6 Side Effects of CBD Oil You Deserve to Know
It's no secret that CBD has become a popular supplement among people who are looking for natural relief from various health conditions or ailments. While research is still being done on its effectiveness and potential uses, early studies and anecdotal evidence seems to suggest that there are many benefits to taking it.
However, with its strong suite of benefits also exists some potential side effects that are worth looking at. This article will explore the various known side effects of using CBD, to help you make an informed decision if it's the right supplement for you.
A Brief Background on CBD Oil
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is also found in cannabis and is responsible for the "high" feeling associated with marijuana use, CBD does not appear to have any psychoactive effects. This means that it does not alter your state of mind, cause euphoria, or change your behavior in any way.
CBD is primarily used for medicinal purposes and has shown promise when it comes to treating a variety of medical conditions such as:
- Chronic pain (e.g., arthritis, migraines)
- Anxiety and depression disorders
- Insomnia
- Acne and other skin problems
It's also known that CBD can help reduce side effects associated with chemotherapy like nausea and vomiting, while at the same time improving appetite. These are just some examples; there are anecdotal reports of other benefits from CBD users but these are the most common.
Side Effects of CBD Oil: What You Need to Know
While side effects from using CBD can be rare, they do exist. Here are some reported side effects of CBD.
1. Dry Mouth and Eyes
One side effect that CBD users commonly experience is dry mouth and eyes. It's not exactly known how or why this happens, but some researchers believe it has something to do with the way cannabidiol interacts with your endocannabinoid system (a series of receptors throughout your body).
While these side effects can often be treated by drinking more water and staying properly hydrated, it's also possible to reduce or eliminate side effects by changing the CBD dosage.
If you're experiencing this side effect, consider lowering your daily dose little by little to find the sweet spot for your body's tolerance.
2. Drowsiness/Fatigue
While not necessarily "negative" side effects per se (as many people seek these kinds of side effects), fatigue and drowsiness are side effects of CBD sleep gummies that can affect your daily activities.
If CBD-induced drowsiness is an issue, consider taking the supplement earlier in the day (or before bed) and avoid taking too much of it. In fact, studies even show that lower doses of CBD help focus and alertness.
3. Appetite Suppression
Another side effect that CBD users sometimes experience is a decrease in appetite. This can be a good thing if you're struggling with weight loss or obesity, but it can also be frustrating if you're trying to increase your caloric intake.
If you're using CBD for weight loss purposes, make sure you eat enough calories to meet your daily intake and monitor how it affects your appetite.
4. Reduced Blood Pressure
While many people use CBD as a way to lower their blood pressure naturally, there are some side effects associated with doing so, like dizziness or feeling faint. Again, dosage adjustment should do the trick here but talk about this side effect with your doctor first just in case they think something else might work better for you specifically.
CBD decreased blood pressure in individuals who were resting and under stress, according to findings from a 2017 study published in the National Library of Medicine.
5. Interactions With Other Medications
As with any other medication or supplement, it's important to be aware of potential interactions between CBD and other medications you might be taking.
For example, someone who uses blood-thinning medication shouldn't take CBD because it can slow down clotting time (and increase the risk of bleeding).
It's especially critical to consult your doctor before using CBD if you're taking other medications, as a potential side effect of using CBD is that it might interact with other medications.
6. Diarrhea
While it's not a common side effect, diarrhea is one potential side effect of taking CBD. This side effect is usually caused by taking too much CBD or using a product that's high in THC.
If you're experiencing diarrhea after using CBD, try lowering your dosage and/or switching to THC-free CBD products.
Reduce Your Risk of CBD Side Effects With These Tips
While side effects from using CBD can be rare, they do exist. Here are some of the best ways to reduce or eliminate side effects when using CBD:
Start Slowly
As with most supplements, it's best to start off slowly when taking CBD. This will allow your body time to adjust and help minimize any potential side effects.
Adjust Dosage
As mentioned earlier, adjusting your dosage may help lessen certain side effects like fatigue or drowsiness. If these effects persist after a few days of trying different dosages, talk to your doctor.
Take It Earlier In the Day
Side effects like fatigue and drowsiness are most likely to occur if you take CBD later in the day (or at night). Try taking them earlier instead; doing so may make all the difference.
Buy CBD From Trusted Sources
Not all CBD products are created equal. Make sure the company you're buying from has good reviews and a solid reputation, like Just Live. This helps eliminate the risk of buying poor quality CBD that could bring about some undesirable effects.
Consult Your Doctor
If you're taking other medications or have any health concerns, it's always best to consult your doctor before using CBD. They can help determine whether CBD might interact with your medication and help you avoid side effects.
Learn More About CBD
We hope this article has helped you better understand the side effects of CBD and how to reduce them. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us through our contact page.
If you're looking for more information about CBD, be sure to check out our blog. We cover a variety of topics related to CBD, from the benefits to side effects and everything in between.
