Does CBD Interact with Herbs?

Does CBD Interact with Herbs?

You might be asking yourself the question, Does CBD Interact with Herbs? Hemp CBD, or cannabidiol, is a common fitness component. But in some cases, it does not go well with herbal teas. When taken together, CBD and herbs can either complement the effects or have unexpected side effects. Let's look at the science behind it and learn how to utilize the two safely.

How CBD Works in Your Body

CBD works with the endocannabinoid system. However, its path to CBD begins within the liver. There, enzymes called cytochrome P450, like CYP3A4, CYP2C19, and CYP2C9, break it down. The same enzymes are responsible for processing many substances and herbs. When CBD and herbs battle for these enzymes, the effects of these enzymes can change

  • CBD's role:
    CBD blocks CYP2C19 and has a moderate impact on CYP3A4 and CYP2C9.

  • Impact:
    Herbs can stay for longer inside your body, or reduce their effectiveness.

Herbs That Might Clash with CBD

Certain plants are more prone to work in conjunction with CBD because of common metabolic pathways. The 2022 MDPI review highlights these as high-risk:

Herb

Potential Interaction

St. John's Wort

Increases CYP3A4 levels, possibly weakening CBD.

Green Tea

Blocks CYP3A4 and increases the risk of liver strain.

Echinacea, Ginkgo

Mixed results in CYP3A4 and blood clotting.

Chamomile

It moderately slows down CYP3A4, thereby altering CBD absorption.

Are These Interactions Serious?

The risk is contingent on the herb you are using

Risk Level

Examples

What is the significance?

High

St. John's Wort, Green Tea

Modifies the CBD levels or drug levels dramatically.

Low/Moderate

Chamomile, Peppermint

Subtle effects, like slower absorption.

High-risk combinations could disrupt CBD's effects or, even more, could cause strain to your body. Low-risk ones? They are usually safe with the proper care.

How to Stay Safe with CBD and Herbs

  1. Research First:
    Find out if your herbal supplement uses the enzyme CYP450 (Google Scholar will be your best friend! ).

  2. Space It Out:
    Use CBD and herbs for 1-2 hours apart to reduce the competition between enzymes.

  3. Start Small:
    Try small doses of each, and look for signs of drowsiness or stomach upset.

  4. Ask an Expert:
    Talk to a doctor, especially if you're taking medication and stacking your supplements.

Balance is Key

Does CBD Interact with Herbs? Yes, particularly with powerful substances such as St. John's Wort or green tea extract due to the liver enzyme overlap. For the majority of herbs, however, moderate CBD consumption isn't a major risk, especially if you are able to stagger doses and remain informed. 

Have you ever tried using CBD herbs? At FK+, we offer lab-tested full-spectrum cannabis and herbs products to provide reliable results. We value the purity and transparency of our products to help you on your health journey!

Back to blog