What to know about CBD tea: Uses, research, legalities, and more

CBD tea is a drink that uses various concentrations of CBD to induce relaxation or support other purported CBD health benefits.

Cannabidiol tea is not a medication or a supplement. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to warn consumers of potential contaminants and side effects associated with CBD products.

However, traditional medicine practitioners have used hemp and cannabis products for thousands of years to manage many health conditions. Supporters argue that it works and is safe.

However, the main problem with these products is that researchers need to conduct more thorough tests to understand exactly how well CBD works and whether it is safe.

CBD teas come in a variety of formulas and flavors. Some include additional ingredients with claimed health benefits, such as mint for congestion or chamomile to aid sleep.

Learn more about the best chamomile tea.

Similar to all food, beverages, and dietary supplements, CBD teas must contain the ingredients on their labeling and not contain harmful or toxic chemicals. However, there is little oversight of CBD products, and a person should choose products with third-party lab testing that confirms the tea only contains the ingredients listed on the labeling.

CBD can help relieve pain, anxiety, and inflammation and may benefit sleep.

People wishing to improve these aspects of their health can consider CBD tea. However, a person should always speak with a healthcare professional before trying CBD products for these purposes.

CBD products should not replace medication a person is taking for a health condition; people should check with a healthcare professional that CBD is safe to take alongside their medication.

The National Cancer Institute mentions that there are doctors who combine traditional treatments with alternative therapies, including CBD, to help with cancer symptoms and the side effects of cancer treatment.

However, there is a very limited range of studies to support the use of CBD for this purpose.

People may wish to consider the following pros and cons of CBD tea:

At the federal level, while CBD is no longer considered an illegal narcotic, the FDA warns that CBD-containing products are prescription drugs, and retailers cannot sell them as food, beverages, or dietary supplements. Different states have enacted different rules governing the sale of CBD products.

States, such as Arizona and Colorado, for example, allow the sale of products containing both CBD and THC, meaning consumers do not need a recommendation or prove a medical requirement to obtain them. However, some states, including Kansas, prohibit the sale of CBD with THC.

Like other teas, CBD tea comes in a wide variety of flavors. Consumers can choose the variant that best suits their needs.

Additionally, some teas or tea components may have additional health benefits. Green tea, for instance, is an antioxidant, and small studies have shown it may help with numerous health conditions, including cancer, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease.

Manufacturers may blend CBD with other ingredients, so a person should check the product label for this information. They should also research any potential health benefits of these ingredients.

Some teas, particularly in states where cannabis is legal, may also include THC. According to the FDA, CBD products from hemp may sometimes contain trace amounts of THC, but generally not enough for a person to feel “high.”

However, even trace amounts of THC could theoretically produce a positive drug test. Therefore, people who use hemp CBD products must be aware of this risk if they undergo drug testing for cannabis.

Instead of purchasing CBD tea, a person may wish to add CBD oil to their tea.

Learn more about the best CBD oils available to buy online here.

People can choose different flavors of oil, such as peppermint, that may complement the taste of their preferred tea.

Oil and tinctures are a form of CBD with higher bioavailability when a person takes them orally and holds them under the tongue for up to 60 seconds before swallowing.

There is also some evidence that CBD oils may benefit a range of chronic conditions.

Most CBD oils are suitable to add to other substances, such as food and drink. People can choose from full- or broad-spectrum CBD or CBD isolate.

Learn more about the difference between full- and broad-spectrum CBD here.

Learn more about the difference between full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate here.

Full-spectrum CBD oil

Full-spectrum CBD oil contains all extracts of the cannabis plant, such as CBD, terpenes, flavonoids, other cannabinoids, and essential oils.

It is possible that full-spectrum CBD products have more benefits than CBD isolate due to the “entourage effect” of all the different compounds.

Full-spectrum CBD products contain up to 0.3% THC. While this is unlikely to cause the “high” of cannabis products, it may still return a positive drug test.

Learn more about the strongest full-spectrum CBD oil available to purchase online here.

Broad-spectrum CBD oil

Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains similar compounds to full-spectrum oil. However, this form contains trace amounts of THC and may be more suitable for people who wish to avoid ingesting this compound.

