During Health Canada’s recent public consultation on the regulation of cannabis, CBD Canada was one of the ingredients of interest. The government has not yet determined what to do with these comments, but has committed to consulting with Canadians and stakeholders. It is also exploring the possible use of CBD as a therapeutic ingredient in certain health products.
What type of CBD is most effective?
The Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance, an organization of Canadian hemp farmers, says the limits are stifling the industry. The hemp industry sold 80 million Canadian dollars in 2018, and it could reach 740 million dollars by 2023. Its president, Russ Crawford, says the limits are holding the industry back.
There are three products approved for sale in Canada. CBD oil comes in syringes or capsules and is typically administered sublingually, or under the tongue. The oil is infused with MCT oil, and has a high concentration of CBD. The CBD is typically extracted from hemp derived from the Cowichan Valley in British Columbia.
CBD is a phytocannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant. While it is not the active ingredient in marijuana, it is a substance that is regulated under the Cannabis Act. The cannabis plant contains more than 100 cannabinoids. CBD is not psychoactive, but it has been shown to have therapeutic uses for various ailments.
The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a CBD medication for rare seizures. This is the first time the federal government has approved the use of CBD in a pharmaceutical product.