CBD for Nausea: Does CBD Help with Nausea?

Nausea is a common and unpleasant symptom that can happen for many reasons, including chemotherapy, digestive issues, motion sickness, and pregnancy. For Canadians seeking natural relief, CBD (cannabidiol) is emerging as a promising option. 

It’s a non-intoxicating compound found in cannabis that has shown potential to control symptoms like nausea by working with the body’s serotonin and endocannabinoid systems. Research so far suggests that CBD, especially when used alongside THC in a balanced ratio, may help ease queasy feelings and calm the digestive tract. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how CBD may help alleviate different types of nausea, how to use it effectively, and which CBD products are best suited to your needs. So let’s begin! 

Can CBD Help With Nausea?

Nausea is largely regulated by the brain and gut, specifically through serotonin receptors like the 5-HT1A subtype. CBD interacts with these receptors, decreasing their stimulation, particularly in situations involving stress or foreign toxins entering the body. This may help suppress the urge to vomit and calm digestive discomfort.

According to a 2011 review published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, CBD was effective in reducing nausea and vomiting in animal models by acting on 5-HT1A receptors. Additionally, a 2022 study found that cannabis products containing both THC and CBD provided the most notable relief for nausea, though CBD alone still offered calming, supportive effects, especially when THC is not an option.

CBD’s ability to ease anxiety and stress is also beneficial, since emotional triggers can often make nausea worse. While human trials are still somewhat limited, early results are promising. That said, more robust clinical research is needed to understand how CBD performs across different causes of nausea and in diverse populations.

Types of Nausea That CBD Can Help With

Depending on the cause, CBD may help tackle different types and varying degrees of nausea. Here’s a look at the most common types:

• Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV): Canadian cancer patients have used combined oral extracts (CBD and THC) when standard anti-nausea medications fall short. Some clinical studies show significant improvement in nausea when CBD: THC products are used as adjunct therapy.
• Motion sickness: CBD may help reduce symptoms of motion sickness by targeting serotonin receptors. While research is more limited in this area, anecdotal and early trial data support its use for ease of travel-related queasiness.
• Pregnancy-related nausea (Morning Sickness): There’s currently not enough clinical evidence to recommend CBD during pregnancy. However, some pregnant individuals have reported symptom relief with microdosed CBD. A healthcare provider should always be consulted first.
• Gastrointestinal issues and IBS: For those with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or acid reflux, CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects on the gut may help reduce nausea by soothing inflammation and normalising digestion.
• Anxiety-related nausea: Many people experience nausea as a physical response to stress. Since CBD is known for reducing anxiety, it may indirectly help calm the stomach during periods of nervousness or emotional overload.

Does CBD Make You Less Nauseous?

Across online forums and customer testimonials, Canadians often mention that a small dose of CBD helps settle their stomach and eases the feeling of queasiness. This is especially true when anxiety is part of the problem. 

However, every person’s experience can be different. Some users have reported that very high doses of CBD (typically over 100 mg per day) can upset their stomach or make them feel lightheaded, especially if they’re not used to cannabinoids. 

Feedback also highlights that CBD works best when it’s part of a full-spectrum formula with a small amount of THC, something often referred to as the “entourage effect.” According to customer feedback, these types of products tend to deliver more consistent digestive support, especially when taken regularly and in moderate amounts.

CBD Ratio for Nausea

When it comes to using CBD for nausea, the most commonly recommended cannabinoid ratio is a 1:1 CBD to THC mix. This balanced formula takes advantage of THC’s strong antiemetic (anti-nausea) properties and CBD’s potential for reducing anxiety to control the uneasy symptoms occurring during such times.

In areas where THC is restricted or less accessible, high-quality full-spectrum CBD products remain an effective option for many. Though these products may not have the same strength as a 1:1 blend, they still offer many of the same benefits to users looking for daily symptom control.

That said, the right dosage of CBD can change the game altogether. To determine what amount suits you, experts suggest beginning with a low dose and gradually increasing it based on the efficacy of results.

