Does CBD Get You High? My Honest Experience & What You Need To Know (2025)

OOay, confession time. I was totally skeptical about CBD. I’d seen it everywhere – in fancy coffees, gummies at the health store, even dog treats! My initial reaction? Snake oil, plain and simple. I thought, “Does CBD get you high?” Because if it does, that’s a hard pass for me.

I’m all about natural wellness, but not at the expense of a clear head. But then, my anxiety started getting really bad. Sleepless nights, constant worrying… my friend Sarah, a total wellness guru, kept singing CBD’s praises. So, I decided to give it a shot, but only after doing TONS of research.

And that’s what I’m sharing with you today – my journey, my findings, and the answer to that burning question: does CBD get you high?

My First CBD Experience: Not What I Expected

I started with a low-dose CBD oil. Seriously, I was paranoid. I kept waiting for that “high” feeling, that spacey sensation. But… nothing. Absolutely nothing. Except… maybe a little calmer? My racing thoughts seemed to quiet down a bit. It wasn’t a miracle cure, but it was… different. I felt… normal.

That’s the best way I can describe it. It was like the volume on my anxiety had been turned down a notch. Over the next few weeks, I experimented with different dosages and forms – gummies, capsules, even a topical cream for my sore back. The effects were subtle, but they were there.

Anyway, here’s what actually helped.

I slept better, my anxiety was more manageable, and my back pain eased up.

So, Does CBD Get You High? Let’s Break It Down

Here’s the thing: CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant. But it’s not the same as THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is the psychoactive compound that *does* get you high. Think of it like this: cannabis is like a family, and CBD and THC are siblings.

They share some similarities, but they have very different personalities. Does CBD get you high? No, because it doesn’t interact with your brain in the same way that THC does.

So, back to the point.

CBD primarily interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates things like mood, pain, sleep, and immune function. It’s more about balance and homeostasis than intoxication.

The Legality Factor: THC Content Matters

In most places, the legality of CBD products hinges on their THC content. To be legally sold and considered hemp-derived, CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC. That trace amount is not enough to cause any psychoactive effects.

It’s like having a tiny drop of food coloring in a giant swimming pool – you’re not going to see any color change. Make sure to always check the lab reports from third parties.

Different Types of CBD: Isolates, Broad-Spectrum, and Full-Spectrum

This is where things can get a little confusing. There are three main types of CBD: isolate, broad-spectrum, and full-spectrum. CBD isolate is pure CBD, with all other compounds removed. Broad-spectrum CBD contains most of the compounds found in the cannabis plant, but with THC removed.

Back to the flow—this is the practical bit.

Full-spectrum CBD contains all the compounds, including that tiny bit of THC (less than 0.3%). Even with that trace amount of THC, full-spectrum CBD won’t get you high.

But, some people believe that the “entourage effect” – the idea that all the compounds work together synergistically – makes full-spectrum CBD more effective. I personally prefer full-spectrum, but everyone’s different.

How Long Does CBD Stay in Your System?

Okay, let’s dive into another common question: how long does CBD stay in your system? This is tricky because it varies wildly from person to person. Factors like your metabolism, body weight, dosage, and frequency of use all play a role.

Generally speaking, CBD can stay detectable in your system for anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. If you’re taking it regularly, it might linger longer. If you’re just using it occasionally, it’ll likely clear out faster.

It’s also important to note that while CBD itself won’t show up on a drug test, full-spectrum products *could* potentially trigger a positive result if the test is sensitive enough to detect even trace amounts of THC. So, if you’re concerned about drug testing, stick with CBD isolate or broad-spectrum products.

My Personal CBD Routine: What Works for Me

So, how do I incorporate CBD into my daily life? Well, it’s become a pretty regular thing. In the morning, I add a few drops of full-spectrum CBD oil to my coffee. It helps me start the day feeling calm and focused. Before bed, I take a CBD gummy to help me wind down and sleep better.

And when my back pain flares up, I use a CBD topical cream for targeted relief. I’ve found that consistency is key. It’s not an instant fix, but over time, it’s made a noticeable difference in my overall well-being.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While CBD is generally considered safe, it’s not without potential side effects. Some people experience drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, or changes in appetite.

It can also interact with certain medications, so it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying CBD, especially if you’re taking other medications. Also, quality control can be an issue. Make sure you’re buying CBD products from reputable brands that have been third-party tested for potency and purity.

Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify that the product contains the amount of CBD it claims to and that it’s free from contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals. Do your research!

The Future of CBD: What’s Next?

The CBD industry is constantly evolving. As research continues, we’re learning more and more about the potential benefits of CBD and how it interacts with the body. I’m excited to see what the future holds and how CBD can continue to improve people’s lives.

What started as skepticism for me has turned into a genuine appreciation for its potential. I still wouldn’t say it’s a miracle cure, but it definitely helps me manage my anxiety and live a more balanced life. And the answer to the question, does CBD get you high?

Absolutely not, at least in my experience.

Final Thoughts: Listen to Your Body

Ultimately, the best way to know if CBD is right for you is to try it for yourself. Start with a low dose, listen to your body, and see how you feel. And remember, I’m not a doctor, so this isn’t medical advice. It’s just my personal experience.

I wanted to share my story to help clear up some of the confusion around CBD and hopefully inspire you to explore its potential benefits for yourself. The world of CBD can feel daunting at first, so don’t hesitate to reach out to reliable sources.

And most importantly, always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.