CBD Oil Side Effects: What to Know Before You Try CBD Oil

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Reviewed by Lisa Blohm, PhD, MSN, RN

IN THIS ARTICLE

CBD oil has been the talk of the town, gaining widespread attention for its numerous benefits. We’re excited about it because there is so much CBD oil can do! 

But as the saying goes, nothing’s perfect.

Quick Takeaways:

• CBD oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate chronic pain conditions, offering a natural alternative to traditional pain medications.
• Generally, CBD oil has minimal side effects.
• Overdosing on CBD oil is highly unlikely.
• Interaction with other medications is possible but rare.
• CBD oil generally doesn’t make you feel spacey

Benefits of CBD Oil

The therapeutic benefits of CBD (Cannabidiol) have garnered significant attention in recent years, with a growing body of scientific research supporting its potential advantages. Many users and studies report that CBD can effectively alleviate chronic pain conditions, reduce anxiety and stress, and improve sleep quality. In certain cases, it has shown promise in treating more severe conditions like epilepsy, with some patients experiencing a reduction in seizure frequency.

One of our commenters, Paul Turner, praises CBD for helping him with shoulder bursitis and even allowing him to discontinue his use of over-the-counter pain relievers. He says,

“I started to take CBD after I had a hard time sleeping due to bursitis in the shoulder. My trips to physical therapy only aggravated the pain issues from inflammation. My doctor and PT prescribed ibuprofen but when I used their prescribed dosage, it caused me more gastric problems than normal. Since using CBD sublingual at 5 drops of 300 mg at night, it seemed to help me get through the night and I stopped completely the use of over the counter pain relievers. An added unexpected benefit of daily nightly CBD use, was that my Gerd symptoms (that I had for years) disappeared and allowed me to stop taking Prilosec daily. For pain during the day, I use CBD as needed. I think CBD is a great natural alternative to pills.”

Does CBD Oil Make You Feel Spacey?

Many users report feeling relaxed or calm after taking CBD oil. However, some individuals report experiencing a “spacey” or disoriented feeling. It’s important to note that CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t make you “high.” However, the sensation of feeling “spacey” is subjective and may differ from person to person. If you’re concerned about this, start with a low dose and monitor your reactions.

More on What You Need to Know About CBD Oil Side Effects

Let’s set the record straight: CBD oil is generally considered to be a “safe substance,” even by stringent government standards. 

In fact, whole cannabis, from which CBD is derived, is also seen as an extremely safe drug. It’s virtually impossible for an adult human to ingest a fatal dose, although excessive use can certainly make you feel uncomfortable.

However, our bodies can react differently to substances. So while CBD has a commendable safety profile, individual responses can vary. 

Here, we’re diving into the commonly reported side effects, as backed by scientific research and consumer testimonials. Even without the official “a-okay”, the feedback on this supplement is overwhelmingly positive, affirming that CBD is a remarkably safe supplement with minimal side effects.

Dry Mouth Concerns with CBD Oil 

Dry mouth is a commonly reported side effect when using CBD oil. While it’s mostly a minor inconvenience that will likely make you drink a bit more water, it’s worth understanding the science behind it. Research indicates that the endocannabinoid system’s CB1 and CB2 receptors, found in saliva glands, could be responsible for this effect. When activated, these receptors may reduce saliva production, causing dry mouth.

Blood pressure and CBD Oil

While CBD oil is generally well-tolerated, it can lead to a slight drop in blood pressure for some people, particularly when taken in high doses. You may experience mild lightheadedness for a few minutes as your body adjusts. Importantly, if you have a history of blood pressure issues or are on medication for it, consult your healthcare provider before incorporating CBD oil into your routine.

Dizziness

Some individuals may experience a brief sensation of lightheadedness or dizziness after taking CBD oil. This is often linked to the minor blood pressure drop discussed earlier, but it can also occur independently. The feeling is usually temporary and can be likened to the dizziness you feel when standing up too fast. If you encounter this, taking a moment to sit down to enjoy a beverage or a light snack can typically alleviate the sensation.”

CBD Oil and Nausea: A Double-Edged Sword?

While CBD oil is frequently used to combat nausea, some reports we’ve heard and read say that some people experience stomach discomfort after ingesting it. A handful of our customers have experienced this, but it is very uncommon. If you do experience mild nausea, it generally passes swiftly and can often be managed by lowering your CBD dosage or taking your CBD with food.

Does CBD Oil Cause Gas?

