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What Is CBD? Is It Safe and Effective?

What We Know About CBD—And What We Don't

Margaret Boyles
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CBD (cannabidiol) has surged in popularity, becoming the fastest-growing supplement in U.S. history, according to the Mayo Clinic. But what exactly is CBD? Is it safe and effective? Let’s explore the facts.

What Is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound in the Cannabis plant. [See how to grow cannabis in the home garden.]   

Cannabis contains over 80 biologically active compounds, with the most well-known being delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). 

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There are different Cannabis species—Indica, Sativa, and hybrids. 

  • Some strains are high in THC—which is the main chemical in cannabis that makes you feel “high.” High-potency cannabis products contain large amounts of THC.
  • Others, like hemp, contain low THC levels and are grown for fiber, food, and industrial purposes.
  • The CBD widely available today comes primarily from hemp flowers.

Early research suggests CBD shows promise for chronic pain treatment, particularly in addressing opioid abuse. However, as experts note, “no rigorous safety studies have been done on phytocannabinoid oils because these products are relatively new.” [See the “Clinicians’ Guide to Cannabidiol and Hemp Oils.”]

Does CBD make you high?

No. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive and does not alter perception or consciousness. CBD does have bioactive properties that may impact health, though research is still in its early stages.

Is CBD Legal?

Yes, with conditions. The 2018 Federal Farm Bill legalized hemp, defining it as Cannabis plants containing 0.3% THC or less. CBD derived from hemp is federally legal, while CBD from high-THC cannabis remains illegal at the federal level but may be permitted under state laws.

So What’s the Big Deal About CBD?

It’s profitable! Sales are projected to surpass $20 billion in the U.S. by 2024—up from $591 million in 2018.

CBD products are everywhere: in supermarkets, pharmacies, hair salons, and even gas stations, often advertised with bold signs reading, “CBD Oil Sold Here.”

Most CBD is sold as infused oil, but it also appears in capsules, tinctures, vaping cartridges, bath bombs, shampoos, creams, lip balms, lotions, and even toothpaste.

Though the FDA prohibits adding CBD to foods or beverages, many products—gummies, teas, coffees, and even restaurant items like lattes and cocktails—still contain it, often in legal gray areas.

What Are the Benefits of CBD?

A 2019 Mayo Clinic review highlighted a growing body of research suggesting CBD holds promise.

  • Early studies indicate potential benefits for chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, and sleep disorders.
  • Some research suggests specific Cannabis strains may help treat various medical conditions.

CBD is being studied as a treatment for a wide range of conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and anxiety, but research supporting these benefits is still limited..

Be smart. The lack of clinical evidence means vendors can make exaggerated claims. CBD has been promoted as a remedy for arthritis, cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, ADHD, and more—yet most of these claims lack solid scientific backing.

Is CBD Regulated?

As of 2025, most CBD products are not regulated by the FDA. The only CBD product approved (in 2018) is for Epidiolex, a prescription CBD medication for two severe forms of epilepsy. 

On the state level, some states regulate CBD, and others do not. If you’re considering CBD, ensure the product has state-approved lab results verifying its CBD content and purity. However, these labs do not guarantee effectiveness or safety.

Human trials are still limited, and safety concerns persist. Reports of liver injury linked to CBD use are increasing, and questions remain about long-term effects, drug interactions, and potential harms. Always consult your healthcare provider before using CBD.

If You’re Considering Trying CBD:

If you decide to try CBD, experts recommend:

  • Consulting your doctor, pharmacist, or staff at a state-licensed dispensary (if medical cannabis is legal in your state). Ask about potential interactions with medications or supplements.
  • Choosing a reputable seller with verified lab results.
  • Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing to the recommended level.
  • Monitoring for side effects, especially if taking other medications.
  • Exercising caution if pregnant or nursing, as research on CBD’s effects on developing brains and organs is limited.

Learn more

Find the best and latest information from the FDA here: What You Need to Know (And What We’re Working to Find Out) About Products Containing Cannabis or Cannabis-derived Compounds, Including CBD.

