CBD, or cannabidiol, is a molecule that is increasingly popular among people seeking a natural solution to alleviate pain or anxiety, for example. Known for its calming effects, CBD can be consumed in several ways. Whether in the form of CBD flowers, infusions, CBD oil, or CBD gummies, cannabidiol is known for its numerous benefits. However, many people have questions about its risks, particularly regarding dosage. Is it possible to overdose on CBD? Is it dangerous? CBD.fr answers all your questions in this article! What is CBD?
CBD is a molecule derived from hemp, a plant also known as Cannabis sativa. It’s important to know that this plant exists in several varieties. Each variety offers very different levels of CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Some species are cultivated to create CBD products for relaxation purposes, while others are used illegally due to their high THC content. CBD, on the other hand, is perfectly legal as long as it complies with the legal limits regarding the presence of THC. In France, CBD products must not exceed 0.2% tetrahydrocannabinol. Is CBD dangerous?Despite its legality, it remains a product that raises concerns because it is often mistakenly associated with THC, the euphoric psychoactive molecule in hemp (Cannabis sativa).
However, the World Health Organization (WHO) published a report in 2017 explaining that CBD is perfectly safe for health and even has a positive effect on the overall well-being of consumers (sleep disorders, anxiety, etc.). If you follow the dosages indicated on the packaging, you have no risk of experiencing adverse effects.
Regarding the risk of addiction, it’s important to know that CBD has no such risk. Unlike THC, this molecule is not psychoactive and does not affect your dopamine levels. Therefore, you cannot become addicted to CBD.
What are the known side effects of an overdose?
When used in larger quantities, CBD can nevertheless cause some mild side effects, which may vary from person to person. Among these adverse reactions, some users have reported:
Drowsiness and fatigue: CBD has calming properties and may promote sleep. If you experience these effects, it is advisable not to drive, just as you would with a level 1 or 2 medication.
Nausea: Taken in high doses, CBD may cause some stomach discomfort. This reaction could be a sign of a mild overdose or the ingestion of poor-quality oil.
Diarrhea: It could also cause irritation of the intestinal lining. This could occur, in particular, in people who are generally intolerant to oils (hemp, olive, etc.).
- Dry mouth: It could also cause a sensation of dry mouth due to its action on the salivary glands.
- Low blood pressure and dizziness: In this case, CBD should be avoided by people with abnormal blood pressure (hypertension, etc.).
- In any case, we recommend consulting a doctor if you would like to know more. They will be better able to advise you based on your health and concerns.
- How to properly dose your CBD?
- In reality, it’s difficult to overdose on CBD since your body is perfectly capable of handling several milligrams of this soothing molecule.
For oils, for example, CBD concentrations generally range from 5% (500 mg) to 20% (2000 mg). We also consider an overdose of such products to be 1500 mg, which means you would have to consume an entire bottle containing 15% or more CBD.
By adhering to the recommended two to three drops of oil, you shouldn’t experience any adverse effects.
Can you overdose on CBD?
To conclude this article, we can also confirm that it’s impossible to overdose on CBD since it’s not classified as a drug. Its consumption is safe, especially if you stick to the recommended doses. An overdose is neither fatal nor toxic to your body. The only risks you might experience have already been mentioned and concern the few known mild side effects (nausea, headaches, drowsiness, etc.).
We hope we have answered your questions. Remember to consult your doctor if you experience anxiety, pain, or other symptoms.
We also remind you that CBD should not replace medical treatment. Its actual effects on health warrant further study.
