Key takeaways

  • Cannabidiol (CBD) is an oil derived from the cannabis plant.
  • Possible health benefits include reducing inflammation, stress, and pain. It also carries some risks and side effects.
  • CBD products with more than 0.3% THC are illegal federally, though still legal under some state laws.

CBD is one of many cannabinoids (compounds) in the cannabis plant. CBD can be extracted into an oil that can be used orally and topically. It can also be incorporated into other CBD products, such as CBD gummies.

Researchers have been looking at the possible therapeutic uses of CBD.

All cannabinoids, including CBD, produce effects in the body by interacting with cannabinoid receptors. These cannabinoid receptors, called CB1 and CB2, are a part of the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system helps regulate functions within the body.

CB1 receptors are present throughout the body, particularly in the brain. They coordinate movement, pain, emotion, mood, thinking, appetite, memories, and other functions.

CB2 receptors are more common in the immune system. They affect inflammation and pain.

THC attaches to CB1 receptors, but CBD stimulates the receptors so that the body produces its own cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids.

Research into the potential benefits of CBD is ongoing. However, there is some research that suggests CBD may have beneficial effects for:

Pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties

Pain relief is a common use for CBD products, especially topical ones such as CBD creams and lotions.

Some of the existing research on CBD for pain is based on animal studies. For example, a 2018 study on mice showed that CBD reduces inflammation by preventing the release of compounds that trigger inflammation in the body.

However, there is some newer research on CBD for chronic pain in humans. A 2024 research review found that most of the 15 referenced studies resulted in pain reduction from CBD. One had mixed results, and three resulted in no significant pain reduction.

Quitting smoking

A 2018 study found that CBD helped reduce cravings during withdrawal from tobacco because of its relaxing effect.

Additionally, a 2024 study done on mice found that CBD helped reduce some of the physical signs of nicotine withdrawal.

Still, it is best to speak with a doctor for advice if a person wishes to use CBD to aid in smoking cessation. Their doctor can also advise on tips that may help with quitting smoking.

Epilepsy

In June 2018, the FDA approved the prescription use of Epidiolex, a purified form of CBD oil, for treating two types of epilepsy in people aged 2 years and over:

These rare forms of epilepsy involve seizures that are difficult to control with other types of medication.

Scientists are beginning to understand how CBD prevents seizures without the sedating side effects of medications used previously. Synthetic drugs are not yet available that target the endocannabinoid system as CBD does.

Keep in mind that over-the-counter (OTC) CBD products are not approved for treating epilepsy.

Anxiety disorders

Doctors have often advised people with chronic anxiety to avoid cannabis, as THC can trigger or worsen feelings of anxiousness and paranoia. On the other hand, there is some evidence that CBD may help reduce anxiety.

A 2019 study showed that CBD significantly reduced symptoms in mice with anxiety.

However, a 2024 research review noted that outcomes of the referenced studies varied widely. Still, the review noted that CBD may help reduce anxiety without many negative effects compared to a placebo.

It is best to speak with a doctor if a person regularly experiences anxiety. The doctor can advise on the suitability of CBD, as well as other treatments that may help.

Sleep

A 2024 study found that taking low doses of CBD could improve sleep quality. Some of the study participants took 15 mg of CBD, while others took 5 mg of melatonin. There were no significant differences between the effects felt from the CBD group and from the melatonin group.

Still, much of the evidence for CBD’s effect on sleep problems is anecdotal, meaning that while some people may find that CBD helps them sleep better, more research is needed.

Alzheimer’s disease

A 2019 review found that CBD might help slow the onset and progress of Alzheimer’s disease.

More research is necessary to understand the dosage better. Some scientists believe a treatment involving both THC and CBD may be more effective.

Additionally, a 2024 research review found that CBD may have potential in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, though more research is needed.

A 2023 review notes that CBD use in older adults has generally been safe, but that it is also important to consider each person’s individual risks of heart problems and other conditions before recommending CBD.

Other areas of research

The following conditions have raised some interest for the potential applications of CBD. However, more clinical data is necessary to establish the efficacy and safety of CBD in relation to the following conditions:

  • Cancer: There is some preclinical data demonstrating anti-tumoural effects from CBD, though further research is needed. A 2023 review suggests that cannabinoids, such as CBD, may help manage chemotherapy-related nausea, though more research is necessary.
  • Diabetes: A 2025 study found that CBD may help lower blood sugar levels and manage diabetes in animal models. Studies in humans are necessary to better understand the potential of CBD on diabetes.
  • Acne: There is limited evidence that applying CBD topically may reduce inflammation related to acne. Some experts have concerns about the lack of evidence regarding its effectiveness and the lack of regulation.

