Unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding the use of CBD. Let’s take a closer look at the most common ones.
Myth #1: CBD is medical, and THC is recreational.
In truth, THC has amazing medicinal properties as does CBD. Scientists at the Scripps Research Center in San Diego reported that “THC inhibits an enzyme implicated in the formation of amyloid beta plaque,” which is the type of plaque found in Alzheimer’s disease.
The FDA recognizes single-molecule THC (dronabinol, brand name Marinol) as an anti-nausea agent and appetite booster. They classify it only as a Class III drug, which is reserved for less-addictive substances.
Myth #2: CBD is most effective without THC.
In truth, CBD and THC work best together, just as the cannabis plant creates them.
Scientific studies have proven that THC and CBD act in tandem with each one enhancing the other’s therapeutic and natural healing effects.
Myth #3: CBD is not psychoactive.
CBD certainly isn’t an intoxicant, but it’s a mistake to label it non-psychoactive.
It does act as a powerful mood-altering compound, even though you don’t get “high” like you do from THC. It’s more accurate to say, “CBD isn’t as psychoactive as THC.”
Myth #4: Psychoactivity is always an adverse side effect.
Big Pharma is looking to synthesize medically active marijuana-like molecules that don’t make people “high.” So, to them, the “high” is an unwanted side effect.
In truth, the word euphoria literally means “having health” in Greek; it’s a state of well-being.
Dr. Tod Mikuriya, a psychiatrist and author of books such as the Marijuana Medical Papers says, “We should be thinking of cannabis as a medicine first.
One that happens to have some psychoactive properties, as many medicines do, rather than an intoxicant that happens to have a few therapeutic properties on the side.”
Myth #5: CBD is just like a sedative.
The truth is that very high doses of CBD may trigger a sleep-promoting effect (perfect for those suffering from insomnia), however moderate doses can actually be mildly energizing.
In other words, CBD doesn’t cause sedation, but it may help restore better sleeping patterns by helping your brain produce more melatonin throughout the night.
And since it also helps reduce anxiety, it can help improve the quality and duration of your sleep.
Myth #6: High doses of CBD work better than low doses.
CBD isolates do require higher does than whole plant CBD-rich oil extracts. That doesn’t mean the single-molecule version is better.
Reports suggest that a synergistic combination of CBD, THC, and other cannabis components can be more effective at lower doses.
Myth #7: CBD is converted to THC in your stomach.
There have been extensive clinical trials demonstrating that CBD, even at high doses, does not cause THC-like effects.
On the contrary, in the right amounts, CBD can lessen or neutralize the THC “high.”