Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another well-known compound found in cannabis, CBD does not produce the “high” sensation typically associated with marijuana use. Instead, CBD has been shown to offer a wide range of potential health benefits, including relaxation. NACDA Home page
In recent years, CBD has exploded in popularity as a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals for managing stress, anxiety, and other conditions. Here are just a few of the ways in which CBD can help you relax:
- Reducing anxiety
One of the most well-documented benefits of CBD is its ability to reduce anxiety. Multiple studies have shown that CBD can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders such as social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
One study published in the journal Neurotherapeutics found that CBD was effective in reducing anxiety in participants with a range of anxiety disorders. The researchers noted that CBD appeared to affect several areas of the brain associated with anxiety, including the amygdala and the prefrontal cortex.
Another study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that a single dose of CBD was able to reduce symptoms of social anxiety in people with social anxiety disorder. The researchers noted that CBD was well-tolerated and did not produce any negative side effects.
- Promoting better sleep
Another way in which CBD can help you relax is by promoting better sleep. Getting enough restful sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health, but many people struggle with insomnia and other sleep disorders.
Research has shown that CBD may be able to help improve sleep quality and duration. One study published in the journal Current Psychiatry Reports found that CBD was effective in reducing symptoms of insomnia and improving sleep in people with chronic pain.
Another study published in the journal Medicines found that CBD was able to improve sleep quality in people with Parkinson’s disease. The researchers noted that CBD appeared to have a calming effect on the central nervous system, which may have contributed to its sleep-promoting effects.
- Reducing inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response by the body to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to a wide range of health problems, including autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular disease, and even depression.
CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce chronic inflammation and promote relaxation. One study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics found that CBD was effective in reducing inflammation in rats with arthritis.
Another study published in the European Journal of Pain found that CBD was able to reduce pain and inflammation in people with chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis.
- Alleviating pain
In addition to reducing inflammation, CBD may also be able to help alleviate pain. Chronic pain can be a major source of stress and anxiety, and finding effective treatments can be challenging.
Research has shown that CBD may be able to help reduce pain in a variety of conditions, including arthritis, neuropathic pain, and migraines. One study published in the journal Pain found that CBD was able to reduce pain and improve quality of life in people with chronic pain conditions.
Another study published in the European Journal of Pain found that CBD was effective in reducing pain and improving sleep in people with neuropathic pain.
- Improving mood
Finally, CBD may also be able to help improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. While more research is needed in this area, some studies have suggested that CBD could be an effective treatment for depression.
One study published in the journal CNS & Neurological Disorders – Drug Targets found that CBD was effective in reducing depressive symptoms in animal models. The researchers noted that CBD appeared to have a positive effect on neurotransmitters such