What is CBD? Risks, Benefits, Effects, and Medical Uses
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of many compounds found in the cannabis plant that has gained popularity in recent years for its potential health benefits, such as relief from pain, anxiety, inflammation, and epilepsy. However, there are also many misconceptions and myths about CBD that can confuse or discourage people from trying it. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about CBD and clear up some of the confusion.
How Does It Work?
CBD works by interacting with your endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a complex network of receptors and molecules that regulate various physiological processes in your body. The ECS consists of two main types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2.
CBD does not directly bind to either CB1 or CB2 receptors but rather influences their activity indirectly. For example, CBD may prevent the breakdown of anandamide, an endocannabinoid that binds to CB1 receptors and modulates mood, pain perception, memory, and appetite. CBD may also enhance the activity of other endocannabinoids or non-endocannabinoid molecules that bind to CB2 receptors and modulate inflammation, immune response, and cell survival.
Additionally, CBD may interact with other receptors and channels that are not part of the ECS but are involved in various biological functions. For example, CBD may activate serotonin receptors (5-HT1A) that regulate mood and anxiety; vanilloid receptors (TRPV1) that mediate pain and temperature sensation; glycine receptors that modulate inhibitory neurotransmission; and PPAR-gamma receptors that regulate gene expression and metabolism.
Will CBD Get Me High?
One of the most common questions people have about CBD is whether it will make them feel intoxicated or high. The short answer is no. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that does not affect your brain in the same way as THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. CBD may have some calming or relaxing effects, but it does not impair your cognition, memory, or judgment. In fact, some studies suggest that CBD may counteract some of the negative effects of THC, such as anxiety or paranoia.
What Are The Potential Benefits of CBD?
CBD has been shown to have various therapeutic effects for different conditions and symptoms. Some of the most common ones are:
- Pain management: CBD can reduce inflammation and modulate pain signals in the nervous system. It can help with chronic pain, neuropathic pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and more.
- Anxiety relief: CBD can calm the mind and body by affecting serotonin receptors and reducing stress hormones. It can help with generalized anxiety disorders, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more.
- Epilepsy treatment and symptom relief: CBD can reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in some forms of epilepsy, especially in children. It can help with Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and more.
- Cancer treatment: CBD may help fight cancer by inducing apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells, inhibiting angiogenesis (blood vessel formation) in tumors, preventing metastasis (spread) of cancer cells to other organs, and enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs. CBD may also help reduce some of the side effects of cancer treatment such as nausea, vomiting
- Neuroprotection: CBD can protect the brain from damage and degeneration caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, or trauma. It can help with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke, and more.
- Anti-acne: CBD can regulate sebum production and prevent inflammation in the skin. It can help with acne vulgaris, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and more.
These are just some of the possible benefits of CBD. However, more research is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy for different conditions and populations.
Is CBD Safe?
CBD is generally considered safe by most experts and organizations when used appropriately and responsibly. However, there are some risks and limitations associated with using CBD that you should be aware of before trying it. Some of these risks are:
• Lack of regulation: The FDA does not regulate CBD products (with the exception of Epidiolex), which means there is no guarantee of their quality, purity, potency, or safety. There is a possibility that some products may contain contaminants, such as pesticides, heavy metals, or THC, which can cause adverse effects or drug interactions.
• Interactions With Other Medications: CBD can interact with some medications, such as blood thinners, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and opioids, and alter their effectiveness or cause side effects. You should consult your doctor before using CBD if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter drugs.
• Side Effects: CBD can cause some mild to moderate side effects. These side effects are usually temporary and depend on the dose, method of administration, and individual sensitivity. You should start with a low dose and increase gradually until you find the optimal amount for your needs.
What Are the Possible Side Effects and Interactions of CBD?
CBD is generally well-tolerated by most people, but it may cause some mild to moderate side effects in some cases.
Some of the most common side effects are:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Reduced appetite
- Changes in mood
- Low blood pressure
These CBD side effects are generally dose-dependent and can vary depending on an individual’s sensitivity, metabolism, and mode of consumption. Most of these side effects can be avoided or minimized by starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it until the desired effects are achieved.
CBD may also interact with some medications and supplements, either enhancing or reducing their effects.
Some of the medications that may interact with CBD are:
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotics
- Anticonvulsants
- Antihistamines
- Blood thinners
- Opioids
- NSAIDs
If you are taking any of these medications or any other prescription or over-the-counter drugs, you should consult with your doctor before using CBD to avoid any potential adverse reactions or complications.
What is The Best Method to Consume CBD?
CBD is a versatile compound that can be consumed in different ways to suit your needs and preferences.
