Cannabidiol is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. It is one of over a hundred distinct compounds in cannabis, collectively known as cannabinoids. Scientists are actively studying cannabidiol for its various properties.
Differentiating Cannabidiol from THC
Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are both compounds derived from the cannabis plant, yet they produce distinct effects within the human body. THC is widely recognized as the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, responsible for the “high” or euphoric sensation associated with marijuana use. This effect occurs because THC directly binds to cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain.
In contrast, CBD is non-psychoactive and does not induce intoxicating effects. While CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, its mechanism of action differs from that of THC, preventing a “high.” This fundamental difference makes CBD an appealing option for individuals seeking certain effects without mind-altering properties.
The source plant dictates the concentration of these compounds. CBD used in legal health supplements is typically extracted from industrial hemp, which naturally contains very low levels of delta-9-THC (below 0.3%). Marijuana, on the other hand, is cultivated to have much higher THC content.
How Cannabidiol Interacts with the Body
Cannabidiol interacts with a complex internal network in the human body known as the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS acts as a cell-signaling system that helps maintain balance, or homeostasis, across various bodily functions. This system operates regardless of cannabis use.
The ECS consists of three main components: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. Endocannabinoids are naturally produced molecules, such as anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), which act as neurotransmitters. These molecules bind to cannabinoid receptors, signaling the ECS.
Two types of cannabinoid receptors exist: CB1 receptors, found mainly in the central nervous system, and CB2 receptors, common in the peripheral nervous system and immune cells. Enzymes, such as fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), break down endocannabinoids after they fulfill their function. The ECS regulates processes like sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and immune function.
Unlike THC, which directly binds to and activates CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBD interacts with the ECS indirectly. It does not bind directly to these receptors. Instead, CBD may prevent the breakdown of endocannabinoids like anandamide by inhibiting enzymes such as FAAH, allowing these compounds to remain active longer. CBD can also influence how existing receptors function, modulating their activity without direct activation.
Reported Uses and Scientific Evidence
Many individuals explore cannabidiol for a variety of reported health concerns, including anxiety, pain management, and sleep support. The scientific evidence supporting these uses varies, with some areas having more robust data than others.
The strongest scientific backing for CBD’s therapeutic use comes from its application in certain seizure disorders. Epidiolex, an FDA-approved prescription medication containing purified CBD, treats seizures associated with rare and severe forms of epilepsy, including Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex, in patients one year or older. Clinical trials show Epidiolex can reduce seizure frequency in these conditions.
For anxiety, preclinical research suggests CBD may reduce anxiety. Limited human studies also show promising results, particularly for social anxiety disorder. Some research indicates CBD may be most effective at moderate doses, with lower or higher doses potentially being less effective.
Regarding pain management, preclinical evidence suggests CBD possesses analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. While this research shows promise for conditions like osteoarthritis and chronic pain, human clinical evidence remains limited, often involving small studies. Some reviews conclude that current evidence does not strongly support cannabinoids as analgesics, highlighting the need for more high-quality, isolated CBD studies.
For sleep support, preclinical and early human studies suggest CBD may affect sleep. Some small clinical studies indicate CBD could improve sleep quality or increase sleep duration for individuals with insomnia. However, results fluctuate, and some studies show mild improvement or no significant effect, indicating more comprehensive research is needed.
Forms and Methods of Consumption
Cannabidiol products are available in various forms, each offering a different method of consumption and influencing how quickly effects are felt and how long they last. Understanding these differences can help individuals choose a product that aligns with their preferences and needs.
Oils and tinctures are commonly administered sublingually, placed under the tongue for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing. This method allows CBD to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through mucous membranes, bypassing the digestive system. Effects typically begin within 15 to 45 minutes and can last for 2 to 4 hours.
Edibles, such as gummies and capsules, are ingested orally. CBD must pass through the digestive system and be metabolized by the liver before entering the bloodstream. This process leads to a slower onset of effects, usually taking 30 minutes to 2 hours, but effects tend to last longer, often from 4 to 8 hours.
Topicals, including creams, lotions, and balms, are applied directly to the skin. This method provides localized relief, as CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the skin without entering the bloodstream. Onset time for topicals can range from 15 minutes to an hour. They are often used for muscle and joint discomfort or skin issues.
Inhalable forms, such as vaping CBD oil, offer the fastest onset of effects. When vaporized CBD is inhaled, it is absorbed rapidly into the bloodstream through the lungs. Users may feel effects within minutes, typically 1 to 5 minutes. The duration of effects from vaping generally lasts between 1 to 3 hours.
Legality and Safety Considerations
The legal status of cannabidiol in the United States is shaped by the 2018 Farm Bill, which federally legalized hemp by removing it from the Controlled Substances Act. This legislation defines hemp as cannabis plants containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. Hemp-derived CBD products adhering to this THC limit are federally legal.
Despite this federal framework, CBD’s legality can vary significantly at the state level. Some states have enacted their own regulations, imposing additional restrictions or different interpretations of CBD product sales. Furthermore, marijuana-derived CBD, with higher THC levels, remains subject to stricter regulations, typically legal only in states with medical or recreational marijuana programs.
While generally well-tolerated, CBD can cause certain side effects. Commonly reported effects include dry mouth, changes in appetite, and fatigue or drowsiness. Some individuals may also experience gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. Higher doses of the prescription CBD drug, Epidiolex, have been associated with signs of liver injury, emphasizing the importance of proper dosing and medical supervision.
CBD has the potential to interact with other medications. It can inhibit liver enzymes that metabolize many drugs. This inhibition can lead to increased concentrations of other medications in the bloodstream, potentially amplifying their effects or side effects. This mechanism is similar to how grapefruit interacts with some medications, leading to a “grapefruit warning” on certain drug labels. Individuals taking medications with such warnings, including blood thinners, statins, and certain antidepressants, should consult a healthcare professional before using CBD.