CBD gummies contain cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical present in the cannabis plant. Although CBD has beneficial properties, it can cause harmful side effects in some people. Learn about some popular CBD products here.
CBD is a cannabinoid, a chemical present in the cannabis plant that may possess many potential health benefits.
Products containing CBD, including CBD gummies, are becoming increasingly popular. While evidence suggests that CBD is safe and tolerable, more research is necessary to understand these potential benefits and any possible side effects.
In this article, we will discuss CBD gummies, including their potential risks, benefits, and how to use them.
A note about sex and gender
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Learn more.
CBD is a compound
The CBD in many products typically derives from the hemp plant, which is a species of cannabis relatively low in delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC produces the euphoric effects people usually associate with cannabis.
Producers may also manufacture CBD in a laboratory. It is available in many different types of consumer products, such as:
- foods
- oils
- capsules
- lotions
- cosmetics
CBD gummies may provide an easier, more convenient, and tastier way for a person to take CBD than other forms of the product. Similar to gummy vitamins, this form of CBD offers an alternative for individuals who wish to use CBD but have difficulty swallowing CBD capsules or do not enjoy the taste of CBD oils.
Much like other CBD products, CBD gummies typically contain hemp oil with high concentrations of CBD. The main difference between gummies and other CBD products is that a person chews these supplements before swallowing.
People can also choose the strength of the CBD gummies and control the exact dose, which may be more difficult with other CBD products, such as oils.
Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body, a complex biological system that helps regulate and balance key bodily functions.
Unlike THC, another well-known cannabinoid, CBD does not produce the characteristic “high” people often associate with cannabis. CBD may possess many therapeutic uses and benefits. However, as with any drug, some people may experience side effects when using products containing CBD.
At present, the
Research continues into other potential benefits and possible therapeutic uses of CBD, but
In 2017, the
However, there is evidence to show that CBD
- children
- those taking medication
- people trying to conceive
- people who are pregnant or breast feeding
It may also have negative effects on the liver and the male reproductive system, and there is very little information on the long-term effects of using CBD.
The
Some CBD products may contain other ingredients, such as THC, pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria, or fungi.
According to the FDA, potential side effects of CBD
- liver injury
- interfering with other drugs, which could lead to injury or serious side effects
- changes in mood, such as irritability or agitation
- changes in alertness, such as drowsiness and sleepiness
- gastrointestinal problems and changes in appetite
- damage to male fertility
Read more about how CBD makes people feel.
Following the passing of the
However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of cannabis. There is no federal law enabling the legal use of medical cannabis. It is illegal to use or prescribe medical cannabis in any state that does not have a law allowing people to do so.
Many states in North America have approved individuals having some use of medical cannabis. However, each state varies on these rulings. It is advisable for a person considering CBD or THC products to check their local laws regularly for any changes.
Health experts typically advise that people follow the instructions on the packaging when using CBD products. Similar to gummy vitamins, people simply chew and swallow CBD gummies.
These products are available in a variety of strengths and flavors. A person can start with a weaker strength to ensure they stay within the recommended dosage and to gauge how their body reacts to CBD.
If a person decides to try CBD gummies, they should ensure they purchase these products from a reputable source and discuss taking CBD with a healthcare professional first, to verify that CBD will not affect any other medications a person is currently taking or cause any adverse effects.
Learn more about CBD dosage.
Buying CBD online can expose people to unsafe products.
People should only buy CBD from brands that put all of their products through third-party testing, in which an independent laboratory tests the products for contaminants and confirms that they only contain the ingredients stated on the packaging and at the stated doses.
Reputable brands will make the results of third-party tests freely available online on their websites.
How we choose CBD gummies
We selected these gummies based on criteria we think are good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency.
As a part of our vetting process, we consider:
- the product’s composition, ingredients, and overall quality
- any third-party certifications
- the company’s reputation and business practices
- any lab test results
- marketing claims
Read more about how we vet CBD products and how we choose and test them.
Below, we look into some of our top picks for CBD gummies from popular and reputable brands.
To explore more products, visit our roundup of the best CBD gummies for 2025.
CBD can cause side effects, including:
- liver injury
- drug interactions
- irritability or agitation
- drowsiness and sleepiness
- stomach problems and appetite changes
- damage to male fertility
CBD is a chemical that comes from the cannabis plant. Federally, cannabis is an illegal drug. However, individual states may legalise it. According to the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, CBD from hemp that contains under 0.3% THC is no longer considered a controlled substance.
The effects CBD will have on a person depends on the type of CBD in their product, how they take it, and how strong the CBD dose is. Some people may not feel any effects after taking CBD for the first time, but it can make people drowsy. It is important for people to start at a very low dose to see how their body reacts.
CBD gummies are generally safe to take. However, people should speak with a healthcare professional to discuss whether CBD is right for their needs. It can cause side effects, include appetite changes, mood changes, drowsiness, and more. People should also prioritize buying CBD gummies from brands that use a third-party laboratory testing process to verify the ingredients in their products.
There is growing interest in CBD products, such as CBD gummies, and their potential health benefits. However, as with any drug, these products have a risk of potential side effects. While research is ongoing, evidence suggests CBD is safe and tolerable when a person uses these products appropriately.
CBD gummies may provide an easy and convenient option for those considering CBD. Before taking any form of CBD, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional and ensure that CBD will not interact with any medications a person is currently taking.
Is CBD legal?The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.
