What is CBD (Cannabidiol)?
The two most common types of cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant are CBD and THC, also called cannabinoids and tetrahydrocannabinol, respectively. THC is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, followed by CBD, terpenes, and flavonoids. However, CBD is not intoxicating and entirely safe for use, with only a few minor side effects.
The cannabis growers manipulate the plant to extract different features required by different users. Cannabis strains from Sativa plants have more THC and less CBD than strains from Indica plants. Growers also blend the strains to increase the effectiveness of these compounds.
How can CBD Relieve Anxiety?
The endocannabinoid system of the human body is responsible for maintaining homeostasis and performing successful cell signaling. It works with the help of its receptors, which are spread throughout the body. Endocannabinoids interact with these receptors to keep us healthy and maintain the body's functions.
Our body has cannabinoids, like anandamide, that bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the system and reduce inflammatory responses in the body. It pushes the immune system to protect the body.
THC and CBD have similar shapes, but they have different strengths when it comes to binding to these receptors. As CBD enters the bloodstream, it interacts with these receptors according to the dose and concentration ingested or smoked.
CBD helps the brain produce and release serotonin, the body's happy hormone. Other anxiety medicines produce the same results but may disrupt other brain functions. Studies have shown that CBD is better at reducing anxiety and affecting the serotonin receptors to get desired results.
You Choose a CBD Rich Strain Wisely
Generally, cannabis can relieve and worsen anxiety. It would be best if you chose a strain containing a higher dose of CBD. CBD interacts with the CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. It also intervenes with the strong bonding of THC to the CB1 receptor, which is why it is also used for reducing THC addiction. Another added advantage of CBD is that it is completely non-psychoactive and does not cause a high.
What Does the Research Say?
CBD is more favorable for anxiety, and researchers, physicians, and consumers all support it. You can use CBD in various forms, such as oil, topical, tinctures, capsules, etc.
Researchers have looked into how CBD affects rats with generalized anxiety disorder. It has been shown to reduce the effects of anxiety, like a faster heart rate, in a big way. We will have to wait a little more until the same research is done on humans.
However, CBD can help reduce other forms of anxiety and has been proven through research. CBD can help with social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety-related insomnia. Patients under study were given an oral dose of 400 mg of CBD and showed significant improvement. Not only this, but CBD also helps with the symptoms of PTSD and reduces fear. Seeing this, CBD is also being used for cognitive behavioral therapy. Try this CBD-rich product to reduce anxiety.
Avoid Strains With High THC Content
Even though both THC and CBD are found in cannabis, they have opposite effects on anxiety. THC can produce a high, and it is famous for its psychoactive effects. It tends to add to paranoia and anxiety. So if you are looking for relief from stress, it is better to avoid cannabis strains abundant in THC. THC can also activate the amygdala, which increases fear if THC is consumed in higher doses.
As we've already discussed, CBD is better at reducing anxiety symptoms, and higher doses of THC can worsen anxiety. Still, we cannot overlook the benefits of smaller doses of THC.
What is Full-Spectrum or Broad-Spectrum?
CBD and terpenes reduce THC's psychoactive effects and help treat anxiety and other health issues. You can use full-spectrum or broad-spectrum cannabis to treat anxiety. If you don't want to use THC, try a Broad-spectrum CBD, which will not have THC but all other important compounds. However, if you think your anxiety requires a dose of THC, go for full-spectrum cannabis.
How Should I Consume CBD for Anxiety?
CBD oil is gaining popularity as a cure and remedy to treat anxiety. If you intend to use CBD oil for treatment, it is better to know the different ingestion methods for consuming CBD oil and find out which one suits you best.
Tinctures and Oils
Using tinctures and oils is a quick, easy and accurate way to enjoy CBD benefits for anxiety. Most tinctures are composed of an alcoholic base containing CBD and carrier oils, such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil, infused with CBD extracts.
Tinctures and oils can be taken with a dropper, which can help take the right amount of CBD. Drops under the tongue allow the CBD to enter the bloodstream quickly. The oil starts to take effect after 10 minutes, while the benefits can last up to 3 to 4 hours. Check out various CBD oils on the market.
CBD Vape Oils
Buy CBD vape cartridges from legal, state-licensed cannabis stores for assured quality and safety. Don’t forget to check the Certificate of Analysis to ensure it is safe. Buying from other sources can be unsafe.
Edibles
Consumers can enjoy CBD by adding it to any form of food. You can add a drop on a lollipop or gum during work or exercise or add a few drops while baking a cake. Infuse it into gummies, capsules, and even lattes in coffee shops. The edibles might take an hour or more to effect.
When CBD is taken by mouth, it goes through the digestive system before the liver breaks it down. This means that only a small amount of CBD gets into the bloodstream.
Smoking
Smoking CBD has an immediate effect. When cannabinoids are smoked, they get into the alveoli of the lungs. This makes it easier for CBD molecules to get into the bloodstream and be quickly absorbed. But since smoking is unhealthy and dangerous to the lungs, the intake is risky.
CBD Dosage
A CBD dosage depends on the type of CBD you are using. In Japan, the teens were given 300 mg of CBD daily, while the outpatients in the Colorado study received 25mg. Why is there such a disparity in dose?
Most health professionals, researchers, and clinicians admit that there are no proper dosage guidelines recommended for CBD, while many say that the dosage depends on the consumer’s body characteristics. No extensive experiments and trials have been conducted up to this date to figure out its functionality and effects. FDA is also still learning about CBD and has yet to decide on how to regulate it.
However, CBD is still considered safe to use and is consumed by many people to treat their anxiety. If you want to try CBD to manage your stress, try to get proper and dosage instructions from a licensed physician. Try not to self-prescribe and discuss your condition with the doctor before switching your treatment method.
