Research on CBD and the endocannabinoid system is still developing. If you stop noticing an effect, that does not automatically mean you should take more.
Cannabinoids, like (tetrahydrocannabinol) THC, that do bind with these receptors have been found to produce increased tolerance to its effects after prolonged use. With THC, this happens because it binds with receptors in a similar way to the endocannabinoids already in your system. Your body responds by producing fewer endocannabinoids. As a result, you need to take more THC to create the same effect that you experienced previously.
How CBD interacts with the body varies and does not tell you what amount is suitable for an individual.
Reverse tolerance means an increased reaction to a substance after repeated use. Claims that CBD produces this effect should not be treated as a basis for changing your intake.
Research on enzymes and anandamide explores possible mechanisms; it does not show that regular CBD use will let someone reduce or stop it.
As a precaution, the FSA does not recommend CBD for under-18s, people taking medication, those trying to conceive, or during pregnancy or breastfeeding, unless under medical direction.
Daily use does not guarantee a particular effect or rule out unwanted effects. The Food Standards Agency advises healthy adults to limit their total CBD intake from food to 10 mg a day as a precaution.
Studies of regular CBD use need to be read in context. One observational study assessed liver blood tests in 839 adults who were already using CBD and recorded their intake for 30 days. It was not a seven-month controlled trial or a study of tolerance. The WHO’s 2018 review described pure CBD as generally well tolerated and found no evidence of abuse or dependence in people, but this is not a guarantee of safety for every product or for long-term use.
However, it’s also important to be aware of how you feel when taking any supplement regularly. Look out for any side effects from the CBD and stop taking it if you have any concerns. Some studies have reported a few cases of side effects including dry mouth, gastrointestinal discomfort, changes in appetite, low blood pressure, dizziness, and liver toxicity.
There is still a lot that we don’t know about CBD. Research into how CBD works continues. Not noticing an effect does not by itself mean you should increase your CBD intake. Check the amount in each serving and the current FSA advice before changing how much you use.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Tracked & signed
Orders over £35
Orders over £199
Soil Association certified
Chat, email or call
Tom Russell
Author
Tom Russell writes extensively about CBD oil and other groundbreaking food supplements. He and his wife share their home with two daughters and a lifetime’s collection of books.