By now most people are aware of CBD even though many still confuse it with THC. Relatively few people know the CBD sold in dispensaries or over the internet is not a pure substance and often contains varying amounts of other biologically active chemicals. The FDA does not regulate or vouch for the safety or purity of interstate sales of CBD.

Among the non-cannabinoid components are terpenes such as beta caryophyllene and limonene, flavonoids, fatty acids and minerals. A series of other cannabinoids includes cannabigerol, cannabichromene and cannabidivarin. Determining the specific contribution of each component remains unsettled at this time.

The body contains its own cannabinoid compounds and receptors located in the brain and on both the blood vessels and cells of the immune system. CBD may offer significant potential for treating disease involving these areas. At present the only well documented use relates to relatively rare forms of epilepsy.

While proponents suggest significant benefits for treating anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, PTSD, insomnia and pain, CBD has not been well researched for these conditions.

According to the FDA, adding CBD to food, beverages, snacks, or cosmetic products remains illegal. Questions surrounding legality, testing and safety appear to be delaying entry of large corporations into offering CBD in national grocery store chains. They demand conformation of purity and lack of harm before proceeding.