Is CBD Vape Oil Addictive?

It’s common knowledge that the THC found in the cannabis plant can produce euphoria or “high” in those who use it. While not physically addictive, some may be drawn into habitual use of cannabis due to this euphoria, resulting in possible psychological addiction. 

Due to the addictive potential of the THC found in cannabis, many people assume that CBD oil, derived from the same plant family, must also be addictive. But is that really the case?

Short answer: no. 

If you’re worried about becoming addicted to your CBD vape oil, here’s everything you need to know to set your mind at ease. 

What is Cannabidiol (CBD)?

For those unaware, cannabidiol, or CBD, is a cannabinoid or a unique molecule produced by the cannabis family of plants, in this case, hemp. While until recently tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) got all the attention, more and more people are becoming interested in CBD and the potential benefits it may offer. 

CBD is one of hundreds of cannabinoids found in both hemp and cannabis plants. These cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system located in the body to produce a wide range of effects. 

The hemp plant naturally produces higher quantities of CBD than THC whereas the opposite is true of the cannabis plant. While some breeders are engineering cannabis to contain higher levels of CBD, the cannabis plant remains illegal under federal law. 

In order to meet the restrictions established by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), CBD oil must be derived from the hemp plant and contain no more than .3% THC. 

When most people think of cannabis, they are thinking of marijuana and the “high” that it can produce. More specifically, they are specifically thinking about THC. 

THC binds directly to the specific receptors in the brain that can produce dopamine release, resulting in euphoria. CBD does not bind in this way, and so no euphoria is experienced.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has gone as far as to say, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential…. To date, there is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”

Hemp vs Cannabis

Cannabis and hemp are the names of specific plants, from which CBD oil may be extracted. Most of the CBD vape oil available on the market these days is derived specifically from the hemp plant. 

Hemp and cannabis (or marijuana) are not the same thing. For starters, with cannabis plants, it is the flower that is harvested for its cannabinoid content, primarily THC. With hemp, it is the leaves, stocks, stems, and flower that is used for its CBD content. 

Is CBD Vape Oil Addictive?

As was mentioned above, CBD vape oil is not addictive. Not only does it appear to be non-habit forming, and CBD has no intoxicating effects that could be considered beneficial for recreational use.  

In one study, various oral dosages of cannabidiol were administered to habitual marijuana users both in combination with marijuana and on its own. After comparing the abuse liability profile of CBD compared to active marijuana and a placebo, the researchers concluded that CBD held no abuse potential. 

Taking things a step further, other studies have gone as far as to conclude that CBD may actually hold antiaddictive properties! These findings suggest CBD could possibly be used as a way to help wean drug users off other addictive chemicals and compounds such as cocaine, heroin, alcohol, or even marijuana. 

The WHO considers CBD to be nonaddictive, eliciting no withdrawal symptoms from users, and states that it is generally well tolerated by the majority of people who use it. It is for these reasons that WHO has recommended that CBD be removed completely from the international list of controlled substances. 

It’s worth pointing out that while the THC found in the cannabis plant may be addictive, it does not result in the severe physical withdrawal symptoms that drugs such as opiates or alcohol can cause. With chronic cannabis use, some may develop what is known as cannabis use disorder (CUD) upon stopping. Symptoms of CUD are often described as similar to that of nicotine withdrawals, with mood swings, anxiety, and agitation being common.

Is CBD Vape Oil Safe?

While CBD vape oil is generally considered to be safe, some people have been known to experience mild side effects. These side effects include fatigue, irritability, nausea, and dry mouth. 

Outside of these experiences, one of the biggest concerns related to CBD and CBD vape oil is regulation. 

At the moment, the CBD oil industry is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which means there is no way to know that what you are buying is what you THINK you are buying. There is no oversight ensuring that growing, harvesting, and manufacturing processes are being carried out in accordance with particular safety standards. Some producers have been known to mislabel their products, meaning that contents, concentrations, and dosages may be inaccurate. 

So how do you keep yourself safe? There are certain things you can look for in your CBD vape oil to make sure you are getting what you are looking and paying for. 

• Look for certificates of analysis or lab reports. Reputable brands like Vape Bright test their extracts and products in a third-party lab and post the results for everyone to see. These results will tell you exactly what is and is not found in your CBD vape oil. It will help you verify both the CBD and THC concentrations so you know what you are buying. 
• Read customer reviews. Brands that post customer reviews have nothing to hide. Customer reviews give you the opportunity to see what other people are saying. It is the best way to get the sense of a product before spending your own money. If people are saying a product is of poor quality and otherwise ineffective, it is likely that you should believe them. 
• Look for organic ingredients. A CBD vape oil that is derived from organic hemp will lack potentially harmful chemicals like herbicides and pesticides, creating a safer final product. 
• Read the ingredients list. If the ingredients of your CBD vape oil includes a bunch of complicated-sounding additives you’ve never heard of before, it is probably best to steer clear. Products that contain natural ingredients, cannabinoids, terpenes, fatty acids, and MCT oils are preferable to ones that contain a list of artificial additives. 

Overall, CBD vape oil is safe for you to try, and with little to no risk of developing physical addiction, you can put your mind at ease. Start your CBD vape journey with use by checking out our starter pack and other incredible products!