Is CBD E-Liquid Legal in the UK?

Most people are curious about the legality of CBD e-liquids in the UK. This article explains more about CBD vapes, whether vaping is legal in the UK, possible side effects of CBD vapes, and how to find the best CBD vapes.

CBD is obtained from the Cannabis Sativa plant using heat extraction to release the cannabinoids. The plants are warmed in oil for several hours to enable terpenes and cannabinoids to attach to the lipids in the oil. Industrial hemp production is permitted in the UK with a legal permit. Farmers can only use organic techniques to cultivate hemp plants since inorganic techniques adversely affect the quality of the CBD extract. Additionally, CBD must have a THC content of less than 0.2%. Therefore, it must be produced using industrial-grade hemp strains that have received EU approval. When hemp is derived, it is simpler to achieve the legal criteria because it inherently contains higher CBD and lesser THC levels.

Can CBD Vape Make One High?

As mentioned, hemp has higher levels of CBD, while marijuana has higher levels of THC. Therefore, the FSA (Foods Standards Agency) allows the manufacture and sale of hemp-derived CBD products. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, while THC is a psychoactive compound that causes intoxication.

According to Filbey et al. (2018), THC significantly impacts a user's mood and general state of mind. The effects of THC use include increased heart rate, muscle relaxation, dry mouth, and a distortion of your sense of time.

In contrast, CBD has various medicinal benefits. It relieves chronic pain and inflammation and alleviates stress, anxiety, and insomnia. CBD also improves mood and can help people feel calmer and more relaxed. Individuals should be careful about where they buy their CBD products; low-quality CBD products have adverse side effects such as migraines and nausea.

Is CBD Vape Legal?

Gusho & Charles (2020) stated that the UK had legalized CBD vaping since CBD is non-psychoactive. However, one milligram of each product, or 0.2%, is the maximum amount of THC allowed in cannabis products. Therefore, individuals can purchase broad-spectrum CBD or CBD isolate e-liquid products that are THC-free.

Full-spectrum CBD includes trace amounts of THC. Fortunately, the THC levels are relatively low, so it won't make individuals feel high. Moreover, full spectrum CBD also contains flavonoids, terpenes, and other cannabinoids such as cannabigerol (CBG) to promote the entourage effect.

According to the Misuse of Drugs Act (1971), cannabis is a class B drug, even though CBD is not listed as a cannabis product. However, it is illegal to sell CBD flowers and buds, regardless of the THC content. Additionally, vape products must adhere to non-nicotine e-liquid regulations. A manufacturer must have a licensed medical distributor unless they sell the product as a nutritional supplement. The products must also be concisely labeled. Generally, individuals should expect that vaping is prohibited anywhere smoking is. In case they are uncertain, they should ask a staff member. Individuals risk paying a fine if they vape in a prohibited area.

How Do CBD Vape Pens Work?

CBD vape pens comprise an atomizer, a chamber, a battery, and a mouthpiece. Disposable vape pens are draw-activated, while refillable vape pens are activated using a button. The atomizer heats the molecules inside the e-liquid, which is converted into vapor. The battery stores a charge that activates the pen, while the chamber stores the e-liquid. The mouthpiece delivers the vapor into the mouth from the chamber. Learn more about how long will the cartridge last?

How Does CBD Work?

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is key in pain control, immune response, and emotional response. The endocannabinoid system comprises neurotransmitters, enzymes, and receptors. For example, CB1 receptors are found in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found in the peripheral nervous system. CBD indirectly binds with CB2 receptors, leading to the transmission of impulses that reduce muscle pains and inflammation.

Possible Side Effects of CBD Vapes

According to Moltke et al. (2021), CBD vapes relieve pain and inflammation quickly because they have a higher bioavailability. It has a better taste and onset duration than other CBD consumption techniques. However, CBD vape juice does not last as long as edibles and tinctures.

According to Czégény et al. (2021), CBD vapes may cause seizures, fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting. Furthermore, harmful substances that may be contained in some CBD vapes may cause lung damage and other respiratory issues.

It is important to consider the CBD dosage you consume while vaping CBD e-liquid. 2-3 puffs per day should do the trick, although you should consult your doctor on the right CBD dosage to consume.

How to Find the Best CBD Vapes

Finding a CBD e-liquid specially formulated for vaping is the best approach. An elevated product will still have transparent, plainly visible vapor that can dissipate without being cloudy or producing sticky smoke. Cannabidiol-infused vape juice is a suitable option for those who desire the health advantages of cannabis without the intoxicating adverse effects. While purchasing CBD vapes, ensure you read the customer reviews. Furthermore, check the hemp source and the extraction method, and ensure the product has undergone intensive independent third-party testing.

Benefits of CBD E-liquid

CBD e-liquid contains anti-tumor, anti-depressive, and analgesic effects. Additionally, it reduces the likelihood of inflammation and coronary heart disease and improves sleep quality by reducing anxiety levels.

Conclusion

CBD e-liquid is legal in the UK as long as it contains THC levels below 0.2. However, it is illegal to sell CBD flowers and buds, regardless of the THC content. Additionally, vape products must adhere to non-nicotine e-liquid regulations. A manufacturer must have a licensed medical distributor unless they sell the product as a nutritional supplement.

When purchasing CBD vapes, ensure the products have undergone intensive independent third-party testing. Furthermore, read the customer reviews, and check the hemp source and the extraction method. CBD e-liquids reduce anxiety and stress and relieve pain and inflammation. However, you must be careful while consuming CBD e-liquids since low-quality e-liquids cause drowsiness and nausea. Learn more about do you take a hit on cartridge?

References

Berg, C. J., Getachew, B., Pulvers, K., Sussman, S., Wagener, T. L., Meyers, C., ... & Henriksen, L. (2020). Vape shop owners’/managers' attitudes about CBD, THC, and marijuana legal markets. Preventive Medicine Reports, 20, 101208.

Czégény, Z., Nagy, G., Babinszki, B., Bajtel, Á., Sebestyén, Z., Kiss, T., ... & Csupor, D. (2021). CBD, a precursor of THC in e-cigarettes. Scientific reports, 11(1), 1-6.

Filbey, F. M., Aslan, S., Lu, H., & Peng, S. L. (2018). Residual effects of THC via novel brain perfusion and metabolism measures in a large group of chronic cannabis users. Neuropsychopharmacology, 43(4), 700-707.

Gusho, C. A. (2020). Cannabidiol: a brief review of Its therapeutic and pharmacologic efficacy in managing the joint disease. Cureus, 12(3).

Moltke, J., & Hindocha, C. (2021). Reasons for cannabidiol use: a cross-sectional study of CBD users, focusing on self-perceived stress, anxiety, and sleep problems. Journal of cannabis research, 3(1), 1-12.