CBD or cannabidiol is a molecule that can be found in the cannabis plant and constitutes one of its most important psychoactive substances, along with THC or Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol.
Over several decades, science has studied the different effects that this substance can have on the brain and human behavior, and currently both its risks and its possible therapeutic usefulness are being studied.
In fact, in some countries various medications based on cannabidiol have been marketed for some years, and the most popular product of this type is the so-called “Cannabidiol oil”.
Likewise, the sale of hemp-derived products is also legal there; which does not mean that this substance is harmless. The truth is that the consumption of cannabidiol also presents a series of side effects and health risks that should be known by the general population. Therefore, in this article We will review the main effects of CBD
What are the possible benefits of CBD consumption?
There are a number of possible positive effects associated with the consumption of CBD, so In some cases people with various psychological problems take this substance under medical supervision (and without constituting the only pillar of the treatment they are receiving). These effects derive mainly from the fact that certain anxiolytic or even sedative effects have been observed in CBD, and it is considered that this molecule partially counteracts the effects of THC, which is a euphoriant.
However, The mechanisms through which CBD acts in the brain are more complex than those of THC, so there are still not many certainties about its effects on health. But one of the things that has been observed is that while consumption of the cannabis plant can generate addiction, CBD as a substance separated from the rest of the plant does not seem to generate dependence, something that cannot be said of THC.
However, it may also happen that people who start consuming CBD (for example, to try to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety) decide to switch to marijuana in search of more intense effects, and end up significantly damaging their physical and mental health.
That said, let’s see what are the main problems for which CBD consumption could have positive and therapeutic effects under medical supervision (which may or may not occur after consumption, depending on the characteristics of each person).
1. Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a disease characterized by the appearance of seizures and even loss of consciousness in the person who suffers from it.
This disease occurs in people of all ages and is very common in children and adolescents, something that significantly affects their daily quality of life and can represent a real alteration in their psychological health.
That is why in some countries CBD is used on a prescription basis to treat the most common types of epilepsy.
2. Anxiety
Another advantage that the consumption of CBD can have in the human body is found in decreased anxiety one of the most common psychological disorders throughout the Western world.
The known anxiolytic and relaxing effect that CBD has on the person who consumes it is closely related to the reduction of states of anguish, stress, discomfort or specific disorders related to anxiety.
3. Pain
Temporary pain and chronic pain are some of the most frequent conditions for which many people use CBD in the form of oil or any other form.
And permanent pain in the body can also cause a wide variety of psychological emotional alterations in the person who suffers from it, and bring out other disorders such as excess stress, generalized anxiety or depression.
4. Insomnia
Insomnia is also one of the most common problems in the general population and for some years it has been affecting increasingly younger people, suffering from other psychological disorders such as stress, anxiety or depression.
The improvement in insomnia problems is another of the main reasons why more and more people consume CBD for therapeutic purposes, mainly from cannabis oil or cannabidiol oil.
5. Use as a medicine for other diseases
More and more people are consuming the cannabidiol substance to treat other types of specific diseases or ailments that affect both their physical and psychological health.
Some other diseases for which CBD consumption can be useful are Parkinson’s or Crohn’s Disease (a type of inflammatory bowel disease whose medication can cause digestive problems).
What are the main risks of CBD?
One of the main risks that the consumption of this substance entails is associated with the fact of having a history of drug use or mental illness In these cases, its use is contraindicated for health reasons and in order to avoid a physical or mental imbalance in the person who is preparing to consume therapeutic CBD.
Another contraindication is found in pregnant, lactating, very young children or adults with liver diseases.
Among the psychological and biological effects that CBD triggers in the human body and that can be considered negative, the following stand out.
1. Drowsiness or fatigue
One of the main adverse effects that CBD consumption can cause is an increase in the feeling of general tiredness, drowsiness, or fatigue when carrying out any type of activity during the day.
This sensation can cause discomfort in the person who suffers from it and have a very negative impact on their mental health throughout the day.
2. Headache
Another of the physical symptoms that may appear due to CBD consumption are migraines, migraines, or persistent headaches
In addition to that, dizziness and nausea can also be another of the symptoms experienced by a person who regularly consumes CBD.
3. Loss of appetite
Another adverse effect that may appear when using this substance is loss of appetite, a phenomenon that also psychologically affects the person who suffers from it.
In any of these cases, always It is advisable to stop consuming CBD if any of these side effects appear
Are you looking for treatment for mental health problems?
If you are looking for psychological or psychiatric support, contact us.
In CITA Clinics We have been caring for people with problems such as anxiety or drug addiction for years, and we have a residential module for admissions in the treatment of addictions. You will find us in Barcelona and in Dosrius (Mataró).
