Does CBD Make You Feel Anything?

November 06, 2024

CBD is everywhere, and people are raving about its benefits. But here’s a question that often pops up: does CBD actually make you feel anything? Will you notice an instant change, a new sensation, or even a gentle “buzz”?

CBD is a bit different from other wellness supplements. Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD doesn’t make you feel “high” or alter your perception. But that doesn’t mean you feel nothing! Many users report a subtle shift—one that feels calm, balanced, and, in a word, natural. Let’s dig into how CBD feels, what to expect, and how you can make the most of its effects.

1. Calm Without Cloudiness

One of the most common effects people notice with CBD is a sense of calm. This isn’t the heavy, drowsy calm that some medications cause. Instead, it’s more like walking into a quiet room after a busy day—a noticeable shift, but without mental fog. Studies, including one in The Permanente Journal, have shown that CBD may reduce anxiety and promote a more relaxed state.

For many people, CBD doesn’t make them feel anything new; instead, it seems to remove the mental “noise” that often comes with stress or anxiety. Imagine feeling less tense, more present, and able to focus on the task at hand.

Actionable Tip: If you’re new to CBD, try it during a moment of calm, like a lunch break or after work. This lets you tune into the subtle effects without distraction.

2. Pain Relief Without Numbing

CBD is often used for pain relief, especially for chronic issues like joint pain or muscle soreness. But CBD doesn’t work like a painkiller; it’s not about numbing the body. Instead, CBD influences your body’s endocannabinoid system to manage inflammation and discomfort.

What does that feel like? Many people describe it as a “softening” of pain or a reduction in the sharpness of an ache. For example, if you have sore muscles, CBD might make them feel looser and less inflamed, without the heaviness or grogginess that often comes with traditional pain relievers.

Pro Insight: For best results with pain, try using both a CBD oil for whole-body support and a CBD topical for targeted relief. Apply the topical directly to sore areas, and take a few drops of oil for more generalised support.

3. Feeling Balanced Rather Than “High”

CBD doesn’t make you feel high—there’s no shift in perception or “buzz” associated with it. But many users describe a feeling of balance. This sense of balance isn’t overwhelming; it’s subtle. You might notice you’re a bit more patient, a little less reactive, and perhaps more grounded.

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood, sleep, and stress response. So, for those who struggle with feelings of irritability or mood swings, CBD can provide a stabilising effect, allowing you to feel centred without feeling changed.

Actionable Tip: Take note of how you feel in different situations, such as a busy meeting or a long commute. Many users find that CBD helps them maintain focus and patience during stressful moments.

4. Easing into Sleep Without Grogginess

For those who struggle with sleep, CBD may help you feel more relaxed in the evening without the heavy drowsiness associated with sleeping pills. CBD isn’t a sedative, but it can help manage the underlying factors—like stress and discomfort—that keep you awake.

If you’re taking CBD to support sleep, expect a gradual relaxation rather than an overwhelming urge to pass out. Many people find that taking CBD about an hour before bed helps them ease into sleep naturally, without the morning grogginess that comes from traditional sleep aids.

Pro Tip: For sleep, try a slightly higher dose in the evening and pair it with a calming bedtime routine. A warm bath, light reading, and CBD oil can make the perfect trifecta for a restful night.

5. Feeling the Effects: CBD Dosage Matters

The way CBD makes you feel depends a lot on dosage. With a low dose, you’re likely to feel mild relaxation without drowsiness. Higher doses, however, can cause drowsiness in some people, making them ideal for sleep support but not for an active day. Here’s a quick guide:

Low Dose (5-10 mg): Subtle calm and focus. Great for managing mild stress or for daytime use.
Moderate Dose (10-20 mg): Noticeable relaxation, reduced discomfort. Ideal for unwinding after a long day.
High Dose (20 mg and up): More intense relaxation, which can lead to drowsiness for some. Best suited for evening or sleep support.

Pro Insight: Start with a low dose and gradually increase it based on your needs. The goal is to find the minimum effective dose that provides benefits without unnecessary side effects.

6. Not a Quick Fix—Consistency is Key

CBD is subtle, and its effects can be cumulative. While some feel a difference right away, for others, CBD’s benefits become more noticeable after a few days or weeks of regular use. It’s more like an “investment” in your body’s balance than a one-time fix. By taking it consistently, you allow CBD to build up in your system, helping to promote a sense of calm, resilience, and ease.

Actionable Tip: Keep a journal to track how you feel each day with CBD. Record your dose, timing, and any noticeable changes. Over time, you may spot patterns that help you fine-tune your CBD routine.