CBD can help treat anxiety, pain, dystonia (muscle disorder) and other conditions. Additionally, its claimed to help with sleep quality and addiction.
CBD supplements come in various forms and it is important to select one which has been third-party tested and verified for quality, with any necessary warnings noted as part of its labeling.
Anxiety
CBD works effectively for many people to relieve anxiety symptoms, and it comes in various forms. CBD interacts with receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates mood and emotions. Furthermore, CBD may assist with insomnia related to anxiety.
Studies of animal models demonstrate the efficacy of CBD for alleviating anxiety and improving mood and social behaviors. It may do this by blocking production of pro-inflammatory compounds which cause stress and anxiety to rise.
A 2022 study demonstrated how CBD could alleviate anxiety for those suffering from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Furthermore, research demonstrated how it may also alleviate symptoms associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as nightmares and replaying negative memories. Furthermore, its benefits can help with depression and chronic pain relief – typically the effects are felt within an hour.
Pain
CBD interacts with receptors in your endocannabinoid system (ECS), creating anti-inflammatory and pain relieving effects. Additionally, it has also been noted to reduce anxiety levels and improve sleep – two things which indirectly contribute to pain relief.
Studies conducted using CBD revealed its effectiveness at relieving chronic neuropathic pain–caused by damaged nerves–in patients living with multiple sclerosis. Furthermore, CBD proved helpful for managing symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, inflammatory pain and arthritis.
CBD can be taken in capsule form; as tinctures or sprays put under your tongue; or oil, creams and patches directly applied to the skin. When starting with low doses and working up, it’s important to slowly increase until finding what works for you – overdoing may result in side effects like diarrhea and changes to appetite/weight changes.
Seizures
Seizures are an all-too-common yet potentially serious health problem. They occur when electrical activity in your brain becomes imbalanced, leading to sudden contractions that affect all areas of your body – potentially resulting in injuries and even life-threatening outcomes. CBD may help decrease seizure frequency.
A randomized placebo-controlled study demonstrated that CBD significantly reduced drop seizures among individuals living with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome – an interdisciplinary disorder with multiple seizure types and high blood pressure.
Notably, CBD should not be taken if taking blood thinners, antiepileptic medicines and immunosuppressants as it competes with them for liver enzymes that breakdown these medications. Furthermore, those suffering from mental illness or depression should avoid it entirely.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure has earned its moniker as “the silent killer”, due to its failure to cause symptoms until serious damage has already been done. Treatment should include medication, diet and exercise.
CBD may help lower blood pressure by decreasing chemicals that tighten blood vessels and increasing those that relax them, slowing down heart rate, lowering cholesterol and triglycerides and helping decrease heart rate variability.
If you’re thinking about using CBD to treat your high blood pressure, it is advisable to speak to your physician first. Since there are various kinds of CBD products on the market that have different quality standards (for instance the FDA regulates pharmaceuticals while NSF International certifies dietary supplements), as well as those certified by third-party certification organizations like NSF International.
Insomnia
CBD has gained immense popularity as a natural sleep aid over the past several years. You can purchase this substance in various products including oils, gummies and skin cream. Furthermore, CBD can even be added into drinks!
Insomnia is a condition in which it becomes hard to fall or stay asleep, making sleep difficult after stressful events, or for longer-term sufferers with chronic insomnia. Short term insomnia symptoms may only last temporarily while chronic cases may persist for longer than expected.
CBD may help with insomnia by relieving anxiety and relaxing the body. However, as CBD may interact with certain medications, be sure to speak to your physician first before trying it for insomnia – they’ll advise on the optimal doses and usage strategies for you.
