Use of CBD — cannabidiol, the non-psychoactive component in cannabis — has exploded in the last few years.

But while it’s marketed as a solution for stress, anxiety, insomnia, and pain, the Food and Drug Administration can’t say it’s safe. NPR health correspondent Allison Aubrey helps parse the science behind a new set of government warnings about CBD.

This episode was produced by Brent Baughman and edited by Viet Le.

Short Wave Podcast

It’s science for everyone, using a lot of creativity and a little humor. Join host Maddie Sofia for science on a different wavelength.