What Are the Side Effects of CBD? Is CBD Worth It?
Cannabidiol (CBD) has become one of the most popular natural wellness ingredients in the United States. Derived from the cannabis sativa plant, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound meaning it won’t make you feel “high.” You can find it in CBD oils, gummies, capsules, and topical creams that people use to support calm, focus, and overall well-being.
While many people report positive results, it’s important to understand the side effects of CBD and how it works before adding it to your daily routine. This article explores CBD oil side effects, safety research, and key factors that can influence your experience.
What Is Cannabidiol (CBD) and How Does It Work?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which produces psychoactive effects, CBD interacts with your body in a gentler, non-intoxicating way.
CBD works with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors that helps regulate mood, stress, appetite, and sleep. By supporting this system, CBD helps the body maintain homeostasis your internal balance.
Researchers have also studied the effects of CBD on several medical conditions, including multiple sclerosis, Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the prescription CBD drug Epidiolex for these seizure-related disorders, marking the first FDA-approved use of cannabidiol.
Is CBD Safe?
Generally, CBD is safe for most adults when used responsibly. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other global research organizations report that adverse effects are usually mild and temporary. However, because CBD can affect how the liver metabolizes medications, users should be cautious if they’re taking other prescriptions.
If you have health conditions such as psychiatric disorders, heart disease, or high blood pressure, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider before trying any CBD product.
CBD Side Effects: What Studies Reveal
While CBD is well-tolerated, it’s not completely free from side effects. Clinical research including studies used in the approval of Epidiolex shows that CBD can cause mild reactions such as fatigue, dry mouth, and reduced appetite.
Some reports also note adverse effects of CBD oil, including low blood pressure, dizziness, or digestive issues. These side effects are more likely at higher doses of CBD, when using contaminated products, or when CBD interacts with other drugs. Research in animal models also suggests that extremely high doses might impact liver enzymes, but such cases in humans are rare.
Overall, CBD side effects tend to be mild and short-lived. Choosing high-quality, third-party tested products and starting with a low dose can help reduce the risk of negative reactions.
Potential Side Effects of CBD Oil
Understanding the potential side effects of CBD oil helps you prepare for how your body might respond.
Common side effects include:
- Dry mouth due to reduced saliva production
- Drowsiness or fatigue, especially at higher doses
- Low blood pressure that can cause lightheadedness
- Diarrhea or mild digestive discomfort
- Appetite or mood changes
Most of these side effects of CBD oil are temporary and fade as your body adjusts. If they persist, consider lowering your dose or speaking with your doctor.
Factors That Affect CBD Side Effects
Several variables determine how your body reacts to CBD. Recognizing these can help you minimize unwanted effects and improve your results.
1. Dosage
The higher the dose of CBD, the greater the chance of side effects. Most mild reactions occur at doses above 1,500 mg much higher than the typical daily serving of 10–100 mg. Start with a low dose and increase slowly until you find your ideal balance.
2. Type of CBD Product
Different types of CBD affect the body in different ways:
- Full Spectrum CBD Oil: Contains all cannabinoids, terpenes, and trace THC (<0.3%). Offers the full “entourage effect.”
- Broad Spectrum CBD Oil: Includes multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but no THC.
- CBD Isolate: Pure cannabidiol with no other compounds.
Full-spectrum products may cause more noticeable side effects due to the traces of THC, while broad-spectrum and isolate CBD are often preferred by those who wish to avoid THC.
3. Method of Consumption
The way you take CBD influences its effects. Sublingual drops and softgels absorb efficiently, while edibles act more slowly but last longer. Topical CBD rarely causes side effects because it’s absorbed through the skin instead of the bloodstream.
4. Individual Factors
Your age, weight, metabolism, and overall health can affect how CBD interacts with your body. Older adults or people with slower metabolism may feel stronger effects even at lower doses.
5. Product Quality
The quality of your CBD product plays a major role. Poorly made oils may contain heavy metals, pesticides, or residual solvents that increase the risk of adverse effects. Always look for third-party lab reports and a Certificate of Analysis (COA) verifying purity, potency, and THC levels.
CBD Drug Interactions and Safety
CBD can interact with certain medications, particularly those metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver. This includes:
- Blood thinners
- Heart or blood pressure medications
- Antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs
- Seizure medications
Combining CBD with these drugs can cause adverse events or alter how your body processes medications. To ensure CBD safety, always discuss use with your healthcare provider before starting.
CBD Safety and Research in Animal Models
Scientific studies and animal models continue to explore CBD safety and its long-term effects. Thus far, research supports CBD as a well-tolerated compound even in high doses. However, more clinical studies are needed to fully understand its long-term use in humans.
The Drug Administration (FDA) continues to evaluate potential risks, including psychiatric disorders or liver changes associated with high CBD doses. Until more data is available, moderation and medical guidance remain essential.
When to See a Doctor
Discontinue CBD use and seek medical advice if you experience:
- Persistent dizziness or fatigue
- Severe digestive issues
- Major mood or behavior changes
- Signs of heart or liver stress
Even though CBD oil is available over the counter, it still interacts with your body’s natural systems so informed use is key.
Sum It Up: Are the Side Effects of CBD Worth It?
CBD offers potential benefits for balance, relaxation, and overall wellness, but it’s important to understand the possible side effects of CBD oil before diving in. While most people tolerate it well, dosage, product quality, and drug interactions can all influence your experience.
If you’re new to CBD, start with a low dose, choose lab-tested hemp-derived CBD products, and talk with your doctor before use especially if you take prescription medications.
At Zatural, all our CBD products are doctor-formulated, third-party tested, and made with organically grown hemp to ensure safety and purity. Explore our Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, and CBD Isolate collections to find the perfect product for your needs.
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*FDA DISCLAIMER -These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.