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CBD: How Safe Is It?

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I've met many patients curious about CBD over the years. "CBDs," as some people refer to cannabidiol (CBD), has grown tremendously in popularity. Some of that is due to the buzz around this plant extract over the past few years, but much of it is because people report that it works. It's become very clear that CBD offers health benefits—and does so without the high associated with marijuana (THC). But the big question I hear all the time is: Is it really safe? In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about CBD’s safety, legal issues, uses, and potential risks that you should know about.

Key Take Aways

• CBD is a non-psychoactive (meaning it doesn't get you high) compound derived from hemp. It offers potential therapeutic benefits without the intoxicating effects of THC - something I’m really excited about for patients seeking natural options.
• CBD has a great safety track record when taken at recommended levels for the right conditions.(1)
• While CBD has shown amazing promise in helping conditions like epilepsy, anxiety, sleep disorders, and chronic pain, it’s important to understand the potential side effects and interactions with other medications. It’s always wise to get educated, approach with understanding, and seek medical guidance if your health situation is more complex.

Understanding CBD

I've worked with countless patients who were confused about CBD! Cannabidiol (a hard word to pronounce but commonly known as CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Unlike marijuana - which contains THC and causes that high everyone talks about - CBD doesn't produce intoxicating effects. It’s primarily extracted from hemp, a variety of cannabis with minimal THC content. It has gained incredible popularity for its potential health benefits since its discovery and increasing use over the past two decades.

CBD belongs to a group of compounds called cannabinoids, which work with your body’s endocannabinoid system to support various physiological functions. People are especially excited about its non-psychoactive nature, as it allows for symptom relief without the mind-altering effects of THC.

What Exactly Is Cannabidiol (CBD)?

This can be a confusing topic! Cannabidiol, or CBD, is the second most common active component in cannabis, right after THC. It binds to receptors in the body that are part of a regulatory system responsible for sleep, stress, mood, pain perception, muscle tension, and inflammation.Both THC and CBD can enter your bloodstream and cross the blood-brain barrier to affect your central nervous system. The big difference - and something I explain to patients all the time - is that CBD is non-intoxicating, unlike THC, and does not cause psychoactive effects.

There are over 100 different cannabinoids derived from hemp and cannabis. CBD is one of the most widely used and studied. Because it’s derived from hemp, CBD products are more accessible and legally acceptable in many states and countries. Thanks to its legal status and wide availability, I’ve seen firsthand how users benefit from its therapeutic properties.

Legal Status of CBD in the U.S.

CBD's legal landscape has evolved dramatically since the 2018 Agriculture Improvement Act (the Farm Bill), which legalized hemp and its extracts (including CBD) at the federal level. However, state laws still vary. CBD is federally legal if it contains less than 0.3% THC, but some states impose stricter regulations.

This patchwork of rules creates confusion - and also contributes to quality control and compliance issues in the industry. That’s why knowing your state's laws and buying from reputable brands is key to staying safe and compliant.

Forms of CBD Products

CBD now comes in many forms to match different needs:

• Oils – full-spectrum or broad-spectrum
• Tinctures – oil drops placed under the tongue
• Capsules – familiar Western medicine format
• Topicals – creams, lotions, salves, and sprays
• Vapes – a non-combusted, inhalable format
• Edibles – gummies and beverages

Each form has its pros and cons. Oils and tinctures offer fast absorption but may taste unpleasant. Topicals can provide localized relief. Capsules are discreet and convenient. Edibles offer precise dosing and better flavors. Vapes provide fast effects but still raise health questions regarding inhalation safety.

Health Benefits of CBD

Many people are amazed by CBD’s potential - and I’m no exception. It’s shown promise in treating conditions such as:

• Epilepsy (especially rare childhood syndromes)
• Anxiety and sleep disorders
• Chronic pain
• Inflammation
• Addiction

This is largely due to CBD’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood, sleep, appetite, immunity, and more.

CBD for Epilepsy

CBD’s most scientifically established benefit is in treating certain childhood epilepsy syndromes, such as Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut. The FDA-approved medication Epidiolex has proven highly effective in reducing seizures—offering life-changing results for patients and families.(2)

CBD for Anxiety and Insomnia

CBD is gaining traction as a natural aid for anxiety and sleep. Studies - including those from Harvard - show CBD reduces anxiety in both humans and animals. It may also improve sleep quality, helping people fall and stay asleep longer.(3)

Chronic Pain and Addiction

CBD can help manage chronic pain by reducing inflammation and acting as a natural analgesic. Research also shows promise in using CBD to reduce cravings for addictive substances, including opioids and tobacco - an exciting area for future treatment options.(3)

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, CBD can cause side effects and interact with medications. Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea
• Appetite changes

CBD may interact with blood thinners or acetaminophen, impacting liver function or increasing bleeding risk. If you're on medications, consult a healthcare provider before using CBD.(4)

Regulatory Concerns

CBD is sold as a supplement, not a medication. That means the FDA doesn't regulate its safety or purity. Studies show many CBD products contain less CBD than labeled - or even harmful contaminants.To protect yourself, look for third-party testing and transparent labeling from reputable brands.

CBD Research and Development

Before 2018, legal barriers limited CBD research. Since the Farm Bill, studies have increased rapidly—exploring its role in inflammation, pain, metabolic health, and more.

• University Studies - Major institutions like Harvard University are leading research on CBD’s effects on cognitive function, sleep, and pain. These studies will help establish safe, science-backed uses.(5)
• FDA-Approved Uses - As mentioned, Epidiolex is the first and only FDA-approved CBD medication, marking a regulatory milestone and paving the way for future CBD-based therapies.(2)
• Future Prospects - The future looks bright! As research expands, we expect to see more over-the-counter and prescription CBD products offering safe, natural health solutions.

Summary

CBD offers a promising range of health benefits - from FDA-approved epilepsy treatments to natural relief for anxiety, sleep, and chronic pain. But like any supplement, it should be used with awareness of potential risks, medication interactions, and quality concerns.

Stay informed. Choose reputable products. And consult your doctor if you have a complex medical history. The future of CBD in holistic health looks incredibly exciting!

Learn more about Dr. Kerklaan Therapeutics products.

References

• Bergamaschi, M. M., et al. "An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies." Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, vol. 2, no. 1, 2017, pp. 139–154.
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "FDA Approves First Drug Comprised of an Active Ingredient Derived from Marijuana to Treat Rare, Severe Forms of Epilepsy." FDA Press Release, 25 June 2018.
• AAMC. "CBD: Does it work? Is it safe? Is it legal?" AAMC News, 20 July 2023.
• Frontiers in Psychiatry. "Cannabidiol usage, efficacy, and side effects: analyzing the impact..." 29 February 2024.
• PMC. "Real-world evidence from a Canadian medical cannabis clinic." 23 June 2021.