Non-medical CBD: dangers and benefits of cannabidiol

Since its authorization in France in 2018, CBD has rapidly become a mainstream consumer product. With the over-the-counter sale of these products in all their forms, many legitimately wonder about the benefits andrisks associated with the regular consumption of cannabidiol (CBD).

 

You will find answers to all your questions in this article!

Regular cannabidiol consumption: what are the risks?

To begin, it's important to remember that CBD has been legal for almost six years because the WHO (World Health Organization) and the ANMS (French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety) have determined that " the absorption of cannabidiol is not dangerous to health and is generally well tolerated ." Furthermore, unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not cause any habituation or addiction.

 

So, in itself, CBD is not dangerous; however, it is an active substance and can therefore cause some undesirable effects.

The risk of intolerance

Like anything else, from water to sunlight to all foods, some people may be intolerant to CBD and develop an allergy.

 

But some people may also be allergic to terpenes (aromatic molecules) or flavonoids (pigments) contained in the flowers.

 

If you are allergic, several symptoms may appear depending on how you consume it.

 

• Skin application: If you use a CBD cream or oil on your skin and are allergic to it, the application of the product may cause redness, itching which can lead to edema, i.e. subcutaneous swelling, in the most severe forms.
• Consumption by ingestion or vaporization: If you consume flowers, resins or concentrates, cooked, infused or vaporized, and you are allergic to CBD, you may experience nausea and stomach aches, which may be accompanied by runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes.

 

In the most severe cases, an allergy can lead to anaphylactic shock,usabreathing difficulties, nausea, and potentially loss of consciousness. In such a case, you should call emergency medical services (SAMU) or go to the emergency room as quickly as possible.

 

Although this last point may seem particularly worrying, it should still be borne in mind that these symptoms are common to any product, and cases of anaphylactic shock in general are very rare (around 5000 per year in France) and that we have not found any case of anaphylactic shock caused by CBD.

 

However, if you have any doubt or experience any of the above symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

 

 

Drug interactions

The term "drug interaction" refers to the interaction that can occur between two active substances, reducing the effectiveness of each molecule or resulting in adverse effects.

 

This is typically what happens when alcohol and medication are combined.

 

As for CBD, it has no intoxicating or psychostimulant effects, so there is no risk in that regard. The main risk would be that consuming CBD could reduce the effectiveness of any other medication you are taking. This is especially true if it involves intensive treatments for liver failure, epilepsy, or immunosuppression.

 

Therefore, it is highly recommended to seek medical advice before consuming CBD if you are undergoing any of these treatments.

Medical Claims

A medical claim refers to attributing medicinal properties to a product that does not possess them. This is not a danger directly linked to CBD consumption, but CBD consumption is part of the problem. In France, no medicinal properties are recognized for CBD; therefore, it is illegal and false to consider CBD as a substitute for any treatment.

 

We reiterate, CBD is not a medicine and cannot, nor should it, replace medication. If you believe CBD could help you with a problem (appetite, stress, etc.), it is essential to consult a qualified medical professional so they can guide you toward the best solution for your needs.

Is overconsumption dangerous?

 

Thankfully not. CBD, even at high doses, does not cause serious side effects. In fact, some studies have shown that the effects of CBD are subject to a sort of bell curve or plateau effect, which can vary depending on the individual and the method of consumption. But in practical terms, this means that these effects can develop up to a certain point; beyond that point, consuming additional CBD will no longer increase its effect on the body.

 

Besides the dose consumed, the method of consumption can also pose a risk to the consumer. This is the case with combustion; CBD consumed in this way carries risks for the lungs, even more so when smoked with tobacco.

 

Nevertheless, consuming high doses of CBD can lead to undesirable effects, the most common of which are:

 

• Drowsiness and fatigue: CBD is known for its beneficial effect on insomnia and sleep in general, but overconsumption can lead to increased drowsiness and fatigue in some people.
• Lowering blood pressure: Here again, CBD's anxiolytic properties are well-known; it is effective in combating certain cases of chronic anxiety and in helping with stressful situations, promoting relaxation. This is partly due to the dilation of blood vessels. This may be contraindicated in people already suffering from hypotension.
• Gastrointestinal issues: As you know, consuming hemp, CBD, or cannabis significantly affects appetite. In fact, the substances in these products influence the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates a number of bodily functions, including appetite and digestion. Therefore, by acting on the ECS, high doses of CBD can cause intestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals

 

Our conclusion on the dangers associated with CBD consumption

In accordance with the position of the various organizations responsible for protecting public health, we conclude by reiterating that CBD is a safe product and can be consumed without risk. Its various effects appear promising and could greatly improve the lives of many elderly people, adults, and animals.

 
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However, as with any product, moderation is key, and you should consider your own health. Indeed, if you consume high doses of any product containing active ingredients such as garlic, ginger, licorice, caffeine, or even honey over a prolonged period, you will quickly realize that it is not without risk to your health, especially if you have any contraindications.

 

Did you find this article helpful? Feel free to check out our blog to discover the wonderful world of CBD!