You may have heard, “CBD helps anxiety.” With the impact of Covid-19 and beyond, stress is climbing at an alarming rate. Stress affects our mental state, leading to other health concerns like anxiety and depression. CBD use is on the rise, yet many are still unaware of how CBD can help anxiety and depression.
When we are anxious or depressed, it takes a toll on our minds and body. Some individuals disconnect from the world, some suffer from irritability, lack of sleep, poor concentration, or difficult breathing.
The main treatment for anxiety is prescription drugs, and for some, these types of medications come with a laundry list of side effects. That’s where CBD comes in. Recently studies have suggested CBD may improve anxiety with no side effects. The mechanism of action is not clear, but it’s purported that CBD helps anxiety through serotonin activity, the way many prescription anti-depressants work.
How does CBD help anxiety?
In recent years since Canada legalized cannabis in 2018, we’ve begun research into early studies related to mental health with surprising findings. Many thought they would never touch cannabis, with its reputation as an illegal drug, until they discovered the health benefits.
CBD (cannabinoids) is the second most powerful active ingredient found in cannabis. It differs from the main active ingredient — THC — because cannabinoids are not psychoactive, and are used almost exclusively for medical purposes. CBD can increase certain neurotransmitters which help elevate your mood, and in turn, anxiety. This change in body chemicals can calm your nerves and muscles, allowing you to relax. This can also be helpful during a panic attack. Studies found that doses of 300 mg to 600 mg reduce anxiety in people with social anxiety disorder.
If you are thinking of trying CBD, but you don’t like the idea of smoking a joint, the good news is there are various ways of consuming CBD to help anxiety. Each method is effective but is dependant on you and what you are comfortable with.
Smoking and Vaping
When inhaled CBD, it goes straight to the lungs and into the bloodstream. The effects happen immediately. This can be done by smoking a joint, vaping, using a pipe or bong.
Topical Application
You Can find CBD in lip balm, creams and ointments for your skin.
It is easy to use and can be used not just for anxiety but for sore muscle and headaches.
Edibles
Edibles are one of the most rapidly growing ways of consuming CBD. It is available in things like gummies and lollipops. It is just like eating a tasty candy and we could even do this while working because no one would know the difference. However, keep in mind that some edibles can take a while before the effects kick in. So remember not to overdo it.
Sublingual Intake of CBD
You take a few drops of the oil and drop it under your tongue and hold it for 30 seconds before swallowing. Just like the edibles, this can be added to food or drinks. This is also a discreet method that will help you feel calm and relaxed.
Do you think CBD helps anxiety? Let us know how you prefer to use CBD in the comments below. For the latest news, editorials and more, follow CLN.