A so-called miracle-cure derived from pot is getting national over-the-counter distribution from CVS and Walgreens drugstores.
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of many compounds that can be found in marijuana, but unlike THC, it doesn't get you high. It's been touted as an anti inflammatory that can relieve pain, everything from arthritis to menstrual cramps. But Dr. Benjamin Springgate, professor at LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine, says most of the claims of CBDs benefits are anecdotal. "It's generally marketed using the looser guidelines associated with supplements," said Dr. Springgate. "As of now, we don't really have the scientific evidence for the majority of these claims."
Dr. Springgate says research has shown it effective in treating a specific childhood seizure disorder, but the broader claims still need scientific testing.
The CBD in the products CVS will sell are made from legal hemp plants, but earlier this month, the Louisiana ATC notified retailers that products containing CBD, whether taken from hemp or marijuana, are illegal in Louisiana.