It’s safe to say stress levels are at an all-time high. Whether it’s financial, educational, or political, many people are struggling with anxiety and stress every day. These conditions have caused people to take prescription drugs and other medications in an attempt to remedy these symptoms.
These drugs, however, can be dangerous for a number of reasons, including addiction. Because of this, lots of people are using CBD for stress and anxiety.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD, is a chemical compound found in hemp and marijuana plants. CBD has numerous medicinal properties, but will not get you high because it does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. CBD’s medicinal properties are also great for physical ailments that contribute to additional stress.
How CBD Helps with Anxiety
CBD interacts with brain receptors located in the central nervous system, which is believed to impact serotonin levels. When serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter, levels are low, depression and anxiety are more likely to occur. Typically, prescription medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are used to alleviate these symptoms. With the rise in opioid addiction, people are beginning to use CBD as a natural alternative.
Many past studies have looked at the impact marijuana has on anxiety. For instance, a study on social anxiety used marijuana as a potential cure. While some people have successfully used it as a coping mechanism, others’ anxiety symptoms actually worsened, making their feelings of social vulnerability increase. On the other hand, CBD had the opposite effect, specifically people diagnosed with social anxiety disorder, or SAD. SAD patients that used CBD oil actually changed the way their brain receptors responded to anxiety altogether.
How to Use CBD
Similar to marijuana, CBD comes in many forms. However, CBD doesn’t involve inhaling smoke that is harmful to the lungs and throat. CBD oil can be ingested in its regular form, mixed into drinks, or eaten as an edible. There are also cosmetic products, like lotions and bath products that contain CBD. Another benefit is that cannabidiol has little to no negative side effects. It is also legal to carry around.
CBD is also great for remedying ailments that can lead to stress. For instance, if you suffer from inflammation and the pain causes additional stress, then CBD can also help alleviate those symptoms. Because of this, consumer-based businesses like coffee shops, restaurants, and even pet food brands have jumped on the CBD bandwagon. If you are currently pregnant or taking medications for other ailments, be sure to speak with a healthcare professional prior to taking CBD to avoid adverse effects. In rare cases, CBD use can cause dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and even diarrhea.
Raised stress levels can lead to other health conditions. Getting ahead of high cortisol levels is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. If you want a natural approach with little to no side effects, be sure to speak with your healthcare professional about trying CBD. CBD can help alter your brain receptors and transform the way your body responds to stress and anxiety. By taking CBD, you get all of the medicinal properties without having to worry about getting high. Unlike prescription drugs, CBD also isn’t addictive, making it harder to abuse.
In addition to taking CBD, be sure to make healthy lifestyle choices, including eating a well-balanced diet, exercising, and getting proper rest, to minimize stress levels.