HOW DOES CBD OIL MAKE YOU FEEL?

HOW DOES CBD OIL MAKE YOU FEEL?

CBD reacts based on the user’s body chemistry. This article explores how CBD oil interacts with the endocannabinoid system and how such interaction affects the user’s body. We also discuss the side effects of CBD oil. 

CBD products are available in drinks, topicals, oils, and edibles. Cannabidiol, popularly known as CBD, is one of the over 100 chemical compounds (cannabinoids) in the marijuana and hemp plant. It supports the body and mind in various ways. Not only does it provide the body with multiple medical benefits but also, it promotes a sense of calm and relaxation. The cannabis extract interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to restore homeostasis. There are many facts surrounding CBD, which are still the subject of multiple studies. However, a fair amount of research shows that it has several impacts on the human body.

HOW CBD OIL INTERACTS WITH THE BODY’S ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM (ECS)

The ECS is a complex system responsible for regulating various vital bodily roles such as sleep, appetite, and memory. Scientists are not fully aware of how CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system. The little information about its action shows that it indirectly binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Corroon & Felice (2019) observed that CBD prevents the breakdown of endocannabinoids. As a result, they have more impact on the body. Since CBD influences the CB1 and CB2 receptors differently than THC, it does not produce any psychoactive effects; instead, its effects are more subtle.

HOW CBD OIL FEELS

CBD oil is a cannabis extract with carrier oil like coconut as its base ingredient. Primarily, CBD is extracted from the hemp plant since it contains low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is a prevalent cannabinoid famous for its psychometric effects. CBD does not contain THC; if it does, it has low traces that cannot produce any high impact.

Most CBD users have reported feeling a more subtle effect after taking the cannabis oil. However, its effects vary due to the difference in body chemistry. What cuts across many users is relief and balance when using it consistently (Evans, 2020). Below are some popular ways CBD oil can make you feel:

IT MAY HELP YOU SLEEP BETTER

Taking CBD oil sublingually (under the tongue) is one of the fastest ways it is absorbed in the bloodstream. Its effects show up after about fifteen minutes. Many users have reported feeling more relaxed after taking CBD oil than when consuming melatonin. However, it may make an individual feel more fatigued afterward, although one gets to wake up the following morning feeling more relaxed. Therefore, the cannabis derivative impacts sleep disorders better than regular melatonin additives (Evans, 2020).

LESS STRESSED OUT

One of the most common benefits of taking CBD oil is stress alleviation. CBD interacts with the 5-HT1, a receptor similar to serotonin; notably, serotonin is a chemical in the body responsible for mood regulation. It also enhances happiness and is commonly referred to as the “feel good “hormone. By increasing serotonin levels in the body, CBD, in turn, makes an individual feel less stressed. Also, CBD activates the CB1 receptors in the amygdala; blocking the receptors increases anxiety and stress. CBD has been a promising anxiolytic since starting; it alleviates stress levels (Evans, 2020). 

INCREASES FOCUS

Salviato et al. (2021) commented that since CBD interacts with serotonin and dopamine, hormones responsible for feeling good, it increases concentration and focus. When the body is stressed out, the cortisol hormone is automatically produced. High cortisol levels interfere with an individual’s mental clarity; CBD regulates cortisol production. As a result, the body produces more of the feel-good hormones (serotonin and dopamine) and less cortisol hormone, making an individual less stressed. In turn, it enables one to focus more on critical daily tasks.

EASES SORE MUSCLES

CBD is consumed in multiple ways, including, but not limited to, topical application. Topicals have become one of the most preferred products due to their anti-inflammatory properties. They treat common problems like muscle pain and inflammation (Evans, 2020). It also helps the body repair muscle tears, enabling an individual to replace worn-out muscles. 

SIDE EFFECTS OF CBD

CBD, in rare cases, does produce adverse feelings. According to the WHO, most individuals rarely report any side effects after consuming CBD oil since the body tolerates it well. Below are some common side effects of the oil:

DRY MOUTH

Studies indicate that dry mouth mainly results from cannabinoid receptors inhibiting salivary glands. Spindle et al. (2020) noted that a dry mouth is mainly experienced after consuming full spectrum CBD oil with amounts of THC. Users should drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth after ingesting CBD oil.

FATIGUE

According to Mathur et al. (2020), fatigue is experienced chiefly whenever higher amounts of CBD oil are consumed. Individuals who use CBD oil as a sleep aid may feel drowsy. For some, it may also increase daytime sleepiness. Users should avoid CBD while driving.

DIARRHEA

Martinez et al. (2020) stated that gastrointestinal distress is a common side effect of CBD oil. One of the most common ingredients contributing to diarrhea is MCT carrier oil infused in CBD. If you notice diarrhea when taking CBD oil, you cease the consumption immediately; consult a doctor if diarrhea persists.

THE BOTTOM LINE

CBD is gaining attraction worldwide due to the multiple therapeutic benefits it provides. It deals with various medical conditions like pain and alleviates mental disorders like sleeplessness, stress, and anxiety. The cannabis derivative has rare cases of adverse effects. However, it may result in mild side effects like dry mouth and fatigue when used improperly. It is essential to consult a doctor before incorporating CBD oil into your daily regimen. 

REFERENCES

Corroon, J., & Felice, J. F. (2019). The Endocannabinoid System and its Modulation by             Cannabidiol (CBD). Alternative Therapies in Health & Medicine, 25.

Evans, J. (2020). The Ultimate Guide to CBD: Explore the World of Cannabidiol. Fair Winds             Press

Martínez, V., Iriondo De-Hond, A., Borrelli, F., Capasso, R., Del Castillo, M. D., &Abalo, R. (2020). Cannabidiol and other non-psychoactive cannabinoids for prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders: useful nutraceuticals?. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(9), 3067.

Mathur, K., Vuppalanchi, V., Gelow, K., Vuppalanchi, R., &Lammert, C. (2020). Cannabidiol (CBD) consumption and perceived impact on extrahepatic symptoms in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 65(1), 322-328.

Spindle, T. R., Cone, E. J., Goffi, E., Weerts, E. M., Mitchell, J. M., Winecker, R. E., … & Vandrey, R. (2020). Pharmacodynamic effects of vaporized and oral cannabidiol (CBD) and vaporized CBD-dominant cannabis in infrequent cannabis users. Drug and alcohol dependence, 211, 107937.

Barbara Santini

Barbara is a freelance writer and a sex and relationships adviser at Dimepiece LA and Peaches and Screams. Barbara is involved in various educational initiatives aimed at making sex advice more accessible to everyone and breaking stigmas around sex across various cultural communities. In her spare time, Barbara enjoys trawling through vintage markets in Brick Lane, exploring new places, painting and reading.

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