Can CBD Have Negative Side Effects?

Several studies have discovered a myriad of health benefits of CBD cannabidiol oil prompting its explosion in production and use in the health and wellness field. It can alleviate the symptoms of such health conditions and diseases, such as anxiety, chronic pain, Multiple Sclerosis and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

This particular cannabinoid derived from the hemp plant has been shown to have healing properties — without the psychoactive effects of THC.

But as beneficial as CBD oil has been shown to be, are there any drawbacks to using it?

The Effects of CBD Oil Are Generally Safe For All

Before we go into the potential drawbacks of CBD oil consumption, it is important to note that this cannabinoid has been found to be safe for use by everyone.

That is because it is not psychoactive like THC, and its side effects are minimal. In fact, any side effects of CBD that may occur are typically not very common. Many users claim no side effects at all.

CBD is considered non-toxic for humans, even in high doses. Several studies have uncovered evidence to support this claim. Even doses as high as 1,500 mg per day can be tolerated.  

CBD hemp oil does not produce the psychoactive effects that THC does. Hemp naturally has low levels of THC, and therefore the CBD oil that is extracted from this plant is also typically low in this psychoactive component. Since CBD oil only contains minimal levels of THC, it is safe for consumption without the risk of intoxication.

As safe as cannabidiol oil may be, the quality of the CBD products plays a role in whether or not users experience any side effects. Pure CBD oil that is extracted using high-quality methods and hemp plants cultivated in rich soil tends to be more effective and less likely to cause any side effects.  

That said, there are small chances that CBD oil may cause certain side effects though minor in nature and not detrimental to health in any way.

Here are some potential effects of cannabidiol that may be associated with CBD oil consumption.

Dry Mouth

Also referred to as "cottonmouth," dry mouth is a common side effect of consuming CBD and other cannabinoids.

Scientific research behind the use of CBD oil and its potential link to dry mouth can be better explained by understanding its effect on the nervous system. Dry mouth is mainly caused by anandamide — which is an endocannabinoid.

Some studies have suggested that the submandibular gland which produces more than 60% of the saliva in the mouth, has cannabinoid receptors. Anandamide has been found to bind to these receptors and therefore inhibit the production of saliva by impeding on the production of compounds needed to produce it.

Anandamide blocks the signals from the nervous system to produce saliva, leading to dry mouth.

Low Blood Pressure

CBD oil has been found to help lower blood pressure in those who are at risk of heart disease and diabetes. But as helpful as this may be for people with high blood pressure, it may be a minor issue for those whose blood pressure at normal levels.

High doses of CBD oil can cause a slight drop in blood pressure, which can be associated with lightheadedness and dizziness. However, this side effect does not last for very long and can be quickly rectified by drinking a caffeinated beverage.

Drowsiness

Sometimes CBD oil consumption can cause bouts of drowsiness especially when taken in higher quantities. As such, some people who react to CBD oil in this way should refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery.

That said, CBD oil typically does not induce feelings of drowsiness. For the few people who do experience drowsiness as a result of taking CBD oil, reducing the dosage can typically alleviate these symptoms.

In the majority of cases when the dosage is appropriate, CBD oil is actually more likely to evoke a state of wakefulness and increase energy.

Interaction With Pharmaceutical Medication

Anyone who is considering adding CBD oil to their regimen would be well-advised to consult with their doctor first. That is because there is a slight chance that CBD oil may interfere with any pharmaceutical medication that they may be taking.

High doses of CBD may inhibit the activity of P450 enzymes in the liver which are tasked with breaking down the majority of pharmaceutical drugs for human consumption. If taken in high quantities, CBD oil could neutralize P450 enzyme activity. Although temporary, it can impact how drugs are broken down in the body.

That said, these effects are minor and typically subside rather quickly.

There are plenty of studies that suggest that CBD hemp oil is safe for human consumption. Anyone can safely take CBD oil — including children. But just like with any other type of supplement, it's always important to understand the potential CBD oil effects.

The potential side effects associated with CBD are not hazardous, nor are they common. You can still seek out CBD oil to satisfy your particular purpose without fear of it being harmful.

Forms of CBD Administration

As mentioned you should always consult a doctor if you experience any illness from using CBD products. There are a variety of CBD administration methods to choose from that might diminish some if any side effects that you may experience. 

For a more targeted relief, CBD balms are great as they don't need to be ingested to work. NanoCraft CBD also creates quality CBD powders, CBD oil pills, and CBD infused water which just leave it up to preference on how people want to find relief.

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