Can You Be Allergic to CBD?

CBD is taking over the production industry, and everyone is turning to it. You may wonder if CBD has any allergens. Herein is an overview of allergies, their mechanism, and the effects of CBD oil on allergic reactions.

Allergies are immune system responses that are not induced in healthy individuals. Allergy symptoms include sneezing, watery eyes, itching, and asthma attacks. Phytochemicals like CBD exist in nature. Put another way, it's derived from plants, notably cannabis. A product with more than 400 other phytochemicals in it is likely to raise the question of whether it might cause allergies. Although CBD isn't studied extensively for allergic responses, the cannabis plant is previously connected to allergies. Regarding CBD allergies, this article discusses what causes them and whether or not you can still take it if your full-spectrum oil is making you feel achy.

An Overview of Allergies and Their Mechanisms

Asthma and other allergic reactions are prevalent health issues. Itching, sneezing, a runny nose, drooping eyes, and trouble breathing are hay fever symptoms. People get allergies for different reasons. Consider learning how allergies start and what causes them. A weakened immune system can cause allergies. The immunological system manages allergies. A well-functioning immune system can distinguish between dangerous and non-damaging substances to eliminate possible risks.

When it's out of sync, it perceives harmless chemicals as possible hazards, generating antibodies against these "irritants." The body produces antibodies when it is exposed to the allergen. Plant allergies, such as hay fever, are triggered by histamine. Church (2016) suggested that antihistamines prevent antibodies from causing harm to the immune system by reducing the amount of histamine in the body. Claritin, an over-the-counter antihistamine, is one of the most often prescribed. Plant allergies include those to CBD, which is a family member. A food allergy is more difficult to treat. This may cause anaphylactic shock and other life-threatening reactions to food. Anaphylaxis may be deadly if left untreated. People with allergies commonly carry epinephrine pens in their pockets and purses when an allergic response starts.

Is There a Risk of a CBD Allergy?

The number of persons reporting negative reactions to CBD products and oils is increasing as they become more widely used. Some symptoms may be attributed to CBD sensitivity or side effects, while others may result from an allergic response to the substance. Any substance the body perceives as an allergen may cause an allergic response. Allergies to foods, medicines, pollen, insect stings, and pet dander are the most frequent. According to Chatkin et al. (2019), since CBD is produced from hemp, it has qualities like pollen and histamine that may trigger allergic responses. Some individuals are likely allergic to CBD, notwithstanding the rarity of such an allergy. According to Ram (2021), CBD is also linked to relief from allergy symptoms due to its antihistamine and antiallergenic effects. CBD oil allergies may vary from a runny nose to difficulty breathing. The first hint of unfavorable side effects from CBD should prompt you to cease taking it. It's critical to know the signs of an allergy to CBD and the side effects of CBD to distinguish between them.

Effects of CBD Oil on Allergic Reactions

A range of symptoms might point to an allergy to CBD. According to Bennici et al. (2021), the possible side effects of CBD include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea. Symptoms like this are not indicative of a CBD allergy. In addition, they are almost nonexistent at typical dosages.

Allergies to CBD oil may cause the following:

Itchy, Reddish, or Dry Eyes

 The dilation of blood vessels in the eyes is a common side effect linked with THC, but some CBD oil users may also experience this. However,  if you're sneezing or your eyes are watering, you may have an allergy to CBD.

Difficulty in Breathing

 You should seek medical assistance as soon as you notice any difficulty breathing. Poor-quality CBD products that include harmful chemicals or mold might cause this negative effect.

Burning or Itchy Sensation on the Skin

You may notice hives or rash as a sign of an allergy to CBD if applied to the skin. Additional substances in creams and gels might cause this, so be sure to read the contents list carefully.

Migraines

Duarte et al. (2021) suggested that migraines are a serious symptom that may suggest an allergy to some of the components in CBD oil; however, some CBD users may have a minor headache at larger dosages.

The use of CBD isolate rather than full-spectrum products is recommended for those who are allergic to CBD oil. Full-spectrum CBD oil contains terpenes, flavonoids, cannabinoids, essential oils, protein, and nutrients, including vitamins and trace minerals. Allergic reactions are more likely to occur. Try a few different products with varying spectrums of CBD to see which one works best for you without causing allergies. Check with your doctor for medical advice as soon as possible if you notice any symptoms.

How Is CBD Allergy Detected?

A doctor will likely use one of two methods to tell if you have an allergy to CBD; a skin prick test or a blood test. A skin prick test is not as reliable as a blood test. Dermatologists use a needle to apply an allergen like CBD to the skin to determine whether or not it causes an allergic reaction. A person may be allergic to CBD if their skin seems red, inflamed, or itching after 15 minutes of exposure to an allergen. A blood sample may determine CBD antibodies' presence by drawing a blood sample. People who have an abnormally high level of antibodies to CBD are almost certainly allergic to it. However, if you notice any of these adverse effects or allergic reactions, immediately stop taking CBD and seek medical treatment if the symptoms worsen. You may get an allergy test done if you're afraid that CBD can cause an allergic reaction in you. Knowing the difference between side effects and allergic symptoms is important to help determine if CBD is good for you.

Conclusion

Buying from a reliable source that provides high-quality CBD products is the greatest way to reduce the chance of an adverse response. Toxic chemicals, including pollutants, solvents, or plant residue, may be to blame for many of the allergies produced by CBD oils. When comparing various CBD products, look for lab tests from a third source. If you want a high-quality product, it's probably worth the additional time it takes to receive it. CBD allergy research is in its infancy at the moment. Allergy data will increase as the number of CBD consumers increases. CBD allergy is uncommon; however, persons with pre-existing allergies or other health issues should exercise extra care while using this supplement.

References

Bennici, A., Mannucci, C., Calapai, F., Cardia, L., Ammendolia, I., Gangemi, S., ... & Griscti Soler, D. (2021). Safety Of Medical Cannabis In Neuropathic Chronic Pain Management. Molecules, 26(20), 6257.

Chatkin, J. M., Zani-Silva, L., Ferreira, I., & Zamel, N. (2019). Cannabis-Associated Asthma And Allergies. Clinical Reviews In Allergy & Immunology, 56(2), 196-206.

Church, M. K. (2016). Allergy, Histamine And Antihistamines. Histamine And Histamine Receptors In Health And Disease, 321-331.

Duarte, R. A., Dahmer, S., Sanguinetti, S. Y., Forde, G., Duarte, D. P., & Kobak, L. F. (2021). Medical Cannabis For Headache Pain: A Primer For Clinicians. Current Pain And Headache Reports, 25(10), 1-16.

Ram, S. (2021). Scientific Evaluation Of Dhuma Yoga (An Ayurvedic Fumigation Medicine) As Preventive And Curative On Symptoms Of Covid-19 Disease. International Journal Of Ayurveda And Pharma Research, 49-61.