensory trial investigating a cannabis edible. Journal of Sensory Studies, 36(1), e12624.

Mead (2017). The legal status of cannabis (marijuana) and cannabidiol (CBD) under US law. Epilepsy & Behavior, 70, 288-291.

Sawler, Stout, Gardner, Hudson, Vidmar, Butler, & Myles (2015). The genetic structure of marijuana and hemp. PloS one, 10(8), e0133292.