CBD use in the United States has skyrocketed since the first deregulation of hemp-derived compounds in 2014. Yet, while 64% of Americans are familiar with CBD and the potential medical benefits, many retailers fail to discuss CBD side effects.

In this article, we explore the adverse effects related to cannabidiol. While they are rare, and most people (and animals) tolerate large amounts of CBD well, it is still essential to be conscious of the possible side effects, especially when using it for the first time.

CBD Side Effects

One of CBD's most appealing qualities is it doesn't lead to intoxication. As a result, medical patients can take CBD during the day to overcome various ailments without worrying about being high or failing a drug test.

However, CBD is a powerful compound that clearly impacts the endocannabinoid system. In addition, everyone is different and will have a unique experience after taking CBD.

Below are the most common CBD side effects. While they are rare, it's still important to monitor these outcomes when using CBD for the first time, increasing your dosage, or changing administration methods.

Drowsiness

CBD's broad range of benefits complicates things. For example, while some people take CBD before bed to get better quality sleep, others use CBD during the day to lower stress.

The CBD user looking to improve their sleep-wake cycle would call drowsiness a benefit. On the other hand, the user looking to relieve anxiety during work would call it an adverse side-effect.

We recommend monitoring results and scaling back your CBD dosage if you experience extreme drowsiness. Even if you take CBD for sleep, pay attention to how you feel the next day. If you feel groggy or have trouble concentrating, you may want to lower your dose.

Nausea

Experiencing nausea is a more clear-cut CBD side effect. However, the amount and administration method play a significant role in how CBD makes you feel.

If you experience nausea, you should lower your dosage or try another form of administration.

Digestive Issues

While rare, some people have reported experiencing diarrhea or liver problems. If you experience diarrhea, abdominal pain, or swelling after taking CBD, stop using the product and consult your doctor.

Dry Mouth or Throat

Dry mouth is a much less severe side effect than liver damage but should also be considered when using CBD.

Sublingual administration requires absorption through the mucosal glands in the mouth. According to CFAH, CBD can reach the cannabinoid receptors in your "salivary gland, inhibiting saliva secretion and causing dry mouth."

CBD and Other Medications

If you take other medications, you should consult with your doctor before introducing CBD to your daily routine. CBD may interact with other drugs and create adverse effects.

The Dangers of Smoking CBD

We highly recommend avoiding smoking CBD if possible. Smokable hemp flower and vape oil are becoming more common and readily available.

The effects of hot smoke entering the lungs typically outweigh the benefits of CBD. Below are other side effects associated with the two most popular ways to smoke cannabidiol.

Smokable Flower

When you smoke hemp flower, you consume far more than just CBD, other cannabinoids, and terpenes. Plant matter ends up in your lungs, creating possible long-term side effects and unnecessary strain on your respiratory system. 

CBD Vape Oil

CBD vape oil has unique areas of concern due to the lack of regulation in the industry. Vape oil manufacturers include additives like vitamin E acetate that can lead to serious health complications.

How to Avoid CBD Side Effects

While CBD has known side effects, they are substantially mild than the consequences of abusing prescription drugs.

CBD use:

• Doesn’t lead to addictive behavior
• Won't get you high
• Has rare and relatively mild side effects

Still, it's important to avoid adverse reactions when possible. Below are the steps we recommend taking if you are new to CBD, changing your administration method, or switching retailers.

Start Slow

Begin your new CBD regimen with a small dose between 5-10mgs. Then, keep using your product daily for at least one week.

We should note that different administration methods lead to various absorption rates. For example, if you take a 10mg CBD brownie, your body will use a significantly lower amount of the active ingredients than 10mg of sublingual CBD tinctures.

While it's important to be aware of absorption rates, we still recommend sticking with a daily dose of under 10mg when you are getting started. Most people find their ideal dose between 25-75mgs. You can worry about absorption once your body has proven to tolerate CBD well.

Increase Dosage After 1 Week

Bump up your dosage by 5-10mg after using it daily for at least one week.

Monitor Results

Throughout the process, be sure to monitor results. Identify your goals and be conscious of how well your CBD meets your expectations.

We recommend keeping a journal to track your dosage and how well your CBD handles your specific condition.

Learn More About CBD with CannaCubans

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