How does CBD make you feel? CBD high and effects explained

The rapid rise in the popularity of CBD is largely due to the benefits its users have observed over time. But what are the effects of CBD?Below, we’ll take a deep dive and answer specific questions about how CBD makes you feel via various consumption methods, as well as discuss various dosage options, and the effects of CBD vs THC.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, also known as (CBD) is a natural compound extracted primarily from the cannabis plant, typically and specifically from hemp, while in its flowering stage. CBD is one of up to 113 different known cannabinoids found in the resinous parts of the hemp plant. There are three types of CBD products available for purchase, with some strict restrictions in some states or countries. Three types of CBD products include:

1. Full-spectrum CBD
2. Broad-spectrum CBD
3. CBD Isolate

Full-spectrum CBD products can contain whole plant compounds and up to 113 different cannabinoids. The highest quality CBD products providing the most benefit are arguably products containing the entire plant’s compounds including terpenes, flavonoids, and other natural whole plant compounds. Broad-spectrum CBD products contain nearly every whole plant compound. However, they contain below 0.2% THC. What makes broad-spectrum CBD a fantastic choice is that it gives you most of the same benefits as full-spectrum CBD. However, broad-spectrum products only contain traces of THC. With the THC molecule under the legal 0.2% limit, broad-spectrum products are able to be sold in states with strict cannabis laws. Finally, CBD isolate is a highly-processed product that contains nearly 100% CBD without any other compounds or cannabinoids. CBD isolate is great for those who want the isolated benefits of CBD, and no possible traces of THC.

What do you feel when you take CBD?

In general, the primary effects you feel when taking CBD start with relaxation and an increase in your overall well-being. CBD can also make you feel peaceful and calm, with mild relief from temporary discomfort Along with relaxing feelings, you can also experience an increase in focus and more restful sleep. However, if you’re taking full or broad-spectrum CBD extract, you can also experience a wider range of benefits due to the effect of other cannabinoids. The entourage effect simply means that CBD extract works better when it also contains other cannabinoids and whole plant ingredients that synergistically work together to produce a more well-rounded and potent effect.

Does CBD make you high?

CBD is non-psychoactive and won’t get you high. With a CBD product that’s guaranteed THC-free or has under 0.2% THC, you don’t have to worry about feeling “high”. It would take a ratio of around 7 to 8% THC to start feeling a euphoric, recreational effect.

THC vs CBD effects: what are the differences?

THC and CBD are similar molecules, but they attach to endocannabinoid receptors in different ways. As a result, the effects they offer are completely different. The main difference between THC and CBD is that THC gets you high, whereas CBD will not get you high—not even a little bit. Regardless of the consumption method, THC can trigger a euphoric feeling, as well as many other beneficial effects. On the other hand, CBD gives you more of a full-body effect that is soothing and relaxing.

How does dosage influence CBD’s effects?

CBD can produce different kinds of effects, depending on the dose you take. The ideal dose of CBD for you will depend on your consumption method, the severity of your condition, age, weight, what you’re using it for, and many other factors. CBD interacts with other cannabinoids, and they can reinforce each other’s potency. That being said, before taking CBD, it’s best to have a quick chat with your doctor to make sure it doesn’t have any negative interactions with your current medication or lifestyle habits.

Does CBD make you sleepy?

By itself, without any other whole plant compounds or cannabinoids, CBD doesn’t make you sleepy. If you’re taking a CBD isolate that’s 99.9% or more pure CBD, you won’t experience any sleep-promoting effects. In order to experience the soporific (inducing drowsiness or sleep) effects of CBD, you’ll need to take full- or broad-spectrum CBD extract that includes cannabinoids (such as CBG) that are known to make you sleepy.

While shopping around for the best full- or broad-spectrum CBD product to help you with sleep, look for products that are high in CBG and also contain other whole plant ingredients, such as terpenes and flavonoids. When taking CBD with CBG and other whole plant compounds, you’ll get the added benefit of the entourage effect: hemp molecules are stronger when taken together.

How long does it take to start feeling the effects of CBD?

The way you take CBD determines how fast you’ll start noticing its effects. Inhaling or vaping CBD provides the fastest (almost immediate) onset of effects, while ingesting CBD won’t show results as fast—because it has to go through your digestive system first. Average time to feel CBD effects based on your consumption method. (source)

1. Inhaling—almost immediately
2. Sublingual tincture—15 – 45 minutes
3. Ingesting—one to two hours
4. Topical—a few minutes

Depending on how much you take and the severity of your condition, the time it takes for CBD to take effect can vary. Keep in mind that CBD won’t hit you the same way as THC. CBD typically offers a more gentle onset and releases more slowly overtime. Experiment with each method of consumption to discover what works best for your needs at the moment.

How long are you going to feel the effects of CBD?

How long you’re going to feel the effects of CBD depends on several factors, including your body chemistry, how much CBD you take, your consumption method, and more. In general, you’ll feel the effects of CBD for 2 to 6 hours. (source)

Tincture, vape, flowers: do CBD effects change depending on the method of consumption?

CBD will have nearly the same effect regardless of your consumption method. However, each method of consumption offers different levels of bioavailability. The word “bioavailability” refers to how much of the CBD you take actually reaches your bloodstream and endocannabinoid receptors. Certain consumption methods send CBD straight to your bloodstream. However, with other methods, a lot of CBD molecules get lost along the way. Bioavailability of CBD depending on consumption method.

1. Ingested – 6% (source)
2. Inhaled – 56% (source)
3. Sublingual – 12%
4. Suppository – 13.5% (source)
5. Topical
6.  

Can CBD make you feel bad?

If you take the right dose, CBD won’t make you feel bad and it won’t cause you to experience any negative psychoactive effects.However, there are a few nuances and some potential side effects to be aware of before you decide to take CBD. According to the medical journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, a few of the most commonly reported side effects of CBD were changes in weight and appetite, diarrhea, and tiredness. Some prescription medications can negatively interact with CBD, such as clobazam, which could cause you to experience more of the negative side effects of your current medication. Moreover, CBD can interact with certain medications (particularly those carrying a grapefruit warning.) Taking CBD alongside these medications could stop them from working properly—so make sure to consult your physician if you’re on any type of medication.

Conclusion

CBD has many awesome benefits, and can make you feel very relaxed. With so many different types of CBD products to choose from, you’ll be able to find the best one for your needs. Before taking CBD for the first time, it’s best to have a quick chat with your doctor to make sure you won’t have any potential negative reactions.