Cannabinoids

PhytochemicalCannabinoid

What is it

Cannabinoids are a class of compounds found in cannabis (and produced endogenously by humans). The most known are THC (psychoactive) and CBD (non-psychoactive). In supplements, hemp-derived cannabinoids (especially CBD and minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBN) are available where legal.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Drug-resistant epilepsy (CBD)

Strong Evidence

Strong RCT evidence supports CBD (Epidiolex) for Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis-related seizures. This is FDA-approved.

Chronic pain / anxiety / sleep (OTC CBD)

Limited Evidence

Evidence is modest and inconsistent for OTC CBD products. Product quality varies dramatically; some labels are inaccurate.

How it works

Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system, primarily through CB1 (mostly central nervous system) and CB2 (mostly peripheral and immune) receptors. CBD does not significantly bind to CB1/CB2 but has multiple other receptor effects (5-HT1A, TRPV1, GPR55), producing anxiolytic and anti-seizure effects. Clinical evidence is strongest for CBD in certain seizure disorders (FDA-approved Epidiolex). Evidence for chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep is more modest, with significant variability in product quality and CBD content.

Dosage

CBD doses vary widely: 25-300 mg per day is common in trials. Epidiolex uses up to 20 mg/kg/day. Hemp-derived OTC products often contain less CBD than labeled.

When and how to take it

WHEN: Depends on application; sleep-focused doses often at night, pain-focused doses divided through the day. HOW: Sublingual oil holds under tongue for 60 seconds; capsules with water.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

CBD oil (full-spectrum or isolate)

Most common consumer form.

Sublingual administration improves absorption.

CBD gummies / capsules

Easier dosing but less efficient absorption.

Lower bioavailability due to first-pass metabolism.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Common side effects include drowsiness, diarrhea, appetite changes, and dry mouth. CBD can elevate liver enzymes at high doses. THC has additional cognitive and psychiatric concerns; legal status varies.

Who should be cautious

Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use cautiously with liver disease and prescription medications. Verify legality in your jurisdiction. Choose third-party tested products due to label inaccuracy.

Interactions

CBD inhibits CYP3A4 and CYP2C9, affecting many medications including warfarin, certain seizure medications, and immunosuppressants. Theoretical interactions with sedatives.

Frequently asked questions

Is CBD legal?⌄

In the US, hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC is federally legal but state laws vary. Marijuana-derived cannabinoids have different legal status.

Will CBD show up on a drug test?⌄

Pure CBD should not, but many products contain trace THC that can accumulate with regular use. Choose isolate or broad-spectrum if drug testing is a concern.

References

Cannabinoids on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Cannabinoids (ChEBI:67194) — ChEBI link

Cannabinoids on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Cannabinoids (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Cannabinoids with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.