The past decade has seen a steady decriminalisation of cannabis around the world. American States like California have led the way in making cannabis-related products available to the public, helping change decades-long stigmas around the drug and, perhaps more importantly, have allowed its medicinal properties to be more thoroughly researched.
While decriminalisation in Australia is a way off, earlier this week the Therapeutic Goods Association (TDA) announced that low-dose CBD will soon be available over the counter at pharmacies across the country. Here’s everything you need to know.
Also known as cannabidiol, CBD is a chemical compound extracted from cannabis. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychotropic, (translation: it does not get you ‘high’). In recent years marijuana-based research has been largely focused on the medicinal properties of CBD and studies have found it beneficial for a variety of health concerns including anxiety, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder and chronic refractory pain.
The recent move by the TDA to make CBD available over the counter does not include THC products. So, no you cannot buy weed from your local pharmacy. Are we clear on that? Good.
The maximum dose available over the counter is 150mg. Anything higher will require a prescription from the doctor. Equally, over-the-counter availability will only involve low-dose oral, oral mucosal and sublingual formulations only, which means all vaping and topical cream products will still require a prescription.
Typically CBD is consumed orally as an oil. Because the compound likes fat, it is generally recommended to consume CBD alongside fatty food, (like avocado, olive oil or cheese) so that your body absorbs the CBD at a faster rate.
Sometimes. Nausea, dry mouth, diarrhoea and even sedation are reported side effects. It can take your body some time to get used to CBD which is why it is recommended you ingest CBD with food, to aid the digestion process.
People are increasingly using CBD for a variety of reasons. However, it does not work for everyone and you should research the effects and side-effects, as well as consult your doctor, if you are considering using CBD for the first time.
For more information, visit cannabisdoctorsaustralia.com.au
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