Are you considering CBD oil but unsure what to expect? You’re not alone!
Many people wonder, “How Does CBD Make You Feel?” Unlike its cousin THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, so it won’t leave you feeling high.
But that doesn’t mean it’s without effects!
This article will examine how CBD interacts with your body, the potential benefits you might experience, and what factors can influence your feelings after taking it.
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. It belongs to a class of molecules called cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS) to regulate various physiological functions.
CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it does not produce the “high” sensation associated with cannabis use. Instead, CBD is believed to offer potential therapeutic benefits for a wide range of conditions, including pain, anxiety, inflammation, seizures, and more.
Its versatility and promising research have led to the widespread popularity of CBD products in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, and more.
How Does CBD Work?
CBD interaction with the body’s ECS, which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological functions, including mood, sleep, pain sensation, and immune response.
CBD influences ECS receptors, such as CB1 and CB2 receptors, along with other receptor systems in the body, resulting in a wide range of effects.
CBD helps promote balance and overall wellness by modulating neurotransmitter release and reducing inflammation.
Does CBD Have Psychoactive Properties?
No, CBD does not have psychoactive properties. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis, CBD does not produce a “high” or intoxicating effect.
CBD interaction with the body’s Endocannabinoid System doesn’t cause any psychoactive effects.
This non-intoxicating nature of CBD makes it a popular option for individuals seeking natural relief from various health issues without experiencing the euphoria associated with THC.
What Does Taking CBD Feel Like?
The experience of taking CBD can vary from person to person, and it often depends on factors such as dosage, individual metabolism, and the specific reasons for using CBD.
Many people report feeling a sense of relaxation, calmness, and relief from symptoms such as pain, anxiety, or inflammation after taking CBD. Some describe it as a subtle but noticeable reduction in symptoms or an overall improvement in well-being.
However, it’s essential to note that not everyone may experience noticeable effects from CBD, especially at lower doses. Additionally, individual responses to CBD can vary, and some people may not feel any discernible changes after taking it.
What Does CBD Make You Feel Like Physically?
Physically, CBD typically doesn’t cause any immediate or noticeable sensations for most people.
CBD’s effects are often described as subtle and more focused on providing potential therapeutic benefits rather than noticeable physical sensations.
However, some individuals may experience mild effects from CBD, such as a sense of relaxation or relief from symptoms like pain or inflammation.
These effects are often described as gentle and non-intoxicating, allowing individuals to carry on with their daily activities without impairment.
What Does CBD Make You Feel Like Mentally?
Mentally, CBD is often associated with feelings of relaxation, calmness, and a reduction in stress or anxiety for many people. CBD’s effects on mental well-being are often described as subtle but noticeable, with many individuals reporting a sense of mental clarity and improved mood after taking CBD.
Some people may also experience relief from symptoms related to anxiety, depression, or stress, leading to an overall feeling of balance and well-being. It’s essential to note that individual responses to CBD can vary, and not everyone may experience the same mental effects.
Additionally, factors such as dosage, method of administration, and individual metabolism can influence how CBD affects each person mentally.
How Long Does It Take for CBD to Kick In?
The onset of CBD effects depends on several factors: dosage, method of administration, individual metabolism, and the specific reasons for using CBD.
In general, the effects of CBD can be felt within minutes to a couple of hours after consumption.
If taken sublingually (under the tongue) as CBD oil or tinctures, the effects may be felt more rapidly, typically within 15-30 minutes, as the CBD is directly absorbed into the bloodstream through the mouth mucous membranes.
On the other hand, the onset of effects may be delayed when ingesting CBD through edibles, capsules, or beverages. It usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours or longer to feel the full effects. This is because CBD must pass through the digestive system before entering the bloodstream.
Topical CBD products, such as creams, lotions, or balms, may take some time, as the CBD is absorbed through the skin and interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the peripheral nervous system.
It’s important to note that individual responses to CBD can vary, and some people may experience quicker or slower onset of effects depending on factors such as body weight, metabolism, and tolerance.
Additionally, the duration of effects can also vary, typically lasting from a few hours to several hours, depending on the dose and method of administration.
What Are the Effects of CBD?
CBD is associated with a variety of potential effects on the body and mind, though individual responses can vary. Some common effects of CBD include [1]:
- Pain Relief: CBD may help relieve pain by interacting with receptors in the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which is involved in pain perception and inflammation regulation.
- Anxiety Reduction: CBD has been reported to have calming effects and may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress by modulating neurotransmitter activity in the brain.
- Improved Sleep: CBD may promote better sleep quality and help manage insomnia by enhancing relaxation and reducing symptoms of anxiety or discomfort that can interfere with sleep.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation and associated symptoms in conditions such as arthritis or autoimmune disorders.
- Neuroprotection: CBD has demonstrated potential neuroprotective properties, suggesting it may help protect against neurological conditions and support brain health.
- Anti-seizure Effects: CBD has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of certain forms of epilepsy due to its ability to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
- Mood Regulation: CBD may have mood-stabilizing effects and could help improve symptoms of depression or mood disorders by influencing serotonin receptors in the brain.
How to Use CBD
CBD comes in various forms, and how you use it depends on your preferences and the type of CBD product you have. Here are some common ways to use CBD:
- Oral Consumption: CBD oil or tinctures are commonly ingested by placing a few drops beneath the tongue and keeping them there for approximately 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing. This technique enables rapid uptake of CBD into the bloodstream via the mucous membranes in the mouth.
- Capsules and Pills: CBD capsules or pills are convenient for precise dosing and can be swallowed with water like any other supplement.
- Edibles: THC Edibles such as gummies, chocolates, or beverages offer a tasty and discreet way to consume CBD. These products are ingested and metabolized in the digestive system, resulting in slower onset but longer-lasting effects.
- Topical Application: CBD-infused creams, lotions, balms, and salves are applied directly to the skin to target localized areas of discomfort or inflammation. Topical CBD products are absorbed through the skin and interact with cannabinoid receptors in the peripheral nervous system.
- Inhalation: CBD can be inhaled through vaporization using CBD vape pens or inhalers. Vaporizing CBD allows for rapid absorption into the bloodstream through the lungs, resulting in a quick onset of effects.
Is CBD Addictive?
CBD is generally considered non-addictive.
Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis that can lead to addiction in some individuals, CBD does not produce euphoria or intoxication and does not have the same potential for abuse or dependence.
Numerous studies and reviews have concluded that CBD is safe and well-tolerated, even in high doses, with minimal risk of addiction or withdrawal symptoms.
CBD has been investigated as a potential treatment for addiction to substances such as opioids and tobacco due to its potential to modulate the brain’s reward system and reduce cravings.
Final Verdict
Knowing how CBD makes you feel involves recognizing its potential to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and alleviate discomfort without intoxicating effects. CBD offers a natural alternative for enhancing overall well-being, whether it’s a sense of calmness, relief from pain, or improved sleep quality.
As research continues to uncover its diverse effects, CBD remains a promising option for those seeking holistic support. Embrace the power of CBD and discover how it can positively impact your life.
References:
- Rapin L, Gamaoun R, El Hage C, Arboleda MF, Prosk E. Cannabidiol use and effectiveness: real-world evidence from a Canadian medical cannabis clinic. J Cannabis Res. 2021 Jun 23;3(1):19. doi: 10.1186/s42238-021-00078-w. PMID: 34162446; PMCID: PMC8223341.