Plant Therapy

A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO CBD IN HK

All your cannabidiol queries answered. By Terry Hu.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably noticed some serious buzz around CBD and its rumoured potential uses for wellness, including anxiety, depression and pain relief. But what is it, how does it work, and more importantly, will you get thrown in jail for using it? Here’s everything you need to know about CBD in Hong Kong. Q What is CBD? CBD stands for cannabidiol, and is a natural chemical compound found in cannabis plants. It mimics naturally occurring organic chemicals in our body, that has shown to affect sleep, pain receptors, and even diet.

Q How is it different from marijuana? CBD is derived from both hemp and marijuana, as both are types of cannabis plants. Because CBD is also found in marijuana, it’s earned itself somewhat

of a reputation as an illicit medicinal plant. However, it’s only marijuana plants that contain high levels of another chemical known as tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. THC is a psychoactive compound that people associate with an altered state of perception or behaviour - or more simply, the feeling of being “high.”

CBD can be derived from either the hemp plant, which has low enough THC levels where psychoactive effects are absent, or from the marijuana plant, which can then be refined from its other non-CBD compounds so that the CBD is isolated and usable.

Pure CBD and CBD isolate-based products (which contain less than 0.3 percent of non-CBD impurities) are legal for sale in Hong Kong, and are becoming more popular to help manage pain, stress and sleeping disorders, among other uses.

Q So you’re sure CBD is legal? Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Cap.134) aligned with Hong Kong Law, CBD is not considered a dangerous drug. It’s important to note that THC and its derivatives, such as cannabinol (CBN), are NOT legal in Hong Kong. It’s useful to review labels and ask if products are broad-spectrum CBD or CBD isolate-based products, both of which are legal to purchase and use.

Q How do I take CBD products? CBD products come in several forms. The two most common and accessible forms are oral and topical applications. Oral applications have two main types: application under the tongue, which often comes in tincture form, or ingesting via a consumable form of candy, coffee, or even beer!

Q Where can I buy CBD products in

Hong Kong?

If you’re keen to order your own CBD products, you’ll be happy to know that more websites are popping up that offer both local and international CBD brands. There are also a few shops in Hong Kong that you can visit in person, to see for yourself what all the fuss is about.

Where to buy

852CBDHK: This Hong Kong-based online platform is passionate about breaking down myths about CBD. They carry an array of products like oils and from Green Roads, an American CBD company, as well as cannabidiol products for cats and dogs. 852cbdhk.com HEAVENS PLEASE: A premium CBD lifestyle brand based in Hong Kong. Offering CBD and natural products that improve and maintain overall wellness, from skincare to coffee to personal lubricant. heavensplease.com FELIX & CO: Another locally owned CBD health & beauty brand, using organic hemp from Colorado. Carries oils, capsules and body balms, as well as pet care on their website. felixandco.com FOUND CAFE: Hong Kong’s first dedicated CBD cafe and boutique, selling a range of CBD products as well as CBD-infused products. G/F, 8 Tai On Terrace, Sheung Wan YOGABAMBAM: Operate a CBD Therapy Lounge above their Shin Hing Street studio in Soho. Offers various CBD experiences like art jams, movement-based practices, sound therapy and couples’ massage. 10 Shin Hing St., Central, 5500-3117, yogabambam.com

CBD For You and Me: What to Try If You’re Canna-Curious

OH CBD BEER: This Hong Kong-brewed beer promotes relaxation and calming effects.

shop.hkbrewcraft.com FELIX & CO’S ORGANIC CBD

OIL WITH BOTANICALS: With pleasant flavors and essential oil benefits, take this tincture under your tongue for faster absorption symptom reliefs. felixandco.com

GREEN ROADS RELAX BEARS

GUMMIES: Gummies are a popular (and tasty!) way to get started with CBD, and we love these ones that are specifically designed for anyone trying to improve their sleep patterns. 852cbdhk.com

GOSIA ORLOWSKA

Healing crystals and gemstones have high energetic vibrations which help to balance the body, mind and spirit. They have been used for thousands of years by ancient civilisations - a true testament to their powerful ability to release mental, physical and spiritual blockages. The crystals we have at Gosia Orlowska Designs are all hand picked from sustainable sources, we then purify all our crystals with sage and pink Himalayan salt to fully energize and maximise its healing benefits to our beautiful customers!

GREEN ROADS MUSCLE & JOINT HEAT RELIEF ROLL-ON:

This can be used to alleviate joint and muscle pain, or carry it around for on-the-road bug bite relief. 852cbdhk.com

HEMP-GREEN HEALING LOTION:

CBD lotions can be used to keep skin supple, and help with acne, eczema and rashes. hemp-green.com

HEAVENS PLEASE INTIMACY

LUBRICANT: Yes, CBD can even help you between the sheets! This is a broad spectrum, organic coconut oil-based lubricant that is said to “enhance intimacy with the soothing & activating effects of CBD delivered directly to intimate areas.” heavensplease.com