Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound harvested from the cannabis plant that has become a widespread wellness supplement. It is present in many forms, from oils and capsules to edibles, and has recently gained popularity as an infusion in bottled water. CBD water offers a convenient and refreshing way to consume the compound, but consumers often question whether drinking it could cause intoxication. This article explores the science behind this beverage and answers whether CBD water can make you feel “high.”
Understanding Water-Soluble CBD
The creation of CBD water relies on technology that overcomes a fundamental challenge: standard CBD is naturally an oil-based compound, meaning it is hydrophobic and does not mix easily with water. Traditional CBD oil is poorly absorbed by the body, which is primarily water-based.
To infuse it into a clear, stable beverage, manufacturers utilize a process called nano-emulsion technology. This advanced process mechanically breaks down the larger oil droplets of CBD extract into extremely tiny particles, typically 15 to 60 nanometers in size.
These minuscule droplets are then encapsulated by an emulsifier, allowing the CBD to be uniformly dispersed and suspended in water. The resulting liquid appears clear and remains stable without the oil and water separating over time.
The Chemical Threshold of Psychoactivity
The feeling of being “high” is caused exclusively by the compound Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is another cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD does not bind directly and strongly to the brain’s cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors, which are responsible for producing the euphoric and intoxicating effects. Therefore, CBD itself is not an impairing substance and will not produce the mind-altering effects.
The psychoactive potential of any commercial CBD product is determined by its THC content. In the United States, hemp-derived CBD products are federally legal only if they contain no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. Reputable CBD water is typically made from hemp extract, ensuring the THC levels are far below this legal threshold.
Many products use CBD isolate or broad-spectrum CBD, which contain either no detectable THC or only trace amounts. The trace amounts of THC present in full-spectrum hemp extracts are far too low to produce psychoactive effects when consumed in a typical serving. Therefore, when sourced from a compliant manufacturer, CBD water does not produce a “high.”
How CBD Water Affects Onset and Duration
The nano-emulsion technology used to create water-soluble CBD significantly changes how the compound is absorbed by the body, which is known as bioavailability. By reducing the CBD particles to a nano-size, the body is able to absorb the compound much more quickly and efficiently through the digestive system. This enhanced absorption rate allows a greater percentage of the consumed CBD to enter the bloodstream.
This rapid absorption means that the onset of effects from CBD water is much faster compared to traditional oil-based products. Consumers often report feeling the effects within 15 to 30 minutes after consumption, whereas oil-based products can take an hour or more. While the effects begin more quickly, the duration is typically shorter, often lasting between four and six hours.
Consumer Guidance for Purity and Safety
Since the CBD industry is not fully regulated by federal agencies, it is crucial for consumers to verify the contents of any CBD water product they purchase. The most important tool for ensuring product safety and purity is the Certificate of Analysis (COA), a document produced by a third-party laboratory. This independent testing confirms that the product contains the advertised amount of CBD and adheres to the legal THC limit.
Consumers should always look for a COA that is specific to the batch number of the product they are buying, as this practice ensures the results are current and relevant. The COA must explicitly report the levels of THC to confirm it is below the 0.3% threshold.
Additionally, the analysis should confirm the absence of contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and residual solvents, which can be absorbed by the hemp plant during its growth and extraction.