CBD is known to be very safe for ingestion. However, it can cause some minor side effects like dry mouth, drowsiness, diarrhea, etc. These side effects will be significant only when CBD is consumed in higher doses. It is observed that all cannabinoids present in the hemp plant, including CBD can make your mouth dry. But is there any way to minimize this effect?
In this article, we are discussing why CBD causes dry mouth and whether there are any methods to avoid this side effect. First, let us start with the reason why CBD causes dry mouth.
Why Does CBD Cause Cottonmouth (Dry Mouth)?
There is more than one factor that is responsible for drying out your mouth after CBD consumption.
Impact Of Cannabinoids On Salivary Glands
Many studies have pointed out that oral CBD usage can cause dry mouth. In 2006, some researchers at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina found that the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the submandibular glands present at the bottom of the mouth play an important role in regulating saliva secretion. Almost 60 to 67% of saliva is produced by these glands. They found that CBD increases anandamide and this endocannabinoid act on cannabinoid receptors of the submandibular glands. As a result, the secretion of saliva is restricted and causes dry mouth.
CBD Might Signal Your Brain To Reduce Saliva Production
The above-mentioned study came to the conclusion that the endocannabinoid system plays a more complex role than merely obstructing signals at the submandibular glands. Researchers indicate that CBD can directly interfere with the brain to reduce the signals to produce saliva. There is a high concentration of CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain and CBD interacts with these cannabinoid receptors to reduce saliva production.
Coping With Dry Mouth Caused By CBD
Higher doses of CBD tend to cause significant dry mouth. Even then it is nothing to worry about. Dry mouth caused by CBD consumption cannot be avoided but you can take some measures to cope with it.
Hydrating Yourselves
Drinking a lot of water can keep your body hydrated and the intensity of dry mouth caused by CBD will be less. It is better to stay well hydrated throughout the day. Drinking water or liquids with electrolytes before and after consumption of CBD might also help to deal with dry mouth.
Using Gums
Chewing gum containing xylitol can be effective to reduce dry mouth problems after the consumption of CBD oil. Chewing gum activates salivary glands and promotes saliva production.