Who Should Take CBD? And Who Shouldn’t? Let’s Find Out!

Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, has taken the wellness world by storm.  But with so much information (and sometimes misinformation) out there, it's natural to wonder: who should take CBD? CBD is extracted from the plant Cannabis Sativa and has the potential to cure many ailments. CBD can be found in many products like oil, gummies, capsules, creams and other health supplements. However, despite multiple benefits, CBD can’t be consumed by everyone. In this blog post, we will discuss the potential benefits and side effects of CBD, along with a guide on who should take it and who shouldn’t. 

Health-Benefits of CBD 

Studies suggest CBD may be effective in managing both chronic pain and neuropathic pain, a type of nerve pain.  Additionally, CBD shows promise in treating some mental health disorders. Research indicates it can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, potentially enhancing overall well-being.

Beyond pain and mental health, CBD may also play a role in cardiovascular health. Studies suggest it could help regulate high blood pressure and even offer support for some severe heart conditions.  Furthermore, CBD has shown potential in alleviating certain cancer-related symptoms, such as pain and nausea. However, it's important to note that while early research is encouraging, more evidence is needed to definitively confirm its effectiveness in managing cancer symptoms.

The potential applications of CBD extend further. Studies are exploring its role in treating epilepsy, migraines, fibromyalgia, and even menopausal symptoms.  While conclusive evidence is still being gathered, the current research paints a promising picture of the potential of CBD in a variety of health areas.

Who Should Take CBD? 

 
Deciding if CBD is right for you depends on several factors. While research into CBD's effectiveness for various health concerns is ongoing, some studies suggest potential benefits for specific conditions. 

For example, CBD has shown promise in alleviating symptoms of anxiety and chronic pain, according to a 2020 review published in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry. 

Additionally, a 2020 study on Epilepsy demonstrated CBD's effectiveness in reducing seizure frequency in some patients with it.  

Due to its potential anti-inflammatory properties, CBD may offer relief for individuals struggling with rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the joints.

Chronic pain management is another area where CBD shows potential benefits. Studies suggest CBD may not only help alleviate pain itself but also improve sleep quality and overall well-being in chronic pain sufferers.

However, it's important to note that more research is needed to confirm CBD's efficacy for many conditions. If you're considering CBD, speak with your doctor to discuss if it might be a suitable addition to your wellness routine, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or take medications.

Who Shouldn’t Take CBD?

While CBD is generally well-tolerated, it's crucial to be aware of potential side effects and interactions before using it. There are specific situations where CBD use may not be recommended:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Due to potential risks to the fetus or infant, it's best to avoid CBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Children: While a specific prescription CBD product (Epidiolex) is approved for certain conditions in children over 1 year old, the safety of other CBD products for children is still unclear.
• Glaucoma: Early research suggests CBD might increase eye pressure in some individuals with glaucoma.
• Liver Disease: People with liver problems may need to use lower doses of CBD due to potential interaction with liver function. Signs of liver injury have been reported with high doses of CBD. 
• Parkinson's Disease: High doses of CBD might worsen tremors and muscle movement in some people with Parkinson's disease.
•  Drug Interactions:  CBD can interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners.  It's essential to disclose all medications you're taking to your doctor before starting CBD to avoid potential complications.
• Sedatives: CBD might cause sleepiness. As sedatives are also responsible for increasing sleepiness, taking CBD with sedatives can cause drowsiness, slowed breathing and too much sleepiness.

Scientists are actively investigating how CBD interacts with various medications. While some animal studies exist, further research is needed to determine the precise effects on humans.
Remember, this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.  Always consult with your doctor before using CBD to ensure its safety and suitability for your individual needs.

Side Effects of CBD

CBD can have certain side effects and that’s why it’s not recommended for everyone.  Consulting with your healthcare provider is essential to determine if CBD is right for you and to discuss any potential interactions with medications you're currently taking.
Here's a breakdown of some potential side effects associated with CBD use:

• Drowsiness or Altered Alertness: CBD can cause drowsiness or other changes in alertness, so it's important to be cautious when operating machinery or driving after using CBD products.
• Digestive Issues:  Diarrhea and loss of appetite are potential side effects reported by some CBD users.
• Mood Changes: CBD may cause some users to experience irritability or other mood changes.
• Drug Interactions:  CBD can interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners. It's crucial to disclose your complete medication list to your doctor before starting CBD.
• Liver Issues: In rare cases, high doses of CBD have been linked to liver problems,

So, who should take CBD? The Road Ahead

While CBD's potential applications in wellness are captivating, it's important to approach it with informed caution. If you're considering CBD to improve your overall well-being, consulting a healthcare professional is vital.  They can help you determine if CBD is a suitable addition to your routine, considering your health and current medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1 Is CBD safe?

CBD is generally considered to be safe for most people, however, speak with your doctor before using it to ensure it’s safe for you and won’t interfere with existing medications. 

Q.2 Who should not take CBD products?

Pregnant women, children under 13 years of age, and people with liver problems should avoid taking CBD due to its interactions with other medications. 

Q.3 Does CBD have side effects?

CBD can have potential side effects including nausea, drowsiness, mood changes and interactions with other medications. 

Q.4 What’s the best dose of CBD?

There are no universal dosage guidelines on using CBD however, doses ranging anywhere from 100-150 mg are considered to be safe. Starting with low doses and gradually increasing can show desirable results.