Is CBD safe to use? 3 common mistakes
"Is CBD safe to use?"" is one of the most common questions that people who want to try CBD products ask professionals. The direct answer to this question is definitely yes. But let's talk about everything from the beginning. Many scientific studies indicate that CBD hemp oil is completely safe to use at recommended doses for a certain period of time. Several studies have shown that CBD is generally safe to use for up to 13 weeks at doses not exceeding 200 milligrams per day.
Hemp products remain in the spotlight in beauty, wellness and medicine. It's no wonder that more and more doctors, scientists and consumers are becoming convinced of the benefits of CBD oil. CBD is a natural component extracted from the fibrous hemp plant that is used very widely. Perhaps the most well-known benefits of cannabidiol are:
- Pain relief;
- Anti-inflammatory effect;
- Relief of symptoms of neurological diseases;
- Relief of symptoms of oncological diseases;
- Reducing stress, tension, depression, anxiety disorders;
- Improving sleep quality;
- Restoration of damaged skin.
- Treatment of acne scars
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Note: This and other articles on Hempo's blog are for informational purposes only. According to the directive of the European Commission, cannabidiol is classified as a 'novel food', therefore CBD products should not be used as a food supplement in Lithuania.
Can CBD harm the body?
Unfortunately, despite the CBD benefits and the safety of this product, in some cases this product can be harmful to health. We've identified some of the most common reasons why this might happen.
- Buying cheap (low quality) CBD oil. Be very careful with "cheap" CBD oils. This may seem obvious to experienced users, but since there are so many different CBD oil options on the market today, choosing the most suitable product can sometimes become a real challenge, especially if you've decided to try cannabidiol for the first time.
It's important to note one thing - cheap CBD oil is there for a reason. It is likely to be made from low-quality fiber hemp, the product may contain less CBD than stated on the label, or the manufacturing process may use primitive technologies that are cheaper but may damage the structure of the cannabinoids, making the CBD oil less effective.
High-quality, reliable and safe CBD oils are more expensive simply because the greatest attention must be paid to the cultivation of species of hemp with a special genetic profile, and the production process of CBD oil extracted from them requires the most advanced technologies and appropriately qualified specialists who can properly manage the production processes.
- Uses oil with unsafe ingredients. If you've ever felt sick after taking CBD oil, it could be because of some of the toxic ingredients it contains, such as heavy metals. Such oil not only does not provide benefits, but can be dangerous for your health.
This situation is caused by low-quality hemp, which is grown using chemical fertilizers and artificial pesticides. Unfortunately, many new users of cannabidiol do not pay attention to the type of hemp used and the country of origin before purchasing products, and do not check whether the CBD oil has been tested by an independent and accredited laboratory. These are some of the most important aspects when evaluating the quality and safety of CBD oil.
Hemp plants are extremely good at absorbing everything they get from the environment and storing these substances in their tissues. Unfortunately, not all the elements obtained are useful: hemp also absorbs dangerous substances from the soil. These can be such heavy metals as arsenic, lead, cadmium. Another problem is that farmers in some countries use dangerous pesticides and chemical fertilizers to grow their crops, which are also easily absorbed by the plants. Once in CBD oil, these products enter the human body and can cause long-term negative health effects. In order to avoid this, it is advised to buy certified, organic CBD oil extracted from organic hemp that is grown without the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
- Too intense CBD oil is chosen.
For good results, the effectiveness of CBD oil is essential. However, CBD oil of the strongest effect or improperly dosed can cause adverse reactions in the body. Therefore, before using it for the first time, choose the type of oil and the dose you need very responsibly, preferably after consulting with a specialist.
According to intensity and composition, cannabidiol oil sold in Lithuania can be divided into several types:
- CBD isolate is a product containing only pure cannabidiol without impurities. Has the mildest effect.
- Broad-spectrum CBD oil - a product that contains not only CBD, but also almost all other cannabinoids found in hemp plants (except THC), as well as terpenes, flavonoids. Provides an intense effect and is suitable for basically all people, as it does not contain THC.
- Full-spectrum CBD oil - in its composition you will find all useful cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids. There is also a small amount of THC, which means that this oil causes what scientists call an "entourage effect" that enhances the effectiveness of CBD. This type of oil has the most intense effect, but may not be suitable for everyone.
As we mentioned, starting your acquaintance with CBD products with the most intense version is not the best choice.
If you are trying CBD for the first time, your body may be very sensitive to its effects - you really don't need a lot of CBD oil to feel the difference. If necessary, the amount of CBD can be gradually increased every few days, carefully monitoring when you will achieve the desired effect and you will be safe that unwanted effects (feeling of weakness or nausea) will not occur.
Also note that it may take a few days before you feel the effects of CBD. This is because cannabidiol needs time to restore your weakened endocannabinoid system. Suddenly increasing the amount of CBD will definitely not speed up the process, on the contrary, it can cause harm, so be patient.
Possible side effects of CBD
For anyone considering whether CBD is safe to use, it is very important to understand the potential side effects of CBD. While CBD is generally considered safe, it is important to be aware of its possible negative effects. The most common side effects of CBD oil include drowsiness, dry mouth, and mild dizziness. Some individuals may also experience changes in appetite or mood swings. It is important to note that these side effects are usually mild and tend to disappear over time.
