CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-intoxicating compound derived from the hemp and cannabis sativa plants. It has become popular in recent years due to its potential health benefits and lack of psychoactive effects, unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound in cannabis that causes a “high.”

 

According to a Forbes Health survey conducted by OnePoll, 60% of U.S. adults have tried CBD, which can be found in various products, including oils, tinctures, edibles, topicals and even vapes. CBD water is another option that has caught the attention of many consumers.

 

What Is CBD Water?

CBD water is precisely what it sounds like – water infused with a small amount of CBD. According to Daniele Piomelli, Ph.D., the director of the Institute for the Study of Cannabis at the University of California, Irvine, and an anatomy and neurobiology professor at the university’s medical school, CBD water can be still or sparkling and typically contains around 10 milligrams of CBD per bottle or can.

 

For CBD to mix well with water, it must be emulsified. Nathaniel Miller, D.O., a Florida-based medical marijuana physician with DocMJ, explains that this nanotechnology-based process involves taking an oil-based CBD solution and combining it with an emulsifier to create a stable distribution of CBD throughout the water. It is necessary because the carrier oils used in CBD tinctures are not typically water-soluble.

 

While both THC and CBD come from the same plants, consuming CBD doesn’t create an intoxicating “high” like THC. However, the legality of CBD water varies by state. In some states, CBD products, including CBD water, are legal with no exceptions, while in others, CBD is only legal under certain circumstances.

 

 

Potential Benefits of CBD Water

 

While studies specifically on CBD water are sparse, the benefits of CBD itself are better documented. Some of these potential benefits include:

 

• Anxiety Relief: CBD has shown promise in reducing anxiety. However, the concentration in typical CBD water may be too low to reap these benefits. In-depth studies, like one from the Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry, suggest higher doses, such as 300 milligrams, are more effective.
  
  

• Improved Sleep: There's a reason many turn to CBD at night. Its potential sleep-enhancing qualities can help those struggling with insomnia.
  
  

• Pain Management: Preliminary research indicates that CBD might aid in pain management, potentially offering relief to chronic pain sufferers.
  
  

• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation is a precursor to numerous health issues, including diabetes and osteoarthritis. CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory characteristics could be its most significant health boon, slowing down or preventing the development of chronic health problems.

 

However, considering the low CBD content in most waters (around 10 milligrams), it's debated whether consumers can experience these benefits from the beverage alone.

 

Potential Risks and Safety Concerns

CBD is generally deemed safe, but that doesn't mean it's devoid of risks:

 

• Medication Interactions: Particularly worrisome are its interactions with medications like statins, used for high blood pressure. It can amplify the side effects, leading to liver damage, muscle pain, and digestive issues.
  
  

• Drowsiness: Especially in larger doses, CBD can induce drowsiness, which becomes problematic if combined with sedatives.
  
  

• Purity Issues: A crucial concern is the variability in product content. Some products may not match their label claims, leading to potency and purity issues. For instance, a 2022 study highlighted the discrepancies in CBD potency claims and actual content, with some products even containing heavy metals.

 

To ensure the safety and authenticity of your CBD water, always check for a certificate of analysis (COA), which proves third-party lab testing and confirms a product’s contents.

 

Does CBD Water Work?

While there may be both physical and mental health benefits to consuming CBD, dosage matters, and the amount of CBD in CBD water products can vary. For instance, CBD Living Water and Recess contain 10 milligrams of CBD per bottle, while Mountjoy contains 45 milligrams per bottle. However, research on CBD for anxiety relief suggests that higher doses tend to be more effective.

 

To potentially benefit more from CBD water, Dr. Miller suggests consuming it with a meal or snack. “Research indicates that CBD should be consumed with a high-fat meal [for better absorption],” he says. “Choose healthy fats like avocado, eggs, dark chocolate, cheese, raw nuts, seeds, or fatty fish like salmon.”

 

 

Should You Buy CBD Water?

For most people, there’s little risk in consuming CBD water. However, if you’re seeking noticeable health improvements, consider other CBD products with higher potency.

 

“If you’re going to buy CBD water, make sure the product you’re using is safe, third-party certified, and legal,” adds Dr. Miller.

 

Remember, CBD water is more expensive than regular bottled water. For example, CBD Living Water and CannaNano CBD water both cost $3.99 per bottle. Consider how it fits into your budget and lifestyle before making it a mainstay in your wellness routine.

 

Side Effects of CBD Water

Though well-tolerated by many, CBD can cause side effects, including dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. It can also interact with medications like blood thinners. Be aware of the unreliability of the purity and dosage of CBD in products, as the industry is not yet regulated by the FDA.

 

As with any supplement or health product, consult with healthcare professionals and do your research. The popularity of CBD continues to grow, and understanding its potential benefits, risks, and proper usage is essential for making informed decisions about your health.

 

 

Conclusion

CBD water has become an attractive option for those looking to incorporate CBD into their wellness routine. However, it is crucial to understand that the low doses of CBD typically found in these products may not provide the same potential benefits as higher doses found in other forms of CBD products. Consult with your healthcare provider before adding CBD water to your routine, especially if you are on medication.

 

It is also recommended to choose CBD water products with third-party testing and certificates of analysis to ensure safety and quality. One startling fact is that despite CBD's surge in popularity, many CBD products on the market, including CBD water, may contain significantly different levels of CBD than advertised on their labels, with some even registering the presence of heavy metals. As a consumer, it is crucial to be vigilant and discerning when selecting CBD products.