There’s a natural compound called CBD, or cannabidiol, found in the cannabis plant that’s been getting a lot of attention lately due to its potential health benefits. Despite its growing popularity, there are still many misconceptions surrounding CBD and whether or not it can get you high.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that CBD will produce a psychoactive effect similar to THC is the compound that causes the euphoric effect commonly associated with using marijuana. CBD does not produce any intoxicating effects and is not considered a mind-altering substance.
While CBD is often associated with pain relief, it has also been shown to have calming effects and may benefit those struggling with anxiety and stress. Some research suggests CBD can help regulate the body’s stress response, leading to relaxation and calmness.
In this article, we’ll explore CBD’s calming effects and why it’s not about getting high. We’ll discuss CBD, how it works, and the scientific evidence supporting its use for anxiety.
We’ll also explain the differences between CBD and THC and why CBD does not produce a high. By the end of this post, you’ll better understand CBD’s potential benefits and why it’s worth considering as a natural alternative for relaxation and stress relief.
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ToggleWhat Is CBD And How Does It Work
CBD is a natural compound that occurs in the cannabis plant. It is not psychoactive like THC, another cannabis compound, and does not cause a sense of being “high.”
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various bodily functions like sleep, appetite, and immune response. This system is comprised of endocannabinoid receptors like CB1, CB2, GPR55, and others. Cannabidiol stimulates the body’s production of CB2 receptors, increasing their population in our bodies a great deal. This mechanism helps restore homeostasis in the body, meaning CBD helps establish an equilibrium of our physiological processes, and one of those many beneficial effects is the reduction of anxiety.
Several different types of CBD products are on the market, including oils, tinctures, edibles, topicals, and more. The most common method of consumption is through oral ingestion, typically in the form of oil placed under the tongue. However, topical products, such as creams and lotions, can be applied directly to the skin for targeted relief, and CBD can be taken in a gel capsule, vaped, and even infused into drinks and foods.
CBD has shown promise as a natural remedy for various health issues, from chronic pain and anxiety to epilepsy. However, more research is needed to understand CBD’s potential benefits and risks fully.
The Calming Effects Of CBD
CBD’s calming effects have made it a popular natural remedy for anxiety and stress. When you take CBD, it interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate your mood and stress levels.
But it’s not just anecdotal evidence that supports the use of CBD for anxiety. In a 2019 study published in The Permanente Journal, researchers found that CBD effectively reduced anxiety and improved sleep in individuals with anxiety and sleep disorders. Another study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that CBD could help reduce social anxiety in individuals with social anxiety disorder.
So how does CBD help calm your nerves? One possible explanation is that CBD increases serotonin levels in your body, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and anxiety levels. CBD may also interact with other receptors in the body that are involved in stress response and mood regulation.
While CBD’s calming effects seem promising, it’s important to remember that more research is needed to understand its effects and potential risks fully. As with any supplement, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider before using CBD, especially if you’re taking any medications or have any underlying health conditions.
Possible Effects
- Reducing anxiety and stress levels
- Improving sleep quality
- Promoting relaxation and calmness
- Enhancing mood and well-being
- Reducing inflammation and associated pain
- Supporting the body’s natural stress response
- Helping to regulate the body’s cortisol levels
- Reducing symptoms of PTSD
- Reducing symptoms of social anxiety disorder
- Supporting healthy brain function and neurotransmitter balance
CBD vs. THC
CBD and THC are natural compounds found in the cannabis plant but have different effects on the body. THC is known for its psychoactive effects, which can produce a “high” feeling when consumed. In contrast, CBD is not psychoactive and produces no intoxicating effects.
CBD and THC are both compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, but they do so in different ways. THC directly binds with the CB1 receptor, which causes the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana use. CBD interacts with both the CB1 and CB2 receptors, but instead of directly binding with them, it modulates their activity and the activity of other receptors in the body.
Another important difference between CBD and THC is their legal status. While THC from marijuana is illegal under federal law in the United States, CBD is legal as long as it is derived from industrial hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC.
In summary, CBD and THC are different compounds found in the cannabis plant, with different effects on the body. While THC produces psychoactive effects, CBD does not produce any intoxicating effects.
Differences Between CBD And THC
- Psychoactive effects: THC produces psychoactive effects, which can produce a “high” feeling when consumed, while CBD does not produce any intoxicating effects.
- Legal status: THC from marijuana is illegal under federal law in the United States, while CBD is legal as long as it is derived from industrial hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC. Though THC is considered a controlled substance by the DEA, THC derived from hemp currently enjoys a protected status and is permitted to be sold and consumed n most states now.
- Chemical structure: While both compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, they do so in different ways. THC binds directly with the CB1 receptor, while CBD modulates the activity of the CB1 and CB2 receptors and other receptors in the body.
- Medical benefits: Both THC and CBD have been found to have potential medical benefits, but they are often used for different purposes. THC is commonly used for pain relief and to stimulate appetite, while CBD is primarily used for reducing anxiety and inflammation.
- Side effects: THC can cause side effects such as dry mouth, red eyes, impaired memory, and even increased anxiety in some individuals, while CBD is generally well-tolerated and does not produce significant side effects. However, some people may experience mild side effects such as fatigue or changes in appetite when using CBD.
Experience CBD’s Calming Benefits
The potential benefits of CBD extend beyond just anxiety and stress relief. Research suggests that it may also have anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and neuroprotective effects. Many people have already turned to CBD as a natural alternative to traditional medications. CBD’s calming effects and potential health benefits make it an intriguing option for those looking for natural remedies. However, as with any supplement, it’s important to research, talk to your healthcare provider, and choose high-quality products from reputable sources.
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