potential side effects of cbd consumption
Described as the alternative jack of trades of the health sector, CBD is a go-to product for people struggling with a variety of health issues. From a supportive ally for individuals going through chemotherapy to a soothing anti-anxiety product, it’s easy to understand the ever-growing popularity of CBD Oil. According to a recent survey, almost two-thirds of the American population are familiar with CBD products. Consumer Reports estimate that 64 million U.S. citizens have used CBD in the last 24 months. Over one-fifth agrees that CBD fully supplements or replaces prescribed and over-the-counter medications. In other words, the positive effects of CBD continue to appeal to an ever-growing audience.
However, we can’t discuss cannabinoids without mentioning the potential side effects of CBD consumption. Indeed, too many individuals assume that there are no risks to using CBD because it is extracted from a natural plant. In reality, every product you consume could present potentially harmful effects. Therefore, before jumping onto the CBD bandwagon, it’s essential to do your homework.
is cbd safe to use?
The World Health Organization (The WHO) reports “there is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with the use of CBD.” In other words, the WHO describes CBD as safe to use.
Still, it’s worth researching the safety of any CBD product before you purchase. Not all CBD products are created equal so always review the Certificate of Analysis (COA) to ensure what is and isn’t in the product first. You should review the percentage of CBD and other cannabinoids present in the product in addition to ensuring the absence of pesticides, heavy metals, molds and mildews.
Further, learn where the manufacturer’s hemp farms are located and whether they follow their state regulations and requirements. But don’t stop your research there. Review the credentials of the manufacturing operations to ensure they are cGMP compliant.
Unfortunately, the FDA is still struggling to establish standard regulations on CBD products. This means that consumers need to be extra vigilant and savvy. Do compare suppliers, brands and product information before you purchase. And as always, consult with your physician first.
will I get high from from CBD?
Since CBD comes from cannabis, there is a lot of public misconception that CBD will also get you high like the other well-known cannabinoid THC. Let’s clear the air, once more. CBD is not psychoactive and you will not get high from CBD. There are many cannabinoids naturally found in cannabis, and each compound produces varying effects. While THC is associated with feelings of intoxication, CBD doesn’t elicit the same effects.
common side effects of cbd
The body already produces endogenous cannabinoids referred to as endocannabinoids. As such, our body recognizes CBD and other cannabinoids when they are consumed. With many things, you can still have too much of a good thing, and here we examine the potential side effects of CBD.
drowsiness
In some cases, CBD may make you feel sleepy, almost acting as a sedative, and why many use it specifically for promoting healthier sleeping patterns. California-based physician Bonni Goldstein did further explains in Cannabis Is Medicine that a low dosage of CBD alone is unlikely to act as a sedative for most adults.
However, if you are using a CBD product that also contains THC (like Full Spectrum CBD Gummies), you may experience sleepiness as a result. THC can cause drowsiness even in lower quantities like 0.3%.
It is worth mentioning that everyone will react to cannabinoids differently. So, it’s important to first try a low dose of CBD to determine the best time and dosage for your needs.
Furthermore, if you have naturally low blood pressure, this could exacerbate feelings of being tired and sleepy. But the good news is CBD may also lower blood pressure.
Gastrointestinal irritation
CBD is often recommended for IBS, so it can seem surprising that it may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. However, different factors will affect your reaction to CBD, such as your age, genes, gender, weight, and metabolism rate. More importantly, your choice of CBD dosage and the type of CBD Oil (pure, broad spectrum, or full spectrum) will also impact the way your body absorbs the cannabinoids and thus, the effects you experience.
As CBD binds with CB1 receptors, it may reduce inflammation in the stomach, excess gastric acid, and reflux. As most CBD Oils have a carrier oil or essential oil flavor, this could conversely lead to stomach issues. It’s worth experimenting with different brands and flavors.
dry mouth
People who use marijuana often complain about dry mouth. But how is this possible with CBD products? You may want to check if your product also contains some traces of THC, as it’s most likely the cause.
A 2006 study also reveals that CBD may play a role in reducing saliva production. You could consider different methods of taking CBD, such as switching to edible gummies rather than oils, for example. A different brand could also have a list of ingredients that agrees more with your body.
