CBD Not Working? Why CBD Doesn't Work for Everyone

Even though CBD was only federally legalized in 2018, it has taken the country by storm. It has become incredibly popular for its medicinal benefits across all age groups, and CBD products can now be found almost everywhere. What happens, though, when CBD oil does nothing when you take it? Do you build up a tolerance to CBD? Does CBD have noticeable side effects? There are a couple of key reasons to consider that will hopefully give you some direction for what to do differently to get the most out of your CBD.

How CBD Works

First and foremost, let's look at how CBD works within your body to produce the effects that make it so popular. CBD, which stands for cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid found naturally in cannabis (both in marijuana and hemp plants). THC is the other most prominent cannabinoid in cannabis, but unlike CBD, it is psychoactive and will get you high. CBD will not get you high on its own.

When consumed, CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, binding with CB2 receptors found throughout the body. The endocannabinoid system regulates things such as pain, nausea, mood, appetite, the immune system, and more. When CBD binds to the CB2 receptor, it causes a flux in your body's regulation, increasing effects that are seen as medicinally beneficial.

The Health Benefits of CBD

CBD and extracts commonly found on the market like CBD oil have a variety of medical benefits that are continuing to be better understood. There is still a need for more testing, but from what we know so far, CBD's medical applications are broad and beneficial. Some of the medical conditions CBD is believed to treat include:

Anxiety and depression
Insomnia and other sleep conditions
Chronic pain
Inflammation
Muscle spasms
Addiction
Acne
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Epilepsy
Seizures

The first and only FDA-approved cannabis-derived drug is Epidiolex, which is used to reduce seizures associated with the rare conditions Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex. The future of CBD as the base for regulated medications and as a medical supplement is looking very promising.

Why CBD Does Nothing for Some People

You Need To Give the CBD More Time

Everyone reacts to CBD differently, and some people need more time than others before CBD begins to kick in. Different consumption methods also have varying amounts of time before CBD hits - edibles can take a few hours, while smoking and vaping should take effect within 15 minutes. It should also be noted that not everyone will "feel" CBD. Yes, CBD occasionally produces noticeable effects, but it's not like THC where you'll feel a high or an altered perspective. Especially if you're using CBD for medical reasons, it might take several weeks of daily use before you begin to feel beneficial side effects, such as better sleep or decreased inflammation.

You Require A Higher Dose of CBD

A common question is, "Can you build a tolerance to CBD?" Yes. Like anything else, if you use CBD often, your body can build up a tolerance and require more to feel the same effects. Over time, you may need to readjust your dosage or take less for a certain period to reduce your CBD resistance. While there are no reported cases of a CBD overdose, we recommend speaking to a medical professional if you are taking CBD for medical reasons and want to change your dosage.

You Need To Try A Different Product

There are many different CBD products available, ranging from CBD teas and coffees to high-end extracts and oils. If you've been taking CBD for several months and still don't feel any noticeable changes, we suggest trying a different product. More specifically, you might want to check out full-spectrum extracts. CBD is only one of the hundreds of compounds found in cannabis, and they all work together within your endocannabinoid system to create what is known as the entourage effect. Full-spectrum products will include other beneficial cannabinoids like CBN and CBG that may increase your chances of feeling beneficial side effects. Of course, you'll want to stay clear of products that also include THC if you're in a state that doesn't have legalized marijuana or if you don't want it.

Your CBD Isn't From A Reputable Company

We highly recommend looking for third-party testing with every cannabis product you buy, both CBD and THC. Because CBD is not federally regulated, there are a lot of untrustworthy companies out there selling products that don't contain any CBD, despite what the label may tell you. If a CBD product has been third-party tested, you know a non-biased organization has tested the product and found that it is up to the standards placed on the label (it's also important for knowing if the product is safe and free of things like heavy metals and solvents).

Tips to Get the Most From Your CBD

Find the Right Dosage

As we mentioned above, finding the proper dosage might be the difference between not feeling anything and getting the most out of your CBD. Microdosing is a great way to get started. Small amounts at a time over a few weeks to see if you feel anything, slowly increasing the amount you're taking daily until you find what works best for you. If you are taking CBD for medical purposes, we highly recommend talking to your medical professional before trying CBD or increasing your dosage.

Try New Strains and Consumption Methods

There are countless ways to enjoy CBD. If you've been using the same product or consumption method and feel like you're not getting everything you want from your CBD, mix it up! If you're using edibles, give vaping or smoking a chance (or vice versa). Like marijuana, there are hundreds of CBD strains that each boast various levels of CBD and other cannabinoids, each with its own unique benefits. Try different strains and see if you feel any noticeable differences.

Find a Local Shop You Can Trust

As you're looking for new products, suggestions, and a steady supply of CBD, we highly recommend finding a local shop (or a credible online source). A local shop will be able to give you personalized suggestions and maybe even set you up with various delivery options. Online stores can also be a great benefit when it comes to ordering online and having your CBD shipped straight to your door. For local shops, check out your area at Where's Weed!

Have you had issues with CBD oil not working? Do you have a solution for other people who may be experiencing the same CBD no effect? Let us know in the comments below!

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