Who does not dream of relaxing after a long and stressful day at work? In our modern society, driven by stress, anxiety and the race against the clock, it is more necessary than ever to take care of ourselves and our well-being. CBD, one of the components of hemp, arouses a great deal of curiosity in this area. In this article, we explain what CBD is, what research says, and does not say, about its effects on relaxation, and what is permitted in France. CBD is not a medicine: stress or anxiety that lasts deserves a doctor's opinion.
I. CBD, what is it?
A. Definition and origin of CBD
- CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many compounds, called cannabinoids, found in the hemp plant. But be careful, let's not confuse CBD and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)! THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid responsible for the high and euphoric effects often associated with cannabis. CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive, which means that it does not cause any psychotropic effect. In other words, CBD does not have the psychotropic effects of THC, even though it may have its own side effects.
- Legality and regulation: in France, CBD is not a narcotic, and the sale of products from authorized hemp varieties, including flowers and leaves, is permitted when their THC content is below 0.3% (French Council of State (Conseil d'État), December 29, 2022, no. 444887). The rules vary from one country to another, and CBD foodstuffs (oils to be swallowed, capsules, gummies, drinks) are not authorized for sale in France.
B. How does CBD work in our body?
1) The endocannabinoid system
To understand how CBD acts, it is essential to know about the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex network of receptors and molecules present in our body, which plays a crucial role in regulating essential functions such as:
- mood,
- appetite,
- pain
- sleep, etc.
Cannabinoids, such as CBD, interact with this system, through mechanisms that are still being studied.
2) The CB1 and CB2 receptors
The ECS is made up of two main types of receptors: CB1 receptors, mainly found in the brain, and CB2 receptors, located in the immune system and the peripheral nervous system. CBD interacts indirectly with these receptors; its effects on the body are still the subject of research.
To understand it better:
A key in a lock. Imagine the CB1 and CB2 receptors as locks, and cannabinoids as keys. THC is a key that fits into the CB1 lock; CBD, for its part, acts rather indirectly, a little like a hand that hinders or eases the entry of other keys. These mechanisms have yet to be clarified.
II. CBD oil and relaxation: the state of research
A. Stress and anxiety
1) Cortisol regulation
Stress is often accompanied by increased production of cortisol, the stress hormone. A few studies, on small samples, explore a possible effect of CBD on cortisol; their results do not allow any conclusion.
Good to know : there are many testimonials from consumers who say they feel more relaxed after taking CBD, but they remain individual impressions, in which the placebo effect can play a large part. They do not replace controlled studies, and should not delay a consultation in the event of lasting stress or anxiety.
B. CBD and sleep: an open question
Sleep disorders, a silent epidemic. They affect a large number of people and have repercussions on their quality of life. Fatigue, irritability and concentration problems are all symptoms that can harm our daily well-being.
1) CBD oil and sleep:
A question that is still open: the endocannabinoid system is involved in regulating sleep, and studies, often on small samples, explore the effect of CBD on falling asleep or on the quality of nights. Their results are mixed and do not allow any conclusion; drowsiness is moreover among the reported side effects.
Good habit : before looking for a product, focus on the basics of good sleep (regular hours, screens switched off before bedtime, a cool and dark bedroom). Sleep problems that persist warrant a doctor's opinion.
C. Muscle recovery
Athletes and muscle relaxation
After intense training, athletes need to pay particular attention to muscle recovery to avoid pain and injury. Muscle relaxation is therefore essential for maintaining good physical condition.
CBD oil and inflammation: leads still to be confirmed
Work, mainly preclinical, is exploring the effect of CBD on inflammation; in athletes, data remain scarce and do not allow the conclusion that it affects recovery. Rest, hydration, sleep and stretching remain the recognized levers; pain that persists should be shown to a doctor.
III. In what forms is CBD found in France?
A. The different forms of consumption
- CBD oils: a CBD oil to be swallowed, placed under the tongue or added to dishes and drinks falls under CBD foodstuffs, which are not authorized for sale in France (Novel Food Regulation (EU) 2015/2283, press release from the French Ministry of Agriculture of May 20, 2026).
- CBD capsules: these too are unauthorized foodstuffs; hemp seed oil, with no added CBD, on the other hand remains a permitted food.
- Creams and balms: CBD cosmetics are applied to the skin for hygiene or comfort; they do not treat pain or inflammation.
B. Why no dosage is advised here
- No reference dose: CBD is not a medicine and no dose is recognized for a relaxing effect; dosage advice would be a matter for a doctor.
- The importance of caution. Side effects have been reported (drowsiness, digestive problems, raised liver enzymes at high doses), and CBD can interact with certain medicines (CYP450 enzymes).
C. Is CBD for everyone?
Precautions for use and contraindications: CBD is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and residual THC can cause a positive roadside drug test. If you are taking any treatment, ask your doctor for advice before any use.
If in doubt, it is important to consult a health professional who can advise you on the use of CBD according to your personal situation.
Toward a more zen life
CBD attracts a great deal of interest around relaxation, but research does not, to date, allow any effect on stress, anxiety or sleep to be attributed to it. For a more zen life, the recognized levers remain sleep, physical activity, breaks, breathing or meditation, and a doctor's opinion when stress becomes overwhelming. If you are interested in CBD, find out what is permitted in France and check the THC content of products.
