CBD, a substance in marijuana that doesn’t produce a high, is promoted for everything from reducing anxiety to fighting cancer. How believable are the claims, and is CBD safe? Here’s the 411.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
THE CLAIM: CBD is good for you.
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound in marijuana that does not get users high. Sold in everything from oils and foods to pills, skin creams and even dog treats… it has a wide array of health benefits, according to proponents. But much of the buzz over CBD is premature.
CBD can come from either marijuana or hemp plants.
Its most proven benefit is reducing certain types of seizures. In fact, CBD is the active ingredient in prescription medication for two rare forms of epilepsy.
Some studies suggest that CBD may also reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and control pain, though this research is preliminary.
As for claims that CBD can fight other conditions ranging from diabetes to cancer, there’s little or no evidence. Now that doesn’t necessarily mean that CBD is ineffective… just that there have been too few studies to draw any conclusions. With more research now underway, that may change.
For now, though, it’s anyone’s guess as to what doses are optimal for which conditions.
We do know, however, that at high doses, CBD can have side effects and interfere with certain medications, so it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using it.
What’s more, CBD products are not strictly regulated so you can’t always be sure what you’re getting.
One study found that only 30% of samples purchased online actually had the amount of CBD listed on the label. And 21% contained THC, the compound in marijuana that produces a high.
Adding further to the uncertainty is CBD murky legal status. Vague and conflicting laws continue to cause confusion over whether CBD products are legal, and if so, which ones. All the more reason why, when it comes to CBD, it’s wise to heed that old adage: buyer beware.
Helping you be a healthy skeptic, I’m Robert Davis.