Delta-9 THC, also known as just THC, is famous for its strong psychoactive effects but also for the negative symptoms that often hinder with the high. Those familiar with cannabis know that THC frequently subjects users to feelings of anxiety and paranoia, especially if one consumes too much THC at once. However, researchers have found that CBD (cannabidiol), known for its anti-anxiety properties, also has the potential to alleviate the anxious and paranoid feelings associated with THC.
What is CBD?
Although CBD can only be found in small traces in many types of cannabis and hemp plants, there has been a great surge in CBD-potent strains and other CBD products. Even though it is found in the same plants as THC, CBD actually has no intoxicating effects and is widely used in medical marijuana for various remedies as long as it is properly isolated from THC. This is especially useful for those who are not recreational users of THC but need medical relief without the psychoactive symptoms. CBD is most widely known to combat anxiety but its other remedies include pain relief, anti-epileptic properties, and reducing high blood pressure.
How does CBD work with THC to relieve symptoms like paranoia and anxiety?
First, both CBD and THC act in the ECS (endocannabinoid system) in the body. The ECS consists of a network of receptors that bond with compounds to induce a myriad of effects depending on the receptor and compound that is interacting with each other. For instance, the THC binds with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS in order to produce the intoxicating high users feel along with the side effects that occur inevitably as well. Coincidentally, CBD binds to the same receptors a well. As CBD is a completely different compound, it also produces completely different results when bound to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. But because the receptors it interacts with are the same as THC, CBD directly counteracts the effects of THC when used simultaneously. While the interaction allows for THC’s painkilling properties to be enhanced and paranoia along with anxiety to be decreased, users have reported the high to be reduced as well. Therefore, mixing CBD and THC is good for consumers who want a more mellow high.
How should CBD and THC be mixed?
Researchers have found a 1:1 ratio of CBD and THC to be ideal. However, altering the proportion of each can help the user achieve a more customized effect if that’s what they’re looking for. For instance, a higher CBD content provides more clarity and less psychoactive effects while a higher THC content creates a more intense high. However, it should be noted by consumers that there are individual differences that must be accounted for. These include one’s physiology, genetics, and how their body metabolizes CBD and THC.