cbdCBD oil has become a popular treatment for a number of different conditions, including arthritis, depression, insomnia, and more. It’s a low risk drug that’s generally seen as beneficial. But could you experience side effects from it? Here’s what you should know about CBD oil side effects. CBD side effects are rare. When side effects from CBD oil occur, they usually

happen as a result of interactions with other drugs. However, they can occur. But overall, the potential side effects are mild, and can include fever, diarrhea, and fatigue.

CBD is overall considered safe. According to the World Health Organization, clinical trials of CBD suggest that CBD is well tolerated by most people, and it has a good safety profile. Using CBD comes with little risk of dependence or abuse.

You shouldn’t get high from CBD. It’s important not to confuse CBD with THC. Though both CBD and THC come from cannabis and are cannabinoids, they aren’t the same thing. THC is sourced from marijuana and offers psychoactive effects. CBD typically comes from industrial hemp, and is purified to remove all but traces of THC and other cannabinoids. That means there is little to no THC present in CBD products, so there are no psychoactive or euphoric effects from using CBD. In fact, CBD users typically want the health benefits of cannabis without the high of THC.

CBD can offer relief for symptoms of chronic conditions. If you’re experiencing painful inflammation, anxiety, depression, PTSD, arthritis, chronic pain, and other conditions, CBD may be able to help. It has even been approved for use as an anti epileptic drug.

Effects depend on application. You can take CBD in a number of different ways. It’s possible to take CBD as gummies, edibles, under the tongue, as a lotion, smoking, and vaping. Generally, oral and skin applications will take longer to be effective, but can last longer. Smoking or vaping can offer a more immediate effect, but will typically wear off more quickly.

Dosage matters, too. The more CBD you consumer, the greater the effects, and the higher the potential for side effects. Some users report feeling fatigue at higher dosage levels, but feel fine with lower doses.

CBD Side Effects in Clinical Studies

Though CBD has been well tolerated with no signs of serious side effects in some studies, other studies on using CBD for epilepsy treatment have shown side effects. Although these side effects may relate to interactions with other medications, it’s still worth noting it’s possible to experience these side effects when using CBD:

● Convulsion

● Drowsiness

● Vomiting

● Decreased appetite

● Diarrhea

● Fatigue

● Fever

● Abnormal liver function

Overall, you can expect CBD to be a safe alternative to other drugs that may come with more serious side effects. But if you’re taking other medications, or if you experience a side effect while taking CBD, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about interactions and how you can manage or avoid CBD side effects.

Amelia Noble is a researcher with the CBD Awareness Project. When she's not studying CBD, you can find her playing board games.