Synthetic Vs. Natural CBD: Know the Difference

Hemp CBD is becoming a go-to for many people for a variety of reasons. CBD comes is several forms such as tinctures, bath bombs, essential oils, capsules, and even dog treats.

However, as CBD use is growing in popularity, companies are beginning to produce synthetic CBD oils. There is still a significant resistance against genuine CBD. Mostly, the resistance is based on a lack of knowledge and the idea that hemp CBD and marijuana are one and the same.

It should be known, however, that while CBD and marijuana both come from the cannabis plant, hemp CBD does not have enough THC in it to create a high. It is not, therefore, a psychedelic drug.

The question is, what is the difference between natural and synthetic CBD?

Follow along as we answer all of your questions about natural and synthetic CBD.

1. Why Have Companies Started Producing Synthetic CBD?

Why does any company do anything?

The simple answer is, for money.

While capitalism is certainly not a bad thing, some companies take a good, useful, amazing thing and make it bad.

Aside from money, there are two important points to understand about why synthetic CBD is being pushed by pharmaceutical companies, the FDA, and our government.

Big Pharma Prescriptions

Due to it’s overwhelming and incredibly compelling results, CBD has grown into a miracle supplement of sorts. Big-Pharma companies see that as an enticing opportunity to make some cash. It’s not wrong, it’s smart.

What is wrong, however, is that in order to do so, they must make their own brand of CBD, a synthetic version. This dances around the legalities of CBD use in some states and also gives them all rights to said version. The problem lies in anything synthetic, it doesn’t always react well within the human body.

Villification of Hemp CBD

Secondly, because there is still a prominent negative stigma surround hemp CBD, Big Pharma companies take advantage of those on the opposing side or still sitting on the fence, producing a “non-illicit drug” form of CBD.

Even though educated people know hemp CBD already is a non-illicit, no-high supplement.

2. Which is Safer, Natural or Synthetic CBD?

A legitimate question surrounding CBD use, both natural and synthetic, concerns its safety. What kind of side effects can you expect from both types? Does it matter how much you take?

Keep in mind, any time you’re using a supplement or medication, there will be some side effects, most good, some bad. The question is, what negative side effects are you willing to put up with to achieve your desired result?

Hemp CBD Side Effects

Natural Hemp CBD side effects are pretty well limited, and the people who report negative side effects are few. However, to be fair, we will list the most common side effects.

• Lightheadedness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• A drop in blood pressure
• Changes in mood and appetite
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting

Finally, remember that any medication or supplement may have negative side effects when mixed with others. Consult your doctor before you cocktail CBD with any other medications.

Synthetic CBD Side Effects

Because synthetic CBD compounds are designed to replicate hemp CBD compounds, their side effects are somewhat similar. However, synthetic CBD side effects can be much more potent and dangerous.

These side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain and diarrhea
• Fainting
• Low blood pressure
• Feeling high
• Psychiatric symptoms
• Tachycardia
• Weakness, loss of coordination
• Anxiety and confusion
• Lack of concentration and dizziness
• Death

Now, one thing you should note about synthetic CBD side effects is that they promote symptoms that closely mimic those of marijuana. Remember that marijuana is the “bad” part of the cannabis plant that synthetics are supposed to replace. Ironic?

3. Is Natural or Synthetic CBD More Effective?

Synthetic CBD is engineered to replicate the effects of hemp CBD. Scientists take advantage of this engineering process to make synthetics more effect at what they do, sometimes successfully, sometimes not.

However, playing God with chemicals and reproducing natural substances in an unnatural way generally comes at a cost. In this case, the cost is more severe side effects.

That’s not to say genetic engineering and science is bad. Without it, our world would be completely different. However, introducing synthetic substances to the human body always has risks.

4. Is Synthetic CBD More Legal Than Natural CBD?

Although the FDA and CDC continue to publish the amazing benefits and low side effects of hemp CBD, the government at large is still sending mixed signals about whether or not its citizens should be using it.

The short answer is that hemp CBD is legal while marijuana CBD is not. Therefore, as long as CBD is produced within federal regulations, it’s legal.

Alternatively, marijuana CBD is freely legal in a few states as is recreational marijuana use. Marijuana CBD is legal in other states only under certain circumstances such as prescription medicinal use.

Finally, three states, Idaho, Nebraska, and South Dakota have remained firm in a zero-tolerance stance regarding marijuana CBD. In those states, hemp CBD is still a gray area.

What Are the Most Popular Synthetic CBDs?

Illegal forms of synthetic CBD, such as “spice,” is sold over the counter at several types of smoke and vape stores under the guise of air fresheners and herbal blends. However, consumers should use caution with spice as it is incredibly dangerous, unregulated, and unpredictable.

Shop owners get away with selling these products by using the disclaimer “not for human consumption.”

FDA approved synthetics on the other hand, such as Epidiolex, work well in cases of epileptic seizures but do little for chronic pain relief. They also come with a whole host of side effects not dissimilar to traditional CBD, but more severe. They also have side effects unrelated to natural CBD.

Your Source for Authentic CBD From Hemp

We know how important it is to use natural rather than synthetic CBD.

At Wellspring CBD, we offer a whole assortment of natural CBD. Depending on what you’re using it for, different forms and applications of CBD may be better than others.

However, regardless of your desired form, we have it! Take a look at our inventory or learn more about CBD here!