Here are some of the most popular ways to consume CBD and their benefits and drawbacks:
• CBD Oils and Tinctures:
These are liquid forms of CBD that can be placed under your tongue or mixed with your food or drink. They are absorbed quickly by the mucous membranes in your mouth and enter your bloodstream directly.
This allows you to feel the effects of CBD within minutes and to adjust your dosage easily by using a dropper or a spray. However, some people may not like the taste or texture of oils and tinctures, and they may interact with some medications or supplements.
• CBD Capsules and Pills:
These are solid forms of CBD that can be swallowed with water. They are discreet and convenient, as you can take them anywhere and anytime without drawing attention. They also have a fixed dosage, so you don’t have to worry about measuring or calculating how much CBD you are taking.
However, capsules and pills may take longer to work, as they have to pass through your digestive system before reaching your bloodstream. They may also have lower bioavailability, which means less CBD is absorbed by your body.
• CBD Edibles:
These are foods or drinks that contain CBD, such as chewing gum, gummies, chocolates, cookies, or candies. They are delicious and fun, as you can enjoy a variety of flavors and shapes while consuming CBD. They also have a longer-lasting effect, as the CBD is released slowly into your bloodstream over time.
However, edibles may have varying effects depending on your metabolism and digestion, as different people may absorb and process CBD differently. They may also have higher calorie and sugar content, which may not be suitable for some diets or health conditions.
• CBD Vapes:
These are devices that heat up CBD into a vapor that you can inhale. They provide fast effects, as the CBD reaches your lungs and bloodstream within seconds. They also allow you to customize your experience by choosing different flavors, strengths, and temperatures of CBD.
However, vapes may have some risks for your lungs and throat, as they may contain harmful additives or contaminants that can cause irritation or inflammation. They may also be illegal or regulated in some places, so you should check the local laws before using them.
• CBD Topicals:
These are products that you can apply to your skin, such as creams, lotions, balms, or patches. They provide targeted relief for specific areas of pain or inflammation, such as joints, muscles, or skin conditions. They also have a low risk of side effects or interactions, as they do not enter your bloodstream but only affect the local receptors on your skin.
However, topicals may not reach your bloodstream at all, which means they may not have any effect on your mood or mental state. They may also take longer to work or require repeated applications to maintain their effectiveness.
How Should I Dose It?
There is no universal dosage guideline for CBD, as the optimal dose may vary depending on several factors such as:
- The reason for using CBD
- The severity of symptoms
- The body weight
- The metabolism
- The bioavailability
Bioavailability refers to how much of a substance reaches the bloodstream after being consumed or applied. Different modes of consumption have different bioavailability rates, which affect how much CBD you need to take to achieve the desired effects.
As a general rule of thumb, you should start with a low dose (such as 5 mg to 10 mg) and increase it gradually until you find the optimal dose that provides you with the desired effects without causing any unwanted side effects.
You should also monitor your response to CBD closely and adjust your dose accordingly if you experience any changes in your symptoms or condition. Keep track of how long it takes for CBD to kick in and how long it lasts depending on your mode of consumption. For Example:
| Mode | Onset | Duration |
| Sublingual | 15 to 30 minutes | 4 to 6 hours |
| Oral | 30 minutes to 2 hours | 6 to 8 hours |
| Inhalation | 5 to 10 minutes | 2 to 4 hours |
| Topical | 15 to 30 minutes | 4 to 6 hours |
Is CBD Legal?
The legal status of CBD varies depending on where you live and where it comes from. In the United States, CBD derived from hemp (with no more than 0.3% THC) is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, some states have more restrictive laws regarding CBD use and possession. CBD derived from non-hemp cannabis plants (with more than 0.3% THC) is still illegal under federal law and in most states. Therefore, you should check your local laws before buying or using CBD products.
Where Can I Find CBD Products?
You can find CBD products online or in physical stores such as dispensaries, health food shops, pharmacies, or wellness centers. However, not all cannabis products are created equal. You should look for products that are tested by third-party labs for quality, purity, potency, and safety.
Check the ingredients list and the label for information such as the amount of CBD per serving, the type of CBD (isolate, full-spectrum, or broad-spectrum), the source of hemp (organic or non-organic), and the extraction method (CO2 or solvent).
Will CBD Show Up on a Drug Test?
CBD itself will not appear in a drug test that checks for marijuana use. However, some products that contain CBD may also contain trace amounts of THC which could trigger a positive result. This is more likely if you use high doses of CBD or products that are not properly labeled or tested. Therefore, if you are subject to drug testing for work or other reasons, you should be cautious about using CBD products or avoid them altogether.
So, Is CBD Bad for You?
CBD is a promising natural remedy for various health issues, but it is not a miracle cure or a one-size-fits-all solution. You should do your own research and consult your doctor before trying CBD to make sure it is safe and effective for you. You should also be aware of the potential side effects and interactions of CBD and choose high-quality products from reputable sources.
