CBD and stress, anxiety, depression
Nicknamed the “evils of the century”, stress, but also anxiety and depression wreak notorious havoc on people of all ages and social conditions. To deal with these daily life handicaps which affect as many women as men, the use of Cannabidiol (also known as CBD) has become a reflex.
CBD on the mind, myth or reality?
The use of CBD for therapeutic purposes continues to gain ground among the medical profession. Although rare, scientific research regarding the effects of CBD is indeed conclusive for treating stress, anxiety and depression.
This is particularly the case since a publication in the journal Neurobiology in 2011 demonstrating the benefits of CBD in people suffering from social anxiety. In this study, participants treated with 600mg of CBD were found to be less anxious during a public speaking event. In addition, an improvement in their general mood was noted.
A 2016 publication in Frontiers of Pharmacology highlights the positive effects of CBD on the psyche. Indeed, the latter helps reduce the feeling of fear and helps fight against frightening and disturbing memories. And since stress, anxiety and depression often appear together, it is normal to treat them with the same remedy.
Following a study carried out on rodents, the 2016 journal Neuropharmacology also reveals the role of CBD in stress management and good mood. It appears that CBD acts directly on serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter molecule acting on signals between nerve cells.
CBD, against negative thoughts
Known as an excellent antidepressant and an effective anxiolytic, CBD is an active element of Cannabis. Without side effects, short-term treatment with CBD helps relieve the feeling of fear, stress, depression and anxiety. Unlike the intoxicating effect of THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, which is a molecule also present in Cannabis, CBD provides a feeling of tranquility to those who use it.
May be symptoms of poor physical and mental health, anxiety, stress and depression often respond to negative environmental and internal stimuli. By stimulating good mood, CBD acts on serotonin and prevents the feeling of fear and apathy. While CBD is not a cure in itself for negative thoughts, it nevertheless provides a deep sense of calm for better mental and physical condition.
CBD and stress
Triggered by a physical, emotional or nervous shock, stress is a biological reaction of the body to a constraint or negative pressure from the environment. Although it is now part of the daily lives of many people, it is nevertheless possible to manage it thanks to CBD. Indeed, the Cannabidiol molecule acts on the hormones of good mood. As a result, stress decreases quickly, without generating the psychotropic effect specific to THC.
A study conducted by Vanderbilt University has also demonstrated that brain cells produce their own endocannabinoids, whose mission is to reduce the feeling of stress. By attaching directly to these endocannabinoid receptors, CBD then contributes to the disappearance of negative behaviors, while acting indirectly on the longevity of cells.
CBD and anxiety
Anxiety is a natural reaction of the body when it detects a dangerous or difficult situation. In excessive doses, this normal mechanism can quickly transform into a notorious psychological disorder and can manifest itself in the form of paranoia, a particular phobia, or communication and temperament problems. Whether social or generalized, anxiety often goes hand in hand with panic, irritability, and even depression.
Whether it is traumatic in origin or is caused by genetic or environmental factors, anxiety can affect and alter daily life. Fortunately, it is possible to relieve it with substances with anxiolytic effects such as CBD. A study carried out by a Brazilian researcher demonstrated that Cannabidiol reduces, in particular, the level of anxiety while creating a positive state of mind. By stimulating the cerebral blood flow circuit, CBD then acts as a relaxing anxiolytic.
CBD and depression
When feelings of guilt combine with low self-esteem and disinterest from those around you, joy of life and good humor are naturally lacking. Depression becomes a reality, sometimes even accompanied by various more or less difficult psychotic disorders. Fortunately, CBD also finds its place among natural antidepressants. As demonstrated by a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, it helps stabilize people suffering from great sadness or continually feeling a feeling of hopelessness.
Researchers from Washington State University have, in fact, set up an application allowing users to anonymously assess the effect of CBD during a drop in mood. Most of the 1,200 people who tested the app said that a puff of Cannabidiol optimally reduces the symptoms of depression. They say they felt real well-being, although different from the psychotic effect of THC. And for good reason, CBD acts favorably on serotonin, the role of which is to ensure mood and stress management.
A fast-acting antidepressant and effective anxiolytic, CBD reduces stress, anxiety and depression. If it does not cure serious psychological disorders, it helps improve good mood in general. Of course, it should be used occasionally, even if unlike THC, the risk of dependence is low.
In conclusion
What is certain is that for all of these ailments, medical monitoring remains the best solution. But no one is against a little (legal) helping hand, especially when it comes to their well-being.