Marijuana is the most commonly abused substance in the United States aside from alcohol. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 19% of Americans used cannabis in 2021.[1]
CBD or cannabidiol is one of the compounds found in cannabis. While the compound that causes a mind-altering effect is called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce a high.
Since CBD does not produce a high, it is legal to be sold in stores. Many people use CBD gummies, extracts, and even lotions to experience some type of benefit. According to Harvard Health, CBD has been found effective in managing anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, inflammation, and even addiction.[2]
While cannabidiol has been shown to produce several health benefits, there is no evidence showing that it leads to addiction or dependence.
What you will learn:
- What is cannabidiol
- Why do people use CBD
- What is the difference between CBD and THC
- Can you get addicted to cannabidiol
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the second active ingredient in the cannabis sativa plant. Even though it is an essential ingredient in marijuana, it is derived from the hemp plant. CBD is not responsible for the high that people experience when they smoke weed and does not cause psychoactive effects.
CBD products are often sold in stores as dietary supplements or used in beauty products. First, you might find GBD gummies or tinctures that are meant to assist with sleep, anxiety, or chronic pain. It is also used in lotions and face masks to promote skin health.
According to a study, 64% of adults have tried CBD products, with half of them being directed to by their doctor.[3]
It is important to note that only one form of CBD is FDA-approved. It is called Epidiolex and is used to treat epilepsy by prescription only. The FDA does not approve the CBD oils and gummies you find on shelves in stores for medicinal use.
Why Do People Use CBD?
Cannabidiol has become a hot topic, especially among researchers. Current studies are being done to determine the health benefits of using CBD. According to a study on CBD, it “has a beneficial impact on pain, anxiety, and depression symptoms as well as overall wellbeing.”[4]
Even further, there is a medication approved by the FDA to treat epilepsy that contains CBD.[5] This suggests that CBD does have beneficial impacts on one’s health.
People might use CBD products for:
- Anxiety relief
- Improvements in sleep
- Relief from chronic pain or inflammation
- To treat seizures and epilepsy
- To address symptoms of depression
It is important to note that while clinical trials and studies are looking into the benefits of CBD, the only accepted medicinal use of it is for seizures. More research needs to be done to confirm whether CBD can treat addiction, reduce anxiety, manage chronic pain, or alleviate insomnia.
How is CBD Different From THC?
CBD and THC are both active ingredients in marijuana. They are also chemically similar when looking at their structure. Despite this, there are some huge differences between the two compounds to be aware of.
First, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) causes mind-altering effects. It can lead to feelings of euphoria, dizziness, drowsiness, fits of laughter, and more. On the other hand, CBD does not cause you to experience a high.
While CBD does not cause mind-altering effects, it can lead to side effects. The side effects associated with CBD may include:[6]
- Anxiety
- Changes in appetite
- Dry mouth
- Stomach issues
- Dizziness and drowsiness
- Mood changes
- Nausea
CBD is derived from the hemp plant, which contains a very low level of THC to begin with. In other words, pure CBD does not contain enough THC to cause a high.
That said, you could experience side effects when taking CBD that might not be worth the benefits. You should always consult with your doctor before taking a new substance, especially if you are doing so to address the symptoms of a physical or mental health condition.
Can You Get Addicted to CBD?
You cannot get high from consuming CBD so there is no risk of becoming addicted to it. Even large doses of CBD will not cause mind-altering effects.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential.”[7]
While the effects of CBD might be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, there is no risk of developing an addiction. Despite this, you should use caution when taking CBD for health conditions. Because the FDA does not approve it, you should not attempt to replace prescribed medications with CBD products.
If you are in recovery from addiction, you might want to avoid using CBD products. Many of them taste similar to cannabis, which could trigger you to experience drug cravings. Until there is better research on the benefits of CBD, it is best to steer clear of the substance.
Find Help for Drug and Alcohol Abuse
If you or a loved one suffers from alcoholism or drug addiction, it’s time to seek help. Substance use disorders can be incredibly difficult to overcome, especially on your own. Drug and alcohol rehab centers can provide you with the tools and support you need to achieve long-term recovery.
Whether you are abusing illicit drugs or alcohol, PAX Memphis is here to help you recover. Our addiction specialists will provide an in-depth assessment to determine your treatment needs. With the information gathered, we can make an informed decision on what type of drug rehab program is right for you.
Contact us today for more information on how we can help you achieve recovery from alcoholism and drug addiction.
References:
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Cannabis Facts and Statistics
- Harvard Health: Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don’t
- The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): CBD: Does it work? Is it safe? Is it legal?
- Journal of Cannabis Research: Cannabidiol use and effectiveness: real-world evidence from a Canadian medical cannabis clinic
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA): FDA Approves First Drug Comprised of an Active Ingredient Derived from Marijuana to Treat Rare, Severe Forms of Epilepsy
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): CANNABIDIOL (CBD) – POTENTIAL HARMS, SIDE EFFECTS, AND UNKNOWNS
- The World Health Organization (WHO): CANNABIDIOL (CBD) Critical Review Report