Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in both cannabis and hemp plants. It has been studied for its ability to treat anxiety-related disorders and associated symptoms, such as insomnia and physical restlessness. While CBD does not interact directly with the brain’s receptors like other cannabinoids, it does stimulate both serotonin and anandamide, two important regulatory molecules which play an essential role in regulating mood, sleep/wake cycles, pain perception, memory processes, and appetite.
When used to treat anxiety disorders or other conditions associated with extreme levels of stress or fear, CBD works by increasing the availability of these molecules in the body’s system of neurotransmitters. In this way, it helps to reduce anxiety through relaxation and calming feelings on both physical and mental levels.
Furthermore, by inhibiting the breakdown of neurotransmitters in the brain responsible for the fear response, while also triggering activity in dopamine pathways linked to a feeling of reward, CBD may help people with anxiety disorders manage their symptoms more successfully long term. As research continues into exactly how CBD works on a physiological level to reduce stress hormones like cortisol alongside other co-morbid treatments for anxiety disorders, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), there is no question that it can be a powerful tool when used properly.​
The Benefits of Using CBD to Treat Anxiety
For many people, anxiety is a daily struggle that can interfere with personal relationships and professional accomplishments. From difficulty sleeping to panic attacks, anxiety can be debilitating and prevent individuals from living their best lives.
While stress and anxiety are natural emotions, certain lifestyle changes can help to alleviate the symptoms of chronic stress. One increasingly popular remedy for stress management is the use of CBD. Not only does it have minimal side effects, but research has suggested that CBD may help relieve physical symptoms associated with severe stress or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Using CBD may help to reduce feelings of restlessness and agitation while improving relaxation, focus, and the ability to manage turbulent emotions – all benefits which could help an individual feel in better control of their mental health.
In addition to being effective as a standalone treatment for existing or acute levels of anxiety, using CBD might even offer preventative support when incorporated into an overall holistic stress management routine on a regular basis. Whether used alone or in combination with other non-medicinal therapies such as yoga and meditation, incorporating CBD into your daily wellness regimen could be highly beneficial in managing anxiety before it becomes more serious.
Although life’s challenges often bring about bouts of anxiety, taking steps now to treat those moments before they escalate can potentially prevent them from growing out of control later down the road – something which the use of CBD can help with along the way. Ultimately, exploring supplements like CBD may offer a viable solution for individuals looking to handle their daily stressors without having to adopt drastic lifestyle changes overnight.
There are many ways to take CBD for anxiety, and each one offers a unique set of benefits. Finding the right strain can be tricky, but by experimenting and taking note of the effects, you’ll learn what your body needs to get the most out of cannabinoids.
As always, if you choose to include this supplement in your lifestyle then do so alongside research and guidance from a qualified medical practitioner. Â