FAQs
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the many compounds found in cannabis plants. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, CBD does not cause intoxication or euphoria. However, CBD is still considered a drug by some authorities, depending on its source, legality, and medical use.
CBD has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a prescription drug for the treatment of two rare forms of epilepsy: Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. The drug, called Epidiolex, is a purified form of CBD that has been shown to reduce seizures in clinical trials.
CBD has also been studied for its potential benefits for various health conditions, such as anxiety, pain, inflammation, neurodegenerative disorders, addiction, and cancer. However, more research is needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of CBD for these conditions and to determine the optimal dosage and delivery method.
CBD does not cause a high or intoxication. According to the World Health Organization, CBD has no evidence of abuse or dependence potential. CBD may even have some benefits for treating drug addiction. CBD products derived from hemp plants are legal in most countries and can be purchased online or in stores.
CBD has been shown to have various effects on the brain, such as reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and improving mood. CBD interacts with different receptors and neurotransmitters in the brain, modulating their activity and influencing various functions. CBD may also have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties, which could benefit people with neurological disorders or brain injuries.
CBD can be extracted from hemp or non-hemp cannabis plants using different methods. Some of the most common methods are:
- CO2 extraction: This method uses pressurized carbon dioxide to separate CBD and other compounds from the plant material. This method produces a pure and potent CBD oil that is free of solvents and contaminants.
- Ethanol extraction: This method uses ethanol (alcohol) to dissolve CBD and other compounds from the plant material. This method can produce a full-spectrum CBD oil that contains other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, but it may also leave some traces of ethanol in the final product.
- Oil extraction: This method involves infusing CBD-rich plant material with carrier oil, such as olive or coconut oil. This method produces a simple and natural CBD oil that can be easily consumed or applied topically.
Some of the benefits of CBD are:
- It may pain relief and inflammation by interacting with the endocannabinoid system.
- It may help with anxiety and depression by modulating serotonin levels in the brain.
- It may improve sleep quality and duration by affecting the circadian rhythm.
- It may protect the brain from neurodegeneration and oxidative stress by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
- It may lower blood pressure and improve heart health by relaxing blood vessels and reducing oxidative stress.
- It may support the immune system and fight infections by enhancing the activity of natural killer cells and cytokines.
- It may reduce seizures and epilepsy by stabilizing neuronal activity and modulating calcium channels.
- It may help with substance abuse and addiction by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
- It may improve skin health and appearance by regulating sebum production and reducing inflammation.
- It may enhance mood and cognition by increasing neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity.
The number of gummies you should take depends on several factors, such as your body weight, the concentration of CBD in each gummy, and the reason you are taking them. There is no universal dosage for CBD, so you should start with a low amount and increase gradually until you find the optimal dose for your needs.
The short answer is yes. CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, but not the only one. There are over 100 different cannabinoids in cannabis, each with its own effects and benefits. Some of the most well-known ones are THC, CBG, CBN, and CBC. Medical marijuana products may contain varying amounts and ratios of these cannabinoids, depending on the strain and extraction method used.
Vaping CBD is a popular way of consuming cannabinoids, but it may not be as safe as it seems. According to some experts and existing evidence, CBD itself is largely safe even when vaped, but the problem lies in the other ingredients and additives that may be present in the vaping products. Some of these substances, such as vitamin E acetate, can cause serious lung damage and even death.
Therefore, it is important to only use high-quality and unadulterated CBD tinctures to vape and to avoid any products that are sourced from illicit or unregulated markets. Vaping CBD may also have some side effects, such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or changes in appetite.
If you have any medical conditions or take any medications, you should consult your doctor before vaping CBD. Vaping CBD is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or people with heart problems.
There is no definitive answer to how much CBD you should vape, as different factors such as your body weight, metabolism, and CBD concentration may affect your optimal dosage. However, some general guidelines are to start low and increase gradually until you find the amount that works best for you.
A typical starting dose is 1-2 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight, but you can adjust it according to your needs and preferences. You should also consult your doctor before using CBD, especially if you have any medical conditions or take any medications that may interact with it.
While CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, there is no definitive answer to how much CBD is too much. The optimal dose of CBD may vary depending on factors such as your body weight, metabolism, genetics, and the type and quality of CBD product you use.
Some people may experience mild side effects from taking too much CBD, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, or changes in appetite or mood. These effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own. However, in rare cases, taking extremely high doses of CBD may cause more serious problems
Therefore, it is advisable to start with a low dose of CBD and gradually increase it until you find the dose that works best for you. You should also monitor your symptoms and reactions and stop using CBD if you experience any adverse effects or signs of overdose.
