CBD, short Dr Watson Products for cannabidiol, is one of many chemicals found in the cannabis plant. It’s widely available as a food supplement in capsules, oils, tinctures, creams, vape liquids and edible products (such as gummies). It is thought to have multiple associated benefits, including relaxing the mind and body.

But it’s important to check labels and consider how much you consume over a lifetime based on updated FSA advice (Opens in new window). The higher the daily intake, the more likely long-term adverse health effects are.

The latest research suggests that CBD supplements don’t reduce pain and that using them may actually be harmful. It’s also not clear whether they have any other health benefits.

Where to Buy the Best CBD Supplements in the UK

In the UK, specific cannabis-based products are only licensed for medicinal use as medicines and can be prescribed by clinicians on the General Medical Council’s specialist register. NHS England has worked with national organisations to ensure that NHS clinicians are supported and feel confident to prescribe CBPM.

Clinicians should follow the same process as for prescribing unlicensed special medicines. This includes a multidisciplinary team discussion and ensuring that patient outcomes are monitored. CBPM should not be consumed by pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, people with weakened immune systems, or those taking certain medications. The maximum safe dose is 70 mg per day. A small number of clinical trials have shown that cannabis-based medicines can help with certain conditions, but further studies are needed to confirm this.