Does CBD Help with Anxiety and Stress?
Many of us battle stress and anxiety in different forms. The truth is our lives are constantly changing; adapting to these changes can be difficult. It is important that we tune in, in order to challenge ourselves to cope with these changes with more effective strategies. Life will continue to test us, we can only become better students. The emergence of new research suggests that CBD could potentially relieve symptoms related to anxiety and stress. CBD presents a great holistic option for combating several mental health issues.
“CBD” also known as Cannabidiol is extracted from the cannabis plant. It is important to note that the hemp and marijuana plant are very different while they still are both derived from the cannabis sativa species. Tetrahydrocannabinol better known as THC (a psychoactive compound); differentiates hemp from marijuana that of which contains a low concentration of CBD coupled with a high concentration of THC ranging from 5%-30%.
Hemp is known for its medicinal benefits related to its high concentration of the CBD compound and low concentration of THC. While cannabidiol oil research is still in its infant stages, new evidence suggests that CBD can relieve symptoms related to anxiety. In order to understand how CBD helps with Anxiety, we must determine the definition of Anxiety and how it is caused. Anxiety can be defined by feelings of dread, unpreparedness, and feelings of panic/danger recurring more and more often, leading to intrusive thoughts and physical reactions.
These feelings can be caused by several different life changes such as stress from a personal relationship, job, school, or financial predicament that can contribute greatly to anxiety disorders.
How Does CBD help with Anxiety?
New research proposes that CBD may help with general anxiety as well as anxiety-related disorders such as SAD (social anxiety disorder). Brain scans of participants revealed changes in blood flow to the regions of the brain linked to feelings of anxiety. So, how does CBD help with anxiety? Research indicates that CBD works with CB1 and CB2 receptors which are found in the central nervous system it is possible that this may alter serotonin levels.
Research continues to investigate how CBD leverages these receptors in order to help monitor the way the human mind responds to anxiety. In a recent study taken in 2016; exploring the effects of CBD on PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and anxiety-related sleep disorder in children researchers found that cannabidiol reduced anxiety while promoting a full sleep cycle.
It is proven that Serotonin has at least 14 different receptors, but CBD specifically binds to 5-HT1A which is thought to have the strongest role in anxiety disorders, this scientific fact explains the anti-anxiety effects of CBD on rats exposed to stressful situations. Science suggests that CBD could help counterbalance the brain damage associated with chronic stress. Put simply, CBD is proven to stimulate the growth of new neurons in the brain suggesting that CBD can potentially treat brain damage.
People are often shocked to know that our genetics are a major contributor to how we process stress. Small differences in our hormones or neurotransmitters (like serotonin and norepinephrine) can massively impact how we respond to stress. In addition, the second variable that has a direct impact on how we process stress includes environmental & lifestyle toxins that affect our neurochemistry. With that being said, our diet and environment directly impact our likelihood of feeling symptoms related to anxiety.
How much CBD should I take for Anxiety?
When taking CBD it’s important to investigate the best starting dose for you. Typically you should consider a few variables before purchasing CBD:
Body Weight
Bodyweight can impact CBDs affect on the body. For example, a heavier person may need a higher potency while a lighter person may require and lower potency to experience the same effects with a lower dose.
Concentration
Looking at the concentration of CBD per 1ml dose is very important in understanding how much CBD is being ingested per dose. Most products will measure the amount of CBD per bottle it is important to note the difference between the amount of CBD in each bottle in comparison to the amount of CBD per dose.
Desired Effects
The level of pain or discomfort you are experiencing will help you determine what dosage is most suitable for you. If you consider your symptoms to be mild you may want to consider a lower dose.
A recent study by the National Cancer Institute – a branch of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) – states that overdosing on CBD is virtually impossible, and the same is true of THC and marijuana. Per the report: “Because cannabinoid receptors, unlike opioid receptors, are not located in the brainstem areas controlling respiration, lethal overdoses from Cannabis and cannabinoids do not occur.”
How to Use CBD Oil for Anxiety?
There are several ways to ingest CBD. Research suggests that CBD is best absorbed sublingual and inhalation transmission is the most effective way to take CBD.
The term sublingually requires the individual to place the oil beneath the tongue; this allows the body to absorb the CBD oil immediately through the bloodstream. A CBD capsule even a supplement would have to be absorbed through the digestive tract, which may take longer or result in a less potent effect. While CBD lotions or creams are absorbed through your skin which is also considered to be one of the most effective ways to absorb medicinal benefits.
Conclusion
According to Dr. Weissman, starting with a CBD tincture will give you the full CBD experience. When taking CBD oil under your tongue hold the oil under your tongue for 1 minute to allow your body to fully absorb the oil.
However, doctors remain open to suggesting several different options which could potentially be effective depending on the subject!
All in all, you deserve the best!