Experiencing CBD: An Overview of its Potential Effects
CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are two compounds found in the cannabis plant, but they have vastly different effects on the body and brain. CBD, unlike THC, does not cause a high.
THC binds directly to cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in brain areas related to learning, memory, movement, pain, and emotions, causing effects like euphoria, altered perception, impaired memory, anxiety, increased appetite, and fatigue. By contrast, CBD works more indirectly, influencing brain chemicals and pathways without strong binding to CB1 receptors.
CBD may improve sleep quality and reduce stress, which can enhance focus and cognitive function indirectly. Additionally, some studies suggest CBD promotes neurogenesis—the growth of new brain cells—which may benefit brain health and cognition over time.
Therapeutically, CBD is FDA-approved only for certain rare seizure disorders, but it is widely used (often off-label) to reduce anxiety, relieve pain and inflammation, improve sleep, and support withdrawal from opioids, though high-quality evidence for these uses is limited and mixed.
On the other hand, THC is the psychoactive component in cannabis and can cause intoxication, altering senses, mood changes, impaired body movement, difficulty thinking, and impaired memory.
In summary:
| Aspect | CBD | THC | |------------------------|--------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------| | Psychoactive effect | No (non-intoxicating) | Yes (causes "high") | | Mechanism | Indirect modulation of brain chemicals; may promote neurogenesis | Direct binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors causing psychoactive and physical effects | | Effects on cognition | May improve focus, reduce anxiety and stress, support brain health indirectly | Impairs memory and concentration, may increase anxiety or paranoia | | Therapeutic uses | FDA-approved for rare epilepsies; used for anxiety, pain, sleep with mixed evidence | Used medically for pain, nausea, appetite stimulation, but psychoactive effects limit use | | Common side effects | Generally well-tolerated; few known serious side effects | Dry mouth, red eyes, impaired cognition, paranoia, increased appetite |
When choosing a CBD product, it's essential to consider U.S. products, good manufacturing practices, certificates of analysis, avoiding certain claims, being aware of salespeople, and consulting a doctor for guidance. The Arthritis Foundation states that these issues can cause incorrect CBD strength, presence of undeclared THC, and contamination with pesticides, metals, and solvents.
CBD can be taken in various forms, including oral capsules, sublingual oil drops, vaporized CBD, topical creams, and edibles like gummies. However, the FDA does not regulate most CBD products, which can lead to mislabelling, contamination, and a lack of quality control.
For more research-backed information and in-depth resources on CBD, visit our dedicated hub. Remember, while CBD offers potential benefits, it's important to approach its use with caution and consult a healthcare professional.
[1] Di Marzo, V., & De Petrocellis, L. (2013). The endocannabinoid system. British Journal of Pharmacology, 169(7), 1344–1358. [2] Carlini, E. A., & Cunha, J. M. (2018). Cannabidiol: from an inactive cannabinoid to a drug with wide spectrum of action. Revista Brasileira de Psiquiatria, 40(1), 9–19. [3] Iffland, K., & Groopman, J. (2017). An update on safety and side effects of cannabidiol: a review of clinical data and relevance to current use. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), 139–154. [4] Pertwee, R. G. (2008). The diverse CB1 receptor pharmacology of cannabidiol: new implications for its therapeutic potential. British Journal of Pharmacology, 153(3), 178–187. [5] Iadarola, M., et al. (2014). The endocannabinoid system in pain and pain modulation. Pain, 155 Suppl 1, S1–S12.
- CBD, when taken in forms such as oral capsules, sublingual oil drops, or topical creams, may improve sleep quality, reduce stress, and possibly support neurogenesis for enhanced mental health and overall brain health.
- THC, on the other hand, can cause a high by directly binding to CB1 receptors in brain areas associated with learning, memory, movement, pain, and emotions, leading to impaired cognition and potential increases in anxiety or paranoia.
- While CBD products potentially offer multiple benefits, it's crucial to prioritize U.S. products, observe good manufacturing practices, seek certificates of analysis, be cautious of misleading claims, consider expert opinions, and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
- Further research indicates that CBD can be an effective component in various therapies and treatments, either alone or in combination with other supplements and nutritional approaches, contributing to improved health and wellness outcomes.
