Is CBD Oil Safe?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is safe for most people when it is used appropriately. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not cause a high, and people use it because they experience positive effects.
Like any supplement or medication, its safety depends on several factors, including the dosage amount, product quality, individual health conditions, and possible drug interactions. While many users report positive effects with minimal side effects, there are still important considerations to be aware of before using CBD products.
How is CBD Safety Evaluated?
CBD is not government-regulated, so CBD safety is evaluated by clinical researchers using different methods. Usually, animal studies are conducted first. If the results indicate that further research is warranted, controlled clinical trials involving human participants are conducted.
These trials assess not only whether CBD works for specific conditions but also how it affects the body over time, both in the short term and long term. CBD safety is measured by monitoring for adverse effects, changes in vital signs, blood test results, and interactions with other drugs. The researchers also measure the side effects experienced with CBD oil.
Consumers can review the Certificate of Analysis (COA) to ensure the CBD product does not contain any health-hazardous substances, like pesticides and heavy metals. They can also only purchase CBD oil products from brands with a proven record for manufacturing high-quality CBD oil by maintaining control over the production process from field to shelf.
Scientific Research on CBD Safety
There is an FDA-approved drug called Epidiolex, which contains pure CBD and has undergone extensive clinical testing. The approval of this drug is considered substantial evidence of CBD safety and potential effectiveness. Most people experience only mild to moderate side effects, and serious complications are rare. CBD is not addictive.
CBD is being researched in multiple clinical studies to test its effect on different human issues. However, though there are already many clinical studies showing CBD has therapeutic potential and is safe to consume, researchers agree that many more studies are needed to test CBD safety under different conditions and across diverse populations.
Multiple clinical studies have reported that up to 1500 mg of CBD taken daily is safe for humans. However, most people would not take anywhere near that amount each day. A safe dosage for an individual depends on the person’s tolerance for the cannabinoid and the effects experienced. Researchers recommend that beginners start with a low CBD oil dose, such as five or 10 milligrams of CBD per dose, and then gradually increase the amount over several weeks.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Any compound poses the risk of experiencing side effects. People have reported anecdotally and as participants in research studies that side effects include dry mouth, drowsiness, diarrhea, and reduced appetite. Even when experienced, they are mild and often resolve as the body adapts. Of course, taking higher doses may increase the chance of side effects, especially when CBD is taken in oil or edible form.
Another concern is CBD’s interaction with other medications. CBD is metabolized by liver enzymes, particularly those in the cytochrome P450 family, which are also responsible for metabolizing many prescription drugs. This means CBD can increase or decrease the effects of medications, and in some cases, cause significant harm. Known medications affected by CBD include antidepressants and blood thinners.
Dr. Brent Bauer from the Mayo Clinic’s Integrative Medicine and Health Research Program warns that before taking CBD, you should consult your doctor to ensure it interacts well with any other medications you are currently using.
Tips for Safe Use of CBD Oils
The following are some tips for the safe use of CBD oil:
➥ Start by taking a low CBD dose and gradually increase the amount after one to two weeks to monitor for side effects.
➥ Only do business with companies that provide access to independent lab testing results.
➥ Review the Certificate of Analysis (COA) to ensure there are no contaminants that could jeopardize health.
➥ Read the ingredients on the label to verify contents and to look for allergens.
➥ Avoid products with unclear labeling.
➥ Follow the recommended dosage amount.
➥ Consult a doctor if taking medications or have a health condition.
➥ Avoid CBD if pregnant or breastfeeding because research on safety for these groups is limited.
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