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About The Author

Margaret Boyles

Margaret Boyles is a longtime contributor to The Old Farmer’s Almanac. She wrote for UNH Cooperative Extension, managed NH Outside, and contributes to various media covering environmental and human health issues. Read More from Margaret Boyles
 

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Comments

Miles campbell (not verified)

3 years 7 months ago

Many people are confused regarding the use of CBD and its infused products but that's all myth. CBD is safer to use. I myself have used these products on my skin.

Sophia Brockman (not verified)

4 years ago

Thank you for informing us about CBD oil Australia. I am glad to read your post and learned more about its benefits. CBD oil is safe to use and can also relieve pain and inflammation.

hemlock (not verified)

5 years 1 month ago

Wow, very balanced. I read your article carefully. It helped me understand what CBD is all about. I appreciate your informative and objective view.

John (not verified)

5 years 2 months ago

Yes CBD Oil (cannabidiol) is 100% safe, if the quality of CBD is pure and does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) more than 0.3 percent.

Curtis (not verified)

5 years 3 months ago

You can bet the government and labs know a helluva lot more regarding CBD, hemp and THC than folks are led to believe. The oil and chemical industry pushed the government to make them illegal so their profits would not suffer. The FDA itself should only be a guide and not law or rule. All one has to do is turn on the TV, pickup a magazine or turn on the radio & you will see, read or hear who the real drug pushers and problem creators are. Big pharma, politicians that back them and doctors writing scripts like hall passes have caused more harm and death than Cannabis or any other so called illegal drug. The FDA that folks want to speak so highly of, back and support all the big pharma meds that have more death resulting side effects than cannabis. Want to stop the opioid crises, start with big pharma!

Randy Rigdon (not verified)

5 years 3 months ago

I've been using CBD products for months now. I can attest to its effectiveness for such chronic issues as arthritis and anxiety. However, I have bought some CBD oil that i'm sure was significantly diluted wirth somethingm else and that ruined its effectiveness. So, buyer beware! Also, you probably won't see all the pain go away, but it will make it tolerable. AND, there is a difference between "standard" CBD oil and "Full Spectrum" CBD oil. Full Spectrum CAN show a trace amount of THC in your body. My advice is for folks working at places with zero tolerance to avoid the full spectrum CBD oil.

Kathleen A Cro… (not verified)

5 years 3 months ago

As an Herbalist, I make my own salves from home grown Cannabis (legal here in Or.). I have found it to be a great addition to regimens for pain from a number of problems (arthritis, hip joint deterioration, muscle soreness). However, I ALWAYS tell anyone thinking of using it to DO THEIR RESEARCH!! Talk to their doctor! Interactions can occur even with the most benign of ingredients and caution is a good first step. Thanks for addressing this in a sensible way without hysterics.

MICHELE (not verified)

5 years 3 months ago

Just a caution about these unregulated products: There is a lot unknown about effects. Our elderly relative had a frightening reaction after using a topical solution for joint pain containing CBD, after several days. She bought it from a vendor who had been recommended to her. Once she alerted her physician of these negative side effects, she was advised to discontinue usage, immediately. (We had already advised that, and she had.) She was fine, thereafter. My only points are, that there is a lot unknown, it is unregulated and there are ingredients that may be specious. Be aware upfront.

John Frederick… (not verified)

5 years 3 months ago

Interesting article on CBD. I have been using it for well over a year to reduce my pain and allow me to be able to function better in my daily life.
I know that each state has guidelines and I can only address Washington since that is where I live. No CBD products can be sold in our state unless they are tested and labeled in a State approved lab. I've been informed this is also true in other states however I do not know for sure.
I have also been informed that if I purchase CBD products in Washington I can't transport across states lines even if is legal in the state I am entering.
The overall control of CBD is a direct result of the misrepresentation of Cannabis in the past due to a push from the Liquor industry. Now days a person will allow a doctor to prescribe them a medication that "Might cause harm" because the FDA says it's safe. All the time the industry is lining their pockets with profits.
I can only say for myself that CBD is safe and I use it every day.