Whether you’re an avid CBD user or are just now jumping on the trend, you may wonder if it’s possible to go overboard with the amount you ingest. After all, there aren’t many strict guidelines when it comes to frequency and dosages.
So, can there be too much of a good thing?
First thing’s first: CBD is not one-size-fits-all. Different people benefit from different amounts—and the right amount for you can even vary on a day-to-day basis, says CBD expert Dr. Jacky Montoya, M.D., member of The Vitamin Shoppe Wellness Council.
“We must first understand the effects of CBD on our endocannabinoid system when we choose to implement CBD into our daily routine,” she says. “Then, we can assist our endocannabinoid system to function at its finest.”
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The ultimate goal: to find the amount that helps you feel calm, balanced, and relaxed.
Hesitant to experiment with dosages? It might ease your mind to know that CBD has been found to be very safe overall, and animal studies show that there is no lethal dose, according to Jen Palmer, N.D., Director of Education for CBD brand Charlotte’s Web.
In fact, “chronic use and high doses of up to 1,500 milligrams of CBD per day are reportedly well-tolerated in humans,” says Montoya. (That said, this amount shouldn’t be taken without doctor supervision.)
“The average user takes approximately 30 to 60 milligrams of CBD in the form of a full-spectrum hemp extract,” says Palmer.
You’re most likely taking too much CBD if you experience sleepiness. (This isn’t an issue if you’re specifically taking CBD to support rest—but it’s not what you want in the morning.) Additionally, high amounts of CBD may cause dry mouth, nausea, or diarrhea, Montoya says. In some cases, headaches and changes in appetite occur.
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Should you experience any of these symptoms, simply scale back your dosage, suggests Montoya. “Ideally, you’ll use your intuition and try different methods to find your perfect daily CBD routine,” she says.
Each person’s absorption of and reaction to CBD depends on a variety of individual factors. These include metabolism, biochemistry, genetics, and lifestyle, Montoya says. For this reason, it’s important to find a reputable product that is safe (think third party-tested) and efficacious, and then go from there.
“I recommend starting low and going slow,” says Palmer. “The best method for determining your correct serving size is to start with about 10 to 15 milligrams per day. Then, increase that amount slowly over the following days or weeks until you achieve the desired results.”
Montoya recommends using a liquid CBD oil while experimenting since it’s easier to adjust the amount than with capsules and gummies.
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Ultimately, it’s important to note that your CBD needs may change as your life and goals do. When in doubt, seek guidance from a professional.
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