Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, which is extracted from cannabis plants, has numerous applications. One of them is reducing the symptoms of anxiety with little or no side effects. CBD is different from Tetrahydrocannabinol(THC). Unlike THC, the psychoactive agent in cannabis, CBD does not cause users to get “high”.
According to science, CBD oil works with a receptor called CB1. A receptor is a tiny that receives signals from different stimuli so that your cells can respond to those demands. While it is unclear how CBD and CB1 work together, scientists have proven that CBD alters serotonin (The feel-good hormone in our body) signals. When serotonin levels are low, you might feel depressed. Some people suffer from anxiety due to a lack of enough serotonin in their bodies.
How CBD helps people with anxiety
Anxiety is an upsetting and troubling condition that affects more than 18% of the US population each year. For most people, the symptoms include a high heart rate, rapid breathing, sweating or trembling, feeling weak or tired, difficulty concentrating, insomnia, and digestive problems. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, and while they are generally treated through psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two, there are other natural alternatives that you can use to treat these anxiety disorders; and using CBD oil is one of them. According to a 2018 Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research survey, CBD oil is most popularly used to treat anxiety, pain, and depression.
Scientifically, CBD can be used in the treatment of various conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Several studies have shown that for general anxiety, CBD significantly reduces stress and other physiological symptoms of anxiety, such as an increased heart rate. The tested subjects also showed lowers behavioral signs of anxiety.
- For social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety-induced insomnia has been proven to be significantly reduced in patients who use CBD oil.
- CBD oil is effective in reducing anxiety. It does not have a negative impact on vital signs or psychomotor skills, and users can easily get adjusted to incorporating it to their daily routines.
- CBD is no longer an illegal substance. Although the FDA can regulate it, there are numerous products with CBD in them, and they all have different amounts. It is therefore important to be very cautious when purchasing any CBD products and getting the one most suited for you.
It is imperative that you consult a doctor before you start using CBD oil for treatment. This is because CBD reacts differently to other medications. If you stop using your prescription medication without consulting your doctor, you might experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Although CBD oil is great for therapeutic and pharmaceutical treatment, it is not recommended for pregnant and nursing mothers. Please note that CBD oil can cause drowsiness and other side effects such as dry mouth, mood changes, and fatigue.
