CBD — or cannabidiol — has been in the news recently — but not necessarily for good reasons. Some are calling it a miracle cure for all that ails mankind. Others are saying it is all hype and no real benefit. What is CBD actually? What, exactly, does it do for your body? And is it safe?
In all but one state (Colorado), medical marijuana is legal for medical purposes. For people who do not have access to adequate treatment on prescription medicines, this is the best alternative. However, with prohibition still in place, is medical marijuana really the best option? Doctors have mixed opinions on the subject. Although they do not advise using marijuana to treat mental health disorders, they do acknowledge the potential for its use to reduce anxiety and depression.
In addition to treating inflammation and gastrointestinal pain, CBD can also help treat certain psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of at least 144 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the other known cannabinoid, CBD has no intoxicating effect. CBD, derived from cannabis, works differently than marijuana because, unlike THC, it cannot induce euphoria. By law, delta-9-THC cannot be present in any chemical product in an amount exceeding 0.3% by dry weight. Hemp contains less than this amount of THC, while marijuana has a higher concentration.
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Effect of CBD on the brain
Before we can understand the effects of CBD, we need to become familiar with an important system in our bodies known as the ECS or endocannabinoid system. It is the main system that helps the body maintain homeostasis (i.e. balance). CBD helps the ECS work more efficiently. In addition, some researchers have found that CBD is effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. CBD helps relieve these symptoms by binding to the CB1 receptor, one of the most important receptors in the endocrine system. Another anxiety and stress inhibitor that helps calm neurons is known as gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA. Some researchers agree that CBD can reduce neuronal excitability. If you have a doctor’s prescription, you can call on the resources of CBD edibles UK. There is promising evidence that CBD can reduce the symptoms of depression in animals. However, research on its effects on humans is less clear, although CBD is gaining popularity as a treatment for depression and anxiety.
Effects of CBD on anxiety and depression
Some of us think that anxiety and depression are essentially the same thing, but they are completely different disorders. Anxiety is characterized by chronic restlessness, nervousness and fear, while depression is more associated with sadness, numbness or loss of interest in normal activities or hobbies. Studies show that CBD can have a positive effect on insomnia, mood disorders and pain. It may also be helpful for acne and neurological conditions such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. If you suffer from any of these conditions and want to track your response to CBD, check out the CBD Jotter. 
Photo by Elsa Olofsson via Unsplash Some depressed patients may also develop social phobias and have difficulty participating in social activities such as public speaking or attending parties. CBD can be used to improve these panic disorders and phobias by reducing the function of the amygdala. However, it is important to note that research on the effects of cannabinoids is ongoing and evolving. You should consult your doctor before using CBD. CBD can help with some psychological problems, but it is important to follow all of your doctor’s recommendations.
The most effective forms of CBD
Dyes or oils
Photo: Stefan Rodriguez via Unsplash Not all CBD extracts are made the same way; one of the most recommended forms of CBD is oil or tincture. The tincture is an alcohol-based solution that is taken sublingually, which ensures rapid absorption and proper distribution of cannabinoids in the body. In the case of tinctures, the drug passes through the intestines and can be destroyed by the gastrointestinal tract before it becomes effective. For this reason, medical experts often recommend consuming CBD in tincture form. However, the effectiveness of using CBD may vary from person to person depending on metabolism and other factors.
Steam
Photo: nd3000/Getty Images Some medical professionals recommend that patients who need immediate relief inhale CBD using a dry herb spray. In this method, dried CBD flowers are vaporized and inhaled. Recently, however, vaping has come under fire due to the health problems experienced by some users.
Safe consumer dose
One of the interesting facts about CBD is that there is no exact amount that can be considered ideal. Since the effects of CBD vary from person to person, there is no way to know in advance what dosage is right for you. The same reaction was observed in animals. Most experts agree that taking CBD regularly can be more effective than taking it episodically. As with most drugs, CBD can take some time to have the desired effect, but some patients experience relief after just one dose. Regardless of the immediate reaction, the patient should begin taking CBD at the minimum dose, which can be increased if you or your doctor deem it necessary. This increases the chances of effective treatment with minimal side effects. It is strongly discouraged to consume CBD without consulting your doctor. Talk to your doctor to develop the best treatment plan for you.
Possible reactions and side effects of CBD
As with many other drugs, side effects have been observed with CBD in some cases. This may include:
- Diarrhea
- Tired
- Bad appetite
Another possible problem is a reaction to other medications. Medications for migraines, heartburn and high blood pressure can cause such reactions. Ask your doctor about possible negative interactions with other medicines you are taking. Many medical schools have not yet begun teaching their students about CBD and other cannabinoids. Moreover, many doctors are still unaware of the effects and benefits of medicinal cannabis. However, many integrative and holistic herbalists have a good understanding of CBD and will be happy to help you explore your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CBD effective for depression and anxiety?
Hemp is a plant that has been grown, harvested and used for its CBD oil since the early 1900s. As recently as the 1970s it was a major crop of Canada and the U.S. Today, the U.S. still grows over one million acres of industrial hemp. But nowadays, CBD is becoming more popular than ever for many reasons, including the growing body of research showing it can help people with anxiety and depression. If you’re interested in using CBD oil to treat anxiety and depression, it’s important to learn as much as you can about this product, as there are a lot of misconceptions and misconceptions about CBD oil.
Does CBD help anxiety immediately?
For many patients, anxiety and depression are lifelong conditions that affect many aspects of their lives. While there are many things that doctors can prescribe to treat these disorders, there are also many natural alternatives that could benefit each patient. One such alternative is cannabidiol, or CBD. In the midst of all the various cures for anxiety and depression, one of the most popular supplements is cannabidiol, better known as CBD. CBD is extracted from cannabis plants, and has shown a lot of promise in helping people with various ailments. While it’s still unclear if it’s a “miracle cure,” the medical community is in agreement that CBD can help treat various conditions.
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