The CBD shops in Austria have certainly become an attraction for many visitors. It’s a way to experience something a little different on a trip to Austria. We hope the information in this article will help you if you wish to visit one of these shops.
In this article, we have compiled the most important information about CBD in Austria for you. In the article, you can read about:
- What is CBD? How does it work?
- CBD in Austria
- What are the types of CBD products?
- CBD shops in Vienna
What is CBD?
You’ve likely already heard of the cannabis plant. The use of cannabis is still controversial in many countries despite its health benefits, due to the psychotic effects caused by its use and the risk of addiction.
In fact, the cannabis plant contains over 80 active chemical compounds called cannabinoids. The two main compounds in the plant are THC and CBD.
Cannabidiol (CBD) makes up about 40% of the cannabis extract and does not cause addiction or psychoactive effects. In contrast, the addictive part of the cannabis plant is THC, which can also cause psychoactive effects and is what has made the cannabis plant illegal for use in many countries. It is important to note that cannabidiol may contain a small amount of THC, but this amount is negligible and not addictive.
Interestingly, CBD was discovered in Israel by Professor Raphael Mechoulam of the Hebrew University. Mechoulam won the Israel Prize in Chemistry for his groundbreaking discoveries regarding the cannabis plant.
Besides being safe to use, cannabidiol has been found to have beneficial effects for a variety of syndromes, diseases, and the general mood. CBD products are used for various purposes such as pain management, mental improvement, mood enhancement, epilepsy treatment, and more.
How does Cannabidiol work?
Studies show that the cannabidiol component prevents the breakdown of a chemical in the brain that causes psychotic effects, indirectly relieves pain, and affects mood. As a result, after consuming cannabidiol, there is a decrease in feelings such as anxiety, pain, and fear. In addition, increasing the concentration of this chemical in the brain prevents the development of psychotic phenomena such as schizophrenia. The pleasant feeling provided by cannabidiol lasts for several hours, depending on the concentration of the chemical.
CBD in Austria
In 2008, the Austrian Ministry of Health approved the use of the cannabis plant for medical purposes. Since 2016, it has been legal to possess and consume a small amount of cannabis for personal use. Furthermore, home cultivation of the cannabis plant and public use are not considered criminal offenses (all depending on the quantity, of course). However, buying, selling, or giving cannabis is prohibited by law.
The sale of cannabidiol throughout Austria is considered legal as long as the THC concentration in the product does not exceed 0.3%. Most Austrian capital cities have a large concentration of shops that provide a variety of cannabidiol products.
Types of Products in CBD Shops
Throughout most of Austria’s capitals, there are many shops for CBD products. You can find them mainly on main streets and in shopping malls. The variety of products is extensive. We have compiled several different types of products for you. The photos were taken from shops that provide cannabidiol products in the center of Vienna.
1. Cannabidiol Flowers
These flowers are mainly used for smoking.
2. Oils and Capsules
You consume the oil by dripping it under the tongue, and you take the capsules by swallowing them.
3. Skincare and Cosmetics
People also use CBD in creams and oils, such as anti-aging products for body care.
4. Sexual Wellness Products
It can also be used for enhancing sensation during sexual activity.
5. Everyday Consumption Products
You can also find CBD in specific drinks, sweets, and other products. Shops clearly label these items and sell them exclusively in designated CBD stores.
CBD Shops in Vienna
As we’ve already mentioned, the popularity of CBD products is growing worldwide. In Vienna, too, the trend has gained a lot of momentum in recent years. Many shops are located in all corners of the city, usually in shopping malls or on main streets.
The main chains are:
- HEMPS
- CANNABIS STORE – CANNAPHARM
These are the shops in the most central locations in Vienna:
- HEMPS: Kärntner Straße 12, 1010 (near Stephansplatz)
- HEMPS: Kärntnerring 3, 1010 (near Karlsplatz)
- Mr. Nice Guy: Mariahilferstraße 66, 1060 (on Mariahilfer Shopping Street)
- CANNAPHARM: Jasomirgottstraße 4, 1010
- CANNAPHARM: Donauzentrum (Mall), 1220
- Green Dream: Lugner City (Mall), 1160
- Healing Leave: Millennium City (Mall), 1200
Interested in more travel information?
Read our organized guide for three days in the city or about the main attractions according to the city’s districts.
If you haven’t found suitable accommodation yet, you can use the list of accommodations we’ve compiled for you based on recommendations from our Facebook group. You are, of course, welcome to join and explore all the information the group has to offer.
