Can You Overdose on CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is the second most prominent chemical found in the Cannabis plant, while the most prominent is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Although there are over 100 different chemicals in Cannabis plants, these two are its main (and most often-discussed) active ingredients in it. Until recently, both CBD and THC were controlled substances. But when the 2018 Farm Bill passed, growing and selling hemp-based products became legal. Because of this, we saw a spike in CBD-related products flooding the marketplace. Still, since THC is still illegal, and the two substances are closely related, some people are still apprehensive about taking CBD. So, throughout this article, we will review how CBD works differently from THC while presenting some use-cases for CBD, some potential side effects, and whether or not you can overdose on CBD.

How Does CBD Work?

Before we can understand whether or not you can overdose on CBD, we need to understand the various ways in which CBD works. Our bodies have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that is involved in various physiologic functions, including pain and inflammation modulation. The way CBD interacts with this system is why it is such an effective natural supplement. Because the ECS includes cannabinoid receptors, CBD can interact with receptors such as the TRPV1, which can directly influence pain perception. CBD appears to work as a buffer for these ECS receptors, preventing them from delivering certain messages, such as the feeling of an ache. As a result, CBD may be effective at reducing your experienced pain. 

Use Cases:

May Help Reduce Pain

As we just mentioned, several studies already showcase CBD’s potential at reducing pain. For instance, a study from the European Journal of Pain suggests that, when applied to the skin, CBD could help reduce arthritis aches and inflammation. Another study highlights CBD’s possible ability to reduce inflammatory and neuropathic aches, two of the most challenging forms of pain.

Potential to Reduce Seizures

Seizure treatment for a rare form of epilepsy is currently the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved use-case for CBD. In 2018, the FDA approved Epidiolex, a drug that featured CBD prominently as an active ingredient to treat severe forms of epilepsy. It’s main noted side effects are sleepiness, sedation, decreased appetite, fatigue, and insomnia.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Another use-case with significant research in CBD’s potential to help those with MS. This debilitating disease, which directly impacts your central nervous system, affects as many as 2.3 million people internationally. CBD appears to possibly help at managing a variety of MS symptoms, including aches, inflammation, muscle spasticity, and even depression. More so, CBD may be helpful when it comes to improving mobility in those with MS. 

Potential Side Effects of CBD:

CBD is generally well tolerated. It may trigger some side effects, but they are generally mild in nature. Studies show that CBD has a relatively favorable safety profile in humans. In fact, CBD has a much safer profile than many common prescription drugs.

Most Commonly Reported Side Effects:

• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Changes in appetite and weight

Watch Out for Drug Interactions:

As we mentioned, CBD has a safe profile. However, it can trigger negative interactions with certain drugs and medications. Most notably, CBD can increase the concentration of blood thinners like coumadin in your body. In this way, CBD is similar to grapefruit juice, and shouldn’t be taken with prescription blood-thinning medication. 

Watch Out for Poor Quality or Inaccurate Labels:

Because CBD isn’t FDA regulated, you must purchase your CBD products from reputable CBD retailers. But, without regulations, how can you identify a reputable retailer? The answer is: look for transparency and third-party, scientific confirmation of potency and included ingredients. Here at Tanasi, we list every included product on our labels, and we provide third-party tested certificates of analysis. 

And that’s not all: to develop our CBD product formula, our team worked directly with a university-backed lab to fund research studies that help us more fully understand hemp’s interaction with living cells. From that comprehensive research, we developed our patent-pending, Full Spectrum hemp extract formula, and we use it to fuel our entire of CBD products.

So, Can You Overdose on CBD?

Some research shows that humans may safely tolerate high CBD doses of 1,500 mg per day. Chronic CBD oil use has also shown to be well tolerated. As a result, you don’t have to worry about harsh side effects from either high dosing or continued use. And, because CBD is a natural, non-toxic substance, it is highly unlikely to likely to trigger an overdose. Plus, it’s not a fat-soluble supplement that you have to worry will hang around in your body. In fact, one study shows that chronic CBD administration did not lead to elevated mean blood concentrations. And, on the even better news front, that study showed a single dose of 600 mg produced reduced symptoms of stress.

At lower doses, CBD produces various physiological effects, including but not limited to boosting anti-inflammatory responses and even acting as a neuroprotective antioxidant. This is the reason why we recommend starting with a lower dose of CBD and gradually working your way up until you achieve the desired effects. After all, sometimes just a little CBD goes a long way. 

How Much Should You Use?

Most reputable CBD brands will provide the manufacturer’s dosing guidelines when you purchase CBD. Consider these a great jumping-off point, as they will guide your dosing based on the exact potency of the product you’ve purchased. 

Potential Drug Interactions

Always be aware of potential negative interactions with any prescription medication that you are taking, and discuss CBD and all your medications and supplements with a trusted healthcare provider. You should also avoid CBD use while pregnant or breastfeeding unless otherwise instructed by your OBGYN. 

Is CBD Addictive?

Another question you may have if you are worried if you can overdose on CBD would be a potential dependency on CBD. After all, it’s a chemical found in the marijuana plant…right? Well, here’s the good news: there is absolutely zero research indicating that CBD is addictive. In fact, numerous studies suggest that CBD could potentially help individuals suffering from addiction disorders. While there is certainly more research to be done on this subject, these early results could indicate that CBD can be used to intervene with unwanted addictive behaviors.

Due to its safe, non-addictive profile, CBD is a popular supplement. And, as new research emerges, we expect this hemp extract to gain traction in the health and wellness space. At Tanasi, we are committed to developing the highest quality CBD products in the marketplace. With university research backing our patent-pending formula, you can expect the highest-quality CBD oil products with the greatest potential for desired effects. If you want to experience what CBD can offer, we invite you to sample the range of high-quality, full-spectrum CBD products that we carry in our online CBD store.