PTSD and anxiety can affect people of any age and can be extremely distressing for anyone who experiences it. Fortunately for adults, there is an unconventional way of managing the effects of anxiety disorders using CBD.
CBD is an extract from the cannabis plant and is one of over 80 compounds found in the marijuana plant considered cannabinoids. It has been used for centuries to alleviate conditions such as epilepsy, inflammation, anxiety, psychosis, chronic pain, depression, cancer, etc. And it has recently gained prominence due to its therapeutic effects on mental health conditions.
How does CBD work with your body? Can it treat PTSD and anxiety disorders?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It works on the same physiological system as marijuana and helps relieve a variety of serious medical conditions, including anxiety and PTSD.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system in your body, which plays a huge role in our overall well-being. The more balanced it is, the better we feel.
Our bodies produce their own cannabinoids to help maintain general wellness. However, there may be times when our internal system may not work as needed. In such cases, we may experience uncontrollable anxiety disorders.
CBD may help trigger the release of cannabidiol in your body.
It does not directly release serotonin or dopamine. It interacts with the areas involved in mood control and emotional well-being and manages anxiety disorders by reducing brain receptors count, which promotes the presence of serotonin and dopamine to alleviate the effects of PTSD and anxiety.
Hence, research advocates the use of hemp-derived tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD as two cannabinoids that may be extremely beneficial for people who suffer from anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Do you need THC to relieve PTSD and anxiety?
THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that causes the high. While THC at low doses can be helpful for sleep and anxiety, it can also negatively impact your sleep and increase anxiety when taken at high doses.
Besides, every state has different laws for THC. In most states, less than 0.3% of THC is considered acceptable in CBD products. But we recommend checking with your local legislature to know the exact policies.
If you have reservations about using THC, know that you don’t necessarily need to have it in your CBD products to relieve anxiety and PTSD. You can use broad-spectrum CBD, which does not contain any THC, to reap the benefits of this potent plant.
But THC may help accelerate the process, so we recommend having 0.3% THC in your CBD products.
Types of CBD products you can use for anxiety and PTSD
CBD can be used as a supplement for your existing medication to seek relief from anxiety and stress. Here are a few CBD products on the market that you can choose from.
CBD oils
Most CBD products come in oil form and are used for chronic pain and inflammation. Since anxiety and stress are triggered by inflammation, you can either apply CBD oils to your skin or place a few drops under your tongue for optimal absorption. CBD oil and tinctures are extremely easy to use and, unlike most edibles, you won’t have to worry about safety as you can tailor the dosage as per your needs.
CBD creams for topical application
CBD creams are applied directly to the skin. The active cannabinoids are fully absorbed into your system, making it a fast-acting and very effective way to deliver the effects of CBD. Massaging the cream into your skin can have a soothing and calming effect on your mind, helping you relieve anxiety disorders.
CBD edibles for anxiety and stress
Pure CBD edibles provide the user with a safer and healthier alternative for their anxiety and stress relief without the risk of side effects. They are a convenient and tasty way to reap the benefits of hemp extract. Edibles like gummies are a great way to get your daily dose of CBD and there are many options when it comes to gummy flavors.
Additionally, if you suffer from anxiety, CBD oil and capsules might also be the answer you have been looking for. Those sourced from non-GMO hemp plants can get mixed with your bloodstream and help instantly alleviate your condition.
Note: If you are feeling anxious and stressed, it is a good idea to try using lower doses than what is recommended on the product you are taking. Once you are okay with the effects, you can gradually increase the dosage per your preference and requirements.
Are there side effects of using CBD for anxiety and PTSD?
While there may be some side effects of using CBD, they are generally minimal. There are a few reports of nausea and vomiting in some individuals, but these generally resolve as the body adjusts to CBD.
And although the rule of thumb is to start low and go slow, it is just as essential for consumers to know the potential side effects of their supplements.
Taking too much THC can have negative impacts on sleep and increase anxiety. Other side effects include dry mouth, changes in cognition, dizziness, and fatigue.
So, start by knowing how much THC is in a CBD product as that can affect the feeling or effects you derive from your product.
Although most people who take CBD experience some of these side effects, they are typically short-lived. So, CBD can be used alongside conventional treatments for anxiety and PTSD for those who want to avoid conventional anti-depressant medications, which can cause serious side effects.
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