As you already know, CBD is a cannabinoid chemical naturally occurring in the cannabis plant. Whereas THC is the cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant that alters one’s cognitive function – gets people ‘high’ – CBD does not contain psychoactive compounds.
Although the industry is still arguably in its infancy, early research into CBD oil and CBD products in general seem promising, especially in its ability to help alleviate stress and anxiety.
While it is important to note that these studies are suggestive rather than conclusive, the research that has been delivered certainly implies many beneficial uses for this natural compound.
How does CBD work?
CBD oils and other CBD products work within your body by interacting with chemical receptors known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
All mammals have an ECS, and its primary function is to regulate a wide range of essential processes such as anti-inflammatory and immune response. It also regulates several other vital elements including appetite, mood, anxiety levels and sleep schedules.
Overall, the goal of the ECS is to help maintain a physical condition whereby everything in the body is in a state of natural balance (homeostasis). Our body has a very narrow optimum range, and therefore homeostasis is an everlasting balancing act, with the ECS a vital tool in maintaining said balance.
So where does CBD come into this you might be asking? CBD is just one of many phytocannabinoids found in the hemp species of cannabis plants. By taking CBD oil, you trigger the response of CB1 and CB2 receptors which help to support the ECS with its daily functions, maintaining your body’s natural rhythms and balance. Simple right?
The Research Regarding Anxiety
According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, CBD has been demonstrated to alleviate stress in rats, which shows promise for Generalised Anxiety Disorder. Although more research needs to be done to provide conclusive evidence, especially on humans, the study did find that physiological symptoms of anxiety such as increased heart rate, in addition to behavioural signs of anxiety, had been reduced after the administration of CBD. It is certainly possible, and more importantly plausible to speculate, that similar results would be apparent on human participants.
More to this, CBD oil and CBD products may also be beneficial to people suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, and even anxiety-induced insomnia.
Multiple studies, including that by Rafael Bitencourt and Reinaldo Takahashi, have demonstrated that CBD may help with recurring nightmares and the continuous replaying of negative memories – common symptoms of PTSD. Perhaps more interestingly, these studies considered CBD to be both standalone treatments, and supplementary treatments alongside existing medications and cognitive behavioural therapy. Perhaps therefore, the natural power of CBD to potentially benefit to those suffering from PTSD, can be maximised alongside already-approved and existing mainstream treatments which aren’t as speculative or early in their development.
In a similar fashion, when CBD was used in a study on social anxiety disorder, researchers found that participants who were given CBD orally experienced an overall reduced anxiety level than those given a CBD Placebo. While just suggestive, these studies show tremendous potential.
Although conclusive answers may be far on the horizon, the suggestive results from multiple studies, which are certainly not limited to the ones described above, do show immense potential for CBD to be taken as a means of alleviating anxiety. Perhaps the biggest testament to CBD’s potential lies not only in scientific studies, but in the millions of people to administer CBD and CBD products, swearing by its effectiveness. This term ‘effectiveness’, according to millions of consumers, reaches far beyond anxiety alleviation. CBD users often claim they experience positive benefits against arthritis, epilepsy, inflammation, joint pain, muscle soreness, insomnia, and post workout recovery.
While CBD is not a miracle supplement, nor is it intended to cure any ailments, there is undisputedly and emerging body of science which demonstrates CBD’s effectiveness, in addition to millions of testimonials by people who swear by its effectiveness. Here at thecbdshop.co.uk, we believe it’s better to under-promise and over deliver, so while we make no medical claims or health guarantees about our CBD products, our loyal customers have remained loyal for good reason; we offer a quality supplement at a fair price. Check out our reviews on Trust Pilot for more information!
