CBD edibles, including CBD gummies and CBD chocolate, are popular wellness supplements offering convenience, great taste, and the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabidiol. However, many new and even experienced users still question, ‘What are the side effects of CBD edibles?’, ‘How much should I take?’, and ‘How long do they take to work?’
In short, it’s important to know that:
- Yes, CBD edibles may cause mild side effects like dry mouth, drowsiness, and digestive discomfort.
- Dosage will depend on your body weight, experience, and reason for taking CBD. Start with a low dose and adjust as needed.
- CBD edibles typically take 30 to 90 minutes to kick in and may last 4 to 8 hours.
This guide will explore the potential side effects of CBD products in more depth, examine dosage guidance and the duration of effects. It will also address the most common questions about the side effects of CBD edibles, allowing you to make informed decisions about incorporating them into your wellness routine.
As always, when buying CBD edibles, choose a trusted supplier and high-quality products. Shop our premium range of CBD edibles at The CBD Flower Shop for full and broad-spectrum CBD options.
What are CBD edibles?
CBD edibles are food products infused with cannabidiol (CBD), the active ingredient derived from the hemp or cannabis plant. Unlike THC, the psychoactive chemical found in marijuana, CBD does not get you high.
Edibles come in many forms, including:
- CBD gummies (the best CBD gummies are discreet, tasty, and easy to dose)
- CBD capsules (precise and convenient)
- CBD chocolates
- CBD drinks
- CBD baked goods
Unlike smoking or vaping, edibles are metabolised through the digestive system. As a result, CBD edibles tend to produce a slower onset but longer-lasting and more gradual effect.
If you’d like to know more, read our guide ‘What Are CBD Edibles?‘.
The potential side effects of CBD edibles
CBD edibles are generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most adults. However, like any substance that interacts with the body, they can cause side effects, especially when consumed in high doses or combined with medications.
Possible side effects of CBD edibles
- Dry mouth: One of the most common side effects, caused by CBD’s interaction with receptors in the salivary glands, leading to reduced saliva production.
- Drowsiness or fatigue: A low dose of CBD may promote general relaxation, but higher doses or combining CBD gummies with other supplements may lead to noticeable tiredness.
- Digestive issues: Some users report nausea, diarrhoea, bloating, or changes in appetite after consuming CBD edibles. This is more likely when taking a high dose or using products with additives.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness: Rare but possible, particularly in sensitive individuals or when CBD is consumed alongside medications affecting blood pressure.
- Potential liver enzyme interaction: Research suggests that CBD may affect liver function by inhibiting enzymes responsible for metabolising drugs. This could increase or decrease the effectiveness of medications, raising safety concerns, especially in long-term use.
Factors that influence side effects
The likelihood and severity of CBD edibles side effects can vary significantly based on:
- Body weight: Heavier individuals may require a higher CBD dosage, while lighter individuals may be more sensitive to even small amounts.
- Dosage: Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing allows your body to adjust. High-potency edibles may increase the risk of adverse effects.
- Type of product: Whether you’re using CBD gummies, CBD capsules, CBD oil, or other CBD products, absorption rate and additive content can influence side effects.
- Medications or health conditions: If you’re taking prescription medications, especially for the liver, blood pressure, or anxiety, speak with a doctor before taking CBD, as CBD may interfere with how these drugs work.
Are CBD edibles safe for everyone?
While CBD gummies are generally safe for most adults when used responsibly, certain groups should exercise extra caution:
- Those with liver disease or impaired liver function
- People taking medication processed by the liver
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Children, unless advised by a healthcare professional and in specific medical situations (e.g. to treat rare or severe forms of epilepsy)
As with any supplements, making informed choices is essential. Consulting a doctor, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take multiple medications, is always advisable.
Understanding CBD dosage
When it comes to CBD edibles, getting the dosage right is important to achieving your desired effects, whether you’re aiming for general relaxation, pain relief, or managing a specific condition. As mentioned, the correct amount of cannabidiol (CBD) can vary greatly depending on several factors, including experience level.
Please note that in the UK, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) recommends not exceeding 10 mg of CBD per day from all sources unless under medical supervision.
Here are some essential dosage tips:
Start low, go slow
If you’re new to CBD gummies, begin with a low daily dose. This allows you to observe how your body responds while reducing the risk of unwanted side effects. Everyone’s tolerance and sensitivity to CBD is different, so taking it slow gives you the best chance of finding a dose that supports your wellbeing without overdoing it. From there, you can gradually increase your dose over time if needed.
Adjust your dose based on needs and experience
As you become more familiar with CBD edibles, you may find that slightly increasing your dose helps better support your wellness goals. However, it’s important to increase gradually and cautiously. Taking a high-strength edible too soon can raise the risk of side effects like fatigue, digestive upset, or dizziness, especially if you’re sensitive to cannabinoids. Always monitor how your body responds before adjusting your intake.
Approach high-potency options with caution
While lower doses of CBD edibles are suitable for everyday wellness, some individuals may consider higher-potency options when managing more persistent or chronic conditions. These products deliver a higher concentration of cannabidiol, but they should be approached with caution.