However, it may still be possible for a person to receive a positive drug test after using broad-spectrum products.

Learn more about the best broad-spectrum CBD oil available to purchase online here.

CBD isolate

Manufacturers often make CBD isolate from the cannabis sativa plant. They only extract cannabidiol from this plant, which means that CBD isolate is free from THC and other phytocannabinoids.

CBD isolate may be the best choice for people who want to avoid ingesting THC entirely.

Learn more about CBD isolate here.

The table below compares CBD tea with alternative products, including other teas and CBD products.

Numerous studies are underway on CBD products, including tea varieties. To date, there is very little data that nonprescription CBD products available on the market can treat any specific medical condition.

Anecdotally, some individuals report potential benefits of CBD tea, which include managing:

• stress
• sleep disturbances
• pain
• symptoms of mental health conditions, such as anxiety

The FDA has approved CBD to treat certain types of seizures in children. However, this is the only approved medical use for the drug.

The FDA has only approved one CBD product to treat certain complex seizures in infants over 12 months. It is illegal to market other CBD goods as dietary supplements or label them as medication.

Still, many users report the health benefits of CBD products. It can take time for scientists to develop findings that may correlate with anecdotal experience, especially when designing extensive, well-controlled studies. So neither the absence of FDA approval nor the shortcomings of scientific evidence mean that CBD tea does not work.

A 2020 study of social media posts found that many CBD users and advocates mentioned treating or managing anxiety, including panic disorders, post-traumatic stress, anxiety-related insomnia, and similar issues with CBD products.

Another 2020 study of young adults found that popular uses of CBD included stress relief, relaxation, and achieving better sleep. For people who find relief from CBD, the health benefits might include:

• lower medical costs
• reduced reliance on drugs that cause unpleasant or harmful side effects
• improved quality of life

However, some potential risks include:

• Driving or operating machinery: Although CBD tea does not cause a person to feel intoxicated, it can still induce sleepiness and slowed reflexes.
• Breastfeeding and pregnancy risks: There is insufficient research testing CBD in pregnant or lactating people to know if it is safe.
• Drug interactions: CBD may interact with alcohol and other drugs and intensify intoxication. It can also increase the risk of serious side effects. Interaction with prescription drugs is possible, and there is insufficient research to determine which medications are safe to use alongside CBD.
• Reproductive issues: Studies suggest that cannabis can negatively affect fertility in males and females.
• Long-term effects: Researchers do not know the long-term effects of taking CBD.

A 2019 systematic review highlights the potential efficacy of CBD for treating mental health conditions, such as anxiety and schizophrenia, with many trials reporting benefits for both. The experiments also showed benefits in substance addiction.

However, a 2018 study undermines the claim that CBD can help schizophrenia. Researchers compared people with the condition whose treatment included either CBD or a CBD placebo and found no significant differences between the two groups. The CBD group did report increased sleepiness.

A 2020 review states that preliminary evidence suggests CBD may help with arthritis pain, although more data is necessary to support this claim.

Learn more about CBD for joint pain.

Several animal studies indicate that CBD may reduce inflammation or prevent neurological damage, leading to Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. Researchers do not yet know if these findings are also applicable to humans.

CBD may help with various health conditions, although research is limited overall. A person with the following conditions or health goals who is considering trying CBD may wish to know what research supports the use of CBD and when to see a healthcare professional about these conditions.

Cardiovascular disease and inflammation

People diagnosed with cardiovascular disease should see a healthcare professional regularly to monitor and manage their condition.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that those with a family health history of heart disease should also collect as much information as possible about their relatives to share with a doctor.

This can help healthcare professionals better understand their risks and how to lower them.

This also applies to people with frequent high levels of inflammation. CBD teas may be easy to incorporate into a daily routine. However, there is insufficient scientific evidence to conclude that they will help reduce inflammation.

A person should discuss the best way to reduce inflammation with a healthcare professional.

Mental health

Many CBD teas and other products claim to help with anxiety and stress.

A 2020 review found that compounds containing CBD were beneficial for reducing the symptoms of schizophrenia, social anxiety disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

However, the authors write there is less evidence for CBD helping insomnia, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Insomnia

According to the Office on Women’s Health (OASH), insomnia is very common and can affect a person’s ability to do daily tasks. It is more common in females than males.

