As a medical expert, I have been asked numerous times about the potential effects of CBD oil on the liver and kidneys. With the increasing popularity of CBD products, it's important to understand the facts and dispel any myths surrounding this topic. First and foremost, let's address the concern that CBD may be harmful to the liver. While it is true that CBD can increase liver enzyme levels, this does not necessarily indicate liver damage. In most cases, this occurs with very high doses of CBD or when taken with certain medications.
However, initial findings suggest that side effects are minimal and only occur with a comparatively large dose of CBD oil. If you decide to use CBD products, it's crucial to make sure you're getting them from a reliable source. This means purchasing from reputable sellers who are willing to share the source of their CBD. Additionally, it's important to consult with your doctor before using CBD to verify that it won't interact with any other medications you may be taking. In fact, during its review of cannabidiol (Epidiolex), a drug that contains CBD to help treat seizures, the FDA noted that taking higher doses of CBD without medical supervision could lead to liver damage. This is why it's essential to always consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your daily routine. Now, let's address the concern about CBD affecting the kidneys or heart.
According to current research, there is no evidence to suggest that CBD has any negative effects on these organs. In fact, most CBD and THC are excreted through the faeces, so there is usually no need to adjust the dose of CBD in people with chronic kidney disease. In addition, studies have shown that CBD may actually have a hepatoprotective property, meaning it can protect the liver from damage. This is due to its ability to inhibit inflammation and alleviate the activation of the NFB-NLRP3 inflammasome hepatic pathway and pyroptosis. Despite its roots in the cannabis plant, CBD oil is legal to buy in the UK and many other countries around the world. Many consumers have reported that it is effective in relieving pain, fighting nausea and stress, and even helping with anxiety.
However, it's important to note that since many CBD brands do not test their products for purity, there is a risk of pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants remaining in the CBD oil. Before adding CBD oil to your daily routine, it's always best to talk to a pharmacist or family doctor. They can help determine if there may be any potential interactions between your kidney medication and CBD.