Is CBD Oil Addictive?

With an ever-increasing number of people turning to CBD as part of a new and healthier lifestyle, many people ask, “Is CBD Oil addictive?”. Thankfully, the short answer is a resounding NO! But, as with all things, this short answer can require some further explanation!

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

An Addiction Epidemic

There is a growing problem with addiction and the catastrophic damage it can cause to people’s lives all around the world. Following the (ongoing) COVID-19 pandemic, health experts have warned of an addiction crisis as people cannot get the help they need to deal with drink, drug, and other substance addictions.

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen many people go through lengthy periods unable to work and shut away from society in their homes, away from family and friends. This has caused increased levels of drink and drug dependency as people turn to them to get through the day. As well as this, other less apparent addictions have soared, including food addiction, gambling addiction and social media addiction.

However, the good news is that as society starts to re-open. Many people now realize they need to make positive lifestyle changes both physically and mentally to get back on track. CBD products have vastly improved in their recognition as all-around well-being products. As a result, more and more people are turning to them to assist their wellness journeys.
So, it’s only natural to see a spike in the level of people concerned about the addictiveness of CBD products.

What is Addiction?

Addiction is defined simply as the inability to stop using a substance or behaviour that is causing you either physical or psychological harm.

So, Is CBD Addictive?

Whilst there is an ongoing debate about cannabis dependency and the extent to which it exists; CBD use has yet to show any signs or symptoms associated with addiction.

The World Health Organisation state in 2017:

“…evidence from well-controlled human experimental research indicates that CBD is not associated with abuse potential.”

In fact, CBD has been trialled as a potential source for lowering the rates of certain drug addictions and relapse. Here including cocaine and methamphetamines, with positive results!

A review of addiction literature surrounding CBD by the Substance Abuse: Research and Treatment Journal in 2015 stated that:

“A limited number of preclinical studies suggest that CBD may have therapeutic properties on opioid, cocaine, and psychostimulant addiction, and some preliminary data suggest that it may be beneficial in cannabis and tobacco addiction in humans.”

So Why Does This Question Arise Time and Time Again?

The truth is that addiction and addictive behaviors are very rarely limited to a single substance or thing. Instead, they often end up being applied to various areas of a person’s life. So it is sensible for someone who suffers from an addiction of any form, to be hesitant when using a new substance. And with the rising number of people suffering from addiction in one form or another, it is only natural to see this question popping up more often.

The Science Behind CBD

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes such as pain, mood, and appetite. The ECS comprises receptors (CB1 and CB2), endocannabinoids (naturally occurring cannabinoids in the body), and enzymes that break them down. By interacting with these components, CBD can influence the body’s homeostasis, or balance.

CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference?

While CBD and THC are both cannabinoids found in cannabis, their effects on the body and brain are quite different. THC binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, leading to the psychoactive effects or “high.” In contrast, CBD has a more indirect interaction with these receptors, which is why it does not produce the same euphoric effects.

CBD vs THC

The fact that CBD is associated with the cannabis plant, is usually the central area of people’s concern.

For some people, cannabis use can become an addiction. There is some level of debate around the exact cause of the addiction. It is widely accepted that it is the THC compound and associated feelings it creates, that are the source of the addiction. This is because it’s the THC found in cannabis that gives you the ‘high’ when it’s consumed.

However, CBD produced and sold in the UK and EU is derived from the hemp plant. These plants are remarkably similar to cannabis. However, they have significantly lower levels of THC. In the UK and the EU, THC levels legally must remain under 0.2%, which is nowhere near enough to feel an effect or cause addiction.

Also, in relation to the 2015 study mentioned above, CBD has been shown to reduce THC’s impact. When consumed, THC overstimulates the ERK pathway in your brain, producing a dopamine rush (dopamine is the feel-good chemical in your brain). Dopamine releases in the brain are one of the main reasons responsible for both substance addiction and behavioural addiction. When taken, CBD acts almost like a blocker in this same pathway, which may be partly responsible for its ability to reduce cannabis dependency.

In the USA, in certain states, it is legal to consume cannabis and THC. As a result, some CBD oils and products contain much higher THC levels than in the UK and EU. Therefore, if you are reading this from the USA, you should always check THC levels if you are concerned about the addiction potential of any CBD product you buy!

