What is CBD? Cannabidiol explained simply
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of over 100 cannabinoids in the hemp plant. It is not psychoactive, legal in Switzerland under 1% THC — and the compound at the centre of the entire legal Swiss CBD market.
CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid from hemp. It doesn't make you high but interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system. It's used for relaxation, sleep and tension. In Switzerland, CBD products with less than 1% THC are legal — the most liberal threshold in Europe.
What CBD actually is
CBD stands for cannabidiol, the second-most-abundant cannabinoid in hemp after THC. First isolated in 1940, fully characterised in 1963. Today it is the most-studied legal cannabinoid, with over 7,000 scientific publications.
Unlike THC, CBD does not bind directly to CB1 receptors in the brain. It works more indirectly, through several pathways — hence no high, but noticeable physical and mental effects.
How CBD works in the body
Humans have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that helps regulate pain, mood, sleep, appetite and immune function. CBD modulates this system without hijacking it.
It inhibits the breakdown of endocannabinoids like anandamide, activates serotonin receptors (5-HT1A) and influences vanilloid receptors (TRPV1). Hence the typical reports: relaxation without a high, less tension, better sleep.
What forms does CBD come in?
CBD flowers: dried hemp flowers under 1% THC. Vaporised or smoked.
CBD oil & drops: full-spectrum extract in a carrier oil, dosed under the tongue (5–20%).
Legal status in Switzerland
Switzerland has the most liberal CBD framework in Europe: hemp products with less than 1% total THC are not classified as narcotics. Sale, possession and consumption are legal — age (18+) is verified at onboarding.
Legal detail, tobacco tax, shipping rules and the line between consumption and sale: see our detailed FAQ.
FAQ
Does CBD make you high?
No. CBD is not psychoactive. A mild sense of relaxation is possible, but not a THC-style high.
Is CBD legal in Switzerland?
Yes. Products with less than 1% THC are legal to buy, possess and consume — the most liberal threshold in Europe.
What's the difference from THC?
THC is psychoactive, CBD is not. Same plant, different receptors. See the «CBD vs THC» article.
How fast does CBD work?
Inhaled: within minutes. Sublingual (oil): 15–30 minutes. Oral (edibles): 30–90 minutes.
Which form is right for me?
Fast onset: flowers or vape. Steady effects over hours: oil. Long evening effects: edibles.