Products based on Cannabidiol, or CBD, one of the many substances extracted from Cannabis Sativa, are gaining more and more popularity in several countries such as France and Ireland, both in their production and in the marketing of their version.
Natural or flowers, or as derived products such as sweets, infusions, cosmetics and the famous CBD oils, which, according to market professionals, are recognized for their relaxing benefits, in addition to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Unlike the main psychoactive of Cannabis Sativa, THC, Cannabidiol does not produce euphoria or intoxication, therefore not altering the state of perception of reality or obtaining a hallucinogenic effect, only relaxing benefits, among others.
The legality of CBD in Europe and Ireland
A ministerial decree had banned the sale of hemp flowers and leaves loaded with CBD from December 31, 2021—but the Council of State has provisionally cancelled this decision, pending a more in-depth examination of the stopped.
You can now buy CBD oil online as it is a legal product in Ireland.
Legal CBD-derived products are trendy, and Ireland’s market is on the rise. However, many brands sell only online, offering CBD oil supplements and other CBD products.
CBD oils and benefits
Using all parts of the plant, such as stems, leaves and seeds, CBD oils are 100% natural and vegan products. It is possible to find CBD oils with the most varied percentages produced from organic cultivation. You can find dosages ranging from 5% to 40%. In accordance with current laws, the plants have a high CBD content and less than 0.2% THC.
In addition to the main component, the oils contain other aromatic compounds, such as terpenes and flavonoids, popular antioxidants.
The versatility of concentrated products
Being a very versatile product that can be applied directly to the skin or mixed into cosmetic creams, CBD oils can also be consumed via sublingual drops for an instant effect or mixed with food (as long as the oil of CBD is not heated so that not to deprive it of its beneficial properties) such as yoghurts for example.
It is important to remember that CBD oils are not intended for medical use and should be consumed cautiously.
The evolution of CBD in the European market
While experts believe the CBD market will reach $19.5 billion by 2025, as reported on Forbes magazine’s website, the market continues to grow. In the UK, for example, the market is currently worth £300 million and is expected to reach £1 billion by 2025!
Let’s look at CBD in some less-known European countries … can you smoke and use CBD products there?
Greece and CBD
In Greece, the cultivation of industrial hemp is completely legal. This also applies to the sale of CBD products if the THC content is below 0.2%.
CBD in Bosnia-Herzegovina
The cultivation and use of cannabis are illegal in Bosnia-Herzegovina and can result in heavy penalties. However, the country is currently working on approving it as a medicine.
Georgia is open about CBD.
Georgia decriminalized the use of cannabis for personal use in 2018. However, the cultivation and sale of cannabis and cannabis products will remain illegal.
North Macedonia and CBD
After the law on the control of narcotic and psychotropic substances was changed in North Macedonia in 2016, the country allowed the cultivation and processing of cannabis. CBD oil with a content of less than 0.2% can be purchased legally in pharmacies without a prescription. You need a doctor’s prescription if you need CBD oil with a THC content of more than 0.2%.
Romania loves CBD
The cultivation of industrial hemp is possible in Romania, but it must be approved. The procedure must comply with EU guidelines. CBD oil with a THC content of less than 0.2% can be sold entirely legally in Romania.
Monaco: CBD in the Principality
Cannabis is illegal in Monaco. This also applies to the use of products made from the cannabis plant, both medicinal and recreational.
CBD and the catalogue of new foods in Europe
“Novel foods” are typically food products that have not been consumed in EU countries. These are then consumed after May 15, 1997. Note that the European Commission has decided to include CBD in the list of these foods. The decision mainly concerns “cannabinoids” but also hemp extracts.
It should be noted that CBD was considered by the EU (European Union) to be a narcotic initially. But that is no longer the case now. The union recognized the product after the result of the preliminary assessment of cannabidiol oil.
Requirements to ensure CBD legality
The EU has fully authorized the consumption of CBD in member countries. In addition, certain conditions must be met to avoid problems. For example, you should consider the following criteria:
You must consume CBD with a THC content of 0.2%.
Farmers should do regular seed verification. This helps to ensure the quality of the product.
Refer to Article 32.6 bis of Regulation 1307/2013 if you have any doubts. This way, you will know exactly what to do with your CBD before placing an order. You can therefore consume products that meet food safety requirements.
