The common belief that CBD can balance out the effects of THC may not be as straightforward as once thought. THC, the intoxicating component of cannabis, and CBD, the non-intoxicating component, are often portrayed as opposing forces. However, a recent double-blinded clinical trial suggests that CBD may not necessarily counteract the negative side effects of THC. In fact, the trial revealed that high doses of CBD can actually enhance the intoxicating effects of THC.
During the trial, participants were administered 9 milligrams of THC along with 450 milligrams of CBD. Surprisingly, they reported feeling significantly more ‘high’ in both body and mind compared to when they took THC alone. Blood analysis confirmed higher concentrations of THC and its psychoactive metabolites in those who consumed the CBD-THC combination. Researchers hypothesized that the high dose of CBD may be inhibiting the metabolism of THC, leading to an increase in its psychoactive effects.
The results of the clinical trial challenge the long-held belief that CBD can mitigate the effects of THC. Despite previous claims that CBD can reduce negative side effects such as intoxication, cognitive impairment, and anxiety, this study suggests otherwise. The authors of the trial point out that the interaction between CBD and THC remains contentious, with their findings adding to the growing body of evidence against the hypothesis.
The trial involved healthy male and female volunteers aged between 18 and 45, all of whom had previous experience with cannabis. Participants were given oral doses of a placebo, pure THC, or a combination of THC and CBD on five separate occasions. Subjective feelings of pain and intoxication were assessed using validated tests, while blood samples were taken at various intervals up to 8 hours after ingestion.
While lower doses of CBD did not affect the intoxicating effects of THC, the highest dose of CBD had a significant impact on various psychoactive measures. The researchers suggest that a drug-drug interaction between CBD and THC is the most likely explanation for the findings. Interestingly, the level of CBD did not influence participants’ subjective ratings of pain, indicating that CBD products may not provide standalone relief for chronic pain.
The relationship between THC and CBD is more complex than previously thought. The study highlights the need for further research into the effects of these two compounds on the human body, particularly at different doses and administration routes. As cannabis use becomes increasingly prevalent, it is crucial that we gain a deeper understanding of how THC and CBD interact and their overall impact on health and well-being.
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