CBD oil is a hemp extract containing cannabidiol that supports general wellbeing* and does not produce a high.
CBD oil appears in shops and online stores across the UK, yet many people still wonder what it actually is and whether it is legal. Some worry that it might cause a high. Others are unsure how it works or how to use it. The good news is that CBD oil is non-intoxicating, and when it follows UK rules, it can be sold as a food supplement.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is a hemp extract containing cannabidiol combined with a carrier oil such as MCT oil or hemp seed oil. Cannabidiol, often shortened to CBD, is a natural compound found in the hemp plant. Hemp is a variety of cannabis that contains very low levels of THC.
CBD is non-intoxicating. This means it does not cause the “high” linked to cannabis use. When CBD is extracted from hemp and blended with a carrier oil, it becomes easier to measure and take. This finished product is known as CBD oil.
In simple terms:
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Hemp is the plant.
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CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound found in hemp.
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CBD oil is the product made from that extract and a carrier oil.
CBD oil is sold in the UK as a food supplement and is available in different strengths and formats, including CBD oils.
Does CBD Oil Get You High?
CBD oil does not create a high because it does not contain intoxicating levels of THC.
THC is the compound in cannabis that causes a high. CBD is different. It does not affect the mind in the same way. In the UK, compliant CBD products must stay within strict THC limits. Responsible brands make sure their products meet these limits and follow UK regulations.
Because CBD is non-intoxicating, it does not impair judgement or awareness.
Is CBD Oil Legal in the UK?
CBD oil is legal in the UK when it complies with Food Standards Agency guidance and THC limits.
Ingestible CBD products fall under novel food regulations. This means they must meet UK standards for safety and labelling. Products must also remain within the legal THC threshold.
Reputable brands provide third-party lab reports. These reports confirm cannabinoid levels and show that the product meets UK requirements. CBD oil cannot be marketed as a medicine, and it must not claim to treat or cure illnesses. It is positioned as a food supplement intended to support general wellbeing*.
How Does CBD Oil Work?
CBD is a bioactive cannabinoid that interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system. While research is ongoing, many users incorporate it into their routine to support a sense of wellness*.
The endocannabinoid system is a natural system in the body that plays a role in keeping things steady. CBD works with this system. While research is ongoing, CBD is widely recognised as a non-intoxicating compound derived from hemp.
It is important to remember that CBD oil is not a medicine. It is used as a supplement and experiences may vary between individuals.
What Are the Types of CBD Oil?
There are three main types of CBD oil available in the UK.
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Full-spectrum CBD Oils – Contains CBD along with other naturally occurring hemp compounds, including trace amounts of THC within legal limits.
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Broad-spectrum CBD – Contains multiple cannabinoids but aims to remove THC.
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CBD isolate – Contains only pure CBD with no additional cannabinoids.
When comparing full spectrum vs broad spectrum CBD, the key difference is the presence of trace THC. Full-spectrum keeps it within legal limits. Broad-spectrum removes it. CBD isolate contains only cannabidiol.
Understanding these types helps when choosing a product.
How to Take CBD Oil
Most beginners place CBD oil drops under the tongue and hold them for 30–60 seconds before swallowing.
A simple way to use CBD oil:
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Place the recommended drops under your tongue.
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Hold for 30–60 seconds.
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Swallow.
This method is common because it is easy and convenient. CBD is also available in other forms, such as capsules, gummies, and topical products applied to the skin. The choice depends on personal preference and routine.
CBD Oil Dosage for Beginners
CBD oil dosage varies, but beginners usually start with a low amount and increase gradually.
A common approach is to start low and increase gradually over time. CBD products list their strength in milligrams (mg) per bottle and per serving. This helps you understand how concentrated the product is.
There is no single amount that suits everyone. Individual responses can differ. If you take medication or have a medical condition, speak to a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your routine.
Is CBD Oil Safe?
CBD oil is widely recognized as a non-intoxicating compound. When purchasing from compliant UK brands that provide third-party lab reports, consumers can verify the quality and purity of their supplements
Safety depends on quality and transparency. When choosing a product, look for:
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Third-party lab reports.
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Clear strength information.
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Transparent ingredient lists.
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Compliance with UK regulations.
CBD oil should not be described as medicinal. Responsible brands avoid exaggerated claims and focus on honest information. As with any supplement, experiences may vary.
Hemp Oil vs CBD Oil
Hemp oil comes from hemp seeds, while CBD oil contains cannabidiol extracted from hemp plant material.
|
Feature |
Hemp Oil |
CBD Oil |
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Source |
Hemp seeds |
Hemp plant extract |
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Contains CBD |
No |
Yes |
|
Purpose |
Nutritional |
General wellbeing* |
Hemp oil is commonly used for nutritional purposes. CBD oil contains cannabidiol and is used as a supplement. Although both come from hemp, they are not the same product.
How to Choose CBD Oil in the UK
Choosing CBD oil in the UK involves checking five key factors.
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Check lab reports.
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Confirm strength per serving.
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Review the ingredient list.
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Verify UK compliance.
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Avoid exaggerated claims.
It should be clearly labelled and transparently tested and this demonstrates that a brand is taking quality seriously. These details can be considered spending a few minutes and make a confident choice.
When used within the UK regulations, cannabidiol oil is a non-intoxicating supplement derived out of hemp. The knowledge of what it is, its operation and how to be very careful about the selection and choice enables beginners to approach it with clarity and confidence.
*It is important to note that the benefits of these products have not been conclusively proven. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and the NHS has not made any guarantees about the efficacy of such products.
