Anxiety can have a devastating effect on your life. It affects people’s ability to socialize, increase productivity and develop self-worth. Many people who have depression also suffer from depression.
But unlike treatment for depression which often comes in the form of long-term antidepressants, anxiety medication known as benzodiazepines have compounds that lead to dependence. As a result, many psychiatrists are reluctant to prescribe them.
That’s why CBD oil is becoming increasingly popular as a form of treatment for anxiety. If you’re considering CBD oil as a treatment for your anxiety or depression problem, read on below to find out more about this healing compound.
What is CBD Oil?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound found in both the marijuana and hemp plants. Unlike marijuana, CBD doesn’t contain any THC which is the psychoactive part of the plant so it doesn’t get you high.
Over the last few years, CBD has been popping up in various products and product categories from gummies to toothpastes and face creams. There are even CBD treats for pets!
Note that CBD oil is not medical marijuana. It’s only a component of the cannabis plant, so you’re getting all the health effects that people often associate with the plant, but none of the undesirable side-effects.
How does CBD oil help with anxiety?
While research is ongoing, current data suggests that CBD can help with insomnia, pain management and anxiety.
- Relieves insomnia
Anecdotal evidence shows that CBD oil can help to relax the muscles on your chest so that t’s easier to fall asleep. As we all know, more sleep often leads to better social interactions and increased productivity the next day.
- Targeted relief
What makes CBD so unique is the fact that it can bind with the body’s naturally occurring endocannabinoid receptors. It also has the ability to target the serotonin system of the human body. Various pre-clinical studies show that CBD works similarly to serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Zoloft and Prozac. They stop reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, making sure there’s more of it present in the synaptic space.
It’s also been revealed that CBD can increase 5-HT1A transmission which affects serotonin faster than SSRIs. This is probably why CBD oil has the potential to overcome the limitations of currently prescribed anti-anxiety medications.
- Neurogenesis
Furthermore, it’s also been found that frequent use of CBD oil allows the hippocampus in the brain to regenerate neurons. CT scans of patients with anxiety reveal a smaller hippocampus and CBD helps with neurogenesis, allowing patients to successfully cope with anxiety, discomfort while speaking, and also in cognitive repairmen.
How do you take CBD oil?
If you choose to go the CBD oil route, which is quite common, this’ll make your life easier. That’s because CBD oil can be taken by mouth.
But, CBD is also available in tinctures, chewable gels, vape cartridges and as edibles. The amount and quality of CBD oil in these products can vary greatly so it’s important to observe the label and consult with your pharmacist for accurate dose information. Also, make sure it’s pure CBD oil derived from the hemp plant.
Conclusion
Anxiety is something we’ve all experienced or are familiar with. Whether addressing a group or going for a job interview, anxiety can really get in the way of your life and affect your ability to be productive.
CBD oil is an unconventional but effective treatment for depression and anxiety. Scientists have proven that CBD has anxiolytic properties and it works far better than most other types of anxiety medicine.
Although there’s still a long way to go in terms of research, given cannabis’ safe profile, CBD is a viable alternative to traditional anti-anxiety pharmaceuticals.
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Credit- What is Psychology (WIP). Published by- Dr. Sabiha : www.drsabiha.blogspot.com
