Is CBD Flower Safe: Exploring Potential Risks

Are you interested in trying CBD flower but concerned about risks or misunderstandings around it?

As one of the most natural forms of cannabidiol, CBD hemp flower is becoming increasingly popular. However, its increased popularity has raised a number of questions. In this guide, we’ll explain all you need to know about CBD products. So kick back, relax, and let’s learn if it’s safe to consume CBD flower!

Key Takeaways

1. Smoking CBD flower or CBD hemp flower is not the greatest option to consume CBD.
2. CBD hemp flower is not another name for marijuana. Both are completely different things for different purposes.
3. There are certain side effects of CBD use or smoking hemp flower, and certain groups of people can face potential risks after smoking CBD.
4. If anyone wants to consume CBD, then they can start with alternative hemp derived consumer products like CBD oil, CBD gummies, etc.

Is Smoking CBD Flower Safe?

CBD flower, often known as hemp flower, is a relatively new CBD product on the market. Is it the same as marijuana? Does it provide the same benefits as CBD oil?

With the increased popularity of CBD and its non-intoxicating characteristics, demand for hemp products has skyrocketed. CBD is now available in a variety of forms, including oils and lotions, delicious edibles, and even dried CBD hemp flower buds for smoking.

Now, let’s talk about the other safety concerns of CBD hemp flower. Is smoking a CBD flower safe?

Generally speaking, smoking anything is potentially bad for your lungs. However, it looks like smoking CBD flower is less dangerous than smoking tobacco. This is because high quality CBD hemp flower has far fewer hazardous chemicals and carcinogens than tobacco cigarettes. Also, CBD is thought to have numerous medical benefits that may help with anxiety, and it will provide a relaxing effect to your aching muscles after an exercise. it is also extremely promising in clearing away inflammation very quickly.

Having said that, CBD flower itself is safe, but the inhalation method does come with some inherent risks. However, there are alternative ways besides smoking CBD flower. CBD flower is available in a variety of alternatives, all of which provide the same benefits as CBD without the need to inhale smoke.

Common Side Effects of Smoking CBD flower

If you are not a fan of edibles, it is understandable to choose for smoking CBD flower. However, keep in mind that, although medical cannabis edibles are generally considered safe to eat, smoking CBD flower may pose particular risks. Some of these adverse effects could include:

• Drowsiness or sedation
• Dry mouth
• Low blood pressure
• Lightheadedness
• Diarrhea
• Changes in appetite
• Fatigue

Smoking CBD flower may also cause some irritation to the lungs and throat.

There’s not much argument about the potential health benefits of CBD and CBD flower, but it’s also common knowledge that when you smoke any cannabis plant material, you’re inhaling harmful toxins and chemicals that can damage your lungs. In addition, smoking CBD flower doesn’t provide the most effective way to consume CBD. The heat from combustion destroys some of the CBD, so you don’t get the full benefit of the compound. If you’re interested in trying CBD products, it’s best to consume it in a different format.

How do you avoid the side effects of smoking hemp flower?

It’s pretty tough to avoid the above-mentioned adverse effects because they are rather typical while smoking anything, whether it is hemp flower or the good ol’ Mary Jane. But don’t worry, there are some simple ways to help you deal with these issues.

1. Stay Hydrated: If you ever have a dry mouth and feel like you’re stranded in the Sahara, keep a bottle of water nearby! Staying hydrated not only relieves dry mouth but also removes toxins from your body. Also, it’s generally beneficial to your health.
2. Eye Drops to the Rescue: If your eyes resemble stop signs after a smoking session, a few drops of lubricating eye drops can help. They’ll help relax your eyes and get rid of the redness.
3. Mindful Dosing: If you start to feel too relaxed or sleepy, maybe you used smoked too much hemp plant. Try changing your dosage the next time. Start low and move slowly until you hit your sweet spot. Remember, you can always smoke more, but you can’t undo what you’ve already done!
4. Quality Matters: Pay close attention to the quality of the hemp flower you are smoking. Low-quality products can occasionally cause unpleasant side effects. Choose reliable providers and strains with soothing feelings.
5. Try Different Methods: Hemp flower can be enjoyed in a variety of ways beyond smoking. You might also try vaping or producing edibles. Each way of delivering cannabis differs, so you may find one that works better for you and has fewer side effects.
6. Know Your Limits: Lastly, listen to your body. If you don’t feel amazing after smoking hemp, it may not be the best option for you. And that is completely fine! There are plenty different methods to rest and unwind.

