The popularity of CBD has surged in the past years due to its therapeutic properties, but some are still concerned about the potential side effects even though it’s a natural product.
The market is heavily saturated with plenty of options to choose from like CBD infused gummies, high strength oils, balms, and more. As the industry undergoes more product innovation and demand, it’s important to be educated on all things cannabinoids.
Health Benefits
It is estimated that 14% of adults in the United States use CBD products. It’s no wonder that such a big chunk of the population turns to CBD for relief. With the many benefits of CBD and fewer side effects that come with it than prescription drugs, demand is higher than ever.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is most popular among the chronic pain community and in those that seek inflammation relief. Different studies indicate that CBD may have many benefits. This includes relieving pain and inflammation, supporting stress and anxiety, and helping manage chronic conditions (i.e., multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, Lennox Gastaut syndrome, etc.) and irregular sleep patterns.
Since CBD products are not approved by the food and drug administration (FDA), the so-called benefits are anecdotally derived. While some scientific research has been conducted to better understand the effects of CBD oil, there is no concrete evidence yet.
Many of the positive stories we hear about CBD are based on personal and individual experiences.
Even though CBD is natural, it’s good to be educated and aware of what the potential positive and negative effects could be. So, does CBD have any side effects and if so, what are they?
Side Effects
Cannabidiol is usually very easy to tolerate as the body processes it through the endocannabinoid system. Due to its miniscule or non-existent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, side effects are less common and serious than those associated with marijuana.
Side effects can be divided into two categories in this case: common and of low severity and rare and of high severity.
For the most part, the most common side effects of cannabidiol use include:
- dry mouth
- changes in appetite
- changes in digestion
- sleepiness/drowsiness
- mood changes (although these can be positive mood changes too)
All these common side effects are temporary and can be reversed, diminished, or prevented. Like many dietary supplements, doses of CBD vary from person to person because there is no set dosage and it’s highly personal.
We recommend you seek medical advice from your own doctor/physician. Since they know your medical history best and are up to date on scientific studies, they are your best guides.
Your physician also understands how cannabidiol will interact with other prescription medications you may be taking. If you are taking medications that won’t have negative interactions, then maybe you can get advice on how much you should take.
The rare and more severe side effect of consuming cannabidiol is liver injury. However, these sorts of cases are associated with those that take the prescription form of CBD that is FDA approved, aka Epidiolex.
Usually if you just take an average dose and don’t overdo it, you lower the risk of developing a severe side effect.
Preventing Side Effects
One of the most important things you can do to prevent side effects is choose a high-quality CBD oil. While that sometimes means spending a little extra money or spending more time finding the perfect brand for you, the extra effort is well worth it.
Always buy your CBD products from a reputable brand. Here are some things to look for:
- glass/ceramic bottles that are dark or solid in color to prevent light from coming in
- QR codes on products that take you to lab results
- certificates of analyses that show you test results for all their products
- CBD concentration stated front & center on the labels
- broad spectrum or full spectrum CBD (if they don’t say the type, steer clear)
- blogs and articles that discuss the science of CBD
- average prices that aren’t too low or high
- satisfaction guarantee
Another thing you can do to prevent side effects is starting slow with the dosing. With CBD, the key is to be modest with the dosage, patient with the benefits, and consistent with consumption.
CBD takes time to work itself through your system, so before giving up, make sure you’ve given your body ample time to adjust.
This means that when you first purchase a CBD product, ensure you start slowly by taking a bit a few times a week. Stay consistent with a dose for a week and if your body is comfortable, increase the dosage.
Here’s a good rule of thumb. If you’re starting with a cannabidiol oil tincture, start with half a dropper of oil 3 times per week. Build that up in frequency throughout the week and over time increase your way to a full dropper.
Always stay in tune with your body’s signals and cues.
Choosing The Right CBD Product
All CBD products work differently. If you want faster and stronger results, go for purchasing tinctures. Since the oil is dropped sublingually (under the tongue), the glands absorb the oil and take it to the bloodstream quickest.
Consumables like gel caps, gummies, syrups, and more have to pass through the digestive system which means the positive effects will take longer to be felt.
Balms, creams, and lotions are also fast acting as there are cannabinoid receptors on the skin that drink up the CBD applied to the skin. These products are best for musculoskeletal and localized pain.
Support the Endocannabinoid System
Our bodies have an endocannabinoid system which is a biological system in our bodies helping interact with the CBD we consume.
This system works best when the body is calm and not under stress. Ensure that when you take CBD, you are taking other measures to support your body.
The ECS thrives when you eat pro/prebiotic, fiber, and healthy fat rich foods. Exercise also helps ease tension in the body enhancing ECS function. Take whatever measures you prefer to calm your nervous system. This could include walks in the park, beach days, and other self-care rituals.
ReThink Is Here to Help
We hope this blog has helped ease some of your concerns and any questions that may have been lingering.
We are always here to answer any questions you may have. Our team is happy to help you start and navigate your CBD journey. Feel free to send us an email or call our customer service line to discuss your options and questions.