There are a number of mechanisms that explain how CBD improves anxiety. Firstly, CBD is considered an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective chemical. This means that when consumed, it acts as an antioxidant in the brain, reducing inflammation, fighting free radicals and oxidative stress, to boost cognitive function – one function being the management of ruminating anxious thoughts.
Anxiety is considered by many, an inflammatory condition, with research finding that experimentally induced stress produced an inflammatory reaction, and that those with chronically high levels of anxiety, have equally high levels of inflammation. So, by decreasing the inflammation, you’re supporting your brain in getting back to normal. This is why a 2019 study found that CBD use was able to reverse anxiety behaviors in an animal trial – likely to have a similar effect in humans.
Studies show that CBD plays a key role in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the system in your body responsible for regulating multiple neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, to keep you feeling happy, healthy and balanced, as much as possible. When you consume CBD, it is able to target various receptors, proteins and other chemicals in the brain. This causes the release of hormones and neurotransmitters that alter mood, decrease the perception of pain and relax muscular tension.
One of the chemicals targeted after CBD is absorbed into the bloodstream is anandamide. Anandamide is referred to as the body’s natural antidepressant, because it acts in the same way as an antidepressant would; helping you to feel calmer, restful and at peace. A study published in Translational Psychiatry found that CBD increases anandamide levels, by inhibiting fatty acid amide hydrolase. So essentially, when you use CBD, it binds and activates receptors in the ECS and acts like an antidepressant, calming, mood enhancing drug. A legal drug that doesn’t have the negative side effects, like addiction. Pretty cool right?
If you’re struggling with anxiety, due to COVID-19 or for another reason, you don’t need to be. Anxiety can be debilitating, but it’s time to rely a little on mother nature. CBD is an all-natural, clinically studied, scientifically supported, effective treatment for anxiety. If you’re new to CBD, we hope this article helped. If you still have questions, reach out to us – we want to help you.
