CBD (cannabidiol) is a cannabinoid compound from the cannabis plant that has been increasing in popularity due to its potential health benefits.
Unlike delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, CBD lacks the psychoactive effects that many people may associate with the characteristic high of cannabis.
However, as the liver metabolizes CBD, researchers are investigating whether this cannabinoid may cause potential liver damage or affect the function of this vital organ.
In this article, we discuss the potential side effects of CBD oil on the liver, and how to use CBD safely.
1. What Does CBD Do to Your Liver?
2. What Can You Do to Protect Your Liver?
3. Does CBD Have Any Other Side Effects?
4. How to Use CBD Safely
5. How to Choose a Quality CBD Product
6. Summary
1. What Does CBD Do to Your Liver?
CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and is used by thousands to help them find relief from seizures, anxiety, pain, and other conditions. (Click to tweet)
RELATED: 7 Realistic Ways CBD Can Help Improve Your Life
However, what does CBD do to your liver?
On the one hand, a study conducted by the FDA in their review of cannabidiol (Epidiolex), used to treat seizures, showed that extremely high doses of this specific drug could lead to liver damage. [1]
However, this was an isolated study on this drug, not the standard supplements CBD brands offer for therapeutic uses.
Other studies have been done on animals to try and ascertain how much CBD could potentially impact the liver, however, the amount of CBD the animals were exposed to was far higher than what humans would take for therapeutic purposes. [2]
From all our research what we have concluded is this:
Use common sense, don't consume bottles of CBD at once!
While it would be really hard for you to consume enough CBD to damage your liver with CBD supplements offered by CBD brands, sticking to the therapeutic dosage recommended on your label is generally safe.
RELATED: How to Choose CBD Oil Products That Work for You
2. What Can You Do to Protect Your Liver?
There are a few things you can do to help protect your liver. You can eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid drinking alcohol. [3][4]
You can also take supplements to help support your liver health. It is also important to avoid using any drugs, including prescription medications, unless they are necessary and prescribed by a doctor.
Additionally, practicing safe sex and getting vaccinated for hepatitis can help prevent liver damage caused by infections. [5]
Taking these steps can help keep your liver healthy and functioning properly.
3. Does CBD Have Any Other Side Effects?
CBD is a natural compound. There is little risk to people who take CBD alone.
Some people report feeling dizzy or lightheaded after taking CBD, and others say that it makes them feel sleepy.
It is however important to note that CBD can interact with other medications, so it's vital to talk to your doctor before you start using it. (Click to tweet)
RELATED: The Known Side Effects of Cannabidiol
4. How to Use CBD Safely
If you are planning to use CBD, it is important to do so safely. Here are a few tips:
- Start with a low dose and increase it gradually, as needed.
- Do not use CBD if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Make sure to talk to your doctor before using CBD if you are taking any other medications. [6]
CBD can be a safe and effective way to help manage various health conditions. Just be sure to use it safely and under the guidance of your doctor. (Click to tweet)
RELATED: How Safe and Effective Is CBD Oil?
5. How to Choose a Quality CBD Product
When looking for a quality CBD product, it is important to consider the source. Make sure the CBD is extracted from organic, pesticide-free hemp plants.
It is also important that the CBD is C02 extracted, as this is the safest and most efficient method of extraction.
It can be helpful to look for third-party lab testing results, as this shows that the product has been tested for potency and contaminants.
Another thing to look for is whether it is full-spectrum or CBD isolates. Full-spectrum CBD products contain other cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, which may provide added benefits.
Lastly, make sure to read reviews and do your research before purchasing a CBD product to ensure it is reputable and reliable.
RELATED: How to Avoid Fake CBD Oil
6. Summary
While many studies have been done on how CBD interacts with our bodies, knowledge is power, so we will always advocate for more studies.
From the studies that have been done, higher doses may potentially affect the liver. Lower doses, used in CBD-containing dietary supplements and food products, are unlikely to cause serious harm.
Sources:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33381646/
- https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/78d1/b11ef6ea5fc856430750a413b968e1372207.pdf
- https://www.imrpress.com/journal/JOMH/17/4/10.31083/jomh.2021.025
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29766791/
- https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/10/7/e037473
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11606-020-06504-8
