How Old Do You Need To Be To Buy CBD?

Age restrictions are a common practice in many countries and are designed to help keep people safe. Products such as tobacco, alcohol, and medications are some of the most protected as they have the potential to do the most damage when abused. 

Substances such as CBD are not identified as narcotic drugs but as Schedule 1 category products on the federal level.

This means that the state law has the final say on whether or not the product can be sold as a legal substance and any relevant age restrictions. 

How Old Do You Need To Be To Buy CBD?

Many use CBD products to help with a number of chronic pain conditions and illnesses where relaxation of the muscles or nervous system is beneficial to the patient.

There is one CBD product that is sold as a prescription medication, known as Epidiolex. 

In this article, learn how old you need to be to buy CBD oil in the United States and where different rules and regulations apply. 

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol or ‘CBD’ is a chemical found in hemp plants, however, this chemical doesn’t contain any THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) which produces a psychoactive effect associated with marijuana.

This chemical is extracted from the plant and turned into an oil or extract. 

If this substance doesn’t get you high, then what is it used for and why is it so popular?

Evidence from the World Health Organization found that CBD may be able to treat symptoms of health conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. 

Many people who do not like the idea of using medical marijuana or need some assistance with their anxiety without the psychoactive effects, may want to use CBD to combat their problems. 

Federal Laws On CBD Age Limits

Every state in the U.S. has its own laws on the legalization of CBD, so restrictions on obtaining it will vary.

However, it is a legal substance, as hemp was made legal in the U.S. in 2018 making it pretty much impossible for CBD to be illegal if it comes from a hemp source. 

CBD oil with less than 0.3% THC in it is legal in the states under federal law. However, as states have their own laws some will require individuals to be over the ages of 18 or 21 in order to buy CBD products.

State Laws On CBD Age Limits

When purchasing products such as these, always do your homework to avoid becoming caught out buying something you shouldn’t.

In most states, it should be clear whether or not products have certain age restrictions on them and whether you need a license to buy them. 

States that have no age restrictions on the purchase of CBD products: 

  • Alabama – but you must be registered as medical cannabis user
  • Arkansas
  • Arizona
  • Iowa
  • Maryland
  • Missouri
  • Nebraska
  • New Jersey 
  • Texas
  • Virginia
  • West Virginia (see also “Is Marijuana Legal In West Virginia?“)

States Where You Must Be Over 18

  • California 
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware – must have a medical license
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Kansas – only medicinal purposes
  • Kentucky – must have doctor’s recommendation
  • Louisiana 
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • Mississippi
  • Montana
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Mexico
  • New York 
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Oregon
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • Vermont
  • Washington
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming

States Where You Must Be Over 21

  • Alaska 
  • Illinois
  • Indiana – only can be used for medicinal purposes
  • Maine
  • Rhode Island
  • Tennessee
  • Utah 

What CBD Products Are There?

How Old Do You Need To Be To Buy CBD? (1)

There are three main forms of CBD products sold; full-spectrum CBD contains all the components of the cannabis plant including the 0.3% THC.

Broad-spectrum CBD refers to a form that has all the components of the plant except the THC and finally, CBD isolate is pure CBD.

Regardless of the form of the CBD, there are a number of different ways you can take it to suit your needs. Some may prefer a capsule whilst others prefer an oil that can be taken with a drop on the tongue. 

Other methods include balms, chewable gummies, and sprays. Some oils and drinks are even flavored to make them more palatable for those using them. 

Is CBD Safe?

Generally speaking, CBD products are considered to be safe when taken in small doses. However, as the FDA does not regulate the safety and purity of many substances such as these as they are often marketed as supplements rather than prescription medications. 

There are some side effects associated with CBD including dry mouth, drowsiness, fatigue, and a reduced appetite. It is also important to check with your doctor before taking CBD products if you are already taking prescription medication as they may interfere with them. 

Where Can You Buy CBD Products?

Many CBD products can be bought online or in certain stores such as natural health stores or drug stores. If you live in a state where marijuana is legal, then you can pick up CBD products from dispensaries nearby. 

The easiest way to purchase a CBD product that is right for you is to shop around online to find the best price and form for your needs. Those that prefer to shop in-store might need to do some research depending on the state you live in. 

There are a number of chains such as ‘Hemp World USA’, ‘CBD Pros’, and ‘CBD Plus USA’ that offer a number of services in person.

If you are unsure about the product that is best suited to you, this can be a great way to talk to someone about it and learn more about CBD in general. 

Marijuana-Based CBD

Marijuana-based CBD products are illegal in the United States. If there is more than 0.3% THC in the product and it isn’t derived from hemp, then the product is illegal to purchase and you may be prosecuted.

The Bottom Line

Whilst CBD products are legal in the United States, each state has its own individual laws regarding the use of the substance. Products containing CBD can be used for a number of medicinal purposes such as relieving chronic pain and inflammation. 

Zack Finch
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