Cannabis Europe

CBD flowers prohibited : No, they are authorized for sale

Written by : Benjamin Poirel Nadal

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Playback time 5 min

Reminder: CBD flowers are not banned from sale


Be careful if you travel abroad or wish to buy to buy CBD flowers flowers, the conditions of sale are not the same throughout Europe. It all depends on the THC level authorized, the way the product is sold and, above all, local regulations.


Things to remember

  • You can buy CBD flowers in several European countries, but not everywhere, and especially under specific conditions.
  • The main criterion is THC content: 0.3% in most countries, sometimes 0.5% or up to 1% in some.
  • Always check local legislation before buying or taking CBD flowers with you.

What European law says


Europe sets a maximum THC threshold for hemp grown on its territory, which is generally 0.3%, as is the case in the United-Kingdom. Some countries tolerate up to 0.5%, while others, like Switzerland, go as high as 1%. This framework enables the cultivation of varieties intended for CBD-based products.


On the other hand, Europe does not clearly define the status of CBD flowers for purchase or consumption. It all depends on the laws of each state, and above all on their legal interpretation.


In a ruling known as the Kanavape case in 2020, the European Court of Justice ruled that a product legally marketed in one country cannot be banned in another, except on very serious public health grounds.


Despite this, many countries remain cautious about flowers, as they are too similar to recreational cannabis. The authorities are less concerned about controlling oils or extracts.

Cannabis potency

Is it possible to buy CBD flowers in the major European countries?


Mama takes a look at the legislation in the main European countries. Here's what you need to know.


En the United-Kingdom


In the United-Kingdom, the sale of CBD flowers was banned, even if the THC content was zero. In 2022, the Council of State overturned this ban, ruling that it encroached on health needs. Since then, you can buy flowers containing ≤ 0.3% THC.


In Germany


CBD flowers that meet THC standards are legally purchasable, but some Länder impose stricter restrictions on marketing or store display. Online purchases from abroad may be subject to controls or blockages.


Since April 2024, Germany has allowed the recreational use of cannabis, subject to conditions. An adult can possess up to 25g and grow 3 plants at home. From July onwards, clubs can produce and distribute cannabis to their members. But free sales are out of the question, so coffee shops remain prohibited.


In Italy


You can totally buy CBD flowers in Italy, as the law is tolerant of THC levels. Flowers can contain up to 0.5% THC. You'll easily find both physical and online stores. Italy is one of the most open countries in Europe on this subject.


In Spain


In Spain, the cultivation of industrial hemp and the sale of flowers are authorized, provided they are intended for decorative purposes or for seeds. They must not exceed 0.2% THC. It's all a blur in the law, but in many regions, tolerance is real. So you can buy without too much difficulty, even online for delivery outside Spain, as long as the THC level remains low.


In Switzerland (non-EU)


Switzerland authorizes the purchase of flowers containing up to 1% THC, so the legislation is much more flexible. Swiss stores have a well-organized legal market. But beware: if you order from the EU, your parcel may be blocked at the border if the THC content exceeds local limits (often 0.3%).

Before buying your CBD flowers, here are the criteria to check

Before validating your basket with your cheap CBD flower take a good look at these elements:

  • THC levels must be clearly displayed (≤ 0.3% in most countries).
  • The name of the authorized variety or seed must appear, to prove that it is indeed industrial hemp.
  • The seller must provide reliable certificates of analysis, showing the results of cannabinoid analyses.

CBD flowers look a lot like recreational cannabis flowers. This means that law enforcement officers, customs officials and sometimes even consumers can confuse them. Many countries therefore prefer to limit the risks by restricting "smoking" use, or by imposing specific labelling. It's a question of perception as much as of law.


Before buying your CBD flowers, here are the criteria to check


Before validating your basket with your cheap CBD flower take a good look at these elements:

  • THC levels must be clearly displayed (≤ 0.3% in most countries).
  • The name of the authorized variety or seed must appear, to prove that it is indeed industrial hemp.
  • The seller must provide reliable certificates of analysis, showing the results of cannabinoid analyses.

CBD flowers look a lot like recreational cannabis flowers. This means that law enforcement officers, customs officials and sometimes even consumers can confuse them. Many countries therefore prefer to limit the risks by restricting "smoking" use, or by imposing specific labelling. It's a question of perception as much as of law.

Changes to come?


Yes, regulations are on the move. The CBD market is growing at breakneck speed, and legal rulings such as that of the Council of State in the United-Kingdom, as well as the Kanavape ruling, are paving the way for the necessary harmonization. The idea is to have clear, safe, consistent rules for buying and trading between countries.


Some European states are reconsidering their position, as they see that standards-compliant CBD flowers, such as those from Mama Kana do not pose any health problems. Work is progressing, but slowly.

Benjamin Poirel-Nadal

Article written by Benjamin Poirel-Nadal

Passionate about natural well-being and plants with multiple virtues, I've been exploring the benefits of CBD and its various forms for several years.


My aim? To share clear information, honest opinions and practical advice to help you integrate CBD into your daily life with confidence and serenity.