CBD has been shown to possess antianxiolytic effects in animal models of anxiety using elevated plus maze (EPM) and Vogel conflict test (VCT). Its anxiolytic actions depend on activating 5-HT1ARs and CB1Rs; their benefits can include decreased autonomic arousal levels, anxiolytic/panicolytic actions, enhancement of fear extinction/reconsolidation blockade effects, as well as prevention of long-term anxiogenic responses due to stress.
It has a calming effect
CBD reduces anxiety by increasing concentrations of natural neurotransmitters within the endocannabinoid system, which regulates stress and anxiety responses. Furthermore, CBD promotes memory extinction and prevents reconsolidation, making it an attractive treatment option for anxiety disorders. Furthermore, its side-effect profile makes it less likely than its SSRI counterpart to interact with other medications (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors).
Studies on animals suggest that CBD has anxiolytic-like effects and could potentially treat GAD, SAD, PD, OCD and PTSD. Furthermore, CBD also reduces long-term adverse effects from stress while improving sleep quality; further studies are required to ascertain if CBD can aid with treating symptoms associated with PTSD.
CBD works on serotonin receptors to inhibit the release of inflammatory chemicals, thus decreasing anxiety. Furthermore, CBD interacts with CB1 receptors located within the amygdala to further decrease anxiety while increasing activity within an emotional processing circuit. CBD has also been demonstrated to decrease anticipatory anxiety during public speaking tests when compared with placebo; and new clinical trials are currently under way to determine its potential efficacy against chronic stress and anxiety.
It reduces stress
CBD works to interact with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system to relieve stress and anxiety by increasing anandamide signalling – an endogenous cannabinoid that promotes calm. Furthermore, CBD has anti-anxiety effects by decreasing activity in regions associated with fear as well as inhibiting formation of new stress-related memories in the brain.
Animal studies have demonstrated the therapeutic efficacy of CBD oil on reducing anxiety-related behaviors in models like the elevated plus maze (EPM) and Vogel conflict test (VCT). Furthermore, CBD has been found to regulate activation of GABAA receptors and 5-HT1AR receptors located within BNSTs and prelimbic cortexs respectively.
CBD has been shown to help ease anxiety, but for maximum effect it is best taken in small doses and gradually increased. When selecting a full spectrum product that can help, try opting for full spectrum as this offers additional cannabis plant compounds which have proven their ability to decrease stress and anxiety levels.
It helps you sleep
Sleep is essential to health, yet can be hard when dealing with anxiety. Studies show that CBD can significantly improve sleeping patterns for those dealing with anxiety, and help reduce nightmares while improving focus and improving focus.
CBD’s effectiveness at helping with sleep remains unknown; however, it may have something to do with its impact on specific cannabinoid receptors or with serotonin’s activity regulating mood and emotions in your brain. Serotonin receptors are particularly susceptible to chronic stress; therefore CBD could reduce its impact on your body by acting upon these receptors.
When starting with CBD for the first time, it is recommended that you start out slowly increasing your dosage over time. As high doses may lead to adverse reactions, it is wise to consult a healthcare practitioner in advance as they will know which product would best fit you and provide dosing instructions. You should also think carefully about whether broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD oil might better meet your needs because these contain additional hemp plant compounds that could have an effect on your health.
It relieves pain
CBD, or cannabidiol (CBD), is an anxiolytic phytocannabinoid without psychoactive properties such as 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD’s therapeutic effects extend across neuropsychiatric disorders and is currently garnering interest as an anxiolytic treatment. Studies on animal models and human subjects have demonstrated its anxiolytic qualities, including reduced anxiety-like behavior as well as enhanced fear extinction and antistress and anticompulsive properties. CBD acts as a 5-HT1AR agonist and interacts with other receptors in the brain to produce its anxiolytic effects.
Studies conducted on rats demonstrated that CBD can significantly decrease joint pain and anxiety levels. One experiment demonstrated this fact when rats given low doses of CBD experienced significantly less stress scores compared with rats who received the placebo treatment.
As much as CBD may be beneficial, it’s wise to consult your physician before trying it. Some individuals are sensitive to certain substances like THC that could potentially trigger a high. Furthermore, many CBD products remain unregulated so their cannabinoid concentration could vary considerably between each product.