Stress and life challenges may cause insomnia.

A person may also develop insomnia because of other health or lifestyle factors, such as pregnancy, medication side effects, stroke, or a disruptive sleep environment.

Learn more about the causes of insomnia in females.

A systematic review concluded that CBD — including CBD with THC — could help with insomnia. However, studies focusing on CBD and insomnia are limited.

A person should speak with a doctor about insomnia. They can advise on appropriate medication options, lifestyle changes, and treatments for any underlying health conditions causing insomnia.

Neurological damage

Common forms of neurological damage include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis (MS).

The FDA-approved CBD drug Epidiolex was the focus of a 2020 study into CBD and Parkinson’s disease. The authors concluded that this drug helped improve motor function, sleep, and emotional dysregulation. However, this study was small, and participants experienced a range of side effects from the high dosage of Epidiolex needed to improve Parkinson’s.

People with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or MS symptoms should speak with a doctor as soon as possible.

Pain

A 2020 mini-review found that the effectiveness of CBD for pain can vary greatly. The authors note that people should not use CBD for pain indiscriminately, as it can be more effective for some types of pain than others.

Additionally, they write that there is a significant risk of using contaminated products as CBD is not regulated for safety or purity.

A person can work with a doctor to find the best method of managing pain.

Cancer

2022 research states that cannabinoids may have anticancer properties, as they can inhibit the proliferation of cells. They can also reduce the risk of cancer cells metastatizing or spreading to other body parts.

The authors write that CBD can help treat the side effects of conventional cancer treatment.

However, cannabis products are not widely available in the U.S. healthcare system, and no CBD products are FDA-approved as medication for cancer.

A person should attend regular cancer screenings and promptly speak with a doctor if they develop cancer symptoms.

High cholesterol

There is very limited research to suggest that CBD can help lower cholesterol.

The CDC states that around 38% of American adults have high cholesterol. A person should speak with a healthcare professional about managing their cholesterol levels, as high cholesterol can put them at risk of stroke and heart disease.

High cholesterol typically does not produce symptoms, so a person will need to have their cholesterol measured at a doctor’s office.

Below, we answer some of the top frequently asked questions about CBD tea.

How long does it take CBD tea to work?

How quickly a person will feel the effects of a CBD tea will depend on the product and may vary depending on the type of CBD and the dose.

A person should read product labeling to learn how long their chosen CBD tea may take to work and only choose products that clearly state the dose of CBD in each serving.

Can CBD tea work for weight loss?

CBD may help a person lose weight. 2018 research claims that cannabinoid receptors 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) can regulate a person’s appetite and reduce food intake, potentially helping a person lose weight. The authors explain that these receptors may also convert white fat cells into brown fat cells, which may benefit obesity.

Researchers believe brown fat burns calories. This may help people reduce their calories and lose weight.

However, more research is needed to confirm any benefits CBD may have for people trying to lose weight.

People who want to lose weight may wish to work with a doctor, dietitian, or nutritionist to find a safe and sustainable diet and exercise plan for weight loss.

Learn about the differences between a nutritionist and a dietitian.

Does CBD raise your heart rate?

CBD can raise a person’s heart rate. For instance, a 2017 study reports that a single dose of cannabidiol reduced blood pressure but increased heart rate in the study participants. However, this was a small study with just nine healthy male volunteers.

Other ingredients in CBD products, such as caffeine, may raise a person’s heart rate. Buyers should carefully read ingredient labels when buying CBD products.

Learn more about the best CBD products for energy.

Additionally, those with a heart condition should speak with a doctor before trying CBD. People should stop using CBD if they experience side effects, including a fast or irregular heartbeat.

CBD tea comes in many different flavors, infusions, and strengths. Individuals should discuss the benefits and risks of CBD tea or other CBD products with a doctor with expertise in this area.

The evidence that CBD might improve health or ease certain symptoms offers hope to people whose symptoms do not respond to traditional medication.

However, there is currently insufficient scientific evidence to suggest that a person should replace their current treatment with CBD.