Does CBD Have Nicotine? Everything You Need to Know 2023

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Reviewed by Drew Sutton, MD

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does cbd have nicotine

Those that are new to CBD may be wondering whether or not CBD products contain nicotine. While these molecules are entirely different, it’s best to understand what you’re taking before using either nicotine or CBD and some of the risks associated with using each molecule. So we’ve written this article on whether CBD has nicotine to give you everything you need before starting to vape!

So without further ado, let’s jump right into it!

What Is Nicotine?

It’s best to start out with a solid foundation of both what nicotine is and what CBD is before diving into other questions. Let’s start by discussing nicotine!

Nicotine is a chemical found in a particular category of plants called the nightshades. You’ve most likely heard of nicotine with its association the tobacco plant. Nicotine is able to affect both the mind and the body of humans. When a substance is able to cause changes in the way people experience their reality we call these substances psychoactive.

does cbd have nicotine

What Does It Do In The Human Body?

Nicotine has been shown to have multiple effects on the brain and body, one of which is a stimulating effect[1]. When ingested, it stimulates the adrenal glands and releases adrenaline, which increases heart rate, blood pressure, and metabolism. It also causes a release of glucose from the liver and has a mild effect on the brain that can improve concentration and alertness. Some people find that nicotine can also help to reduce anxiety and improve mood[2]. However, nicotine is highly addictive and can have negative health effects when used in excess. When inhaled, nicotine is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the brain, where it activates nicotine receptors. This activation triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in the brain’s reward system. The release of dopamine is one of the reasons that nicotine is so addictive. 

Nicotine can have both short-term and long-term effects on the body. In the short term, nicotine can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure[3], which can lead to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. 

Long-term use of smoked nicotine can have more severe health consequences. It can contribute to the developing of various types of cancer[4], including lung, throat, and bladder cancer. It can also increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and respiratory problems. Nicotine can also have adverse effects on mental health.  

In addition to the negative effects of nicotine on physical and mental health, it is also highly addictive. It can be difficult for people to quit smoking or using other tobacco products once they have become dependent on nicotine. People experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using nicotine can be unpleasant and include irritability, difficulty concentrating, and insomnia.

Are Nicotine-Free Vapes Better For You?

When it comes to vaping, one of the main concerns is the potential health risks associated with inhaling nicotine. While nicotine is not as harmful as the tar and other chemicals found in cigarettes, it is still a highly addictive substance that can negatively impact the body. For this reason, many people have turned to nicotine-free vapes as a safer alternative.

But are nicotine-free vapes actually better for you? Unfortunately, the answer is not entirely clear, as there is still a lack of research on the long-term health effects of vaping. However, there are some potential benefits to using nicotine-free vapes.

One of the main advantages of nicotine-free vapes is that they do not contain an addictive substance that can lead to dependence. This can be especially beneficial for those trying to quit smoking or reduce their nicotine intake. By using a nicotine-free vape, you can still get the satisfaction of inhaling vapor without the risk of becoming addicted to nicotine.

Another potential benefit of nicotine-free vapes is that they may be less harmful to your cardiovascular health. Some studies[5] have suggested that nicotine can have negative impacts on blood pressure and heart rate and can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. By using a nicotine-free vape, you may be able to reduce these risks.

However, it’s important to note that nicotine-free vapes are not entirely risk-free. While they do not contain nicotine, they still have other chemicals and substances that may be harmful when inhaled. For example, many vapes contain propylene glycol[6], which can cause respiratory irritation when inhaled. The long-term health effects of inhaling other chemicals found in vapes, such as flavorings and preservatives, are unknown.

What about CBD Vapes?

does cbd have nicotine

CBD vapes are a type of vape that contains cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana, CBD does not produce a high or psychoactive effect. Instead, it is thought to have a variety of potential health benefits[7], including reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation.

CBD vapes have become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people discover the potential benefits of CBD. However, it’s important to note that the safety and effectiveness of CBD vapes have not been fully established.

One of the main concerns with CBD vapes is that they may contain potentially harmful substances, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and other contaminants. These substances can be inhaled when vaping and may be harmful to your health. Therefore, it’s important only to use high-quality, lab-tested CBD vapes to reduce the risk of inhaling potentially harmful substances.

Another concern with CBD vapes is that the long-term health effects of inhaling CBD are not yet known. While CBD is generally considered safe when taken orally, it is not clear how it may affect the body when inhaled. Therefore, more research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits of CBD vapes.

Despite these concerns, many people still use CBD vapes as a way to benefit from the potential health effects of CBD potentially. If you are considering using a CBD vape, it’s essential to do your research and only purchase products from reputable sources. Be sure to talk to your doctor before using a CBD vape.

Does CBD Have Nicotine?

No, CBD (cannabidiol) does not contain nicotine. CBD is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant and is one of the many compounds known as cannabinoids. CBD is often extracted from hemp, a variety of cannabis high in CBD and low in THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use.

Nicotine is a chemical compound found in tobacco and certain other plants. It is a stimulant that is highly addictive and is commonly used in cigarettes and other tobacco products.

While CBD and nicotine are both chemicals that can be found in plants, they are completely unrelated and do not have any similarities in their effects or uses. CBD is often used for its potential health benefits, such as reducing anxiety and stress, while nicotine is typically used for its stimulating and addictive properties.

How Much CBD Should I Vape?

The appropriate dosage of CBD to vape will vary depending on several factors, including your body weight, the severity of the condition you are trying to treat, and your personal tolerance for CBD. It is generally recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the desired effect.

For most people, a good starting point is around 5-10mg of CBD per day. However, your healthcare provider may recommend a higher dose if you are treating a specific condition. It is important to note that everyone is different and may respond to CBD differently.

