The news has been full of the dangers of high THC cannabis, and many seeking the benefits of cannabinoids are turning to cannabidiol (CBD) instead. CBD effects seem to be very similar to those of THC, but with a few important exceptions. For example, while THC may make people feel anxious and paranoid, CBD appears to have the opposite effect.

Although research is still in its early stages, there seems to be reason to believe that CBD effects include antipsychotic and antidepressant action. It has also been studied as a potential treatment for anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and CBD also seems to counter the “high” associated with THC, effectively acting as an antidote. That’s exactly why we are seeing such high THC strains on the black market these days. The CBD has been bred out of the plants so that maximum high can be obtained.

CBD effects preferred

There’s no doubt that most people wanting to explore the benefits of cannabinoids choose CBD or prefer CBD effects to THC. Researchers are also paying increasing attention to CBD effects since researching a substance with significant side effects such as the high associated with THC, is controversial. This is particularly true when a drug or herb is to be given to children.

That’s not to say that THC may yet work better for certain individuals and conditions, but for researchers and health enthusiasts, CBD is an easier substance to deal with. Time and research will ultimately reveal when THC use is more appropriate.

Why cannabinoids seem to be applicable to so many conditions

An interesting paper from open access academic publishers BioMed Central discusses the way in which the endocannabinoid system in humans regulates the body – a process called “homeostasis”. Simply put, homeostasis is a phenomenon in which the body balances itself, and affects just about every system that keeps our bodies going.

Usually, our bodies produce their own endocannabinoids, but the theory is that we can be deficient in these molecules, and that we can substitute cannabinoids from plants for endocannabinoids instead, helping our bodies to reach equilibrium naturally.

Safe to use?

CBD effects have so far been extremely well tolerated, even at high doses, and studies have shown that no significant side-effects were reported by participants in medical trials, even at extremely high doses.

Contrast that with just about any pharmaceutical, even an over the counter painkiller, and CBD looks increasingly attractive as a means of balancing the body and calming the mind. Just how these CBD effects can help people is a matter that is still being investigated with interesting results.