Who Shouldn’t Smoke CBD Hemp Flower?

While CBD flower is generally well-tolerated by most people, there are certain individuals who should exercise caution or avoid smoking it altogether:

Pregnant or Nursing Women:

There’s limited research on the effects of CBD on pregnant or nursing women and their babies. As a precaution, it’s best for pregnant or nursing women to avoid smoking CBD flowers until more research is available.

Individuals with Respiratory Issues:

Smoking anything, including CBD hemp flower, can irritate the lungs and airways. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may experience exacerbation of their symptoms when inhaling smoke. For these individuals, alternative methods of CBD consumption, such as tinctures or edibles, may be more suitable.

Those Concerned About Drug Testing:

While CBD flower contains minimal levels of Delta-9 THC, it’s still possible to test positive for THC on a drug test, especially with frequent or heavy use. If you’re subject to drug testing for work or other reasons, it’s essential to consider this risk before smoking CBD flower.

Minors:

As with any cannabis-derived product, minors should avoid smoking CBD flowers. The developing brains of adolescents may be more susceptible to the potential effects of THC, even in trace amounts.

Aside from the above-mentioned, before adding CBD into daily life, anyone using other medications, such as blood thinners, medication for chronic pain, or blood pressure medications, should contact their healthcare provider.

Will CBD Hemp Flower Get Me High?

With the growing popularity of CBD products, particularly CBD hemp flower, it is understandable to have questions and concerns. One prevalent issue is if smoking CBD flower will make you high or if it is simply a covert method of consuming marijuana.

To put it simply, no. Even though CBD flower may smell a little like weed, it does not have the Delta-9 THC compound responsible for psychoactivity. To understand why CBD does not cause you to go high, some information about your brain, specifically your brain receptors, is required. Brain receptors function as light switches for your neural system. When engaged, they can turn biological functions on and off.

A brain receptor known as the cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1) is a primary explanation for the differences in how various cannabis products affect you. When the CB1 receptor is engaged, it produces a “high.”

CBD does not activate the CB1 receptor directly. This implies that CBD cannot produce the “high” sensation that is typically associated with other cannabis products. However, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) causes a high by partially activating the CB1 receptor.

Hemp Flower vs Marijuana

First things first, let’s start by defining our terms. CBD buds are actually the flowers of a female hemp plant. And, just like designer strains of marijuana, they have been specially bred to contain specific amounts of CBD and THC. While these amounts will obviously vary from plant to plant, there are some standards in place. On the other hand, weed, also known as marijuana also comes form a plant and looks not so different than a CBD bud.  

But the point is that CBD flower is definitely not marijuana!

Similarities

• While CBD flower and weed come from the same plant species, Cannabis sativa plant, they share some similarities:
• Plant Origin: Both CBD flower and weed are derived from the cannabis plant. However, they are often cultivated and bred for different purposes.
• Aromas and Flavors: Depending on the strain, both CBD flower and weed can exhibit a wide range of aromas and flavors, from fruity and floral to earthy and skunky.
• Consumption Methods: They can both be consumed in various ways, including smoking, vaping, or infusing into edibles and beverages.
• Potential Health Benefits: Both CBD flower and weed are believed to offer potential health benefits due to their interaction with the endocannabinoid system in the body. These benefits may include physical relief, reduced stress levels, and improved sleep quality.

