Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid that has become popular in the wellness world in recent years. Some people wonder if it’s possible to build a CBD tolerance, and if so, what are the implications?
Read on to learn more about CBD tolerance and how you can avoid it so your CBD products can work just as great as the first day you took it!
Can you Build a Tolerance to CBD?
You can’t develop a tolerance to CBD, but cannabinoid sensitivity varies from person to person.
Basically, the endocannabinoid system is made up of cannabinoid receptors located throughout the body. When CBD is introduced into the system, it binds to these receptors and produces effects like relaxation or help calm the mind. Over time, our bodies can become desensitized to the different cannabinoids and require more of them to produce the same desired effects as before but this is usually from changes to your endocannabinoid system over time not from building a tolerance to CBD oils.
So, in theory, yes may need to use more CBD after continued use. However, this isn’t something to be overly concerned about and it is not from building a tolerance.
Over the last few years, CBD drinks and other CBD products have been growing in populaity. One of the main reasons for this is because CBD acts quickly to calm the mind and relax the body.
Is a Tolerance to CBD Even Possible! What Is a Tolerance?
Tolerance is the body’s ability to adapt over time and require more of a certain substance in order to achieve the same results as before. This could be with any type of medication, supplement, or drug.
It usually means you have to take a higher dose of whatever it is in order to get the same effects as before.
Fortunately, with CBD, this is not something you should worry about. As mentioned earlier, your body’s cannabinoid sensitivity can change over time and a higher dose may be needed to get the same effect. But this is not from building a tolerance like with other medications.
The Endocannabinoid System and How CBD Effects It
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors differently than other drugs; it does not bind directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors but works more indirectly.
CBD functions by through a process that encourages endocannabinoid production and improves binding affinity to specific receptors. With this mechanism, CBD is able to help the body’s endocannabinoid system maintain a balance between all vital processes- a crucial state for the body called homeostasis.
By regulating the receptors of the endocannabinoid system, Cannabidiol (CBD) makes it more responsive to cannabis compounds. This ensures that cannabinoids are used more efficiently by the body.
Does CBD Affect THC Tolerance?
No, CBD does not affect THC tolerance. They are two very different cannabinoids with different effects on the body and endocannabinoid system.
Does CBD Lower THC Tolerance?
Again, the answer is no. CBD does not directly affect THC tolerance, but it can indirectly affect it by helping to provide a more balanced endocannabinoid system.
How Can You Avoid Building a Tolerance to CBD?
Our CBD tolerance threshold may vary over time, but that doesn’t necessarily come from building a tolerance. Rather, it comes from changes in our endocannabinoid system and overall body chemistry.
The following factors influence how tolerant someone is:
- Age
- Genetics
- Gender
- Metabolism
- Weight
- How much CBD you’re taking
- Experience with CBD
How To Avoid Building a THC Tolerance?
With THC, tolerance can occur due to the activation of CB1 receptors in the brain. This leads to a decreased response after continued use.
The best way to avoid building a marijuana THC tolerance is to cycle your cannabinoid intake by taking breaks from using cannabis from time to time.
Will CBD Ruin my Tolerance Break?
A tolerance break is a break from using cannabis and not only will CBD not ruin your tolerance break, but it is the best way to help with withdrawal from marijuana and cannabis plant.
What’s The Difference Between a THC & CBD Tolerance?
People who use cannabis with a high THC content may develop tolerance to the cannabinoid. This is because THC has a direct affinity to the CB1 receptor in the brain, which is why it gets us high while CBD doesn’t. With daily use, the effects of THC become less pronounced over time for CBD users.
THC tolerance is a cellular-level process. When THC binds with CB1 receptors in the brain repeatedly, the cells try to reduce the effects of THC by desensitization or internalization. Desensitization occurs when CB1 receptors make it difficult for THC to bind with them again. Internalization happens when CB1 receptors hide inside the cell so that they become unresponsive.
CBD does not bind with the CB1 receptors in the brain so this desensitization process does not happen with heavy CBD use. This is why CBD does not cause the same tolerance buildup as THC.
Does CBD Cause Withdrawals?
No, CBD does not cause withdrawals. It is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that does not produce the psychoactive effect associated with THC. Therefore, it does not lead to cravings or dependence and there are no known withdrawal symptoms associated with taking CBD oil.
CBD Tolerance FAQ
Q: Can you build a tolerance to CBD?
A: No, you can’t develop a tolerance to CBD. However, cannabinoid sensitivity varies from person to person and your body’s endocannabinoid system may become desensitized over time.
Q: Does taking CBD affect THC tolerance?
A: No, CBD flower does not directly affect THC tolerance but it can indirectly affect it by helping to provide a more balanced endocannabinoid system.
Q: Can I take too much CBD?
A: Yes, there is such a thing as taking too much CBD. It’s recommended to start with a lower dose and gradually increase your dose until you find the right amount for yourself. Too much CBD can cause unwanted side effects like fatigue, diarrhea, or dizziness.
Q: Do different forms of CBD cause different effects?
A: Whether you take CBD gummies, CBD oil, CBD tincture, or others. The results will always be the same and none of them will build tolerance.
CBD Tolerance Summary
CBD cannot produce a tolerance in the same way that THC does. That said, your body’s endocannabinoid system may become desensitized to CBD over time due to changes like age, weight, and height. If that is the case then you will only need to up your regular dose of CBD and you will be good to go. Additionally, it is important to remember that a tolerance break may not be necessary with CBD. Taking breaks from THC, however, is still the best way to avoid building up tolerance.
Whether you are just starting out or have been taking CBD for some time, understanding how CBD and your body’s endocannabinoid system interact is important. This knowledge will help you get the most out of your CBD experience and find the right dosage for your personal needs.