When you consume cannabis with THC, doing so regularly for an extended period of time can make you build a tolerance. Same with narcotics, barbiturates, and other medications that get their dose frequently raised because they aren’t working anymore. Can you also develop a tolerance to CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the cannabinoid that comes from the cannabis plant, but unlike THC, it doesn’t get you high. Because this cannabinoid interacts with the endocannabinoid system indirectly instead of directly binding to the receptors, it lacks the intoxicating effects while still having healing properties. Cannabidiol is so different from other drugs; your body doesn’t build a tolerance to it.
Why Do We Build A Tolerance?
When you drink alcohol regularly for a long period of time, you build a tolerance making you drink more to get the same effect as you had your first few times. Our bodies build a tolerance to substances like alcohol and medication because the receptors that are involved decrease as well as their ability to bind efficiently. Your liver also plays a considerable role in metabolizing these substances, working harder each time you consume.
CBD Oil’s Tolerance
During a study, they found that repeated treatment of THC desensitized the cannabinoid receptor CB1. This is why people who use cannabis recreationally will often go on breaks or switch up the strains they are using. When they looked to CBD, they found that it did not have the same desensitizing effects as THC.
A Reason To Choose CBD Instead
Having this ability to help with symptoms without having to regularly up your dose is why this discovery is such a marvel for the medical community. Often people who use addictive prescription pills can fall prey to the fine line between addiction and tolerance. This can cause doctors even to change the type of medication you are on which can lead to unpleasant side-effects. CBD’s ability to stay effective at the same dose could change the way we do medicine.
If you are thinking of switching to CBD instead of your pharmaceuticals because you are gaining a tolerance or are tired of trying different medications that might not seem to work right each time, talk to your doctor. Explain to them your new approach to healing, and they can help you get off of medications that may be difficult to stop on your own. It is always a good idea to keep your doctor in the loop when making changes to your health.
