As CBD oil grows in popularity, more and more people are asking if it can help with allergies. Some preliminary research suggests that CBD oil may help to manage or even prevent allergies. However, before any conclusions can be drawn, further studies are needed.
It's also important to discuss the possibility that some people could actually be allergic to CBD oil.
In this article, we'll discuss the topic of CBD and allergies in various contexts. Let's get started:
What is an Allergy?
An allergy is a condition where the body's immune system reacts to a substance that is normally harmless. When an allergic person comes into contact with the allergen, their immune system produces antibodies that cause symptoms like sneezing, itching, and breathing difficulties. Allergies can be triggered by a variety of substances, such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and certain foods. In some cases, the reaction can be so severe that it leads to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition. While there is no cure for allergies, there are treatments that can help to alleviate the symptoms. Common treatments include antihistamines and corticosteroids. For people with severe allergies, allergy shots may also be recommended.
Can CBD Oil Trigger Allergies?
Surprisingly, the short answer is: Yes, CBD oil can trigger allergies. However, it's important to know that this is not a common side effect and that allergies are more likely caused by other components of the oil, such as carrier oils or added fragrances.
Allergies to Terpenes
Full-spectrum CBD oils contain terpenes and flavonoids, which can indeed trigger an allergic reaction. Linalool and limonene, for example, are common components of cannabis extracts, including CBD oil. Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that 20% of 100 tested individuals had an allergic reaction to linalool and 8% reacted to limonene.
So, a terpene allergy can be more common than one might think.
The good news is that people with a terpene allergy can still consume isolated CBD oil – this oil contains only a carrier oil and pure CBD.
Allergies to Hemp Seeds
Though it may seem otherwise, hemp allergies are as common as other food allergies. This seems unusual, as hemp seeds are considered a superfood and are indeed an excellent source of protein. Ultimately, they are just a byproduct of a plant and can sometimes trigger an unwanted reaction in the body.
A 2018 study suggests that people with mold, dust mite, and cat hair allergies have a higher risk of developing a sensitivity to hemp.
How Do Allergies to CBD Oil Manifest?
Allergies to CBD oil typically manifest as skin irritations, hives, or breathing difficulties. If you notice any of these symptoms after taking CBD oil, you should stop taking it immediately and consult a doctor. For most people, however, CBD oil is perfectly safe and does not cause any unwanted reactions.
Does CBD Contain Histamine?
No, there are no scientific reports suggesting that CBD contains histamine.
Which CBD Oil for Allergies?
Some people believe that CBD can help lower histamine levels and take CBD oil to treat their allergy. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Histamine is produced by the body in response to an allergic reaction. It is not found in plants or animals. Moreover, CBD does not bind to the histamine receptors in the brain, so it likely has no direct effects on histamine levels. Still, some people report that taking CBD helps alleviate their allergy symptoms.
This could be because research has shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, so it could alleviate the symptoms of certain allergies.
Even if a CBD oil can help keep your allergy in check, we do not recommend replacing your regular allergy medications without first speaking with your doctor.
What Pills for Severe Allergy?
Many people suffer from allergies that can range from mild to severe. There are a number of medications that can help alleviate allergy symptoms, and the best option for each person can vary depending on the severity of the allergy and other factors. For milder allergies, over-the-counter antihistamines like Zyrtec and Claritin can be effective.
Allergy medications block histamine, a substance that is released in response to an allergen and causes many of the characteristic symptoms of an allergic reaction like sneezing and itching.
For more severe allergies, prescription medications like Ebastine and Fexofenadine may be required. These medications are similar to over-the-counter antihistamines but are stronger and have a longer duration of action. In addition, some people with severe allergies may require immunotherapy, where an allergen is regularly injected to build up immunity. With the right treatment, most people with allergies can manage their symptoms, significantly improving their quality of life.
Always speak with your doctor before taking any of these medications!