Future aims

Hempsoul produces 2 tons of CBD every year. It is destined for markets in 41 countries and for a wide range of uses, from anti-mite materials in luxury bedding to drugs to treat depression, insomnia and epilepsy.

"Our future aim is to definitely explore the use of CBD in medicines," Tian said.

In addition to CBD, companies are extracting Cannabidivarin, or CBDV, a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid that has gained attention in medical circles for its potential in the treatment of neurological conditions. So far, it has been studied less than its more famous counterparts, such as THC and CBD.

Meanwhile, even though it is sold overseas, CBD has not been authorized for consumption in China, which only permits its sale for use in cosmetics.

"As the global demand is booming, especially for related medical properties of CBD, I believe it is only a matter of time before China approves the compound for ingestion (either as a medicine or nutritional supplement)," Tian said.

Shi Wenzhi contributed to this story.