CBD’s Benefits for Nausea

Besides helping with nausea itself, CBD provides several other useful benefits that may make it a well-rounded choice for wellness support:

• Non-psychoactive: CBD won’t make you feel “high,” which is an advantage for people who need symptom relief without any mind-altering effects that may hamper their functioning throughout the day.
• May reduce anxiety: If your nausea is tied to stress, CBD’s calming effect on the nervous system may help lower both symptoms at once.
• Improves gut function: CBD’s interaction with serotonin can support smoother digestive transit and soothe cramps or spasms that contribute to nausea.
• Has anti-inflammatory properties: By calming inflammation in the digestive tract, CBD may help tackle nausea at its source.
• Creates an entourage effect: When combined with other cannabis compounds like THC, CBD seems to work better, providing fuller, more noticeable results.
• May ease THC’s side effects: For those using THC for nausea, CBD can balance out unwanted effects like dizziness or mental fog.

Best Types of CBD Products for Nausea Relief

CBD comes in many forms, and the best choice often depends on how fast you need relief and your comfort with the method of consumption. Here’s a look at four options that Canadians commonly turn to for nausea support:

CBD Oil/Tinctures

CBD oils or tinctures are ideal for quick relief from nausea. When placed under the tongue for 30–60 seconds, the oil is absorbed directly into the bloodstream, with effects starting to appear within 15–30 minutes. 

This makes tinctures a practical choice ahead of predictable triggers, such as travel or treatment sessions. Additionally, the dosage can be easily adjusted using a dropper, allowing you to have full control over the amount of CBD you take. Full-spectrum oils also deliver the added benefit of trace cannabinoids, increasing the chance of effective symptom relief.

CBD Capsules or Softgels

If you prefer a taste-free option, CBD capsules offer a mess-free and pre-dosed alternative. They’re slower to act, typically taking 30 minutes to 2 hours, making them better suited for ongoing, daily nausea management rather than immediate relief. 

Many Canadians living with digestive conditions like IBS use capsules to stay ahead of flare-ups. They also provide long-lasting relief, which is helpful if you need symptom support throughout the day or night.

CBD Gummies (for Mild Cases)

CBD gummies Canada are great for managing low-grade nausea or providing a light mood boost during stressful periods. They come in pleasant flavours and make dosing easy, often ranging from 5–30 mg per gummy. 

While they share the delayed onset of capsules, they’re a fun and accessible choice for those newer to CBD or who prefer something discreet. Gummies are also a preferred method for daytime use due to their milder effects and portable design.

CBD Vape

In cases of sudden, intense nausea, such as during motion sickness, vaping CBD offers very rapid relief. The CBD works almost instantly, entering the bloodstream via the lungs. While effective, vaping isn’t for everyone, especially if you have asthma or other respiratory issues.

It’s important to use only lab-tested products from regulated providers to avoid toxic additives or impure oils. If rapid action is your top priority, vaping may be a viable option under proper guidance.

How to Use CBD for Nausea (Dosage & Timing)

Finding the right dose for nausea depends on individual response and the cause of nausea. Beginners can start with 5–10 mg and take more after assessing the results, which generally occur 20-30 minutes after intake. 

For acute nausea (like motion sickness or pre-chemotherapy), CBD should ideally be taken 15–30 minutes before the trigger, and possibly in higher amounts (up to 20 mg) for better results. A sublingual oil or vape offers the strongest and fastest onset of relief. 

For chronic nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort, users can try a capsule or gummy daily to support long-term balance and allow the product to build up in their system.

If using a 1:1 CBD to THC blend, it’s safe to start at a low dose, especially if you’re not used to THC and its psychoactive effects. However, with full-spectrum CBD oils, the effects may reportedly be more tolerable. 

Most importantly, always consult your healthcare provider for personal dosage advice, especially during pregnancy or if you’re already taking medication.

Conclusion: Is CBD an Effective Solution for Nausea?

If you’re dealing with persistent nausea, using CBD may offer natural relief. It’s been shown to help ease the associated symptoms indirectly through calming anxiety and soothing digestive discomfort. 

While CBD on its own may be effective for mild cases, a full-spectrum or 1:1 CBD: THC product tends to yield better results, especially for more severe symptoms like those induced by chemotherapy.

With various product options available, from fast-acting oils to steady-release capsules, there’s a CBD format that’s just perfect to suit your routine. Just remember to start with a low dose, monitor how you feel, and always seek professional advice before using CBD with medications or during pregnancy. 

FAQ About CBD For Nausea Relief