The increasing availability and interest in cannabidiol (CBD) products have led many people to explore their potential benefits. Simultaneously, Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), characterized by recurring episodes of severe nausea and vomiting, has gained recognition. Understanding both CBD and CHS is important for individuals navigating cannabis-derived compounds.
Understanding Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a condition marked by cyclical episodes of intense nausea, repeated vomiting, and abdominal pain. Individuals with CHS often experience temporary relief from these symptoms through hot baths or showers. The syndrome typically progresses through three phases: prodromal, hyperemetic, and recovery.
Phases of CHS
Prodromal Phase: This involves early morning nausea and abdominal discomfort, which can last for months or years. Some individuals may mistakenly increase cannabis use, believing it will alleviate their symptoms.
Hyperemetic Phase: Characterized by severe, overwhelming nausea and recurrent vomiting, often lasting 24 to 48 hours. People may compulsively bathe to find relief and may struggle to eat or drink, potentially leading to dehydration.
Recovery Phase: This begins when cannabis use is discontinued, leading to a gradual resolution of symptoms over days to months.
The established cause of CHS is chronic, heavy use of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. It typically occurs in individuals who have used cannabis frequently (weekly or more often) and for a long duration, often several months or years. While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, it is believed to involve the dysregulation of cannabinoid receptors in the brain and digestive tract due to prolonged THC exposure.
The Nature of CBD
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is one of more than a hundred cannabinoid compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is not intoxicating and does not produce a “high” or euphoric effect. This distinction is a primary reason for its increasing popularity among those seeking potential therapeutic benefits without psychoactive effects.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and naturally produced compounds that help maintain internal balance. While THC directly binds to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), CBD’s interaction is more indirect. It influences the ECS by affecting other receptors and enzymes, which can help increase the body’s natural endocannabinoids.
This indirect action contributes to CBD’s potential effects without causing the mind-altering effects associated with THC. CBD products are derived primarily from hemp, a cannabis plant with a legally defined low THC content (less than 0.3%). This low THC threshold ensures that hemp-derived CBD products adhere to federal guidelines.
CBD’s Relationship with CHS
Pure CBD is generally not considered a direct cause of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). The primary driver of CHS is chronic, heavy exposure to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD lacks the psychoactive properties of THC and interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system in a different manner, which is why it does not typically induce the syndrome.
However, the relationship between CBD products and CHS is nuanced, largely due to the potential presence of THC. Some CBD products, particularly full-spectrum CBD, contain trace amounts of THC, typically below the legal limit of 0.3%. Consistent high-dose use of full-spectrum products could potentially lead to an accumulation of THC in the body over time. This accumulation might contribute to CHS symptoms in susceptible individuals, especially if product labels are inaccurate or if mislabeled products contain higher THC levels than stated.
Broad-spectrum CBD products undergo additional processing to remove most or all of the THC, while CBD isolate is purified to contain only CBD, making it virtually THC-free. These types of CBD products are less likely to pose a risk for CHS. The established understanding is that CHS is a consequence of chronic THC exposure, and any connection to CBD products is primarily related to their THC content.
Navigating Symptoms and CBD Use
Individuals experiencing symptoms similar to Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) while using CBD products should seek medical consultation for a proper diagnosis. Symptoms of CHS can resemble other gastrointestinal conditions, making professional medical evaluation important. A healthcare provider can help differentiate CHS from other potential causes of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
If CHS is suspected, medical guidance often includes discontinuing all cannabinoid use, including CBD products. Since THC is stored in body fat, symptoms may persist for weeks or months after cessation, depending on the individual and prior usage. Stopping all cannabinoid intake is considered the only way to resolve CHS symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Reviewing product labels for THC content is important, especially given the varying regulations and potential for mislabeling in the CBD market. Consumers should look for third-party lab testing results, often provided as a Certificate of Analysis (COA), to verify the purity and cannabinoid profile of their CBD products. This helps ensure the product contains the stated CBD and THC levels, and is free from contaminants.