Debunking Myths and Finding the Right Dosage
CBD, short for cannabidiol, has become increasingly popular in recent years as a natural remedy for various ailments. From stress relief to pain management, CBD has been praised for its potential therapeutic benefits. However, with the rise of CBD products on the market, there have been concerns about the possibility of overdosing and the potential side effects that may come with taking too much CBD. In this blog post, we will address these concerns and provide guidance on how to find the right CBD dosage for you.
Can You Overdose from CBD?
The short answer is no, it is highly unlikely to overdose from CBD. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CBD has a good safety profile, and there have been no reported cases of fatal CBD overdose. This is because CBD is non-toxic and does not bind to receptors in the brainstem, which control vital functions like respiration. In contrast, opioids can cause fatal overdoses because they bind to these receptors, leading to respiratory depression.
However, this does not mean that taking excessive amounts of CBD is without risks. Taking too much CBD can lead to uncomfortable side effects, such as dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. Additionally, long-term use of high doses of CBD may have unknown consequences, as there is still much research to be done on the long-term effects of CBD use.
How Much CBD is Lethal?
While there have been no reported cases of fatal CBD overdose, it is crucial to understand the concept of a lethal dose. The LD50, or median lethal dose, is the amount of a substance required to cause death in 50% of a test population. For CBD, the LD50 has not been established, as it is considered to have a low toxicity level.
In a study conducted on mice, the LD50 of CBD was found to be around 212 mg/kg of body weight when administered intravenously. This means that for a person weighing 150 pounds (68 kg), the lethal dose would be approximately 14,416 mg of CBD. It is important to note that these numbers are based on animal studies and may not directly translate to humans. Healthline stated that “A 2017 review of research showed that humans can safely tolerate up to 1,500 mg per day. For reference, typical 1 ounce bottles of CBD oil contain from 300 to 1,500 mg.” Additionally, this dosage is significantly higher than the recommended daily doses of CBD, which typically range from 5 mg to 50 mg. Nobody needs 10 or more vials of CBD oil a day. Basically, if you use CBD responsibly, you shouldn’t have any problems whatsoever. Note: CBD has not been tested for its effects on children, and is not recommended to give to children without a doctor’s specific guidance.
Can CBD Keep Me Up?
Many people use CBD for its potential calming and relaxing effects. However, some users have reported that CBD can cause them to feel more alert or energized. These effects are likely due to the fact that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes, including sleep.
The impact of CBD on sleep and wakefulness may vary depending on the individual and the dosage used. For some, low doses of CBD may promote alertness, while higher doses may have a relaxing effect. It is also worth noting that the method of consumption can influence the effects of CBD. For example, vaping CBD can lead to a faster onset of effects, while consuming CBD edibles may result in a more prolonged and gradual release of CBD into the bloodstream.
If you find that CBD is keeping you up, consider adjusting your dosage or trying a different method of consumption. Additionally, it may be helpful to take CBD earlier in the day to avoid potential sleep disturbances.
What Happens If I Take Too Much CBD?
As mentioned earlier, taking excessive amounts of CBD can lead to uncomfortable side effects. While these side effects are generally not life-threatening, they can be unpleasant and may interfere with your daily activities. Some common side effects of taking too much CBD include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Changes in appetite and weight
Additionally, CBD may interact with medications, leading to increased side effects or reduced effectiveness of the medication. If you are taking prescription medications, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider before using CBD.
How Do I Know How Much CBD to Take?
Finding the right CBD dosage can be a bit of trial and error, as individual responses to CBD can vary widely. Factors that can influence your optimal CBD dosage include body weight, metabolism, the severity of your symptoms, and the type of CBD product you are using.
When starting with CBD, it is generally recommended to begin with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the dose that provides the desired effects. For example, you might start with 5 mg of CBD per day and gradually increase by 5 mg increments every few days until you find a dose that works for you.
Keep in mind that the method of consumption can also influence the appropriate dosage. For example, CBD edibles may have a lower bioavailability compared to CBD oil, meaning that less CBD is absorbed into the bloodstream. In this case, you may need to consume a higher dose of CBD edibles to achieve the same effect as a lower dose of CBD oil.
It is essential to be patient and listen to your body when determining your ideal CBD dosage. Keep a journal to track your dosage, method of consumption, and any side effects or benefits you experience. This can help you fine-tune your CBD routine and find the perfect balance for your needs.
While it is highly unlikely to overdose on CBD, it is important to be mindful of your dosage and potential side effects. Start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the right amount for your needs. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about CBD interactions with your medications or any underlying medical conditions. With proper care and attention, CBD can be a safe and effective addition to your wellness routine.