CBD works to mitigate oxidative stress by decreasing inflammatory reactions throughout the body and may help lower risks associated with many common ailments like anxiety and depression.
CBD acts as a natural antidepressant to ease anxiety. Furthermore, CBD may also be added to existing medication in order to reduce epilepsy seizures – this has been demonstrated through clinical studies using Epidiolex as proof.
Anxiety
CBD interacts with more than 65 receptors in the brain, including serotonin (a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood). Researchers don’t yet fully understand how CBD relieves anxiety but suspect it might boost levels of 5-HTT chemical in the body.
Studies of CBD’s effects on PTSD-related behaviors demonstrate its promise, such as its ability to decrease arousal and alleviate anticipatory anxiety associated with fear memories. Furthermore, CBD appears to promote their extinction while inhibiting reconsolidation.
Recent pilot research indicated that CBD almost significantly decreased chronic anxiety symptoms among young people. Although more research needs to be conducted, prior to trying CBD for anxiety or other psychological conditions it is wise to consult your physician first in order to obtain advice regarding dosage and form that best suit you.
Seizures
Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of CBD in significantly reducing seizures among people living with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome and tuberous sclerosis complex. Furthermore, CBD appears to enhance antiepileptic medication’s effectiveness.
Although studies on CBD’s effects on cognition are scarce, evidence points towards its positive impacts on frontal lobe functions such as decision making and attention control. CBD is well tolerated with no abuse potential making it an attractive therapeutic solution.
Multiple randomized, placebo-controlled CBD add-on studies revealed significant reductions in seizure frequency and CSSS scores in children and adults living with LGS or Dravet syndrome over multiple 12-week periods, with each visit serving as an opportunity to collect SF, CSSS and AEP data as a comparator between pre-CBD scores and on-CBD scores.
Depression
Studies have demonstrated that CBD can significantly alleviate depression symptoms. Its antidepressant effects may result from its ability to increase serotonin levels in the brain. Furthermore, CBD may improve sleep quality and relieve pain.
Animal models have demonstrated that CBD can prevent glutamate-induced excitotoxicity and decrease proinflammatory mediator levels, as well as stimulating hippocampal neurogenesis in rats.
Though CBD shows great promise in treating anxiety and depression, it is crucial that when taking this supplement it be done so under medical guidance. CBD could interact with certain medications and cause side effects; abruptly stopping prescription medication could have serious health implications; using CBD alongside traditional treatment is recommended for optimal results.
Insomnia
CBD has been shown to significantly help those experiencing anxiety and depression sleep more soundly, improving both quality of rest as well as overall mental wellbeing.
However, more research must be conducted on this matter as most CBD products are not regulated and it may be difficult to know exactly what you’re getting. It is best to opt for products with low THC contents. Before beginning treatment with CBD for sleep or anxiety issues it would also be wise to consult your physician first.
A recent case series at a psychiatric clinic examined 103 adult patients who received CBD as part of their treatment plan to address anxiety and/or sleep issues, with monthly anxiety scores being documented as well as daily dosing with 25 mg CBD.
Arthritis
CBD interacts with ECS receptors and produces pain relief by blocking activation of specific nerve cells that transmit pain signals at spinal cord level. CBD is 10x more potency than morphine and offers analgesia without the adverse side effects associated with opioid medications.
Survey participants with RA reported that CBD helped alleviate their symptoms and increase their ability to perform daily activities, with over half reporting either reduced dosages of anti-inflammatories and/or acetaminophen medication or discontinued usage altogether.
CBD comes in various forms, from oils to capsules and edibles. You can take it orally or use lotions and creams containing CBD for targeted relief of muscles and joints. When selecting your dosage, consult with a doctor.
