Cannabidiol, the non-psychoactive component of cannabis, is developing a reputation as a trendy cure-all.
An FDA committeerecommended this week to approve Epidiolexas a new drug.
What is CBD?
Cannabis contains over 100 chemical components called cannabinoids.
The best known of those are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
Meanwhile, our bodies contain receptors for cannabinoids.
We have these receptors because we also haveendocannabinoids, cannabinoids that our body naturally produces.
THC can affect the CB1 receptors, and its responsible for weeds high.
The exact mechanisms arent fully understood.
Its possible to buy oils and other products that contain only CBD.
Whats it good for?
Theres good evidence that CBD oil can treat some forms of epilepsy.
Some of the children did not respond to the drug, though.
Its promising, but not a miracle cure.
Besides that, evidence is sketchy.
Sellers of CBD oil tout it for dozens or hundreds of health problems.
The only problem is that most of those papers are about pre-clinical research.
In other words, its done in test tubes or in mice.
Perhaps your friend has tried it and thinks it works.
You might find the sameor you might not.
All our usual warnings about the placebo effect and the dangers of relying on testimonials still apply.
What are the downsides?
Any medication that has an actual effect on your body alsohas the potential to have unwanted effects.
CBD is no exception.
If youre experimenting with CBD oil on your own, though, you probably dont have that option.
Another problem is that the CBD oil you order may not contain what its supposed to.
In those cases, some contained very little of the active ingredient youre paying for.
(Especially if youre buying it for your sick child.)
How legal is it?
As always, check with your state for the up-to-date details.
