At what age can you start using CBD?

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Cannabis legalization
05.09.23

The use of CBD often raises an important question: "How old do you have to be to use CBD?". In Switzerland, the rules vary according to age group, and legislation provides a precise framework for its use. Find out more about the recommendations and laws governing the use of cannabidiol in the country.

Why question the age of CBD use?

The question of what age CBD is essential, not least because of the particular sensitivity of children and adolescents. Their bodies are still developing, and react differently to active substances such as cannabidiol.

Unlike adults, their nervous and hormonal systems are still maturing, which can influence the way CBD works and the effects it produces. This justifies extra vigilance before administration.

From a physiological point of view, the differences between a child, an adolescent and an adult are considerable. Metabolism, the distribution of cannabinoid receptors in the body, and the blood-brain barrier all change with age.

These variations can alter the absorption, distribution and metabolism of CBD, making a universal recommendation difficult. This is why the CBD-at-what-age question cannot be dealt with in a simplistic way: it needs to be adapted to each age group, taking into account the potential risks and benefits.

Last but not least, the role of parents and the medical profession is of paramount importance. Any use of CBD in minors must be supervised by a health professional. Parents, often in search of natural solutions for their children, must be informed of the necessary precautions and avoid self-medication. Discussions with a doctor will enable a precise assessment of the need and the definition of a safe protocol to answer the crucial question of CBD at what age.

cbd what age: what does the law say?

CBD at what age: what does the law say?

In Switzerland, using CBD (cannabis substance) with a THC content of less than 1% has been legal since 2011. There is no legal limit on the CBD content of products sold (only on the THC content, THC being the psychoactive substance in cannabis, which is harmful to health, especially for minors). It should be noted that in other European countries, the THC content must be less than 0.2%.

Unlike THC, CBD has no psychoactive effects. CBD is therefore not subject to the Narcotics Law. The legal sale and use of CBD-containing products in Switzerland is approved by the authorities, as long as the THC content does not exceed 1%.

The result is a wide variety of CBD-based products such as CBD oil, creams, flowers, cosmetics, teas and CBD-infused foods available on the Swiss market. However, please note that none of these products can be considered to have medicinal properties.

CBD age: Can anyone under 18 buy and consume CBD?

In Switzerland, the question CBD what age is often asked, particularly concerning the possibility for minors under 18 to buy and use CBD products. This question comes up regularly, especially with the growing popularity of cannabidiol.

The use of cannabis by minors is strongly discouraged for several reasons:

  • Studies on its long-term health side-effects, particularly on young people, are still very limited.
  • Confusion between CBD and THC (the psychoactive product of cannabis) is rife. Legal cannabis contains less than 1% THC, but any confusion or abuse should be avoided.
  • The Swiss authorities would like to see real regulation and supervision of access to this product. This will ensure that every product placed on the market complies with strict quality standards.
cbd what age: can under-18s buy and consume cbd?
At what age can you start using CBD? 5

Given this situation, the question of CBD at what age is also the subject of particular attention from the Swiss authorities. They are seeking to strictly regulate the sale and distribution of CBD products, ensuring that only quality products meeting strict standards are marketed.

However, due to the legal vagueness surrounding the legal age for consuming CBD, no federal regulation precisely sets this limit. Sellers are therefore responsible for verifying the age of their customers before any transaction, as a preventive measure.

The Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) also recommends that CBD not be sold to minors, although this prohibition is not formal. Penalties may be imposed for non-compliance with these recommendations.

Risks and contraindications associated with CBD use among young people

The question of CBD what age is particularly important, as the use of cannabidiol in young people is not without risks. Although CBD is often presented as a safe, natural substance, it can have side effects, especially in children and adolescents whose bodies are still developing.

Possible effects include drowsiness, digestive disorders, changes in appetite and mood. These reactions may vary according to individual sensitivity and dose.

Another crucial point to consider is CBD's interaction with other medications. CBD acts on certain liver enzymes responsible for metabolizing drug treatments, which can alter their efficacy or increase the risk of adverse effects. This interaction underscores the need for careful medical supervision, especially in young people already taking medication. This is another reason why the question of CBD at what age should be taken seriously, to avoid risky self-medication.

In addition, the importance of product dosage and quality cannot be overlooked. Young consumers are particularly vulnerable to products of poor quality, poorly dosed or not conforming to current standards. Appropriate dosage, defined by a professional, is essential to limit the risks. Strict control of product origin and composition also helps to avoid harmful substances or high THC concentrations, which are prohibited for minors.

Is it possible to target advertising to young people?

CBD, or cannabidiol, has become a growing topic of interest in Switzerland and many other countries. As its popularity grows, the question arises as to whether it's appropriate to advertise CBD to young people.

In Switzerland, advertising CBD consumption is strictly governed by both federal and cantonal regulations. The Tobacco Ordinance prohibits all advertising aimed specifically at young people under 18 (for products containing tobacco substitutes with a low THC content).

