What is the Downside of CBD Oil?

October 29, 2024

It’s everywhere. CBD oil has taken the wellness world by storm. From health shops to online stores, it’s being hailed as a game-changer for everything from anxiety to chronic pain relief. But behind the buzz, does CBD oil come with drawbacks? Here’s what you might not hear about in the hype—let’s explore the other side of the coin, the potential downsides of CBD oil.

1. The Science is Still Catching Up

CBD oil is trendy, and trends can sometimes outpace solid evidence. While some studies show promising results, the research is still in its infancy. A 2020 review published in Frontiers in Pharmacology highlighted that while CBD may benefit conditions like anxiety and pain, most studies are small-scale or animal-based. In other words, we don’t yet fully understand how CBD oil impacts humans over the long term.

For professionals looking to recommend CBD, this means taking a cautious approach. Before making it part of your regular routine, consider: has it been sufficiently vetted? When advising clients, transparency is crucial. Make sure they understand CBD’s limitations, and the fact that what works wonders for some might do little for others.

2. Quality Control is a Major Issue

CBD products are not tightly regulated in the UK. That can lead to big issues around quality control. According to a 2019 study by the Centre for Medicinal Cannabis, nearly half of CBD oils sold in high street shops had incorrect labelling on their CBD content. Some products didn’t even contain any CBD at all! Worse yet, some products contained THC above the legal limit, which could lead to legal issues or unexpected psychoactive effects.

Actionable Tip: Only purchase CBD oil from reputable brands with clear third-party lab testing. It’s worth the extra cost to know you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for—and nothing more or less. For healthcare providers, recommending specific brands that prioritise transparency can add tremendous value to clients.

3. Possible Side Effects

CBD is often marketed as a “natural” solution, which might lead some to believe it’s side-effect-free. However, that’s not the case. CBD can cause side effects in some users, including:

Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Changes in appetite
Diarrhoea

These effects are generally mild, but they can interfere with daily activities. For instance, if someone is taking CBD for anxiety and then finds themselves drowsy, it could actually impact their productivity rather than improve it. The dose can make a difference here, so it’s critical to start low and gradually increase if necessary.

4. Drug Interactions Are Real

For anyone taking medication, this is a big one. CBD can interact with several types of medications, including blood thinners, some antidepressants, and certain heart medications. It may alter how your body metabolises these drugs, potentially leading to higher concentrations in your bloodstream, which can increase the risk of side effects or toxicity.

If you’re a healthcare provider, it’s essential to ask clients about CBD use. And if you’re considering CBD and already on medication, speak with your doctor first. It’s not just a precaution; it’s essential.

5. Legal Ambiguities

CBD is legal in the UK—if it contains less than 0.2% THC. However, regulations are complicated and vary by product. For example, certain CBD products may not legally be marketed as health supplements. This lack of clarity can put sellers, providers, and even consumers in a tricky position.

One practical solution for consumers is to stick to reputable UK-based brands that comply with UK law. For professionals, understanding the basics of CBD law can help you guide clients safely and keep them informed.

6. Potential Dependence and Psychological Risks

While CBD isn’t thought to be addictive in the traditional sense, regular users might find themselves relying on it. For some, that means they feel like they need it to relax, to sleep, or to feel comfortable in social settings. Psychological dependency is less about the substance itself and more about the behaviours surrounding its use.

In cases where someone turns to CBD as a daily solution for mild stress or sleep, they may overlook addressing the root cause of their issues. For those in health professions, it’s a good idea to discuss coping strategies alongside CBD, to ensure it’s used as a supplement rather than a crutch.

7. Cost Concerns

Let’s face it: quality CBD isn’t cheap. With prices ranging from £30 to over £100 for a small bottle, regular use can quickly add up. And because effects are often individual, it may take some trial and error (and money) to find the right product and dose.

Actionable Insight: For clients or personal use, consider trying smaller quantities initially. This way, you don’t commit to an expensive product until you know it’s worth the investment.

CBD Oil Isn’t a Cure-All

CBD oil has potential benefits, but it isn’t a cure-all. While it’s tempting to see it as a natural miracle for pain, anxiety, and sleep issues, the reality is more complex. Before you jump on the bandwagon, weigh the potential downsides alongside the benefits. Start with small doses, choose reputable brands, and if you’re on medication, consult with a healthcare provider.

Remember, wellness trends come and go. CBD may have staying power, but it’s not without its challenges. By taking a thoughtful, cautious approach, you can enjoy the possible benefits without being blindsided by the downsides.