Is CBD Legal In Maryland

Over the years, there have been numerous natural herbs and plant-based medicine used for treating all kinds of physical and mental conditions. Echinacea, or coneflower, is used to treat things like toothache, wounds, burns, upset stomach, and sore throat. It was a popular remedy in Native American culture. Ginseng is popular in the Chinese culture and is used to treat inflammation, help brain function, and boost immunity and energy levels. Elderberry is used for toothache, viral infections, constipation, headaches, and constipation. These are just a few examples of old-time remedies people have used.

The latest trend in plant-based treatments is cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is a cannabinoid that can be derived from both the hemp and marijuana plants. These plants have also been used for centuries as treatments for many conditions. In recent years, modern medicine has finally begun to realize the potential benefits these plants offer. Although only a few have been proven through medical research, it is believed by some scientists and doctors, they could have many more.

Marijuana and hemp were on the Schedule I Controlled Substance list in the United States for many years. This was because it was thought that both plants could cause intoxication. Even though the plants are cousins, they are not the same. Marijuana contains more of the cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and it does cause intoxication. Hemp contains THC as well, but in a smaller amount and does not cause intoxication. Hemp is richer in CBD than marijuana.

In 2018, the Farm Bill was passed on the federal level in the United States, and hemp was finally removed from the controlled substance list. This made it legal nationwide to grow hemp and use the CBD it contains as a supplement as long as the THC level is no more than 0.3%. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates CBD products, and the Department of Agriculture (DOA) regulates how hemp is grown. CBD products are not allowed to make medical claims on their labels.

What Is CBD Used For?

Even though the FDA doesn’t allow medical claims on CBD labels, they have approved one CBD-based drug called Epidiolex. It is used to treat seizures in some types of epilepsy. Some CBD studies are still in the early stages concerning human use, but they suggest it can help reduce inflammation. Many people already use CBD topicals for arthritis. Some studies suggest CBD may help relieve pain as well.

Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease are two conditions that CBD has been looked at as a possible treatment. There is no conclusive evidence yet, but it is thought it could help reduce psychotic symptoms and sleeplessness. It is said that CBD promotes relaxation and calmness. This is why people are using it to help deal with anxiety and post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD).

Many say that using CBD can help control nausea after they have chemotherapy treatments.

It may be some time before enough studies are done to provide sufficient evidence that CBD can treat all of these different things, but in the meantime, there are people all over the world that use it and swear that it works for them.

Why Is CBD Sometimes Illegal?

When CBD is derived from the marijuana plant, it is still illegal on the federal level. This is because the THC content is higher than when it is derived from the hemp plant. However, in the 11 states where marijuana has been legalized for medicinal and recreational use, CBD products derived from marijuana are legal.

In the United States, 14 states have decriminalized marijuana. It is still illegal to possess marijuana or CBD from marijuana in these states, but you are less likely to have it placed on your criminal record

or serve jail time for a first offense. It will likely be classified as a misdemeanor or as a civil offense. There is usually a fine to be paid, but the amount varies state by state.

In 33 states, there are medical marijuana programs. Marijuana or marijuana-derived CBD can be obtained if you are approved for the program. A licensed physician must recommend that a condition you have can be treated using marijuana or marijuana-derived CBD. Qualifying conditions for marijuana-based treatment vary from state to state.

In those states where marijuana is still illegal, possession of marijuana-derived CBD is likely to be classified the same as marijuana. You could face stiff fines, jail time, and have the offense put on your criminal record. CBD derived from hemp is now legal in all states as long as it does not exceed the federal limit of 0.3% THC.

Current CBD Laws In Maryland

You can legally use hemp-derived CBD products in Maryland as long as they contain no more than 0.3% THC. Similar to the state of Louisiana, Maryland still has strict marijuana laws. You can be caught possessing 10 grams or less, and it will be classified as a civil offense. You will pay a $100 fine for a first offense, which isn’t too bad.

However, possessing more than 10 grams, up to 50 lbs of marijuana will be classified as a misdemeanor. You will pay a $1000 fine and could face one year in jail. If you are caught with more than 50 lbs of marijuana, it is a felony. You will pay a $100,000 fine and could face a minimum of 5 years in jail.

Intent to distribute any amount of marijuana in Maryland is a felony, the fines will be higher, and the jail time will be 5 years or more. Marijuana-derived CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC will be classified as cannabis.

Maryland does have a medical marijuana program. If you have a state MM card, you can obtain marijuana derived CBD from a state dispensary. You can purchase hemp-derived CBD that meet state and federal standards from stores in the state or online. In Maryland, hemp-based CBD products are available in candy, gummies, oils, bath salts, dietary supplements, and some food.