A group of researchers at the University of California has demonstrated a novel method for creating synthetic CBD, which is not only as effective as its natural counterpart, but also more affordable.
The synthetic compound 8,9-dihydrocannabidiol (H2CBD) has also been produced in the past using natural CBD; however, the new process demonstrates an easy, cheaper and efficient way to create the compound without any cannabis-derived precursors.
This should serve as a boon for the remaining states where marijuana and CBD are still regulated substances.
One unique feature about H2CBD, as noted by researchers, is that it cannot be converted into psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) under any condition. While CBD isn’t in the practice of producing intoxicating effects, there are a few well-documented cases, wherein the compound has led to mild sedative effects. Some unlucky people have even failed drug tests and lost their jobs after consuming certain CBD products.
The mild sedative effects may be due to the reason that CBD is converted into THC inside the acidic environment of the stomach. H2CBD, on the other hand, cannot undergo such chemical conversion, so it can be utilized as am effective alternative to natural CBD.
“Unlike Cannabidiol (CBD), there is no way to convert H2CBD to intoxicating tetrahydrocannabinol (THC),” says Mark Mascal, one of the researchers working on the project. “It’s a much safer compound than CBD, with zero abuse potential and doesn’t need the cultivation of hemp.”
Apart from demonstrating the method, the researchers also tested the compound’s efficacy in treating seizures. Through a series of experiments on rats with lab-induced seizures, it was deduced that H2CBD was just as effective as CBD in reducing the severity and number of seizures.
However, a lot of human-based research is yet to be done for the compound, which may take months or even years.
