CBD
At Dutch-Smart, you’ll find a wide range of CBD products: from CBD oil and CBD capsules to CBD cosmetics and raw materials for making your own oil. All products in this range contain a maximum of 0.2% THC and are therefore legal in the Netherlands and most of Europe. CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive substance derived from the hemp plant. It does not get you high. We work exclusively with brands that have their products tested for THC content and purity.
What is CBD and how does it work?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, one of the many cannabinoids found in the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa). Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD has no psychoactive effect: it does not make you high or stoned. CBD works through the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that plays a role in sleep, mood, pain signaling, and immune response, among other things. Users report that CBD can contribute to a feeling of relaxation, but this varies from person to person. CBD is not a medicine and should not be presented as a means to treat or cure diseases.
CBD is found in all parts of the hemp plant, but the highest concentrations are in the flowers and leaves. CBD oil is made by mixing CBD extract with a carrier oil, usually hemp seed oil or MCT oil. The THC content in legal CBD products in the Netherlands may not exceed 0.2%. All products in this range comply with this standard.
Subcategories in the CBD shop
The CBD range at Dutch-Smart is divided into four subcategories. In the CBD oil category, you’ll find dropper bottles in various strengths, from low concentrations suitable for beginners to higher percentages for advanced users. CBD capsules offer a fixed dosage per capsule and are convenient if you don’t want to taste anything. CBD cosmetics include creams, balms, and skincare products with CBD as the active ingredient. Finally, under “Make Your Own CBD Oil,” you’ll find raw materials such as CBD crystals and carrier oils for those who want to mix their own.
CBD oil: use and dosage
The most common way to use CBD oil is sublingually: hold a few drops under the tongue for 60 to 90 seconds, so the substance is absorbed through the oral mucosa. This allows for faster absorption than swallowing. The optimal dosage varies by person and product and depends on the CBD percentage, body weight, and personal sensitivity. A common starting point is 5 to 10 mg of CBD per day, which can be increased based on your personal response. If in doubt, consult a doctor, especially if you are taking medication.
CBD oil with a low percentage (2.5% to 5%) is suitable for people who are new to CBD. Higher concentrations (10% to 20% and higher) are used by people who already have experience or who want to take a higher daily dose with fewer drops. When purchasing, always check the CBD content in milligrams per bottle, not just the percentage.
Legal Status and Quality Control
CBD products containing up to 0.2% THC are legal in the Netherlands under the Opium Act. Products that meet this standard are also permitted in most of the EU, although national regulations may vary by country. Dutch-Smart works exclusively with brands that can provide independent laboratory test results (Certificate of Analysis) for THC content and purity. When using products abroad, always check local regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions About CBD
Is CBD covered by health insurance?
No. In the Netherlands, CBD products are not classified as reimbursable medications. They are sold as dietary supplements and cannot be claimed from a health insurance provider.
Can I use CBD if I’m taking medication?
CBD can affect the effectiveness of certain medications, in part by interacting with liver enzymes responsible for breaking down drugs (the so-called CYP450 system). Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before using CBD in combination with medication.
What is the difference between CBD oil and hemp seed oil?
Hemp seed oil is pressed from the seeds of the hemp plant and contains virtually no CBD. It is a dietary oil rich in omega fatty acids. CBD oil contains an extract from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant, mixed with a carrier oil. The two products are not interchangeable.
Is CBD legal in the Netherlands?
Yes, provided the THC content does not exceed 0.2%. All CBD products in this range meet this standard and are therefore legally available in the Netherlands. Different rules may apply for use or when taking them abroad.
What is the best way to store CBD oil?
Store CBD oil in a cool, dark, and sealed container, preferably in the refrigerator or a dark cupboard at room temperature. Avoid direct sunlight and heat, as this can reduce the product’s quality. Once opened, the shelf life is typically 6 to 12 months, depending on the brand and carrier oil.
