Hemp oil is a natural food supplement, which is widely used for a variety of health problems and discomforts. But with the growing interest in its main ingredient Cannabidiol (CBD), there’s also been a rising demand for more information about the cannabinoid. One of the questions we’ve been asked regularly by first-time users for example is in regards to the downsides of hemp. In other words, what are the possible side-effects of CBD oil? Let’s find out:
Benefits of CBD oil
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the many active cannabinoids found in hemp. In combination with aromatic terpenes, these vegetal cannabinoids are known to have an amazing impact on our bodies. Thanks to their unique interaction with our body’s own endocannabinoid system (ECS), it appears cannabinoids like CBD help regulate a variety of essential processes in the body. Accordingly, it is believed that this way the effects of CBD oil can help soothe a number of physical and mental health problems. Ranging from chronic pain due to inflammation or injuries, to anxiety and stress; and even certain forms of epilepsy in children.
The list of benefits that hemp oil might hold goes on and on. Mainly due to a growing interest in the product by both consumers and scientists worldwide. Because of this, we are also starting to understand more about the possible downsides hemp oil could have. Giving us insight into the possible side-effects of CBD oil, too…
CBD oil side-effects
Sure, the term ‘side-effects’ might sound a bit scary at first. However, there is no need to worry. Considering many common vitamins, minerals and other supplements can also have some side-effects. Not in the slightest because they’re toxic or dangerous; but simply because they impact the body in different ways. And keeping in mind the complexity of the human body; it is advisable to read up on the possible (side-)effects of a substance before you start taking it on a daily basis.
That also goes for hemp-derived food supplements such as CBD oil. Because studies show, that Cannabidiol does carry a few side-effects; which you might - or might not - have experienced yourself:
1. Dry mouth from CBD oil
One of the most common side-effects hemp oil with CBD can have is a dry mouth. This is because the cannabinoid interacts with receptors in the mouth’s mucous tissue, which are connected to the saliva glands. This interaction causes a temporary decrease in saliva-production, with a dry mouth as a result. Obviously, this is nothing to worry about. As it will only take a sip of water or juice to battle this feeling.
If the feeling of a dry mouth lingers with the use of regular CBD oil, there are a few other things you could try. One would be to not consume drops of hemp oil directly under the tongue. Instead, you could try our full-spectrum water soluble CBD product: CBDactive+. This product can be mixed in with water to drink, generally avoiding the direct interaction of the available Cannabidiol with the receptors in the mouth. Consequently decreasing the risk of having a dry mouth after ingesting the cannabinoid.
Another option to avoid ingestion altogether, is to try our topical CBD Patches. These allow for the active ingredient to be absorbed slowly through the skin, offering a long-lasting effect. Because the available Cannabidiol is absorbed directly through the skin; the chance of getting a dry mouth is minimal with the use of CBD Patches.
2. Fatigue
A less common - but nonetheless existing - side effect of CBD oil, is fatigue. Now we have to note that most CBD consumers notice quite the opposite: an increased focus and more balanced energy-levels due to the hemp supplement. Though there are some cases where consumers report to get tired and experience fatigue because of their CBD use.
If you do experience daytime fatigue because of your hemp oil consumption; then there’s a chance that you’re using too much of it at once. Try lowering your CBD dosage and build up your tolerance for CBD over the course of a few weeks. Then slowly increase your dosage, if you feel that’s necessary to reach the desired effects. Usually this tactic helps you reach the ‘sweet spot’ and find the right amount of cannabinoids for your needs. If that doesn’t help either, then you might be using the wrong product. Get in touch with our experienced CBD customer service if that’s the case! We’d love to help you find the best CBD products to suit your personal situation…
3. Change in appetite because of CBD
A more complex side-effect to explain is the possible impact of CBD on your appetite. As studies have shown, Cannabidiol interacts with certain parts of the brain which can have an impact on your appetite. By stimulating receptors that have to do with our mood-regulating hormones such as dopamine and serotonin - and hunger stimulating-transmitter Ghrelin - for instance; CBD is able to increase or decrease your appetite. After all, mood often affects appetite. With depression and stress causing either a decreased appetite or an increased craving for comfort food.
In short, CBD can either increase or decrease your appetite. So when you notice an undesired effect of the cannabinoid on your appetite, it is advisable to lower the daily CBD-intake until this gets back to normal.
4. Does CBD cause diarrhea and nausea?
Something that we also hear from time to time, is the fact that CBD could cause nausea or diarrhea. However, this is not because of the Cannabidiol or other active ingredients in the product. In fact, in most cases these side-effects are caused by the carrier oil the product contains. As traditional hemp oil consists of a hemp extract - like CBD Paste - and an oil to aid precise dosing and absorption of the ingredients by the body.
These carrier oils - often hemp seed oil, olive oil or MCT oil - all carry their own nutritional value as well. Considering they’re often full of healthy fatty acids and in some cases even vitamins. Though these oils can also irritate the stomachs tissue, especially in higher doses. As a result, consumers can experience diarrhea or nausea because of the CBD oil. When this happens, try lowering your dosage first and build up a tolerance for the ingredients. If that doesn’t help, you might be better off with products containing a different carrier oil - or no carrier oil at all. Contact us for advice, if you’re unsure what product to choose.
5. Lower blood pressure
For most people this is barely noticeable, if it is at all. But Cannabidiol in hemp oil can lower your blood pressure. Mainly because of CBD’s vasodilating properties. Obviously this is nothing to be worried about if your blood pressure is okay. But it’s definitely something you want to discuss with your physician if you already suffer from a low blood pressure. Also be careful when mixing CBD with other food supplements to lower your blood pressure; or consider switching to only CBD oil instead.
6. Dizziness
This potential side-effect of CBD oil can have three major causes. Firstly, dizziness because of CBD oil can be caused by a lower blood pressure, as explained above. However, this is not very common in individuals with no prior blood pressure issues. In most cases people get dizzy from CBD oil when the dosage is too high. After all, the substance does interact with signaling substances in the brain. Especially when you’re not use to Cannabidiol yet, a high concentrated CBD oil might induce a slightly light-headed feeling. Try lowering your dosage when this happens; and build it up over the course of a few weeks until you reach the desired effects.
CBD vs. Pharmaceutical meds
The last, but not least potential cause of dizziness with CBD, comes from the interaction the cannabinoid might have with other medication in the body. As we’ve explained in this previously published article, Cannabidiol might delay the break down of certain medication in the liver. Respectively pharmaceuticals and other substances that are broken down by the so-called P450 cytochrome enzymes. As a result, higher levels of those substances may remain in the blood when combined with large doses of CBD. With potentially dangerous consequences as a result, in case of heavy painkillers or certain forms of chemotherapy.
So if you’re already taking medication, be sure to research if these medicines interact with cannabinoids such as CBD in any way. If you’re not sure about it, always contact your physician for advice. Because regardless of our years of experience, we are no doctors and can in no way give you medical advice. Though we’re always willing to help you select the right product for your personal needs; and give experience-based tips on usage and dosing.
