Costa Rica keeps innovating in the field of medicinal alternatives. With a long tradition of natural remedies, one product that has been gaining widespread attention in the country is CBD (cannabidiol), especially after significant global shifts in cannabis legislation.
Cannabis, in general, has been illegal in Costa Rica for decades under strict drug policies. However, while the sale and cultivation of marijuana were prohibited, the country historically had a relatively lenient approach to personal use.
With the growing interest in the potential health benefits of cannabis, a local movement started advocating for the legalization of medicinal cannabis, especially CBD, which does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana (THC).
The big turning point came in March 2022, when Costa Rica’s Health Ministry allowed official registration for the first CBD products after a company named Osmosis CBD followed all the rules regarding safety, THC-free contents, and documentation regarding CBD source. Up until that point, CBD companies had been using US-imported CBD to make their products.
The intended issue this law wanted to address was the medical dispensation of the products as well as providing the country with new health alternatives. So, the law that’s currently in place is mainly for medical use in the form of oil, topicals, foods, cosmetics, and drinks.
Today, Costa Rica’s CBD industry is growing, with increasing availability of products such as CBD oils, creams, and edibles in pharmacies and health stores. It’s expected that Costa Rica will see further growth in the CBD sector due to its favorable climate for hemp cultivation and increasing local and international demand.
CBD vs. THC: What’s The Difference?
To better understand the differences between CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), let’s break it down:
Psychoactive vs. Non-psychoactive:
THC: It is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, which gives users the “high” feeling typically associated with marijuana use.
CBD: Non-psychoactive. It does not produce a “high” but interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system in a way that can provide therapeutic effects like relaxation and pain relief.
Legal Status:
THC: In many places, THC is tightly regulated and often only legal for medical or recreational use in specific circumstances. In Costa Rica, recreational THC products remain illegal.
CBD: Legal in many countries, including Costa Rica, as long as it’s derived from hemp (which contains less than 0.3% THC).
Medical Benefits:
THC: Known for its effectiveness in reducing nausea (particularly in chemotherapy patients), stimulating appetite, and reducing chronic pain, but it also has potential side effects like anxiety and short-term memory impairment.
CBD: Has been researched for its potential to alleviate anxiety, inflammation, pain, epilepsy, and even neurodegenerative diseases, without the psychoactive effects of THC.
Why do people use CBD products?
CBD is technically considered a neuroprotective antioxidant in its pure form. That’s why it’s also used as a nutritional supplement. Up to certain amounts of dosage, CBD can help with severe pain, anxiety, sleep problems, seizures, cancer side effects & inflammatory diseases.
Moreover, it can also help with improving sleep and reducing insomnia. There’s also evidence suggesting it may help with conditions like epilepsy, PTSD, and neurodegenerative diseases.
The effect will depend on your specific dosage. We recommend you look for authorized brands with reliable information to guide your needs.
Where can I find CBD products in Costa Rica?
Since CBD is not considered a prescription medicine according to international laws, but more of a nutritional supplement or even food, these kinds of products are now sold everywhere in the country.
You can buy directly from certain producers, but you can also find them in stores, supermarkets, green stores, airports, pharmacies, green markets, or specialized CBD stores.
How to Identify Legal CBD Products in Costa Rica?
The only way to sell products in formal stores in the country is if they passed the tests and have a status called “Registro Sanitario” or “Safety Registration,” which you can find on every product’s label or box.
This ensures that the products hold the CBD amount, lab test, and are safe for human use.
Top Trusted CBD Brands in Costa Rica
Choosing a reliable CBD brand is essential to ensure product safety and efficacy. In Costa Rica, several brands have earned the trust of consumers by adhering to strict quality standards.
Some of the most trusted CBD brands in Costa Rica are Osmosis CBD, Virtú, So Flow and INOE, as well as other imported international brands.
What’s the future of the CBD market in Costa Rica for 2025?
The CBD market in Costa Rica is expected to grow slowly but consistently in 2025. Local brands are trying to innovate by developing new products.
The main issue for local brands is the long delay in the registration process with the Health Ministry, which is perceived as a headache for CBD manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies in general.
Nevertheless, there’s growing acceptance and an easier way to find good and safe products that make it a trustworthy industry for new consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about CBD
Here are some common questions people often have about CBD:
Is CBD legal in Costa Rica?
Yes, since March 2022, CBD is legal for medicinal and industrial use in Costa Rica, as long as it is derived from hemp (low in THC).
Can CBD get me high?
No, CBD does not have psychoactive properties, so it won’t cause a “high.” THC is the compound responsible for that effect.
What are the potential benefits of CBD?
CBD is often used for its potential therapeutic effects, such as reducing anxiety, managing pain, improving sleep, and decreasing inflammation. There’s also evidence suggesting it may help with conditions like epilepsy, PTSD, and neurodegenerative diseases.
How do I use CBD?
CBD can be consumed in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, topical creams, and edibles. The method of consumption depends on personal preference and the specific condition being treated.
Are there any side effects of using CBD?
While CBD is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects like dry mouth, drowsiness, reduced appetite, or diarrhea. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting CBD, especially if you’re on medication.
Is it safe to use CBD while traveling?
This depends on the country. While CBD is legal in Costa Rica, international laws regarding CBD vary widely. Always check the regulations of your destination country before traveling with CBD.
How much CBD should I take?
The optimal dosage varies based on individual factors like body weight, the condition being treated, and personal body chemistry. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing is a common approach.
How can I tell if a CBD product is high-quality?
Look for products that are tested by third-party labs and clearly state the amount of CBD they contain. Reputable brands will provide this information, along with any certificates of analysis (COA) showing purity and potency.