Is CBD Flower Legal? [Yes, Here's What You Should Know]

CBD flower can be rolled in joints, smoked out of a bong, and even comes pre-rolled in papers, just like marijuana. The buds also look very similar to marijuana — and some strains even smell like marijuana. This has made it a bit confusing to know if facts about cannabidiol and if CBD flower is legal to smoke.

We’re here to reassure you that CBD flower is indeed legal throughout the United States. You can smoke it or vape it in all 50 states without worrying about any of the laws and regulations that surround marijuana. But why is CBD flower legal while marijuana isn’t? To better understand why CBD flower is legal, we should first take a deeper dive into what CBD flower is and then take a closer look at the laws that made it legal in the United States.

What is CBD Flower?

CBD flower comes from the hemp plant, which is specifically bred to be rich in CBD (Cannabidiol) and low in THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the cannabinoid that gets you “high.” CBD hemp flower is non-psychoactive, meaning you won’t get high but will still experience the plant’s “synergistic effects” since it’s a full-spectrum product — i.e. it has all of the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in hemp.

Cannabinoids

There are over 100 known phytocannabinoids in hemp. The most popular are THC and CBD. Cannabinoids interact with the cannabinoid receptors in our body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). Since CBD indirectly connects to the receptors, it’s thought that they block THC from fully interacting, canceling the side effects you’d usually experience from that cannabinoid. This allows you to experience hemp’s effects on your mood, digestion, and immune system without the side effects of being “high,” like having bloodshot eyes and slower reaction times.

Terpenoids

Different strains of CBD flower have their own unique smells and flavors. That’s thanks to each strain’s unique terpenoid profile. There are over 100 different terpenes discovered so far. The terpenoid composition of the CBD hemp flower you inhale will provide a different synergistic effect, whether it’s becoming more focused or more relaxed.

Related: Does CBD Oil Smell Like Weed?

Flavonoids

Flavonoids are organic compounds that make up about 10% of cannabis’ chemical composition. While flavonoids are also found in both fruits and vegetables, the ones only found in cannabis are called canniflavins. They give each hemp strain its unique color and appearance. There’s also a possibility it further amplifies the plant’s synergistic effects.

How Do You Smoke CBD Flower?

Once manicured and dried, hemp buds can be smoked with a pipe, bong, blunt, or vaporizer. All of these methods are effective since smoking CBD is one of the fastest ways to feel its effects on your ECS. The CBD will cross the blood-brain barrier rapidly and you’ll start to experience the CBD’s effects in 30 to 90 seconds. The effects will typically last up to three hours.

That instant relief is one reason that smoking CBD hemp flower has become so popular in recent years. Another reason is the very act of smoking. Heat activates inactive phytocannabinoids, making the “entourage effect” even stronger. All of the cannabinoids, terpenoids, and flavonoids work together to give you the most satisfying results.

There are also studies that indicate smoking CBD hemp flower has the potential to curb nicotine addiction. Not only does it allow you to mimic the action of smoking, but the CBD itself interacts with the ECS in a way that some researchers claim lessens cigarette cravings.CBD flower is also thought of as a more social way to ingest CBD. Using a hookah or bong to smoke CBD with a group is a lot more interactive than simply dropping some CBD tincture under your tongue.

Is CBD Flower Legal Nationwide?

CBD flower that comes from hemp is legal in all 50 states, thanks to the Farm Bill passed in 2018. The bill states that all hemp and hemp-derived products are legal. Additionally, CBD products must contain 0.3% THC or less, the legal threshold for THC in ALL products.

Marijuana, on the other hand, is still considered a schedule one drug. Marijuana is any cannabis plant containing above 0.3% THC. CBD hemp flower and other CBD products that have above 0.3% THC are also illegal, whether it comes from a marijuana or hemp plant.

Another important aspect of the 2018 Farm Bill is continuing research into hemp. This was also the goal of the Farm Bill passed back in 2014. The more recent Farm Bill recognizes the “importance, diversity, and opportunity of the plant and products derived from it.” The Farm Bill also recognizes that there’s still a lot to learn about hemp.

Is CBD Hemp Flower Legal Internationally?

While CBD is legal in all 50 states, it’s a different story when it comes to the rest of the world. Every country has its own regulations for CBD and it’s important to figure out those rules before traveling internationally with your CBD hemp flower.

If you’re planning to travel to Europe, there are 26 countries that require travelers to have a Schengen certificate if they want to travel with CBD. This is due to the Opium Act and the Schengen Declaration. There are many countries in Asia where it is illegal to travel with CBD. It’s truly important to speak with a traveling agent or government official before attempting to bring it with you.