In addition to nausea, some users are concerned about the possibility of experiencing gas after taking CBD oil. Although this side effect is less commonly reported, it does appear in some testimonials. Just like with nausea, these reports are not yet backed by scientific studies. If you find that CBD oil is causing you gastrointestinal discomfort, including gas, consider adjusting your dosage or consulting your healthcare provider.

Drowsiness and CBD Oil: A Timing Matter

CBD oil’s effects can vary depending on the dosage. At low doses, it’s known for inducing relaxation and reducing pain or anxiety—factors that could contribute to sleep issues. However, at higher doses, CBD oil can cause drowsiness. It is often used as a sleep aid. So, if you find that it makes you sleepy, you may want to adjust the timing of your dosage. For instance, consider taking it later in the day rather than before driving or operating machinery. Also, remember that the effects may take a few hours to set in.

Increased tremors in Parkinson’s disease

For those with Parkinson’s Disease, caution is advised when considering CBD oil. Initial studies indicated that high doses of CBD could exacerbate muscle tremors related to the condition. However, more recent studies suggest that low doses could be both safe and beneficial. Given the conflicting evidence, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice before trying CBD oil, especially if you’re already managing a medical condition like Parkinson’s.

Headaches and CBD Oil: Quality Matters

While many find relief from headaches and migraines using CBD oil, some report headaches as a side effect. If you fall into the latter group, the culprit may be the quality of your CBD oil or the presence of solvents like ethanol and isopropanol, to which some people are sensitive. 

Switching to a higher-quality, hemp-based CBD oil may resolve this issue. Keep in mind that individual reactions can vary, so it’s possible that CBD just may not be the right solution for you. On the scientific front, ongoing research continues to affirm the safety and potential benefits of CBD oil, despite regulatory challenges.

Drugs to Avoid When Taking CBD Oil

While CBD oil is generally considered safe, it can interact with certain medications by affecting liver enzymes responsible for drug metabolism. In simpler terms, high doses of CBD could temporarily disable these enzymes, altering how your medications work.

This interaction is similar to why you’re advised not to eat grapefruit with certain medications; some substances just don’t mix well.

So, if you’re on any prescription drugs, such as blood thinners, antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs, blood pressure medications, or others, consult your pharmacist or primary care physician before adding CBD oil to your regimen to prevent potential complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

To recap, here are the questions we are asked most commonly about CBD Oil:

Does CBD Oil Make You Feel Spacey?

No, CBD oil generally does not make you feel “spacey.” It is non-psychoactive, unlike its counterpart THC. However, some users have reported feeling slightly different after consumption, which could vary from person to person.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of CBD Oil?

The most commonly reported side effects include dry mouth, a slight drop in blood pressure, and mild dizziness. Most of these are temporary and quickly resolve on their own.

Does CBD Oil Cause Gas or Other Gastrointestinal Issues?

While CBD oil is often used to aid digestion and alleviate nausea, some users have reported stomach discomfort or gas.

Can CBD Oil Interact with Other Medications?

Yes, CBD oil can interact with certain medications. If you are taking any prescription medications, we advise you to consult with your pharmacist or prescribing physician.

How Do I Choose the Right CBD Oil?

Look for a high-quality product that contains at least 50% CBD and minimal THC (less than 0.03%). Verify that it has been manufactured in regions with strict quality regulations, like Canada or the USA. For more, visit our shop.

Can CBD Oil Cause Headaches?

While CBD oil is often used to relieve headaches, some users have reported headaches as a side effect. This is usually linked to the quality of the CBD oil or its compatibility with the individual.

Choosing the Right CBD Oil

To experience the full benefits of CBD oil, selecting a high-quality product is crucial. While we’ve carefully vetted the brands available in our online shop, it’s essential to know what to look for, especially when buying online.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Prioritize purity: Opt for products that contain at least 50% CBD and minimal THC (less than 0.03%).

2. Verify the origin: We recommend you stick to CBD oil manufactured in Canada or the USA, where strict regulations help ensure quality.

3. Avoid bargain hunting: Quality CBD oil is an investment in your health. While it might be tempting to go for cheaper options, higher quality usually comes at a higher price — and it’s worth it.

Now that you’re informed about the key aspects of selecting CBD oil, you’re better equipped to make a wise choice. 

For additional insights, feel free to explore our extensive library of CBD research studies or reach out via LiveChat for personalized recommendations from our certified Wellness Consultants.