The Effects of CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the major cannabinoids found within the cannabis plant. It interacts with receptors in your endocannabinoid systems to cause physiological effects with potential medical benefits. But given how different people may experience varied effects, it’s important to determine which CBD treatment works for the individual. Factors such as product type, dosage and individual physiology help to determine this. Accounting for this helps minimise the risk of unpleasant side effects.

How does CBD interact with the human body?

CBD interacts with the body through the endocannabinoid system. It has the potential to create physiological effects that provide medical benefits within a broader treatment plan. The CBD molecules do this by agitating with the cannabinoid receptors throughout the body. The main types of cannabinoid receptors are CB1 and CB2 receptors, which send signals to the body when stimulated. These can manifest as different effects depending on a number of factors. The type of product, the dosage, the CBD concentration and a person’s physical characteristics all influence this. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD’s interactions with the endocannabinoid system are not likely to produce psychoactive effects in the user.

How does CBD affect different body parts?

The effects of CBD can vary across different parts of the body. This is based on factors including the type of CBD product, and the concentration. Different CBD product types are absorbed through their own unique mechanisms throughout the body. A CBD topical is applied to the skin, so it may provide a more localised effect around the area it has been used. However, product types that are more directly absorbed into the bloodstream are more likely to affect the brain. This includes both CBD vaporisers and CBD edible products. These have the potential to affect things like appetite, mood and stress. However, the onset time and duration of the effects varies significantly between product types.

What are the potential side-effects of CBD?

CBD has the potential to cause side-effects, like many medicines. The exact parameters of these can be affected by other medications you are taking, lifestyle factors, the product type and more. Part of your doctor’s recommendation for a certain product type may be based on the other medications you are taking. Certain medications may react negatively with CBD and therefore make it a less viable option. Taking a larger amount of CBD either through higher dosages or higher concentration products increases the likelihood of experiencing side-effects. Some of the potential side-effects of CBD treatment include drowsiness, nausea, dry mouth and fatigue. Trying out different products allows someone to find out which one works best for them. Talking with a doctor during the prescription process leads to the most positive outcomes.

Do different CBD products affect people differently?

Different individuals may have varied responses to CBD products. A range of factors can play into this including the type of product, the concentration and the individual’s unique physiology. Different product types may be more suited to different people, which is part of the reason that a varied array of products are available. A CBD vaporiser has a fast onset of effect, which is helpful when people require faster relief. However, CBD edible products are released into the body more slowly and last longer. Another thing to take into account is how well different individuals tolerate CBD. Some may react more strongly and not require as high a dosage or concentration. Others, on the other hand, may need slightly more if they don’t notice effects from low doses. Every treatment plan involving CBD products should be appropriately tailored in order to give an individual the best chance of experiencing the benefits.

Additional CBD information