Is CBD Cannabidiol Safe
Cannabidiol (CBD) comes from the buds and flowers of the hemp or marijuana plant. During the processing, the manufacturers dilute it in a specific carrier oil such as hemp seed or coconut oil. You can find different CBD forms for your needs depending on state regulations. However, the common forms include extracts, oils, oil-based capsules, and vaporized liquids. Furthermore, in some states, you can find CBD in drinks, food, and drinks at high-end cocktail bars or 24-hours gas stations.
With its non-intoxicating and non-toxic properties, CBD is gaining attention and popularity in various wellness and health communities. These communities consider CBD a natural remedy to alleviate ailments like chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and skin inflammation. This cannabinoid doesn’t result in a ‘high’ feeling like THC. In 2007, a World Health Organization report revealed that CBD doesn't have any potential for dependence and abuse. Furthermore, there is no evidence of public health issues from pure CBD use. But is it safe to use CBD?
Up to now, a CBD-infused epileptic seizure medication is the only CBD product that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has researched and approved for use. FDA only approves CBD-infused medication or drugs for childhood epilepsy. However, the medical community has an enormous task to reduce or eliminate the other potential CBD risks.
Besides the scant evidence on the numerous claims of CBD working as a wonder herb, experts don’t have enough information on this compound. Furthermore, research is yet to reveal the chemical compounds in the other 103 cannabinoids interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Various emerging trials based on animals provide promising results on using CBD for sleep aid, antidepressant, antipsychotics, etc. nevertheless, the little information doesn’t guarantee the safety of using these chemicals.
Besides the above research, most individuals view CBD and other cannabinoids as non-toxic. Before getting more evidence, CBD products remain safe for human consumption and with numerous health benefits.
CBD is usually safe for most individuals with its high and well-tolerated nature. However, it may affect some individuals, especially those allergic to the marijuana plant. Besides the few allergic individuals, CBD has no dangerous or notable effects. Furthermore, the survey shows little to zero reported lethal overdose cases. Reports indicate that humans can tolerate chronic doses and use approximately 1500mg/day.
CBD is becoming popular among most individuals seeking relief or alleviating various symptoms or conditions. These products alleviate the conditions without the adverse and mind-altering effects of THC and pharmaceutical drugs. The law considers CBD products, especially those full-spectrum, having less than 3% THC to be legal. With their non-toxic nature, you can use them while operating heavy machinery or driving. However, like other medications, you must stick to the recommended dose.
Potential Drug Interactions and Side Effects
Despite being safe, consuming CBD may result in various undesirable effects, such as drowsiness, fatigue, reduced appetite, diarrhea, and dry mouth. Before using the products, it’ll be wise to understand these side effects. Although driving after taking CBD isn’t dangerous, overdoing it may increase the risk. Some researchers are studying if the drug can be an effective sleep aid. Nonetheless, feeling sleepy may not be wise if you're driving.
Drug interaction is another major issue when using CBD products. An epilepsy study revealed that patients reported increased blood levels after using CBD and antiepileptic drugs. Thus, it’s evident that CBD has the potential to react with various medications and substances and medications, including sleeping pills or blood thinners. Therefore, it’ll be vital to consult your physician before using CBD products and seek immediate help once you experience adverse symptoms.
In addition, despite not being common, a pure CBD extract contains an excess marijuana weed odor. While it’s not unpleasant, the odor raises concern and risks in social functions or situations, leading to stigmatization and issues at professional workplaces. Manufacturers control the smell by placing CBD skin products into carrier lotions having essential oils or perfumes.
Is Lack of Regulations a Potential Concern?
FDA is yet to start regulating products like CBD oil due to the legally ambiguous state of the cannabis industry in the state. Despite most states working hard to put standards and regulations in place, they lack the resources to enforce them locally.
In 2017 a certain study on the purity and quality of CBD products found that 7 out of 10 products had a different weed amount than the indicated one. The amount of weed was different from the indicated amount on the label. Another study reported that approximately 43% of the CBD products had little CBD content, while 26% had excess CBD. Even worse, 1 in 5 products contained different THC amounts.
CBD use will remain buyer beware until authorities place a consumer protection measure to curb poor quality or unsafe products from reaching the marketplace. Based on the stigma issue, since the legislatures passed the 2018 US Farm Bill that made CBD legal in all states, most individuals consider CBD products. Furthermore, we should expect more researchers, funding, and fewer stigma cases with medical and recreational cannabis programs expanding across the country.
Experts advise that you consult your physician first if you’re planning to use CBD products. Besides the physician consultation, you can also check various sources providing credible information or guidelines on CBD use.
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