CBD’s ability to influence serotonin receptor activity in your brain can help lower stress levels and soothe inflammation that contributes to feelings of discontentment and discomfort.
An investigation comparing two CBD products in their ability to reduce stress found that participants found both isolate and broad spectrum products effective and useful for alleviating symptoms of stress.
1. Reduces anxiety
CBD is a non-intoxicating compound that has been shown to effectively alleviate anxiety in animal and human trials. It does this by amplifying the effects of Gamma Aminobutyric Acid, or GABA – an inhibitory neurotransmitter which works by relaxing our stress response mechanism. People living with chronic stress and anxiety typically have low levels of GABA; CBD may increase this by activating its signaling pathways within our endocannabinoid systems in order to promote balance and relaxation.
CBD may work by increasing serotonin levels, which play an essential role in mood regulation and stress relief. Many antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) increase serotonin, suggesting it could have similar results with CBD as well.
One small study discovered that CBD could significantly lower anxiety during simulated public speaking tests. Another found that young people with social anxiety disorder who used a CBD-THC product felt less anxious than those using isolate or THC-only products; more research is necessary, however; idealy future studies would include blinding and utilize randomized controlled designs.
2. Improves sleep
CBD may work by increasing levels of GABA, an endogenous cannabinoid that serves as the main stress inhibitor and slows down stress responses in the nervous system, making it particularly helpful in cases of insomnia associated with stress, anxiety and other mental health conditions.
Participants of our survey reported using CBD to both improve sleep and decrease self-perceived anxiety, with adjusted logistic models finding that when using broad spectrum products the likelihood of reporting these benefits was higher – consistent with evidence suggesting the entourage effect can enhance CBD’s beneficial effects.
People using CBD for insomnia and other sleep issues commonly report that it helps them fall asleep more quickly. Researchers believe CBD works by augmenting anandamide, an organic compound commonly referred to as “the bliss molecule”, because of its relaxing and comforting effects. CBD could therefore serve as an effective replacement for sedatives which often come with adverse side effects or are considered unsuitable by medical professionals.
3. Relieves pain
CBD has been shown to possess several stress-relieving properties, such as relaxing muscles. This effect occurs because CBD can decrease activity in brain excitatory pathways responsible for feelings of tension.
CBD increases serotonin, an essential neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of tranquillity and wellbeing. To do this, CBD activates 5-HT1a receptors in the brain which control serotonin’s levels in the body.
Studies have demonstrated how CBD strengthens the endocannabinoid system, which sends signals throughout the body to maintain homeostasis and help manage stress naturally. Many people turn to CBD as a natural way of combatting stress.
Though CBD isolate products may help relieve stress, studies indicate that broad spectrum CBD may be more effective due to what’s known as “the entourage effect”. This means other cannabinoids found within cannabis plants – including terpenes and THC – may provide additional stress-relief effects.
4. Strengthens the immune system
Stressful events not only harm our minds, but also bodies. Prolonged exposure to high levels of perceived stress is known to lower immunity – meaning less protection against infections and wounds – while short-term stress can stimulate it; chronically elevated cortisol levels suppress them instead. CBD may help maintain an equilibrium between inflammation and anti-inflammation pathways as it modulates GABA neurotransmitters which serve as natural inhibitory neurotransmitters.
CBD interacts with serotonin receptors, increasing levels of the “feel-good” hormone and improving mood while decreasing anxiety levels. Studies have also demonstrated its effect on MDSCs apoptosis rates – two processes which inhibit an overactive immune response.
Although CBD supplements offer numerous health benefits, they should only be taken in conjunction with other stress management strategies like meditation or self-care. If you want to try CBD to ease stress relief, check out Joy Organics organic gummies; use code HEALTHLINE for 20% discount!