Can I Fly On a Plane with CBD Flower?

While there may be a few state exceptions to the rule, you’ll be glad to know it is generally OK to fly on a plane while in possession of CBD flower so long as it falls within the standards set by the 2018 Farm Bill.

While flying into states where it is legal, you can have your flower in either your carry-on or checked luggage without concern! Always be sure to check local state laws to ensure that CBD hemp flower is legal where you are going before attempting to fly with it. However, you MUST have documentation that proves the product is hemp CBD and not marijuana and that it also contains less than 0.3% THC.

If you are flying internationally out of the United States, it is highly recommended to familiarize yourself with the country’s federal laws surrounding hemp-derived CBD products. The last thing anyone wants is legal trouble far from home, so this is an essential step for any traveler even remotely considering taking CBD on an international flight.

Related: Can You Fly with CBD Oil?

Can I Smoke CBD Flower In Public Places?

A frequent caveat of understanding hemp laws is whether consumers can smoke hemp in public. To many, the fact that smokable hemp flower is legal to buy gives the misinformed perception that it is OK to smoke in public places. In reality, like all other cannabis products, smoking hemp is NOT allowed in public.

When you want to enjoy your hemp buds in a state where it is legal, instead be sure to go somewhere private or find a smoking area. You can enjoy your flower in the comfort of your own home, or if you have access to a balcony or patio area, you can roll up and enjoy your hemp bud with some nature for entertainment.

Some states have also imposed smokable hemp bans to prevent consuming any smokable CBD products, as such legality varies. So before looking for smokable flower, we recommend checking with state law to ensure you don’t have local authorities knocking on your door.

Can You Smoke Too Much CBD Flower?

Like with anything enjoyable, moderation is key to maintaining a happy life! Smoking too much CBD might make you slightly dizzier or drowsier than normal, but you’ll be just fine! Even if you end up smoking a lot, you still won’t feel high like you would with marijuana and THC.

It’s very rare for anyone to feel any adverse side effects from CBD. It’s very well-tolerated by most people, and any side effects are typically mild and short-lived. There are no known cases of CBD overdose, so you have nothing to worry about!

Are There Ways to Tell the Difference Between THC & CBD Flower?

To the untrained eye, hemp and marijuana appear to be virtually identical. Both consist of a beautiful entanglement of sticky, aromatic leaves and hairs often wrapped in a fine dusting of ever-important trichomes. Both carry the wonderfully complex array of aromas coming from the plant’s many terpenes.

But are there any methods we can use to try and tell the difference between the two? We cannot give you an instant method to become a pro at differentiating between these two plants, but you can follow some general characteristics to get yourself started!

Shape

Hemp leaves appear in a skinnier form, whereas marijuana leaves appear broader and more spread out. This characteristic can be found not only in the leaves but also in the plants’ structure! Hemp plants will tend overall to appear tall and skinny in form.

A marijuana plant tends to grow in a wider, broad, bush-like formation that can sometimes be quite close to the ground. On the other hand, a hemp plant will tend to show a taller, thinner appearance, with more leaves present towards the top of the plant. However, to the untrained eye, it might be hard to tell the difference.

Cannabinoid Content

While some physical signs might help you differentiate between marijuana and hemp products, they can still be very similar. The only real way to determine what plant you are dealing with lies within the full cannabinoid profile of the flower. Hemp plants will not necessarily be THC-free but must be measured below 0.3% THC to remain within the legal limit. It’s important to read the product labels more clearly or find COAs on the site for more accurate information.

Is CBD Flower Safe?

Most consumers tolerate CBD hemp flower extremely well! It has a lot of benefits for your mood and body that makes it a commonly positive experience. While smoking hemp is a satisfying way for healthy adults to ingest CBD, it’s always important to consult a doctor with any questions if you’re looking to start.

A 2011 Current Drug Safety study found that healthy adults can take up to 1.5 grams (1500mg) of CBD daily without any serious side effects. Taking around 20 grams of CBD could potentially become a toxic dose although overdoses have never been recorded.

Most often, CBD’s side effects will be few and mild. Some things you might experience from smoking CBD hemp flower is dry mouth and vomiting. If this happens, you can try lowering your dose of CBD so it becomes more manageable for you.

Related: CBD Dosage Chart

How to Find the Best CBD Flower

You should always be on the lookout for premium CBD hemp flower. The procedure — from harvesting to processing — will result in a better product. The careful curing and trimming will result in quality buds, which ensure that the smoking session is more enjoyable.

