Regarding mental health, cannabis can be polarizing. For some, the mind-altering properties and short-term euphoria help them to break out of a depressive slump and alleviate anxiety and inhibitions. But for others, the psychoactive effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) makes anxiety worse and causes paranoia to boot, and it can even set off psychotic and schizophrenic episodes in those predisposed to the conditions.
In contrast, cannabidiol (CBD) is non-psychoactive, whether it is extracted from cannabis or hemp. Therefore, its therapeutic properties are much more predictable, and in some cases, more valuable than those of whole-plant cannabis.
Here are five ways that CBD can strengthen your mental health.
1. Reduces anxiety
All of us have to overcome some level of anxiety to get what we want out of life. But while for some anxiety is a surmountable obstacle, not everybody can simply get over their fears and get the difficult stuff done. They slip into overthinking and mulling over the worst-case scenarios, bringing about a psychological paralysis that leaves them stuck.
CBD may be the perfect tonic for this form of anxiety. Researchers have already shown that orally-administered CBD produces an anti-anxiety effect more powerful than placebo, and studies have revealed that the compound interacts with receptors associated with reduced anxiety, and boosts GABA, a calming neurotransmitter.
To get the most anxiolytic value from CBD, vaping an e-liquid from a company like Veedverks will stand you in good stead. The rapid effects of vaporizing are especially helpful in suppressing anxious thoughts when you have upcoming social engagements or public speaking tasks which may make you nervous.
2. Manages stress
Many of us seem to be working longer hours than ever, and harder than ever – it’s hard to catch a break in a world where it can be impossible to switch off. Self-care has always been essential, and it certainly cannot be discarded now.
While all kinds of life events can make us stressed and increase cortisol, taking some time out to look after ourselves can help us to overcome mental and physical tension, and protect our health in the process.
CBD relieves stress by inhibiting secretion of the hormone cortisol, according to research. The next time you’re trying to relax, perhaps take some CBD oil as well to move you into a state of calm genuinely. Indeed CBD oil is a great way to manage your stress effectively.
3. Improves your mood
CBD may help us on the days where we don’t feel on top of our game, by boosting our mood and motivation. If we aren’t feeling good and ready to perform at our best, then this can be a self-fulfilling prophecy, and eventually, lead us into depression.
If you exercise regularly, you’ll know that it’s a great mood-enhancer. This, above all else, is due to an important chemical change in the body – anandamide, a neurotransmitter with antidepressant properties, rushes into the brain and binds with the necessary receptors.
CBD essentially has the same effect, boosting mood via anandamide-mediated activation of CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. CBD doesn’t help the body to make more anandamide, but it keeps more of the chemical in the body by deactivating the FAAH enzyme. So if you are looking for a quick way to boost your mood, CBD oil can also help you.
4. Helps you sleep better
Sleep is underrated; it is important that we get at least a minimum of seven hours per night recommended by professionals. Researchers have linked a lack of sleep to physical and mental health issues, including a weak immune system and depression. Sleep is the time when our body regenerates, and neurotoxins are flushed from the brain.
For those who have been failed by pharmaceutical sleeping drugs, CBD offers a non-addictive and non-intoxicating alternative, with very few side effects. CBD also promotes circadian rhythm regulation, the body’s sleep-wake cycle. CBD products that deliver many hours of relief are best for improving sleep, and businesses looking to get involved in this specific industry should consider buying CBD edibles wholesale. If you want to sleep better at night, CBD can also prove beneficial to you.
5. Alleviates post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms
PTSD is a condition that causes nightmares, flashbacks and frightening recollections of a traumatic event. These fearful responses are unhelpful, and it would be easier if we could just delete these memories from our minds. A recent study on rats suggests that could be possible. Treating the rats with CBD after giving them an electric shock, reduced the fear they associated with it.
Final thoughts
Please note that this article has been written for informational purposes and is not official medical advice. If you have a mental illness and need immediate treatment, seek professional help.
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