CBD FOR STRESS AND ANXIETY

CBD FOR STRESS

There are a lot of options out there when it comes to stress relief. Yes, there are several types of pills and medications already that can prescribed to patients that suffer from stress, but they can become addictive and have a variety of harmful side effects. So what other option is available? Research has shown significant reductions in stress and anxiety when CBD is used regularly. Here is some insight into how CBD works with the body and may help you. 

The Source of CBD

CBD is short for Cannabidiol. It is one of the many compounds found in the hemp plant (Cannabis Sativa plant).

It is usually extracted in pure form as a colorless oil and has been reported to be very effective in relieving pain and anxiety, as well as treating cases of insomnia and seizure disorders.

It can be introduced to the body system in different forms including oil/tinctures, edibles, pills/capsules, or lotions/creams. The edibles, oils, and lotions are CBD-infused. And because it comes in different forms, this makes it easy for all ages to use CBD conveniently.

CBD does not have a health risk abuse potential (meaning that you cannot get addicted to CBD). This makes it an even better option for a stress relief medication. This is because there is a high tendency  you’d have to take it every day. But we can’t decide on that yet until we know what the research says.

So, What Does Research Say Concerning CBD for Stress?

Stress and Anxiety have been living amidst us for a very long time. And even though the terms are used casually, they are serious health conditions that can lead to even more adverse effects. Stress is how the body reacts to a situation that’s either unpleasant, uncomfortable, or threatening. Anxiety, on the other hand, is how the body reacts to stress. Anxiety is like the elder brother of stress (if you could look at it that way). As we mentioned earlier, stress is easy to take care of. But chronic stress, anxiety disorders, and other extremities are best-taken care of professionally, hence, CBD.

For Everyday Stress

Studies showed that CBD reduced their stress-related symptoms. Originally, they were recorded to have a fast heart rate and quick behavioral activity. But after being introduced to CBD, the symptoms improved. Though there need to be more studies conducted, the research is optimistic. Testimonies have also been reported that CBD has helped to reduce their stress daily. 

For Extreme Cases of Anxiety

When stress becomes a regular thing, it is always advisable to report this to a doctor because it could be a sign of an extreme case of anxiety. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Insomnia, and Social Anxiety disorder (SAD) are three examples of such.

A study was conducted on the effects of CBD on SAD patients. They were given 400mg of CBD orally and they were all recorded to have a reduced level of anxiety. And even more recently, another study was done on people with PTSD symptoms. The symptoms included the mental reply of the negative experiences/memories, and nightmares.  And the results were also positive with reduced symptoms. Though CBD was administered alongside therapy.

How Does It Work?

Okay, we would dive into a little body chemistry here.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter (a substance in the human brain that transmits signals from one nerve to another) that is responsible for the state of mental health. CBD alters the signal of Serotonin in the body. When serotonin is low, it can lead to depression or anxiety.

There are many drugs used to treat low serotonin levels in the body but a more natural product is CBD. When CBD is introduced into the body system, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and the nervous system to alter the level of Serotonin. With constant use, results should begin to show.

But more importantly, never switch to CBD for stress unless you have discussed it with your doctor.

Is There Any Side Effect?

Many general and health reports have regarded CBD as a safe and natural resort to treating several health conditions. But doctors have warned that CBD does have some health risks when it is smoked. What about when it isn’t smoked, are there risks?

1. CBD has the potential to react with other drugs and supplements. So if you are currently using another drug, you might want to consult your doctor before adding CBD to the table.
2. People with some health conditions are also advised to not use CBD. That’s why we highly recommend taking this treatment with your doctor’s awareness
3. Also, the wrong dosage can lead to some side effects such as diarrhea, changes in body weight, increased or decreased appetite, and fatigue.
4. Finally, if you suddenly stop taking CBD or you miss your dosage for too long, you might experience some changes. These are called CBD withdrawal symptoms. They are nausea, dizziness, fogginess, and irritability.

Note that though CBD is not lethal, it is a medication and therefore requires a prescription before use.

How Can I Take CBD?

CBD can now be taken in different forms. The most common firm though is the CBD oil that is either dropped into the mouth directly or added to beverages and cold natural drinks. However, other methods of taking CBD to relieve stress include:

1. Pills, Capsules, and Tablets
2. CBD Tinctures
3. CBD Gummies
4. CBD-infused balms and lotions 

Conclusion

Many Americans suffer from stress and anxiety. And the most popular way of dealing with constant stress is the use of pills. However, these pills can become addictive. A more natural resort, CBD is better for dealing with stress. And with the many optimistic research conducted on the effect of CBD on stress and anxiety, people can now use CBD products to combat these hath conditions. However, every introduction of CBD to the body system should be done within the knowledge of a professional and experienced doctor’s prescription.