People like unwinding from a long day of work or completing daily tasks. Many people consume CBD to feel relaxed while also experiencing other benefits from hemp-derived products. Some people take it every day, and may wonder what could happen if you take too much CBD. You shouldn’t experience any negative effects from CBD, and if you do, they are usually very mild.
CBD is seen as an alternative wellness product, and it is natural to wonder about appropriate dosages and side effects before trying something new. Out of all the things people can put inside their bodies, CBD is one of the best, thanks to its health benefits. If you are wondering about the possibility of a CBD overdose, the side effects, and more, read on further to get a clearer understanding of how CBD is far more helpful than harmful.
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Is CBD Safe?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is usually well-tolerated and highly regarded for providing a variety of benefits. It is all-natural and not synthetic like other wellness products.
CBD is produced in the trichomes on hemp plant buds. If you have ever seen a close-up picture of hemp flower, the trichomes are the little white hairs all over the buds. It works naturally with a person’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), responsible for maintaining overall mental and physical balance.
After consuming CBD, people can experience any of the following benefits:
- Soothes Physical Discomfort: As people get older, they accumulate different body aches and joint tenderness. According to a study, researchers have seen that CBD consumption can help alleviate physical swelling and soreness.
- Eases Nervousness: Nervous behavior and negative thoughts are common symptoms millions of people experience sometimes. This study from a group of medical researchers shows the connection between CBD and stressed behaviors. People with racing thoughts seek CBD to help them unwind.
- Promotes Natural Sleep: The best way to start any day is by having a full night’s worth of sleep. It is common for a lot of people to have less than the recommended amount of sleep. With CBD, people can enjoy a boost in natural sleep.
- Balances Natural Digestion: Stomach problems make it difficult to get through the day. CBD can help promote natural digestion and can soothe an upset stomach.
- Enhances Mood: People who have trouble getting into an uplifting vibe use CBD to boost their mood.
Effectiveness
For minor issues, you can see results almost immediately. More persistent issues can show results after a few days to weeks of consumption. The effectiveness depends on the severity of the ailment, potency, dosage, and method of consumption.
CBD has plenty of benefits it can provide, but a few minor side effects can occur. Side effects are more commonly seen during first-time consumption or when a consumer takes extremely high doses.
What Happens if You Take Too Much CBD?
If you take too much CBD, there are some side effects you may experience, just like with anything you try for the first time. If you have any questions regarding taking it with your current prescription medications, consult with your medical doctor.
Here is a breakdown of the possible side effects from taking a large dose of CBD:
- Dry Mouth: Consumption can lead to a dry sensation which can increase thirst. You can alleviate this side effect by drinking a glass of water or any other thirst-quenching beverage.
- Drowsiness: If you are consuming in large doses, you may feel tired or sleepy. If you are feeling drowsy, it may be best to take a moment to rest or nap. Sleeping or consuming caffeine can clear any drowsiness.
- Upset Stomach: Our bodies are built to naturally protect from foreign substances entering the body. Consuming too much can cause symptoms of an upset stomach, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
These side effects are also less likely to occur with repeated consumption. Under extreme cases, non-stop vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration if you are not drinking enough water. You can treat these side effects at home, but you can always seek further diagnosis from a healthcare professional.
A recent study showed that there are not any connections between abrupt stoppage of CBD consumption and drug withdrawal symptoms. You can calmly take a break and not worry about dealing with any side effects associated with withdrawals.
Is It Possible to Overdose on CBD?
No, there have not been any reported overdoses on CBD. Accidentally consuming way too much will only cause the side effects mentioned in the previous section.
According to multiple researchers, twenty thousand milligrams or 20 grams of pure CBD oil can be considered a lethal dose for people. A person would need to consume all that oil in one sitting. Even if a person does it, which is hard to imagine, they will not experience an overdose.
Instead of experiencing any potentially fatal symptoms, consumers will feel heavy drowsiness, upset stomach, or increased thirst. The best way to lower the chance of experiencing major side effects is by consuming in small doses.
It is best to seek products from reputable brands that are transparent with their inventory. Some manufacturers can make their products infused with CBD extracts from imported hemp containing pesticides. Other CBD products can contain harmful byproducts that may cause adverse reactions.
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
To avoid taking too much CBD oil, it helps to know how potent a product is. Since the FDA has not established guidelines for CBD products, hemp brands submit their products for testing with a third-party laboratory. The lab tests the product for cannabinoid content and potency, and publishes the results on a COA.
Can You Get Addicted to CBD?
No, consumers cannot become addicted to CBD. Too many drug interactions have led to addiction problems for many people. Consumers can have peace of mind knowing that it is not addictive.
The main reason why it is not addictive is that it is non-intoxicating. CBD consumption does not alter body chemistry which is one of the causes of addiction. Many addictive substances will cause a rise in body temperature, increased heart rate, altered decision-making, and impaired motor function.
CBD is non-intoxicating, which is when a substance alters brain function and causes a release of chemicals. People enjoy things that release endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine which are mental hormones responsible for altering moods in the brain. It can cause a state of tranquility but will not leave people chemically dependent on it.
What’s the Difference Between CBD & THC?
Although both CBD and THC have been around for decades, a lot of the general public gets these two cannabinoids confused. These naturally occurring cannabinoids can affect consumers, but there are more differences than similarities between the two.
Here is a breakdown of the differences between CBD and THC:
- THC is psychoactive: THC is the active ingredient in marijuana which can leave consumers feeling high. THC binds to receptors of the ECS to produce a different chemical reaction than CBD does. The effect is intoxicating for consumers.
- More potential side effects with THC: People can tolerate the side effects from CBD, but THC has other unfavorable effects. Inhaling marijuana vapor may irritate the lungs. THC consumption can cause red eyes, altered perception of reality, impaired memory, and increased heart rate.
- CBD is federally legal, THC is not: While the 2018 Farm Bill made hemp-derived CBD legal, THC-rich marijuana is still considered a controlled substance and is illegal under the federal government. Some states have legalized or decriminalized marijuana for medicinal and recreational consumption.
- THC may be addictive: Since THC alters body chemistry, it can potentially be addictive for some people. Another thing to consider is that drug tests check for THC consumption and not for CBD.
If you live in a state where marijuana is legal, be cautious not to purchase and consume CBD products like CBD gummies, CBD flower that may contain THC. Individual states have different laws regarding marijuana.
How to Find the Right CBD Dosage
Knowing how much CBD to consume is important, which is why it helps to find the right dosage. The appropriate dosage is different for each individual and depends on the following factors:
- Previous consumption or tolerance
- Weight and overall size of a person
- The potency of the product
- Type of ailment consume is looking to alleviate
If you are new to CBD, it’s best to start low and work your way up until you find the right dosage level. The best way to find the right dosage is by following the dosage chart provided by Hollyweed CBD. A standard way to measure a dose is 0.25mg per 1 lb of body weight for a regular dose and 0.5mg per 1 lb for a strong dose. With so many types of CBD products, the recommended dosage is different for each one.
Final Thoughts – What Happens if You Take Too Much CBD?
It is normal for consumers to have questions or concerns about trying new wellness products because too many available products have questionable side effects. It is nearly impossible to overdose from taking too much CBD and there is no risk of addiction.
Although consuming too much can cause minor side effects, the positive benefits of CBD far outweigh the possible temporary negative effects. It is best to follow the dosing guides that some brands provide for their products. If you want to learn more about CBD-infused products, check out Hollyweed!
