Cannabidiol (CBD)
/kan-uh-bih-DY-ol/
A non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid found in Cannabis sativa. The second most abundant cannabinoid in most cannabis strains.
In Depth
CBD does not directly bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors with high affinity. Its anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and anticonvulsant effects are mediated through multiple mechanisms including 5-HT1A serotonin receptor agonism, TRPV1 channel modulation, GPR55 antagonism, and inhibition of adenosine reuptake. The FDA approved Epidiolex (pharmaceutical-grade CBD) in 2018 for Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome — the first cannabis-derived drug approval in US history.
Further Reading
More in Cannabinoids
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
The primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis. A partial agonist at CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Cannabigerol (CBG)
A non-intoxicating cannabinoid often called the "mother cannabinoid" — the biosynthetic precursor from which THC, CBD, and CBC are synthesized.
Cannabinol (CBN)
A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid formed by the oxidative degradation of THC. Accumulates as cannabis ages or is exposed to heat and light.
Cannabichromene (CBC)
A non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid that does not bind significantly to CB1 or CB2 receptors but interacts with TRP channels.
Phytocannabinoid
Any cannabinoid produced naturally by the cannabis plant. Distinct from endocannabinoids (produced by the body) and synthetic cannabinoids.