Cannabidiol, or CBD, is the most common phytocannabinoid (plant cannabinoid) in hemp plants. CBD-rich cannabis plants make cannabinoids for many reasons, including protection against insects that want to eat the plant, protection from frost damage, minimizing water loss, thermoregulation, and for attracting pollinators.
CBD is a non-euphoric cannabinoid that does not cause a ‘high’. CBD is a naturally-occurring compound found in most species of Cannabis sativa, although it has mostly been bred out of high-THC cultivars of cannabis. CBD is associated with a wide range of health benefits.
According to the World Health Organization's November 2017 report:
CBD exhibits no effects on humans indicative of any abuse or dependence potential.
CBD has been demonstrated as an effective treatment of epilepsy in several clinical trials, with one pure CBD product (Epidiolex®) currently in Phase III trials.
To date, there is no evidence of recreational use of CBD or any public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.
CBD was deemed non-addictive and it has "been demonstrated as an effective treatment for epilepsy.” This recommendation extends to adults, children, and even animals.
While the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) prohibits any claim being made about the use of CBD to treat medical conditions, CBD has been used for conditions such as seizures, autoimmune conditions, pain, anxiety/depression, addiction/withdrawals, inflammation, neuroprotective, memory enhancement and post-traumatic stress disorder.