What is the difference between CBD and THC levels?

How to tell CBD from THC

CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are two cannabinoids from the hemp plant. Although they share the same origin, they do not provide the same effects at all. On the one hand, CBD is known to promote well-being on a physical and mental level thanks to its relaxing properties. CBD is mainly consumed to reduce stress and anxiety, combat sleep disorders such as insomnia and relieve chronic pain. All without any potentially harmful side effects to health.

On the other hand, THC is the molecule responsible for the psychoactive effects of hemp. In France, it is considered a narcotic product and is therefore prohibited for sale and consumption. However, it is impossible to grow cannabis without any trace of THC. To remedy this problem, the authorities have agreed on a maximum level of THC not to be exceeded in CBD-based products. This regulation ensures that there are no psychotropic or addictive effects.

What is the level of THC allowed in CBD products ?

In accordance with the order of December 30, 2021, CBD products must never exceed the level of 0.3% THC. Prior to this order, the maximum THC level was 0.2%. The fact that THC is subject to such regulation ensures that CBD sellers are not penalized too much, while protecting consumers from possible adverse effects.

This tiny amount of THC is not enough to cause psychoactive, euphoric or addictive effects. The WHO (World Health Organization) is formal: CBD-based products do not present any health risk and can be consumed with complete peace of mind.

As a reminder, the hemp products available on the market are subject to several rules:

• The THC level must never exceed 0.3%.
• CBD vaping liquids produced chemically or by extraction of hemp flowers and leaves are allowed, provided that suppliers are in compliance with reporting obligations under EU regulations.
• Under penalty of criminal sanctions, vendors may not claim the medicinal virtues of CBD or present it as a medicine.
• In cosmetic products, only pure CBD in isolate form is allowed.
• Advertising for CBD products must not induce cannabis use or maintain confusion with recreational cannabis.

Note that THC is allowed in some countries such as Uruguay, Canada, Holland, and South Africa, but in the rest of the world it is subject to strict controls or even banned altogether.

Why has the law on THC levels changed ?

Initially, the French government wanted to ban the sale of raw CBD flowers and leaves altogether, under the pretext that consumption via the smoked route of flowers and leaves presented proven health risks. The other argument put forward by the government is that it is difficult to differentiate CBD or THC at a glance during a law enforcement check.

After some consideration, the state council finally changed its mind, stating that the consumption of CBD flowers and leaves with low levels of THC did not necessarily pose a risk to public health. Regarding police controls, the state council said that a drug detection device would be put in place to differentiate between cannabis containing CBD or THC in a matter of moments. If the government has changed its mind, it is also not to harm the thriving CBD sector, which represents several million euros in sales in France, just with physical stores.

It must be said that in recent years, the debates around CBD have caused a lot of ink to flow and have even caused the closure of many CBD shops. Faced with the progress of its European neighbors, France has had no choice but to align by setting its limit of THC content to 0.3%. For example, Italy allows up to 0.6% THC. Internationally, we can also cite Australia, which allows up to 1% THC.

Although this increase in THC from 0.2 to 0.3% seems paltry, it is very good news for the CBD industry. With this increase, farmers have the opportunity to grow more varieties and sellers will be able to expand their catalog. Before this reform, the list of hemp seeds authorized by the European Union had 69 varieties, compared to 500 varieties of legal hemp today.

What are the risks of THC ?

To fully understand the restrictions that exist around THC, it is necessary to know the risks associated with this molecule. Indeed, this psychotropic molecule is considered an illegal drug in France because it is the cause of many harmful effects, especially on the brain.

In the short term, THC use can cause fatigue, confusion, concentration and memory problems, anxiety, decreased alertness and responsiveness. In some cases, THC can also cause psychotic breaks with hallucinations and paranoia.

Over the long term, THC use can affect memory, concentration, and the ability to think and make decisions.

Physically, THC can cause a drop in blood pressure that can lead to fainting or a rise in blood pressure that can be dangerous for people with heart conditions.

By consuming THC, you expose yourself to health risks and criminal penalties. Possessing or growing cannabis is an offense punishable by a fine or jail time.