The health benefits of CBD are becoming more and more well known both in the medical community and the general public–evidenced by the fact that you can now buy CBD almost anywhere (including gas stations and video stores).
PSA: Do NOT buy your CBD from a gas station or video store
While CBD is still being researched, the potential benefits are extensive. CBD can potentially help with:
- Pain relief
- Anxiety relief
- Depression relief
- Cancer-related symptoms
- Acne
- Epilepsy
- ADHD
This list will continue to grow as more research is done, but as of now, it’s even possible that CBD could help with heart health, substance abuse treatment, diabetes prevention, and more.
Side Effects
But, as with any supplement, depending of CBD interacts with your body chemistry, there could be side effects. Depending on what you’re treating, the benefits will probably outweigh the effects, but it’s still good to know what to expect when putting something new in your body.
CBD is generally well tolerated and since it works with your endocannabinoid system naturally, it is considered safe but here are a few side effects that some people could experience when starting CBD.
The Grapefruit Warning
CBD has been known to interact with several medications so before you start using CBD you should discuss it with your doctor. If your doctor isn’t willing the discuss the possible benefits of CBD (yet), you can reach out to our very own Dr. Phil to start a conversation.
But when starting CBD, take special care if your medications or supplements come with a “grapefruit warning.” Grapefruit and CBD can interact with a group of enzymes that are important to drug metabolism.
Liver Toxicity
It’s important to know that CBD could interfere with an enzyme called cytochrome P450 complex. This can affect the liver’s ability to break down toxins, increasing the risk of liver toxicity.
More Side Effects Include:
- Dry Mouth
- Changes in Mood
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Changes in appetite
- Anxiety
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
The biggest thing to remember about CBD is that there have not been a lot of studies around its effects. The more it’s studied, the more benefits and side effects will be revealed.
If you’re interested in CBD but worried about the side effects, it’s best to start small. Begin your regiment in small doses and work your way up. Not sure where to start? We have a calculator for that.
If you have any questions or concerns surrounding CBD and how it can help you, reach out! We’re always happy to have a conversation.