Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Occasional feelings of anxiety and panic are nothing to be alarmed about. Nearly everyone will experience these unwanted feelings at some time or another. However, when the frequency and intensity of your anxiety begin to interrupt your day-to-day life, it may be time to get help. While avoiding certain places and situations may be helpful, sometimes it is impossible. That’s when having something to help calm your fears and worries can be beneficial.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid from the Cannabis sativa plant. It, along with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been researched extensively and has been shown to bind to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. CBD, unlike THC, does not produce a “high” and offers a variety of health benefits. Among those benefits is the treatment of anxiety.
Benefits of CBD
CBD acts on opioid and glycine receptors in the body. These receptors are mostly found in the central and peripheral nervous systems. They regulate pain in the body. It also acts on the neurotransmitter serotonin, which helps us feel good in general. Low serotonin levels are closely associated with depression and may also cause anxiety.
Research has shown that some of the benefits of CBD can include:
. Reducing seizures
. Reducing inflammation
. Reducing pain
. Regulating the immune system
. Reducing anxiety
Conventional medicines generally used to treat low serotonin are called serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). Their common trade names are Zoloft and Prozac. These are only available by prescription. However, some studies have shown that instead of using SSRIs to treat anxiety, some patients may be able to manage their condition with CBD instead. (Always speak to your doctor before making any changes to prescribed medications.)
How to use CBD for anxiety
Since CBD has not yet been given clear FDA guidance, the best way to use CBD for anxiety varies from person to person. Someone may find that a certain type and certain dosage works, while the same type and dosage has little effect on someone else. A bit of trial and error may be necessary in order to reach optimal effectiveness. (This is also true with conventional medicines too, so no need to be alarmed.)
The following are some of the forms in which CBD is available:
. Vapes heat CBD oil giving off an inhalable vapor.
. Flowers (dried hemp plants) can be smoked.
. Gummies are chewable and sweet like the popular candies.
. Oils and tinctures are consumed orally usually from droppers.
. Sprays can be sprayed into the mouth, usually under the tongue.
. Capsules or tablets are taken orally.
. Creams and gels are absorbed through the skin.
Again, trying different types and doses may be necessary. For example, you may find that vaping is more effective than gummies while another may find smoking to be most effective. Trying the different types will help you find what is right for you.
Usually the effects of oral CBDs, such as gummies or capsules, are felt within 30 minutes or a little more. Smoking or vaping usually has a more immediate effect.
The various forms can be used throughout the day to relieve anxiety. Some find it helpful to take them in the morning with breakfast.
About Hemp Joi
It all started back in 2019, we set out to change the way the world deals with chronic aches and pains. Having a background in functional medicine and a passion for entrepreneurship, we set out to bring quality products to the greater SW Florida area and beyond.
We were inspired by family members, in the massotheraphy industry, that kept getting requests from clients to use CBD oils because of their natural healing properties.
We felt this was a great and underserved need, so we began our search for the most natural most authentic CBD oils and lotions.
Where to buy CBD products
Please visit us at hempjoi.com, stop by, or call us to find out more at (239) 676-0915.