CBD acts on multiple receptors and brain pathways to alleviate stress. For example, it increases levels of serotonin, helping us feel calmer and more relaxed.
Animal studies have demonstrated the efficacy of CBD for relieving stress via non-endocannabinoid mechanisms. CBD increased AEA levels by blocking FAAH enzyme, which degrades it.
1. Reduces heart rate and blood pressure
CBD enhances endocannabinoid receptor activity while inhibiting their degrading enzymes to increase Adenosine Triphosphate production and thus decrease stress hormones. Furthermore, CBD induces the release of Nitric Oxide which then results in reduced blood pressure due to relaxing blood vessels and arteries by blocking nerve signals which tighten them further.
CBD effectively mitigates experimentally induced anxiety in rats, and normalizes abnormal stress responses. Furthermore, CBD inhibits extracellular HMGB1 accumulation which is linked to neuroinflammation and microglial activation following cerebral ischemia.
People with heart issues should only use CBD under the advice of their physician, as CBD may interact with blood thinners, antiepileptic drugs and immunosuppressants as well as alter liver enzyme levels in some individuals. Furthermore, third-party testing of products should also be performed as some manufacturers use ingredients known to cause allergies in specific individuals; additionally a high dosage can increase levels of medicine by competing for liver enzymes within your system.
2. Reduces anxiety
CBD is an exogenous cannabinoid enhancer which has been demonstrated to act as an anxiolytic in animal models and clinical trials, as well as reduce anxiety and stress levels.
One double-blind placebo-controlled study using the simulation public speaking test demonstrated that 300 mg of CBD helped reduce subjective anxiety and heart rate in healthy participants comparable to taking clonazepam; these results were confirmed in another study conducted by Crippa et al.
CBD’s ability to ease stress and anxiety is accomplished via various mechanisms. It may bind with serotoninergic 5-HT1A receptors to reduce anxiety; inhibit the reuptake of NMDA-type glutamate receptors to decrease neuroinflammation and excitotoxicity associated with stress; interact with transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) to lessen activation due to stress; or interact with transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1).
Individuals seeking to use CBD for stress should look for products with complete ingredient lists and third-party testing, and make sure it does not contain allergens.
3. Reduces muscle tension
CBD interacts with 5HT1A receptors in the brain to reduce stress-associated anxiety behaviors while simultaneously lowering heart rate and blood pressure – potentially helping relieve tension from tight muscles and alleviate their associated pain.
CBD has been shown to aid recovery of skeletal muscles after exercise; one 2021 study demonstrated this by applying 150 mg of CBD oil immediately following, 24 hours post, and 48 hours post workout to reduce creatine kinase levels and therefore help muscle repair. Furthermore, using CBD to relieve stress may also aid in improving sleep patterns which in turn will improve overall health.
CBD is generally considered safe; however it may cause side effects like drowsiness and changes to appetite or weight in certain individuals. Furthermore, certain medications can interact with CBD products so it’s wise to speak to a healthcare provider prior to beginning CBD usage for yourself – this way they can assist in helping determine the appropriate dose and product that can reduce stress effectively.
4. Reduces pain
CBD can assist with relieving stress and pain by engaging the endocannabinoid system. CBD has been found to boost serotonin levels – an important natural neurotransmitter which regulates mood and sleep cycles – as well as acting on receptors and brain pathways to decrease stress and anxiety levels.
CBD oil has been shown to effectively manage pain, anxiety, and improve quality of life in people suffering from fibromyalgia. Furthermore, studies have also confirmed its usefulness in alleviating arthritis symptoms as well as other rheumatic disorders.
Recent research indicates that patients using CBD to manage stress reported less emotional exhaustion than those not using the product. While this observational study wasn’t blinded or placebo controlled, its results are encouraging.
When searching for CBD products, be sure to choose ones with all-natural and certified organic ingredients as well as third-party testing results that can be found online. Also ensure it does not contain ingredients you are allergic to.
