There is an increasing list of research highlights that point to the health benefits of CBD. With the popularity of CBD exploding into the scene, reaching every nook and cranny of the world, it would be an understatement to say that a CBD revolution hasn’t started.
With all of the good things there is to say about CBD, one question that is often asked is ‘can CBD be addictive?’
Can you get hooked onto the herbal extract despite the long list of benefits it offers?
Let us help you get the answers.
How Does Addiction Work?
It is the psychological and physiological reaction when meeting with an external stimulant. When the brain comes in contact with a substance such as a drug like cocaine or nicotine or caffeine, it is flooded with neurotransmitters such as dopamine. The dopamine leads to a volley of pleasurable sensations.
Then, there is learned behavior that also causes symptoms of addiction. It could be that the behavior makes the user seek out addictive substances. The rewards-related learning process is one of the main mechanisms that cause addiction.
Does CBD Cause Addiction?
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is the prime regulatory network that is present in all animals. The receptors of the system send messages to various other systems of the body. When there is a chemical imbalance, then there are adverse effects that are unfavorable. CBD helps to simply ensure that chemical balance or homeostasis is maintained.
Since CBD product doesn’t produce the same psychoactive buzz that THC is associated with, there is very little potential for abuse. A study was conducted in 2011, where researchers gave human subjects 1500 milligrams per day and studied the effects of addiction. It was found that CBD didn’t impair any of the psychological functions, change blood pressure or increase heart rate and body temperature-the opposite of which are trademark symptoms of a heightened sense of euphoria, when dealing with addictive substances.
So, the answer is no. CBD is not addictive.
The side effects when taking CBD-that too in abnormally high doses- can include:
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Sedation
- Change in appetite
- Diarrhea
- Lowered blood pressure
All in all, the side effects profile of CBD is one of the best among natural supplements and you can’t go wrong with it. If you have a pre-existing medical condition and are taking medication for it, it is advised that you talk to your doctor about it, to rule out the possibility of CBD interacting with your meds.