Are you wondering whether CBD products can cause constipation issues?
CBD oil has many noteworthy benefits, but some people may be concerned about its effect on the digestive system. After all, if you take a quick look at the side effects of a wide variety of supplements and prescription medications, you’ll see a warning about the possibility of constipation. Harvard Health Publishing reported that this side effect is particularly common with antidepressants, which is noteworthy since some people turn to CBD oil to help them relieve anxiety or depression.
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Per Medical News Today and WebMD, there have been no significant reports about CBD oil causing constipation. The overall list of possible side effects is very short and isn’t likely to be much of a concern for the average user. Side effects of CBD oil may include:
- Tiredness
- Weight gain or loss
- Appetite changes
- Diarrhea
- Feeling lightheaded
- Low blood pressure
- Dry mouth
As you can see, people who suffer from constipation might actually benefit from taking CBD oil since it can lead to diarrhea.
Side Effects of CBD Oil
However, it is important to note that people who deal with frequent digestive system issues could end up triggering a constipation response if they use CBD oil for an extended period of time. This is because any long-term prescription or alternative remedy for addressing constipation can eventually result in a return, and possible worsening, of the original symptoms.
To avoid constipation problems, it’s best to use CBD oil in a cycle such as three weeks on, one week off. Please be aware that each person’s results may vary, so it’s best to start slow and pay close attention to your body’s reaction to CBD oil.
CBD Oil vs. Hemp Oil: Which is Best for Constipation?
Before we look at which of the popular cannabis related oils works best for constipation, let’s examine the differences between each product:
- CBD Oil – Made from the flowers, stalks and leaves of hemp. Contains a high amount of cannabidiol. Frequently used for pain, digestive issues, anxiety and insomnia.
- Hemp Oil – Oil extracted from the seeds of a hemp plant. Commonly used for cooking, making lotions, bio-diesel fuel and as a moisturizer.
Much like CBD oil, hemp oil has been known to cause diarrhea and other digestive issues. Unfortunately, the reported side effects of hemp oil can be much more concerning than CBD oil, and include immune suppression, aural hallucinations, and more.
Additionally, if you’re using hemp oil for cooking, you need to ensure that you don’t overheat it. Not only does this cause a slight explosion risk but it may also expose you to noxious peroxides.
There has also been some limited evidence that the high amount of fiber in hemp seeds could cause some users to develop constipation. On the other hand, a small study into the effects of hemp seed pills did find that proper usage of these pills can be beneficial for constipation sufferers.
Conclusion
When you weigh the pros and cons, it’s probably best to choose CBD oil over hemp oil if you want to avoid constipation or are hoping to use a natural alternative remedy for this digestive issue. Either way, the good news is that using a top-quality CBD oil is unlikely to cause constipation, especially if you take a short break from it every so often.
