CBD is the latest health craze to hit the high street, with claims that it can help everything from chronic pain to anxiety. But what is it, and does it work?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. It has been shown in studies to relieve anxiety. It does not have the psychoactive component of cannabis known as tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, so it doesn’t cause the ‘high’ associated with marijuana. It’s also been approved as a medicine in the UK by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, meaning it can be prescribed under the NHS if it meets certain safety and efficacy standards.
In one study, patients with social anxiety disorder took 300 mg of CBD a day for three months and had significantly reduced symptoms. They reported less stress, improved sleep and better social interaction. In addition, the effects of CBD on anxiety appear to be long-lasting, unlike existing medications that can have harmful side effects.
Anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects 40 million adults in the US and 10 million people in the UK. It’s often triggered by environmental factors like stressful events or a lack of sleep and can have a significant impact on the quality of life. Many people with anxiety seek treatment through therapy, medication or other lifestyle changes such as exercise and healthy eating. However, for some, these treatments aren’t enough to ease their symptoms and find lasting relief.
The benefits of CBD for anxiety may stem from the fact that it has been shown to increase levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that’s known to improve mood. It’s also been shown to reduce the symptoms of anxiety by blocking certain receptors in the brain that can stimulate or amplify the fear response.
Other studies have found that CBD has the potential to treat sleep disorders, which can be a major source of anxiety for some people. Anxiety can make it difficult to fall or stay asleep at night, which in turn can cause problems with concentration and mood. CBD has been shown to help with sleep by reducing stress and improving relaxation before bedtime.
Insomnia can be caused by a number of things, including anxiety, pain, depression, and digestive issues. It can also be a result of certain medications, including SSRIs such as sertraline (Zoloft) and fluoxetine (Prozac). CBD has been shown to have anti-anxiety and sleep-enhancing properties and is able to interact with the brain’s NMDA receptors to promote deep, restful sleep.
If you are interested in trying CBD for your anxiety, we recommend researching different brands and looking for high-quality products that have been carefully sourced. Medical News Today has a strict product selection and vetting process to ensure that we offer only the best products available for you to try at home. If you’re not happy with your purchase, we have a full returns policy. Click here for more information. CBD For Anxiety UK