Cannabidol (CBD) is one of the most abundant active ingredients in the hemp plant. Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another active ingredient abundant in the cannabis plant, is known to produce an intoxicating “high” effect, but CBD itself has no psychoactive effects. Research suggests that CBD may interact with the endocannabinoid system (a neural pathway that controls many body systems) and other important signaling pathways. CBD has been associated with a variety of health benefits, some supported by research and some not.
Most human studies on CBD and nausea have focused on the potential benefits of CBD for cancer patients (as nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy) and are very limited. What research exists is primarily on the benefits of THC, not CBD, on nausea. More research is needed to determine if CBD can reduce nausea on its own.
According to Peter Grinspoon, M.D., a lecturer at Harvard Medical School and director of the Medical Association for Cannabis Regulation, THC is more effective at treating nausea than CBD. [CBD] “CBD is being marketed as a cure-all for virtually everything,” he says, “but there’s really no solid evidence that CBD, by itself, treats nausea.”
Dr. Grinspoon also stresses the need to be cautious when purchasing CBD because the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved CBD products.
How does CBD reduce nausea?
More research is needed to determine whether CBD can reduce nausea when not used in conjunction with THC. Full-spectrum CBD contains additional natural cannabinoids, including CBD plus small amounts of THC, the main type of cannabinoid that may help reduce nausea, says Dr. Grinspoon.
THC may suppress nausea and vomiting by stimulating certain receptors in the brain (called CB1 receptors), explains Melanie Vaughn, MD, a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and cannabis-certified physician in Florida.
“However, THC appears to be more active at the CB1 receptor than CBD,” she explains.
What type of CBD is best for nausea?
Research shows that THC may improve nausea, so full-spectrum CBD may be the best type for this gastrointestinal condition. Full-spectrum CBD comes in a variety of forms, including capsules, oils, gummies, and topical creams. If you’re feeling nauseous, applying the oil under your tongue may be easier to tolerate than chewing a gummy, suggests Dr. Grinspoon.
CBD products come in flavored and unflavored varieties, and whether flavored oils or gummies work best for you will likely come down to personal preference.
