What exactly is CBD oil?
CBD – short for cannabidiol – is one of more than 400 compounds in the cannabis plant. Like THC, much research has been done on its effects, but also much is still unknown. There is strong evidence that it helps with a wide range of complaints, from headaches to stress and from eating disorders to chronic joint pain. However, more research is needed to find definitive proof of this.
CBD is the active ingredient in most of the products you can buy at Dutch Balance. The best known product is CBD oil, but many people who do not like the taste of oil also take CBD in the form of edibles or in patch form. The method of ingestion basically does not matter for the effect: through the bloodstream it reaches the endocannabinoid system and thus affects numerous body processes.
Is CBD oil addictive?
Here we can actually be brief: no. In fact, there are no known cases of people becoming addicted to CBD oil. More importantly, several studies have shown that CBD has no addictive effects. For example, the WHO says: “the evidence from well-controlled studies shows that there is no association between CBD and abuse or problematic use.” This is specifically because CBD, unlike THC, does not cause a euphoric feeling or alteration in consciousness.
Thanks in part to these findings, and also because CBD is safe to use, CBD is 100% legal in the Netherlands. CBD is also legal in a large number of countries inside and outside the European Union, so you can take it on a plane without any problems.
Can you get addicted to CBD edibles or capsules?
What applies to CBD oil also applies to other products that incorporate CBD. Think of edibles, CBD patches and CBD capsules. You cannot become addicted to these CBD products either. As long as the percentage of THC remains below the legal maximum of 0.05% (as is the case with all our products), there is no risk of becoming addicted and you can safely use the product.
CBD may help with addictions
In addition to the fact that CBD itself is not addictive, there is growing evidence that CBD can help get rid of addictions. Particularly when it comes to substance addiction, early results are encouraging.
For example, this study shows that people addicted to heroin suffered less cravings after taking CBD, as opposed to people who were given a placebo. CBD acted like a ladder in these people, helping them climb out of the vicious cycle. In addition, several studies show that:
- CBD can help reduce withdrawal symptoms, such as stress and anxiety.
- When addicted to THC, it can help counteract the negative effects of THC.
- CBD could also be a good alternative for people who smoke a lot of marijuana (with THC).
- Cravings for nicotine might also decrease.
CBD can help you sleep better
Besides having a positive effect on addictions, there is also strong evidence that CBD helps you sleep better. This further ensures that your (mental) health improves, as those who sleep well are less likely to have a whole range of problems, ranging from obesity and heart disease to stress, behavioral and concentration problems. Stress and mental problems in particular are often a major cause of addictions, so it is not illogical to assume that CBD not only helps with addictions, but also reduces the risk of addiction.
Bottom line: is CBD oil addictive? No, CBD oil is not addictive and is safe to use. In fact, there is strong evidence that it actually helps combat addictions. Want to know more about using CBD and whether it helps in your situation? Then discover more practical information about CBD here or get in touch. We will be happy to answer all your questions.
