In a recent KPBS feature, Dr. Igor Grant, Director of the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research, commented on the promise and complexity of cannabis science. He discussed findings from a UCSD study investigating cannabidiol (CBD) for managing severe autism-related behaviors. Although not definitive, the results were encouraging—about two-thirds of participants receiving CBD showed clinical improvement, compared to one-third in the placebo group. Grant also reflected on society’s fascination with cannabis, suggesting its psychoactive effects may have fueled scientific interest more than its therapeutic potential. He noted that many plants contain bioactive compounds and questioned whether cannabis is uniquely deserving of its current attention. Nonetheless, the evolving science continues to explore its therapeutic possibilities.

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