Cannabidiol (CBD) oil has been gaining popularity lately as a natural remedy to treat anxiety and improve mental health. But what exactly is it? What are the science-backed benefits of using CBD oil for anxiety, and how can it help you? In this article, we’ll explore the research behind CBD oil and discuss how it can be used to reduce anxiety, and improve mental health, and its potential side effects.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, another cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, CBD does not cause any intoxicating effects or a “high” feeling. Studies suggest that CBD interacts with receptors in the brain and immune system to reduce inflammation and regulate mood—both important factors when dealing with anxiety.
How Does CBD Oil Affect Mental Health?
CBD works by modulating your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS produces certain compounds known as endocannabinoids which bind to cannabinoid receptors throughout the body including those located in the central nervous system. When these receptors are activated they have an effect on neurotransmitter release which helps regulate mood and emotion. By interacting with these receptors, studies suggest that CBD may help reduce stress levels and increase feelings of relaxation resulting in improved mental health overall.
Benefits of Using CBD Oil for Anxiety
- Promotes Relaxation:
Several studies have shown that taking CBD oil can help promote a sense of relaxation and calmness which can be beneficial for those suffering from anxiety symptoms such as racing thoughts or restlessness.[1] This can be attributed to its ability to interact with our bodies’ ECS which regulates moods and emotions.
- Improves Sleep Quality:
Research suggests that taking small doses of cannabidiol before bedtime can improve sleep quality due to its calming properties.[2] A good night’s sleep is essential for managing stress levels so this could be an effective way to naturally combat anxiousness during the day or nighttime hours.
- Reduces Stress Hormone Levels:
High levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) have been linked with increased feelings of anxiousness so reducing these hormones through natural remedies like taking Cannabidiol may prove beneficial.[3] One study even showed that after 8 weeks, participants who took cannabidiol reported lower levels of cortisol than those who didn’t take any supplement at all![4]
- Enhances Mood:
Taking cannabidiol has been linked to improving overall mood due to its ability to interact with our bodies’ serotonin receptor sites which are responsible for regulating feelings like happiness or sadness.[5] This could make it an ideal choice for people struggling with depression or other mental illnesses where low serotonin levels may play a role in their symptoms.
- May Help Reduce Panic Attacks:
Some evidence suggests that taking cannabidiol regularly may help reduce panic attack frequency by up to 40%.[6] By helping us relax more easily and control our emotions better, this natural remedy could be very helpful if you experience regular panic attacks due to your anxiety disorder diagnosis or general worry about everyday situations/events happening around you.
Potential Side Effects Of Using CBD Oil For Anxiety
Although there aren’t many serious side effects reported while using cannabidiol, some people may experience drowsiness depending on their dosage size.[7] If you find yourself feeling too sleepy after taking your dose then consider talking with your doctor about adjusting your amount accordingly so you don’t become overly fatigued during normal activities such as driving or working. Additionally, some people taking this supplement may experience gastrointestinal upset such as diarrhea or changes in appetite so if either happens then talk with your healthcare provider immediately just in case anything else needs investigating further. Finally, keep in mind that there isn’t any scientific evidence yet linking the long-term use of Cannabidiol supplements directly impacting physical health but more studies need to be conducted before this conclusion can be drawn definitively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using CBD oil for anxiety is becoming an increasingly popular option among those looking for natural remedies. Its ability to modulate our bodies’ ECS, reducing cortisol levels, promoting relaxation, enhancing mood, potentially decreasing panic attack frequency, plus having few potential side effects makes it worth considering incorporating into one’s daily routine if experiencing intense bouts of anxiousness. Ultimately consulting a medical professional first will help provide clarity on whether this specific form of treatment would best suit individual needs since everyone responds differently based on underlying health conditions etc. With more research being conducted hopefully soon enough clear guidelines will emerge providing insight into safe ongoing usage advice tailored specifically towards each person’s unique requirements.
