What is CBD, or cannabidiol?

CBD is produced by the plant from CBGA, often called the "mother molecule" of the cannabinoids, via the enzyme CBDA synthase, then decarboxylated into CBD under the effect of heat or time. It belongs to the phytocannabinoid family, alongside THC, CBG and CBN, but stands apart in having no strong affinity for the CB1 receptors of the central nervous system, which is why there is no "high".

Three texts shape the use of CBD in France: the Conseil d'État decision of 29 December 2022 (no. 444887), which authorises the sale of hemp flowers and leaves subject to THC ≤ 0.30 %; EU regulation 2015/2283 on novel foods, which governs ingested products; and regulation EC No 1924/2006, which prohibits any health claim for cannabidiol, since it does not appear in the European register.

On 9 February 2026, EFSA published a provisional safe daily dose of 0.0275 mg/kg of body weight, or around 2 mg a day for a 70 kg adult. Since 15 May 2026, the Directorate General for Food has been withdrawing CBD gummies, capsules, infusions and drinks without an approved Novel Food authorisation from the French market. CBD flowers, resins, e-liquids and cosmetics, for their part, remain authorised under their own separate regime. Our article on CBD gummies sets out those consequences in detail.

CBD comes as sublingual oils, topical cosmetics, flowers and resins for vaporising, and ingested products subject to the Novel Food regime. Three extract profiles coexist: isolate (pure CBD at 98-99 %), broad spectrum (minor cannabinoids without THC) and full spectrum (the complete plant profile, with traces of THC below the legal threshold).

CBD is not a medicine: only Epidyolex®, a hospital medicine reserved for certain rare epilepsies, holds a marketing authorisation in France. No therapeutic claim is permitted for wellbeing CBD, and no dosage is approved. Synthetic cannabinoids (HHC, H4CBD, THCP), sometimes confused with CBD, have been classified as narcotics since 2023-2024.

CBD is not a medicine. If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.

Is CBD legal in France?

Yes, its sale has been authorised since the end of 2022, provided the finished product contains no more than 0.30 % THC.

Does CBD have a psychoactive effect?

No. It has no strong affinity for the CB1 receptors responsible for the "high" of THC.

What is the difference between CBD and CBG?

CBG is the biosynthetic precursor of CBD and THC, present in very small quantities in the mature plant. CBD derives from it after enzymatic conversion.

Can you buy CBD gummies in France in 2026?

No, unless a specific Novel Food authorisation exists: since 15 May 2026, these ingested products have been withdrawn from the French commercial market.