Can CBD Interact With Other Medications?
CBD may interfere with the medication metabolism, slowing down the metabolizing process or speeding it up. If the body metabolizes too slowly, this results in increased levels of medication at one time, which could have harmful side effects. On the other hand, if the body metabolizes too quickly, you may not receive benefit from the prescribed dose of medication. As always, it is best to first consult with your physician before starting a CBD regimen.
liver damage
A study revealed that high CBD doses can damage the liver. The experiment conducted on lab mice showed that high doses—the equivalent of 200mg per kg of human body weigh—caused liver toxicity. This study begged the question, “What are the real risks for everyday users?”
First of all, the dose doesn’t reflect any realistic scenario. While it highlights the risks of a CBD overdose, it remains a hypothetical scenario. The recommended dosage ranges from 0.5mg/kg/day to 20mg/kg/day. In other words, if you follow the recommendations for CBD use, injury to the liver may be an unlikely risk.
nausea
Many studies report people finding that CBD Oil drops may make them nauseous. More often than not, drops taken on an empty stomach may have an unpleasant reaction. As such, doctors recommend taking CBD shortly after a meal to ensure best absorption without the adverse effects of CBD.
Additionally, essential oil may be mixed with CBD Oil to mask the bitter hemp taste. People may have a heightened sense of nausea due to the specific essential oil flavor. And last but not least, sensitive stomachs may prefer smaller dosages so we also recommend initially starting with a small CBD dose and working your way up. Alternatively, you could also try taking other forms of CBD like CBD edibles.
vomitting
Can CBD make you feel sick? The answer is typically no, but excessive amounts or improper use could lead to nausea and vomiting.
Poor quality CBD from a non-tested source could also be the cause of your stomach problem. We advise against buying cheap CBD products. Again always check the product’s COA and research where the original hemp plant is grown.
dizziness
As mentioned, CBD may lower your blood pressure so if you have low blood pressure, it may make you feel lightheaded. The dizzy spell usually doesn’t last more than a few minutes in most cases. However, if it is a common occurrence, we suggest switching to a lower dose of CBD. Additionally, it is worth discussing the issue with your doctor, as it could highlight an undiagnosed blood pressure problem.
is cbd intoxicating?
For those in the back… unlike the THC compound, CBD does not have psychoactive properties. You will not experience a “high” sensation from using CBD products. CBD and THC also have a synergistic effect when taken together, as CBD inhibits the psychoactive reaction from THC. It’s a marriage made in heaven.
is cbd addictive?
According to the WHO, “CBD is not associated with abuse potential”. In fact, CBD may have a beneficial effect on individuals who are treating drug addiction. It may even prevent relapse and assist in the detoxification process.
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benefits of CBD
Used in moderation and with appropriate instructions, CBD Oil may be highly effective for:
- Pain relief
- Inflammation treatment
- Cancer-related symptoms
- Anxiety relief
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes risk management
- Alzheimer’s disease management
- Digestive help and IBS
- Addiction disorders
- Epilepsy treatment
- And more
CBD dosage
The majority of reported side effects from CBD relate to misuse. It’s essential to understand what a healthy dosage is for you.
You can reference easy-to-use cbd dosage charts to help understand the ideal amount you need to achieve the desired effect based on your weight. However, it’s worth noting, different factors will further affect dosage, including your age, tolerance to CBD, and unique body chemistry.
bottomline
CBD is still an unregulated compound, so do your research and talk to your physician first.
While the Farm Bill legalizes hemp production, there’s still a long way to go to establish FDA regulations regarding CBD products, packaging, and marketing. The FDA still treats CBD products as cannabis-derived compounds, which means it hasn’t verified any of the health claims made by said products. And the risks of adverse CBD effects tend to arise as a direct result of poor labeling, inappropriate product information, and individual misuse.
If you wish to use CBD Oil to support your health conditions, we strongly recommend discussing your options with a family doctor first. Your doctor may advise against certain CBD suppliers or forms. Additionally, they can also help define the right dosage and product for your needs. Or they may shed more light on potential negative interactions with your current medication. Either way, it is important to consult with your physician first for your safety.
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