CBD oil is widely regarded as safe and non-toxic by major health organisations, including the World Health Organisation (WHO). However, like any supplement—whether it’s magnesium, vitamins, or caffeine—it can have side effects, especially if you take too much or use a low-quality product.
The good news? Most CBD side effects are mild, temporary, and easily fixed by adjusting your dose.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to look out for, what happens if you accidentally take a "mega dose," and why the carrier oil (the oil the CBD is dissolved in) might actually be the culprit behind tummy troubles.
Common side effects (and how to fix them)
For most people, CBD is very well tolerated. When side effects do occur, they usually happen when you first start or if you increase your dose too quickly.
1. Dry Mouth ("Cottonmouth")
CBD can temporarily interact with receptors in the salivary glands, reducing saliva production.
The Fix: Stay hydrated. A glass of water or a slice of lemon usually clears this up instantly.
2. Drowsiness
While lower doses of CBD can be focusing, higher doses are often used for sleep because they promote relaxation. If you take a high dose during the day, you might feel a bit sleepy.
The Fix: Lower your daytime dose or switch to a dedicated daytime blend like Flow CBD Oil.
3. Lightheadedness
In rare cases, CBD can cause a slight drop in blood pressure, which might feel like a momentary lightheadedness.
The Fix: If this happens, sit down, drink some tea, and try a lower dose next time.
What happens if you take too much CBD?
Can you "overdose" on CBD? Not in the dangerous sense. CBD is non-toxic, and there are no known fatal overdoses from CBD.
However, taking way too much (e.g., drinking half a bottle at once) isn't going to be fun. It won't get you "high," but it might lead to:
- Extreme drowsiness (needing a long nap)
- Upset stomach or diarrhoea
- Headache
The takeaway: Start low and go slow. Most people find their "sweet spot" is between 20mg and 50mg per day.
Why your carrier oil matters (Digestion)
Sometimes, the side effects aren't from the CBD at all—they're from the carrier oil.
Cheap CBD products often use hemp seed oil or olive oil, which can be heavy on the stomach and harder to digest.
At Evopure, we use organic MCT Oil (from coconuts). MCT oil is:
- Easier to digest
- Absorbed faster by the body
- Less likely to cause stomach upset
Using a high-quality carrier improves bioavailability (how much CBD you actually absorb) and reduces the risk of digestive issues.
Medication interactions to watch for
The most important safety rule with CBD is the "Grapefruit Rule."
CBD is processed by the liver using the same enzyme pathway (CYP450) as many prescription medications. This is the same pathway affected by grapefruit.
If your medication has a "Do not eat grapefruit" warning on the label, you should speak to your doctor before taking CBD, as it may affect how your body processes your medicine.
Read more: Ashwagandha Side Effects & Safety
The Evopure safety promise
We take safety seriously. That’s why every batch of Evopure oil is:
- Third-party lab tested (to prove zero pesticides or heavy metals)
- THC-free (Broad Spectrum)
- Formulated with MCT oil (for gentle digestion)
We also use advanced ultrasonic extraction for our herbal blends, ensuring a clean, solvent-free product that is kind to your body.
Frequently asked questions
Can CBD cause headaches?
It can, but this is often due to dehydration or low-quality ingredients (like solvents) in cheap oils. Drinking water usually helps.
Will CBD upset my stomach?
It shouldn't, especially if you use an MCT-based oil. If you have a sensitive stomach, try taking your dose with food.
Is it possible to be allergic to CBD?
True CBD allergy is extremely rare, but people can be allergic to additives or carrier oils. Always check the ingredients list.
How much CBD is "too much"?
There is no lethal dose, but doses over 1500mg daily (a huge amount!) are considered extreme. Most users get great results with just 20–50mg.
Final thoughts
CBD is one of the safest supplements available, but quality matters. By choosing a clean, lab-tested product with a gentle carrier oil (like MCT), you can enjoy the calm without the tummy ache.