Differences

Despite their similarities, CBD flower and weed have distinct characteristics that set them apart:

• Delta-9 THC Content: CBD flower and weed have different amounts of THC. CBD flower has very little THC (less than 0.3% in the US), while weed usually has a lot more THC, sometimes between 10% to 30% or even higher in some forms of infused hemp flower.
• Psychoactive Effects: CBD flower does not produce a high because to its low THC content. However, weed can make you feel high since it contains higher THC. This high emotion can include feelings of extreme happiness, unusual thoughts, or a sense that things are not real.
• Lawful Status: CBD flower derived from hemp is lawful in many countries as long as it contains very little THC. However, most places make it unlawful to use marijuana for fun or recreational purposes. Hemp’s legality comes from the 2018 Farm Bill, an amendment to the controlled substances act, that legalized hemp and hemp derived compounds containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC.
• Cultivation and Genetics: CBD flower and weed are produced from various cannabis plants. CBD flower strains are developed to contain a high concentration of CBD and low levels of THC. However, cannabis strains are cultivated to contain a high concentration of THC, which is what makes people feel high.

Safer Alternatives to CBD Flower

So, you might be wondering how to consume CBD if smoking is not an option. No need to worry; there are lots of great options that do not involve lighting up, including some premium cannabidiol extracts sold online. Let’s look into some of those safer alternatives to CBD flower that will get the job done:

CBD Wellness Gummies:

Who doesn’t love a good gummy? CBD wellness gummies are like little bites of relaxation. They come in all sorts of flavors and are super convenient to take on the go. Just pop one in your mouth, chew, and let the calming effects wash over you.

Mellow Drops:

If you prefer something a bit more subtle, mellow drops might be your choice. These are typically CBD oil tinctures that you can add to your favorite beverage or simply place under your tongue for quick absorption. They’re discreet, easy to use, and perfect for those moments when you need a little extra chill.

Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture:

Similar to mellow drops, full spectrum CBD oil tinctures offer a potent dose of CBD goodness without any of the smoke. They’re made by extracting CBD from hemp plants and mixing it with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Just a few drops under your tongue and you’ll be feeling serene in no time.

CBD Capsules:

CBD capsules, or cannabis dietary supplements, are a fantastic option for those who prefer a no-fuss approach. They’re pre-measured, convenient, and ideal for incorporating into your daily routine. Just swallow a capsule with water and let the CBD work its magic from within.

CBD Topicals:

If you’re looking for targeted relief, CBD topicals might be just what you need. From soothing creams to luxurious lotions, there’s a CBD topical out there for everyone. Simply apply directly to the skin and let the calming properties of CBD ease your worries away.

Final Thoughts: Is CBD Flower Safe?

Overall, we can say that the safety of CBD flower depends on various factors, including how it’s consumed and individual health considerations. Vaping is less harsh than traditional smoking, but still poses risks.

For the safest CBD experience, consider gummies or alternatives to smoking.

Smoking hemp flower may not provide you with the full benefits of CBD, but it is not a life-threatening condition. However, if you want to take CBD but do not want to smoke it, there are other medicines with high doses of various CBD alternatives available.

Legal Disclaimer:
By reading this information presented, you agree to release the author of any liability that comes from using this data. This post contains no legal advice. Federal and state laws about cannabis are subject to change. Claims about cannabinoids have not yet been approved by the FDA. Read the full legal disclaimer here.

Other Articles Related to CBD

• Best CBD Products for Muscle Recovery
• CBD vs Delta-8: What’s the Difference?
• Wellness CBD Gummies Review
• Is Infused Hemp Flower Weed?
• How to Infuse Hemp Flower at Home
• What Are Snowcaps? Exploring THCa Dusted Flower

References:

1. Hemp Production and the 2018 Farm Bill – 07/25/2019 | FDA
2. The Controlled Substances Act (dea.gov)
3. Hemp Production and the 2018 Farm Bill – 07/25/2019 | FDA
4. The Controlled Substances Act (dea.gov)
5. The cannabis Terpenes
6. Cannabinoids and terpenes
7. Therapeutic Efficacy of Cannabidiol (CBD)
8. Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep
9. Cannabidiol use and effectiveness
10. Harvard Health on CBD

FAQs About CBD Flower and Safety