Although it’s aesthetically pleasing to have buds with “bag appeal,” there are other reasons why perfectly manicuring the nugs is important for CBD flower enthusiasts. This includes being tastier and easier to smoke. You won’t have to inhale smoke from the leaves. In turn, you’ll receive a noticeably smoother experience. The lack of leaves also lead to a more appealing aroma since the terpenes aren’t overpowered by the bland smell of the leaves.

Premium bud also has a higher concentration of phytocannabinoids. That’s thanks to the trichomes you will see all over the hemp’s surface. They look sort of like tiny crystals. Trichomes are much more concentrated in the plant’s flowering sections. Because of this, you get a better concentration of trichomes with carefully trimmed leaves.

Premium Hemp vs. Biomass Hemp Flower

Premium CBD hemp flower is able to maintain its quality appearance, scent, and experience due to the extreme care and regulations set in place. The premium-grade flower must pass physical and visual inspections, ultimately receiving a Certificate of Analysis.

A third-party COA will confirm the cannabinoids present in the CBD hemp flower, as well as how much is present. This is important since there can’t be more than 0.3% THC in legal hemp. They will also check for CBG, CBN, and CBC, as well as other cannabinoids.

Premium grade hemp smells strongly of terpenes and has nice sized buds with minimal leaves due to hand trimming. Biomass hemp flower, also referred to as “low-grade” will have a more mild smell similar to hay or grass clippings. Biomass flower presents smaller buds with minimal trimming, which often results in a very leafy product. At Cheef Botanicals, our CBD flower is always premium grade so you don’t have to worry about any of the downsides of biomass hemp flower.

Popular CBD Flower Strains

When it comes to choosing CBD flower you might also want to consider the different strains. Each hemp flower strain has a different composition and offers a different array of benefits without getting you high. Here are some of our top CBD flower strains right now:

Hawaiian Haze

Our Hawaiian Haze has less than 0.3% THC and around 18% CBD. It’s sure to get you energized and feeling uplifted. It provides a refreshing feeling that makes this strain perfect for CBD flower enthusiasts. It’s also ideal for newcomers looking for a boost in the morning before work or a social event. Tropical and citrusy, this is an invigorating CBD flower strain that’s known to make you chatty and excited.

Skywalker OG

Cheef Botanicals’ Skywalker OG has 0.13% THC and almost 21% CBD, making it a CBD-dominant strain that offers consumers a feeling of relaxation when they need it most. A hybrid between Skywalker and OG, this flower is dense and sticky with fruity, spicy, and piney smells similar to kush. This is the perfect CBD flower for someone looking to unwind after a long day or if you’re planning to get a more restful sleep.

Lifter

Our ever-popular Lifter strain has less than 0.3% THC and around 18% CBD. A mesmerizing blend of piney fresh redwood and lemon zest, Lifter is a richly flavored CBD flower that gives users a peacefulness and new sense of focal energy. This is a strain that makes you feel tranquility, unlike anything you’ve experienced before.

Sour Space Candy

With 0.06% THC and almost 21% CBD, Cheef Botanicals’ Sour Space Candy is a flower strain that’s sure to give you an energized and positive feeling. This is a CBD flower strain that’s made for daytime, giving you greater focus and an uplifted spirit. A cross between Sour Tsunami and Early Resin Berry, you can expect a sour, fruity flavor and dense, sticky buds.

Related: 10 Best CBD Strains

Why Choose Cheef Botanicals for CBD Flower?

As devoted explorers, innovators, and nature lovers, we at Cheef Botanicals are committed to unlocking the potential of hemp and CBD through every product we sell. You can be sure you’re getting a premium CBD experience, and rest easy knowing that we take every measure to provide clean, natural flower for you to enjoy. With Cheef, you get access to potent and delicious CBD strains like Northern Lights, Sour Space Candy, Zkittles, along with many more premium and top-shelf strains!

Experience the mouth-watering flavors and therapeutic sensations of CBD flower today with Cheef Botanicals!

Final Thoughts

CBD hemp flower doesn’t just look like marijuana. It also provides a lot of the same benefits as marijuana thanks to the cannabinoids, terpenoids, and flavonoids present in each strain. But unlike marijuana, hemp is legal because of its lack of THC, a psychoactive cannabinoid that gets you “high.”

By smoking CBD flower, you skip the unwanted side effects of being high and the concern about its legality, allowing you to fully enjoy the benefits of your chosen CBD strain.

Cheef Botanicals provides only the premium, all-natural, non-GMO CBD products. Each of our products provides the natural, safe, and effective wellness powers of cannabinoids found in hemp. We believe in promoting wellbeing and providing access to useful education and research on CBD. Cheef Botanicals continuously spreads the truth about natural alternatives that promote much-needed stability and balance.