CBD seems to be all over the news these days. But unfortunately, there seems to be a lot of confusion and misinformation about what it actually is and what CBD does.
CBD is one of hundreds of compounds that are produced by the Cannabis Sativa plant. The most famous compound that comes from this plant though, is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
THC is what’s responsible for giving people the notorious “marijuana high.” Because of this, it makes sense why so many people ask “can you get high off CBD?”
The answer to that question might surprise. So continue reading and we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound that can be found in the Cannabis Sativa plant. There are two varieties of the Cannabis Sativa plant worth knowing about – hemp and marijuana.
These two types of plants are extremely similar. The main differences between them are that hemp has high concentrations of CBD and low concentrations of THC while marijuana has high concentrations of THC and low concentrations of CBD.
CBD by itself cannot get you high. However, some CBD products might have traces of THC in them. In the United States, all CBD products must come from a hemp plant that has no more than 0.3% THC in the plant.
Because CBD and THC come from the same plant, many people assume that both compounds can get you high. However, this is not the case and only THC will get you high.
Can You Get High from CBD Oil?
After CBD has been extracted from the cannabis plant, it can then be added to several products, including oils, lotions, capsules and tinctures.
One of the most popular types of CBD products is CBD oil. Users can put CBD oil in vape pens, food, and drinks or take the substance under the tongue (sublingually).
Many of these products advertise that they are natural ways to lower anxiety and relax. Research has found that CBD can reduce symptoms of both depression and anxiety but this should be conflated with the high that comes from marijuana.
CBD products from non-reputable sources may contain THC and could possibly get you high. Consider reading this article to learn about the best CBD oils that don’t contain THC.
THC Vs. CBD
THC and CBD are two types of cannabinoids that come from the Cannabis Sativa plant. Both of these compounds have an impact on cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain. However, they produce different results because they have different types of impacts.
THC activates the CB1 receptors. This causes the high or euphoria that’s associated with marijuana.
On the other hand, CBD is actually a CB1 antagonist. This means that it blocks any intoxicating impact that affects the CB1 receptors. Because of this, you may be able to reduce the effects of THC by taking it with CBD.
So not only does CBD not get you high, but it may actively block the chemicals that can make you high from THC.
Health Effects and Uses of CBD
There are several positive effects that can come from taking CBD. First off, CBD can help you feel more relaxed. While this may somewhat resemble a high, there are no intoxicating effects.
CBD can also help ease inflammation and relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
One benefit of CBD that has been heavily researched is its ability to relieve people who experience seizures from epilepsy. In fact, the only CBD-based that’s approved by the FDA is for treating epileptic seizures.
Even more, CBD has also shown that it could help people who have schizophrenia by reducing the side effects that come with taking antipsychotic medication.
And marijuana strains that are rich in CBD may be able to prevent people from entering into THC-induced psychosis.
Research into hemp- and cannabis-derived CBD is still expanding. And as time goes on, healthcare providers, doctors, and scientists will have a better understanding of how CBD works and who could most benefit from it.
Does CBD Have Side Effects?
CBD is generally considered to be safe. But there is still more research that needs to be done so that we can better understand all of its possible uses and effects.
Even though it’s generally accepted, some users might experience some side effects while they’re taking CBD, especially at high concentrations. These side effects could include:
- mild nausea
- excessive fatigue
- diarrhea
- dry mouth
- dizziness
You should speak with your doctor before using CBD if you’re currently taking any prescription medications. Some medicines might make CBD less beneficial. Plus, you might end up with interactions that result in unintended side effects.
Is It Legal to Use CBD Products?
Although cannabis is still classified as a controlled substance, the prohibition was lifted on hemp plants after President Trump signed the 2018 Farm Bill into law. This means that CBD from hemp is legal in the United States. However, it can still be illegal on a state level.
A CBD product must have no more than 0.3% THC present for it to be legal.
The Importance of Knowing the Answer to the Question: “Can You Get High Off CBD?”
Hopefully, after reading the above, you now feel that you can adequately answer the question, “can you get high off CBD?” And with this new information, you might even be able to treat some symptoms that you’ve been suffering from.
Are you interested in reading more helpful articles like this one? If so, check out the rest of our blog today for more!