As high-dose edibles can amplify both the potential effects and side effects of CBD edibles, it’s crucial to increase your dose gradually and monitor how your body responds. In the UK, high-potency edibles exceeding 10 mg per day are not recommended for general use and should only be considered under professional medical advice for specific therapeutic needs.
Recommendations for safer dosing
- Always check the label to confirm how much CBD you’re consuming per edible.
- Look for lab-tested CBD products with clear information about the active ingredient derived from hemp or cannabis.
- Speak with your doctor if you’re unsure about dosage, or if you have a condition like liver disease, or take medication that’s metabolised through the liver.
Finding the right CBD dosage is a personal journey. Some people report experiencing effects immediately, while others may need consistent use over several days to experience noticeable potential benefits. By starting small and observing how your body responds, you can aim to safely use CBD gummies, capsules, and other CBD edibles without the increased risk of taking too much too soon.
How CBD edibles work in the body
One of the most important things to understand about CBD edibles is how they interact with the body. Unlike CBD oil, which is absorbed quickly under the tongue, edibles must be digested and metabolised before they enter the bloodstream.
| Time and Duration | Details |
| Kick-In Time | 30-90 minutes |
| Why It Takes Time | Must be digested and metabolised before entering the bloodstream |
| Duration of Effects | 4–8 hours |
| What Affects Onset | – Food intake (full vs. empty stomach) – Metabolism – Body weight – Type of edible |
| How Long CBD Stays In The Body | 2–5 days (longer with regular use or high doses) |
| What Affects Duration in the System | – Frequency of use – Dosage – Body fat percentage – Type of product |
Kick-in time/onset time
As CBD edibles are processed through the digestive system and liver, they take longer to take effect. For most users, the kick-in time ranges between 30 and 90 minutes, although this can vary. Several factors influence how quickly you’ll feel the effects, including:
- Whether you’ve eaten recently (a full stomach can slow absorption)
- Your metabolism and body weight
- The type of edible consumed (e.g. CBD drinks may act faster than CBD gummies)
- The CBD dosage and concentration of the product
This slower onset may be less convenient than methods like vaping, but for many users, it’s a worthwhile trade-off for the steady, longer-lasting effects that follow.
How long potential effects may last
Once they’ve taken effect, CBD edibles provide sustained support over several hours, making them ideal for daily use or targeted relief. Most people experience the potential benefits for 4 to 8 hours, although this window can be extended with higher doses or certain product types.
The gradual release of CBD through digestion means you’re less likely to experience sudden peaks or crashes, making edibles a popular choice for those looking for help with sleep, pain management, and general relaxation.
How long CBD can stay in your system
While the potential effects of a CBD edible may last several hours, CBD itself can remain in your system much longer. Depending on the dose and frequency of use, traces of cannabidiol may be detectable for 2 to 5 days, and in some cases, for longer periods. This is especially true for those who use CBD products daily or in high-potency forms.
It’s important to note that some drug tests may be sensitive to trace amounts of THC, especially if you’re using full-spectrum products. If this is a concern, consider choosing broad-spectrum or CBD isolate options and consult with your test provider.
Summary: Make an informed choice
CBD edibles like gummies offer a convenient, tasty, and long-lasting way to explore the potential benefits of CBD. While generally safe, understanding the possible side effects, proper dosage, and kick-in time helps to use them responsibly and safely.
Whether you’re new to edibles like CBD gummies or considering higher doses, always check the source, verify THC content, and consult a doctor if you have health concerns.
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FAQs about CBD edibles
No, CBD edibles will not get you high. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant and does not cause the intoxicating effects typically associated with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive chemical found in marijuana.
However, some CBD products, especially full-spectrum edibles, may contain trace amounts of THC (less than 0.2%, in line with UK regulations). While these trace levels are not enough to cause a high, it’s important to choose lab-tested CBD edibles to ensure compliance and safety.
For most healthy adults, consuming CBD edibles daily is considered safe, particularly when taking low to moderate doses. Many people incorporate CBD gummies, capsules, or chocolates into their daily wellness routine to promote general relaxation, stress relief, and support sleep and recovery.
That said, daily use should still be monitored, especially if you’re taking medications, have underlying health conditions, or are using high-potency products. If you’re unsure, consult a doctor to determine the best dosage and frequency for your needs.
CBD gummies may promote a sense of calm, help you feel more relaxed, or support a better night’s sleep. Effects vary from person to person and are generally mild. In the UK, CBD products are not authorised to treat or cure any medical condition, so any perceived benefits should be considered part of a wellness routine, not a medical outcome.
While CBD is generally well tolerated, certain groups should avoid or limit its use:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to limited research on safety
- Individuals with liver conditions, as CBD may interact with liver enzymes
- People taking other medications that are metabolised by the liver (e.g. blood thinners, anti-seizure drugs)
- Children, unless prescribed by a medical professional for specific medical cannabis treatment (e.g. to treat rare or severe forms of epilepsy)
Always consult your doctor before starting CBD edibles, particularly if you’re managing a medical condition or using prescription drugs.
