Three Reasons to Give High-CBD Strains a Go

THC may get a lot of press, but CBD is no slouch. It’s the second most prolific cannabinoid in the cannabis plant (yes, behind THC), but unlike its famous sibling, CBD doesn’t have intoxicating properties. That’s a huge deal, because it makes cannabis accessible to a whole swath of folks who can really benefit from its therapeutic benefits and might otherwise avoid it. In honor of National CBD Month, we’re highlighting three reasons to give high-CBD strains a go.

MEDICINAL & WELLNESS BENEFITS

Abundant anecdotal evidence of cannabis as a viable treatment for all kinds of health issues, the most interesting scientific research involves childhood epilepsy syndromes. In multiple studies, CBD has been shown effectively reduce or even stop seizures. That helped lay the groundwork for Epidiolex, the very first cannabis-derived medicine approved by the FDA back in 2018.

We’re still woefully lacking in clinical studies, but those we do have show the promise of CBD as a treatment for chronic pain. CBD has a modulating effect on endocannabinoid receptors in the body, which can effectively block pain. Another series of studies links CBD to a reduction in anxiety. Promising, for sure, but evidence that clinical studies are sorely needed to explore how exactly CBD helps manage pain and anxiety.

On the wellness front, CBD aligns beautifully with the idea of complete physical, mental and social well-being. The idea of wellness is best viewed as an evolving process — it’s the sum of all those choices we make day in and day out. From stress relief to better sleep, a way to relax or a method of enhancing focus and creativity, a high-CBD strain can work wonders.

THE NON-INTOXICATING FACTOR

While some people adore THC precisely because it can induce altered states, others are drawn to CBD because it doesn’t bring about that characteristic cerebral high. Keep in mind that some people can still experience some level of psychoactivity, usually in the form of a “buzzy” sensation or an energized cerebral effect, but it’s not comparable to THC. And for some people, that’s really important.

TWO IS BETTER THAN ONE

Anyone looking into cannabis will hear about the entourage effect sooner or later. It’s a theory based on the idea that the various effects of terpenes and cannabinoids in the cannabis plant are more effective when they’re consumed together. The idea is the brainchild of Rafael Mechoulam, an Israeli chemist who identified THC as the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. His studies into the various interactions of different cannabis compounds led to the entourage effect label, which is really an extension of whole-plant medicine. This approach to medicine operates from the belief that medicinal substances are most effective in their whole, natural state.

By choosing strains high in CBD and low in THC — what’s known as a full-spectrum cannabis product — you’ll experience the entourage effect for yourself. That means you’ll consume all of the complementary compounds that are thought to enhance the medicinal and recreational effects of cannabis. You can shoot for a more balanced effect with a 1:1 CBD to THC ratio, but if you’re concerned about psychoactivity, a 1:8 THC to CBD ratio is a best bet. We highly recommend giving a high-CBD strain a go (National CBD Month or not!), and our budtenders are always happy to offer tips and suggestions.

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