We receive many questions on how does CBD work. CBD is the chemical cousin of THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis. CBD’s effects are much different than THC, with no “high” associated with it. Let’s have a look at some of the theories that attempt to explain CBD’s effects.
Endocannabinoid Receptors
THC and the cyclic cannabinoids bind to two receptors found in the nervous and immune systems: the CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 is primary found in the nervous system, while CB2 is expressed by immune cells. Now, CBD is totally different. It is an antagonist of the CB1 and 2 receptors. So, it does the opposite of THC: CBD competes with the endogenous cannabinoids to mute the endocannabinoid system. Indeed, CBD also mutes the effect of the exogenous cannabinoids, such as THC, and has been used as a “detoxification” method to bring down folks who may have consumed too much cannabis.
It is way more complicated than that, since some medicinal formulations combining THC with CBD have been developed. In this case, it may be that the attenuating effects of CBD counteract some of the more unpleasant effects of THC (anxiety, paranoia). There is still much to be learned about the effects of cannabinoids on the endocannabinoid system. Perhaps federal regulations will change under the growing acceptance of cannabis as a medicine, allowing the much-needed research to be conducted.
CBD’s antiepileptic and antipsychotic properties seem to arise from this interaction with CB1.
CBD interacts with other neuro-receptors. It has been suggested that CBD binds to serotonin, TRPV and other receptors as well. How these interactions affect the human body is unknown, but small studies on animals indicate medicinal benefit.
The unfortunate bottom line is that there have been few studies in humans on the mechanism of CBD’s effects. Even the makers of the prescription version Epidiolex admit they are not sure how it works.
Let’s hope the research floodgate opens soon, and we can all have a better understanding of how CBD and the other cannabinoids truly work.