// Definition
The scientific debate over whether CBD converts to THC and other cannabinoids (CBN, etc.) when exposed to gastric acid in the human stomach. In-vitro studies (2007, and a more recent Japanese study) showed CBD converts under acidic conditions with surfactants, but Dr. Ethan Russo and clinical data from a 700mg/6-week trial found no THC or THC metabolites in blood plasma, suggesting the conversion does not occur practically in the human body.
// From the Episode
Mark Scialdone explained the thermodynamics: CBD + acid = chemistry you can't stop in a flask, but the body must have intervening mechanisms (oil phase absorption, mucosal transport, conjugation). The 2007 study by Watanabe showed four degradation products including CBN. Key question: was CBD administered in gel caps (reaching stomach acid) or sublingually (absorbed before stomach)? Russo presented findings at Simon Fraser University. Discussed across both EP126 parts.
// Source
Ep. 126 Hash Church CXXIII 123 →