It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications. They can help you determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs.

It is also worth noting that CBD products have different potencies and serving sizes. For example, a CBD oil tincture may have a serving size of 1mL, while a CBD vape oil may have a serving size of 0.5mL. Therefore, carefully read the product label and instructions before using any CBD product.

Generally, starting with a low dose is best and gradually increasing it until you find the desired effect. It is essential to be patient and give the CBD time to work.

Does CBD Have Any Side Effects?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant that is often used for its potential health benefits. While CBD is generally well-tolerated and considered safe, it can cause some side effects in some people.

The most common side effects of CBD[8] are:

  • Dry mouth: CBD may lead to dry mouth.
  • Drowsiness: Some people may experience drowsiness or sleepiness when taking CBD, especially at higher doses.
  • Low blood pressure: CBD can cause a temporary decrease in blood pressure, which may lead to dizziness or lightheadedness.
  • Interactions with certain medications: CBD can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and some medications that are metabolized by the liver.You should talk to a healthcare professional before taking CBD if you are taking any medications.

Conclusion

Let’s quickly summarize what we discussed in this article CBD and nicotine are entirely different chemicals that produce different effects on the human body. In addition, there are potential side effects for both CBD and nicotine. Still, as the research currently stands, vaping appears to be a safer option for dosing these chemicals compared to smoking incineration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does CBD have Nicotine?

No, CBD (cannabidiol) does not contain nicotine.

What are some potential side effects of CBD?

Dry mouth, drowsiness, low blood pressure, medication interactions

+ 8 sources

MIDSS adheres to strict procurement guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutes, and medical associations. We work mainly with peer-reviewed studies to ensure the accuracy of the information. We avoid the use of tertiary references. You can read about how we ensure the accuracy and timeliness of our content in our editorial process.

  1. Clarke, P.B., Fu, D.S., A Jakubovic and Fibiger, H.C. (1988). Evidence that mesolimbic dopaminergic activation underlies the locomotor stimulant action of nicotine in rats. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, [online] 246(2), pp.701–708. Available at: https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/content/246/2/701.short [Accessed 5 Jan. 2023].
  2. Foulds, J. (1997). Mood and physiological effects of subcutaneous nicotine in smokers and never-smokers. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, [online] 44(2-3), pp.105–115. doi:10.1016/s0376-8716(96)01327-0.
  3. Herxheimer, A., Griffiths, R.L., Hamilton, B. and Wakefield, M. (1967). CIRCULATORY EFFECTS OF NICOTINE AEROSOL INHALATIONS AND CIGARETTE SMOKING IN MAN. The Lancet, [online] 290(7519), pp.754–755. doi:10.1016/s0140-6736(67)91950-2.
  4. Vineis, P., Alavanja, M., Buffler, P., Fontham, E., Franceschi, S., Gao, Y.T., Gupta, P.C., Hackshaw, A., Matos, E., Samet, J., Sitas, F., Smith, J., Stayner, L., Straif, K., Thun, M.J., Wichmann, H.E., Wu, A.H., Zaridze, D., Peto, R. and Doll, R. (2004). Tobacco and Cancer: Recent Epidemiological Evidence. JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute, [online] 96(2), pp.99–106. doi:10.1093/jnci/djh014.
  5. Herxheimer, A., Griffiths, R.L., Hamilton, B. and Wakefield, M. (1967). CIRCULATORY EFFECTS OF NICOTINE AEROSOL INHALATIONS AND CIGARETTE SMOKING IN MAN. The Lancet, [online] 290(7519), pp.754–755. doi:10.1016/s0140-6736(67)91950-2.
  6. Irusa, K.F., Vence, B. and Donovan, T. (2020). Potential oral health effects of e‐cigarettes and vaping: A review and case reports. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry, [online] 32(3), pp.260–264. doi:10.1111/jerd.12583.
  7. ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters. (2019). CBD: A New Hope? [online] Available at: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsmedchemlett.9b00127 [Accessed 5 Jan. 2023].
  8. Brown, J. and Winterstein, A. (2019). Potential Adverse Drug Events and Drug–Drug Interactions with Medical and Consumer Cannabidiol (CBD) Use. Journal of Clinical Medicine, [online] 8(7), p.989. doi:10.3390/jcm8070989.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Stephanie Nichols, NMD
Naturopathic Physician, Nutritionist, Health & Medical Writer
Dr. Stephanie Nichols is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor in Arizona. She’s passionate about helping women resolve their anxiety, depression, and chronic stress by restoring balance to their hormones, and digestive functioning. She also approaches autoimmune conditions from a whole-person standpoint and uncovers the deeper issues through advanced laboratory testing. Dr. Stephanie assesses her patients from a Naturopathic as well as a Traditional Chinese Medicine viewpoint. Her treatment plans are unique in that they are completely customized to suit each patient on a mental, emotional, and physical level. Dr. Stephanie earned her bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Food Sciences, with honors, from the University of Alberta. After recognizing the ability of food choices to impact several chronic diseases, she then pursued her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, graduating with honors.She is a consultant and nutraceutical formulator for a number of companies as well as a freelance medical blog writer.

ABOUT MEDICAL REVIEWER

Drew Sutton, MD
Medical Writer & Editor
Drew is a retired ENT doctor who now lives in the Southeastern US. He was a member of the American Academy of Otolaryngology and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Psychology and an MD degree. He completed his internship in General Surgery and Residency in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and practiced for almost 30 years in all aspects of ENT, including a specialization in disorders of the ear and skull base. Drew is passionate about communicating his clinical experiences and making his knowledge more accessible to the general public by medical writing.
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