As with most therapies, CBD use may have some risks. CBD may interact with supplements and drugs, including antidepressants, warfarin, and more.

Additionally, it’s important for a person to recognize that over-the-counter CBD products do not have FDA approval, nor are they guaranteed safe by the FDA.

It’s also crucial to research the brand and product a person is considering purchasing. Some CBD products come with certificates of analysis (COAs) that demonstrate they contain the amount of CBD stated on the packaging, and that they are free from contaminants.

Possible adverse effects of CBD include:

  • liver damage
  • interactions with other drugs and alcohol
  • changes in alertness, which can make driving dangerous
  • gastrointestinal problems and loss of appetite
  • mood changes, including irritability and irritation
  • a reduction in fertility for males

Anyone considering or currently using CBD should speak with a doctor about the safety and possible risks based on their individual circumstances.

During pregnancy

Experts believe that using cannabis during pregnancy may affect the fetal development of neurons. Regular use among teens is associated with issues concerning memory, behavior, and intelligence.

The FDA advises people not to use CBD during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

By itself CBD does not cause a person to feel “high.” That means that products made with CBD isolate or broad-spectrum CBD are nonintoxicating.

However, some CBD products are made with full-spectrum CBD, which contains THC. THC is the compound in the cannabis plant that causes a mind-altering “high.”

THC does this by binding to CB1 receptors located in brain regions associated with learning, memory, movement, pain sensation, and inflammation. The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that when THC binds to CB1 receptors, it activates the brain’s reward system and stimulates dopamine release. The sudden rush of dopamine leads to the pleasurable, euphoric “high” associated with recreational marijuana use.

It also binds to CB2 receptors located in the brainstem and hippocampus, which has links to memory and emotions. Immune cells, bone cells, and spleen and liver cells also contain CB2 receptors.

Some full-spectrum CBD products contain a lower dose of both CBD and THC. However, others contain higher doses of both compounds. That means that if a person takes a large enough dose of a high-potency full-spectrum product, it may be enough to cause a euphoric sensation.

While full-spectrum CBD oil may have more powerful effects than CBD oil without THC, it may not be safe or suitable for everyone. Notably, people undergoing regular drug testing should avoid products containing THC.

The legal status of CBD in the U.S. is complex. Hemp and hemp-derived products are legal under the Farm Bill, as long as their THC content is less than 0.3%.

However, the legality and availability of CBD depends on the state. Some states still classify hemp as a controlled substance.

People should check the laws in their state and any travel destination before purchasing or using CBD oil products.

It is worth remembering that the FDA has not yet approved any nonprescription products, which means people cannot be sure what their product contains. Checking for third-party testing and COA can ensure the product is high quality and contains the stated ingredients and dosage.

There are various ways of using CBD oil. These are not the same as using or smoking whole cannabis.

Ways of using CBD products include:

If a doctor prescribes Epidiolex for epilepsy, it is important to follow their instructions.

Recommended dosages vary between individuals and depend on factors such as:

  • body weight
  • the concentration of the product
  • the reason for using CBD
  • previous experience with CBD

People should always start at the lowest possible dose of CBD and increase it slowly until they feel the desired effect.

CBD oils will contain a dropper for easier dosing. Squeezing the pipette will draw the oil into the tube. Then, a person can drop the oil in the tube underneath their tongue, holding it there for around 20 seconds before swallowing it.

Most people will start feeling the effects within a couple of hours. However, several factors may influence this, such as a person’s weight and whether or not they have an empty stomach.

There is growing interest in CBD as a therapy for various conditions, but only one product currently has FDA approval. Unapproved products are legal in some, but not all, states.

As regulation in the U.S. increases, more specific dosages and prescriptions will start to emerge.

For now, people should ask a healthcare professional for advice about which product to use and how much to take. It may offer health benefits such as pain relief and help with quitting smoking, but a person should discuss these with their doctor for advice.

They should also research to ensure they are following regional and local laws. The FDA provides information about a wide range of issues relating to CBD use.

Is CBD legal?The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.