Canadian Scientists Uncover How CBD Blocks THC Side Effects

Researchers at Western University in Ontario, Canada, have for the first time documented the molecular mechanisms through which CBD blocks the psychiatric effects of THC from manifesting when someone consumes marijuana.

Previously, it was known that marijuana strains that contain a lot of THC and very little CBD trigger increased levels of psychiatric effects, such as anxiety, paranoia and addictive tendencies. However, it wasn’t understood why this happened until the researchers at Western University conducted their study.

The research team led by Steven Laviolette, PhD, used rats to study the role of a molecule inside the brain called extracellular-signal regulated kinase (ERK). This molecule is found inside the hippocampus and its stimulation results in the psychiatric effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

The study shows that when rats are given THC, they have more activated ERK molecules in their brains. These rats also displayed higher levels of anxiety and were more responsive to fear-based learning.

In contrast, the rats that were given both THC and CBD had normal levels of activated ERK. These rats didn’t display elevated levels of anxiety and they were not as sensitive to fear-based learning as their counterparts that only got THC.

On the basis of these findings, the Western University researchers assert that cannabidiol (CBD) blocks the tendency of THC to cause ERK molecules to be overstimulated. Consequently, the negative side-effects of THC are prevented once this neurotransmission pathway isn’t activated.

Laviolette asserts that their findings have far-reaching consequences in terms of how medical marijuana is prescribed and how it can be used long-term. For example, he cites the category of people who are susceptible to exhibiting marijuana-related side effects as being likely to benefit more when they are given marijuana that is high in CBD and low in THC in order to avoid crossing the threshold where these individuals display the adverse side effects of THC.

Another notable finding of the study pointed out by Roger Hudson, the lead author of the research, is that on its own, CBD doesn’t have any effect on the ERK pathway. However, when CBD is administered alongside THC, there is a reversal in the way the ERK pathway is stimulated.

The researchers revealed that they are going to conduct further investigation into the specific features of the ERK pathway and how cannabis acts on each feature. They also plan to look into how CBD therapies can be more effective and how the side-effects of THC can be minimized in medical marijuana therapies.

Experts believe CBD industry companies like Geyser Brands Inc. (TSX.V: GYSR) and Grapefruit Boulevard Investments Inc. (OTCQB: IGNG) are pleased that the scientific community is confirming what the industry has always stated to be the benefits of CBD.

About CBDWire

CBDWire (CBDW) is a specialized information provider focused on (1) reporting CBD-related news and updates, (2) releasing CBDNewsBreaks crafted to keep investors abreast of the latest and greatest in the CBD market, (3) refining and enhancing corporate press releases, (4) delivering end-to-end distribution and social media services to client-partners and (5) constructing effective corporate communication solutions based on the unique requirements of CBD companies. CBDW is exclusively positioned in the burgeoning CBD sector with a proven team of journalists and researchers working to deliver high quality content to an expansive target audience of investors, consumers and industry news outlets. Our dissemination network of over 5,000 downstream distribution points allows us to deliver unparalleled reach, visibility and recognition to companies operating in both cannabidiol and the wider cannabis space. CBDWire (CBDW) is where CBD news, content and information converge.

To receive instant SMS alerts, text CBDWire to 21000 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information please visit https://www.cbdwire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CBDWire website applicable to all content provided by CBDW, wherever published or re-published: https://CBDWire.com/Disclaimer

Do you have a questions or are you interested in working with CNW? Ask Our Editor

CBDWire (CBDW)
Denver, Colorado
www.cbdwire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CBDWire.com

Archives

Select A Month

CBDWire Currently Accepts

Bitcoin

Bitcoin

Bitcoin Cash

Bitcoin Cash

Doge Coin

Dogecoin

Ethereum

Ethereum

Litecoin

Litecoin

USD Coin

USD Coin

Contact us: 303.498.7722