Numerous studies have demonstrated that CBD is a safe substance that is not habit-forming and does not produce the “high” associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive component of cannabis. Unlike THC, CBD does not cause psychoactive effects and does not lead to addiction. Animal studies have found that CBD could have anti-inflammatory effects that can treat chronic pain or inflammatory diseases in animals, but its effects on human health are still unknown. It has been suggested that CBD influences the way the brain responds to serotonin, which may have an effect similar to that of antidepressants.
Studies show that CBD does not produce withdrawal symptoms or meet other markers of addiction. CBD interacts with the main receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the main regulatory network in humans. It is marketed and sold primarily as a supplement, not as a drug, and it does not interact with receptors in the brain that cause the euphoric or “wellness” effect of marijuana. Recent studies point to CBD as a potentially beneficial compound for relieving addiction and relieving withdrawal from alcohol and many other substances, such as nicotine, heroin and opioids.
CBD has been touted for a wide variety of health problems, but the strongest scientific evidence is based on its effectiveness in treating some of the cruelest childhood epileptic syndromes, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). Additionally, it cannot cause a fatal overdose because there are no cannabinoid receptors in the brain stem area that control respiratory functions. If you're interested in trying CBD, it is important to consult your doctor or treatment center first. Everyone is different, so it is important to understand how CBD may affect you before taking it.
Ultimately, CBD appears to be a safe substance that is not habit-forming and does not produce the “high” associated with THC.