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How CBD Interacts with the Brain

CBD’s interaction with the brain is complex and not yet fully understood. It does not bind directly to cannabinoid receptors like THC. Instead, it influences them indirectly and can also interact with other non-cannabinoid receptors, such as serotonin and opioid receptors. This multifaceted interaction is what makes CBD potentially beneficial for various conditions without the risk of the euphoric high that THC provides.

Research on CBD and Addiction

Numerous studies have been conducted to understand the potential for CBD to cause addiction. Most research suggests that CBD is not addictive. In fact, some studies indicate that CBD might help in treating addiction to other substances, such as opioids and nicotine. For example, a study published in the journal Substance Abuse found that CBD reduced cravings and anxiety in heroin users.

Personal Experiences and Testimonials

Many individuals have turned to CBD as a natural remedy for various ailments, and personal testimonials often highlight its benefits. Users commonly report that CBD helps them manage pain, anxiety, and sleep issues without the addictive properties associated with other medications. These anecdotal accounts align with current research, suggesting that CBD is not habit-forming.

Can You Develop a Tolerance to CBD?

Tolerance occurs when the body becomes used to a substance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. Unlike THC, where tolerance can develop with prolonged use, there is currently no substantial evidence to suggest that the same happens with CBD. Some users may adjust their dosage over time, but this is often due to changes in their condition rather than a tolerance effect.

Potential Benefits of CBD

CBD is touted for its potential health benefits. These include:

• Pain Relief: By interacting with the ECS, CBD can help reduce chronic pain and inflammation.
• Anxiety and Depression: Studies suggest that CBD can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, offering a natural alternative to traditional medications.
• Neuroprotective Properties: CBD may protect against neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
• Seizure Management: CBD is an effective treatment for certain types of epilepsy, as evidenced by the FDA-approved medication Epidiolex.

Risks and Side Effects

While CBD is generally considered safe, it can cause side effects in some people. These may include:

• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea
• Reduced appetite
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue

It’s also important to note that CBD can interact with other medications, so it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting CBD, especially if you’re on other treatments.

Legal Status of CBD

The legal status of CBD varies by country and even within regions of the same country. In the United States, for instance, CBD derived from hemp (containing less than 0.3% THC) is legal at the federal level but may be restricted in some states. Always check local regulations before purchasing or using CBD products.

Choosing the Right CBD Products

When selecting a CBD product, consider the following factors:

• Source: Ensure the CBD is derived from organic, non-GMO hemp.
• Extraction Method: CO2 extraction is considered the gold standard for purity and safety.
• Third-Party Testing: Look for products tested by independent labs to confirm their potency and purity.
• Ingredients: Opt for products with minimal additives and natural ingredients.

Can I Take CBD as a Recovering Addict?

Depending on your recovery program, you should always consult your qualified physician before beginning to take a new substance. As we have laid out above, CBD has never been shown to be associated with addictive behaviours or dependency. But you can never be too safe where your health is concerned.

The range of positive health benefits that can be experienced from taking CBD oil is huge. If you are looking to get your physical and mental health back on track, CBD may just prove to be a fantastic accompaniment to your whole life well-being program and may make the road to recovery from addiction that little bit easier as a result.

Some of the benefits include:

• Reduced inflammation
• Better sleep
• Lower anxiety levels
• Pain relief
• Lower blood pressure
• Reduction in severity and frequency of panic attacks
• And much more

Conclusion

After examining the available evidence, it’s clear that CBD is not addictive. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a high or lead to dependency. Instead, it offers potential therapeutic benefits for a range of conditions, from chronic pain to anxiety. While more research is needed to fully understand all its effects, current findings are promising.

CBD can be a valuable part of a health and wellness regimen, provided it’s used responsibly and in consultation with a healthcare provider. As with any supplement, quality and source are crucial, so choose products from reputable brands that adhere to high standards of safety and efficacy.

Hopefully, this article has set your mind at ease if you had concerns about the activeness of CBD products. If you have any further questions relating to this post or anything else CBD related, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our fabulous team!

Thank you for reading – Is CBD Oil Addictive? – by The Real CBD.

FAQs About CBD and Addiction

Hanne - The Real CBD

I am a certified expert in Medicinal Cannabis. We are all about giving correct and trustworthy information. We know how important it is to learn about CBD and cannabis, which is why we want to be your go-to source for trustworthy information. We help you improve your health by using our knowledge and experience as a starting point.