Regarding the long-term effects of CBD use (12 months and more) on the body, it is important to mention that research in this area is still ongoing. However, some studies already conducted indicate potential issues such as liver damage. This underscores the importance of discussing CBD use with a healthcare professional, especially for those who already have other health conditions. To avoid the side effects of long-term CBD use, it is advisable to take breaks of at least a few weeks every few months.
Although CBD oil is essentially a safe substance, it can cause some mild, dose-dependent adverse reactions. Consuming too much CBD oil may result in the following side effects:
- Dry mouth
- Decreased appetite
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
In summary, the potential side effects of CBD typically include conditions such as diarrhea, fatigue, weight changes, and appetite changes. Remember, the likelihood of experiencing potential side effects from CBD can be significantly reduced by strictly following the manufacturer's recommendations when using CBD oil. To avoid unwanted reactions, it is advisable not to choose the highest concentration of CBD oil for the first time; a 10% broad-spectrum CBD oil or a 15% full-spectrum CBD oil is usually sufficient.
Is it Safe to Use CBD Oil with Other Medications?
If you are wondering whether it is safe to use CBD oil with other medications, it is important to understand the intricacies of CBD oil interactions with drugs. Recent studies conducted in 2023 have revealed how CBD interacts with various prescription medications and emphasized that people using other drugs need to be cautious before starting CBD oil. So, is it safe to use CBD oil with other medications? The answer depends on the specific medications being used and each person's health history. It is worth noting that CBD oil can alter the way certain drugs are processed in the body. For example, it can either increase or decrease the effectiveness of some medications, potentially posing health risks or reducing the efficacy of the medications being used.
Regarding the safety of using CBD oil with other medications, a study published in the "Journal of Cannabis Research" in 2023 states that while CBD is generally safe, its interaction with certain drugs, such as blood thinners, can pose problems. This study highlights the importance of understanding the potential side effects of CBD that may arise from using it alongside other medications.
In summary, the interaction between CBD oil and prescription drugs can sometimes cause not only side effects or reduce the effectiveness of these drugs but also enhance the sedative properties of certain medications, which may be undesirable for some individuals. When exploring the potential of CBD, individuals should prioritize safe CBD usage, especially when it is used in conjunction with other medications
When is CBD Use Not Recommended?
The safety of CBD use is an important issue that requires careful analysis and attention. Often, people encountering CBD for the first time question its safety. Generally, CBD is considered safe, but there are specific cases where its use may not be advisable. It is important to consider CBD contraindications, especially for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications. For example, CBD interacts with blood thinners and some groups of antidepressants, potentially causing unwanted effects.
Regarding situations where CBD use is not recommended, it is important to note that there is insufficient scientific research on the effects of CBD on pregnant and breastfeeding women, making it difficult to assess this issue accurately. Additionally, while most people tolerate CBD well, some may experience side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or gastrointestinal discomfort. These risks highlight the need to understand and adhere to CBD usage guidelines, which recommend starting with the minimum dose and gradually increasing it as needed.
In conclusion, the safety of CBD is an ongoing topic of discussion. Despite its potential health benefits, CBD is not universally recommended for individuals with certain health conditions, those taking specific medications, pregnant or breastfeeding women. To ensure safe and effective CBD use, it is essential to follow related recommendations.
How to Choose Safe CBD?
Many people are still wondering whether CBD is safe to use and how to choose safe CBD. Safe CBD means quality CBD. To be confident that the CBD you use is safe, it is essential to choose products from manufacturers who adhere to CBD quality standards. The first step in selecting safe CBD is understanding that its safety depends on its production characteristics and more. A primary indicator of CBD safety is reliable and reputable brands that provide consumers with comprehensive information about their product manufacturing processes. Trustworthy manufacturers not only contribute to consumer safety but also to the overall transparency of the industry.
Choosing high-quality and safe CBD products is also associated with the results of third-party laboratory tests, which should be readily available on each manufacturer's website. A product that meets high CBD quality standards should be free from harmful contaminants, and the amount of CBD in the product should match the amount stated in the product description.
When selecting a safe CBD product, an important aspect is customer reviews. Reading these reviews online allows you to learn about the experiences and evaluations of other users, which is invaluable information when choosing CBD products. Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the product's effectiveness, side effects, user experiences, and the quality of the product itself.
This is particularly important because the CBD market is filled with various products of varying quality. Additionally, customer reviews can reveal how a product affects different groups of people with various health issues or needs.
Therefore, when choosing a safe and effective CBD product, it is recommended to carefully read customer reviews. This will help assess the pros and cons of the product and determine whether a particular product is suitable for your individual needs. Paying attention to user experiences can help avoid poor-quality or unsuitable products and select safe and effective CBD.
In summary, when considering whether CBD is safe to use, it is crucial to conduct thorough market research and choose only those CBD products that meet strict CBD quality standards and receive positive reviews. This approach allows you to select genuinely safe CBD.
Summary
So, it is better not to ask the question "is CBD safe to use?", but whether you have chosen a really safe and suitable CBD oil for you.