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Excited girl in blue shirt showing peace sign enjoying friend's company in good day. Indoor portrait of glad international students fooling around for photo and laughing.

There are legitimate concerns about the impact of CBD on adolescent development, which often raises the question of what age CBD is appropriate for consumption. As a general rule, it is forbidden to advertise CBD to minors (press, online advertising, television, radio).

CBD remains an under-researched product, particularly with regard to its long-term side effects on young organisms. The Swiss authorities are therefore taking a cautious approach to this issue, which is still at the heart of the CBD-at-what-age debate.

In addition to concerns about the potential effects on young people's health, CBD advertising also raises important ethical issues. Younger consumers can be more easily influenced by advertising messages, heightening concerns around the encouragement of early consumption, reinforcing the need to clearly define CBD at what age is appropriate for safe use.

For example, therapeutic or medical claims are prohibited in advertisements. Companies cannot promote CBD as a specific cure or treatment, in order to protect all consumers, especially younger ones, from false promises. The aim of these regulations is to strictly control the CBD age issue, to prevent any abuse.

Companies are therefore strongly advised to comply with the rules in force concerning CBD advertising in Switzerland. Any communication targeting minors is strictly forbidden, and professionals must exercise caution and responsibility in their marketing strategies.

The precautionary principle

The precautionary principle is a regulatory approach designed to manage the risks associated with the use of new substances. In Switzerland, this principle applies particularly to the sale of CBD, and the question of CBD what age is at the heart of the debate: it is recommended that CBD not be sold to anyone under 18.

Although CBD is not psychoactive like THC, it is still a poorly understood product, especially in terms of its long-term effects on brain development and young people's health. This uncertainty fuels the debate about CBD and the appropriate age for responsible consumption.

The precautionary principle on the sale of CBD to under-18s aims to protect them from potential adverse effects:

  • Drug interactions.
  • Concentration problems.
  • Developmental disorders.

This precautionary principle is based on a scientific and anatomical reality: young people's brains are still developing until around the age of 25. It may be more sensitive to active ingredients such as CBD.

By applying the precautionary principle, the Swiss authorities are seeking to minimize the risks of CBD consumption among young people.

At Naturalpeswe offer our customers a whole range of high-quality CBD products. Whether in the form of CBD flowers, cosmetic oils or infusions, choose the way you consume CBD. We make a point of applying the precautionary principle to the sale of CBD to young people under 18. We remain vigilant about the age of our customers.

naturalpes team

How to use CBD safely?

CBD use can be beneficial when properly supervised. Whether for personal or family use, it's essential to take a responsible approach, especially when considering what age CBD is appropriate.

For adults wishing to incorporate CBD into their routine or consider its use in a teenager in a therapeutic setting, here are some best practices to follow:

  • Start with low doses, then gradually increase if necessary.
  • Observe the body's reactions over a few days.
  • Avoid self-medication among young people without medical supervision.
  • Never substitute CBD for medical treatment without professional advice.

Age remains a determining factor: to ask the question CBD what age is to recognize that each organism reacts differently according to its maturity.

Choosing the right product

Not all CBD products are created equal. To ensure safe consumption, choose :

  • Sublingual oils, easy to dose.
  • Capsules, for discreet, controlled intake.
  • Creams and balms, ideal for topical use without ingestion.

Finally, consult a healthcare professional. Before any use, especially for young people or those on medication, a medical consultation is essential. This will enable you to check for possible drug interactions, assess real needs, and provide an informed answer to the question CBD what age is suitable for safe intake.

CBD at what age: Conclusion

In Switzerland, the question CBD what age often arises, as the legal age for buying and using CBD is not explicitly defined in federal regulations. However, the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) recommends that products containing CBD should not be sold to minors.

As a precaution, the sale of CBD to people under 18 is generally discouraged, to protect them from possible adverse effects. Although CBD is not psychoactive like THC and is not subject to drug laws, its marketing in Switzerland is regulated, notably with a THC content strictly below 1%.

The debate surrounding CBD what age is also based on the lack of solid studies concerning the long-term effects of CBD on the development of young people, particularly on brain health. In the absence of clear regulations, sellers are therefore urged to set age limits and systematically verify the age of their customers.

Finally, advertising aimed at minors is strictly forbidden, as a precautionary measure in the face of these uncertainties. To ensure compliance with legal requirements, we recommend that you refer to the guidelines issued by Swiss authorities and health organizations concerning age restrictions on the use of CBD.

Written by Johann Boschung

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FDA DISCLOSURE

This product is not intended for sale to persons under 18 years of age. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always check with your doctor before starting any new diet. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural constituent of the hemp plant. This product should only be used as indicated on the label. Professional medical advice should be sought before using hemp products. Consult a physician before use if you have a serious medical condition or are using prescription medication.