Stress. Fear. Nervousness. Anxiety wreaks havoc on the mind and body, and millions of people experience the symptoms of this condition on a daily basis. Many people are turning to hemp, and in particular, CBD, to alleviate these unpleasant feelings. But does CBD really combat anxiety? Let’s see what the science says.
People often experience a sense of calm and contentment after consuming hemp and CBD products, leading many people to wonder if CBD could combat anxiety. Science is studying it. While we can’t yet provide a clear answer to this important question, it’s worth taking a look at the existing data to get an idea of where research on CBD and anxiety is headed. Join us for this look at what anxiety is, the research studying the effects of CBD on this disorder, and how to consume the cannabinoid.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a persistent feeling of discomfort, worry, and fear that can affect the quality of life of those who suffer from it in different ways. While some people experience only sporadic episodes of unpleasant feelings, others are overwhelmed by a constant, paralyzing fear.
Generalized anxiety disorder (the most common form of anxiety) affects around 5% of the UK population. Unfortunately, cases of anxiety continue to increase worldwide (partly due to the recent pandemic), despite the wide range of treatments available. This increase is due to a variety of factors including childhood stress and trauma, poor sleep habits, overexposure to social media, and even diet.
Types of Anxiety
There are several types of anxiety. They all affect people in different ways, some need a different approach to treatment, and others are much more common than the rest. The most common types of anxiety are:
Generalized anxiety disorder: People with this condition experience constant feelings of anxiety. This anxiety is caused by several factors, such as an imbalance of brain chemistry, painful illnesses, and a history of alcohol abuse.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder: Severe cases of this chronic disorder markedly affect people’s quality of life. Its signs and symptoms include an exaggerated fear of germs, unpleasant intrusive thoughts, aggression toward self and others, and the need for perfect order in all things.
Social phobia: an overwhelming and persistent fear of social situations. This disorder usually begins during adolescence, and its symptoms include preoccupation with everyday activities, frequent blushing and sweating, and fear of embarrassing situations.
Panic disorder: characterized by sudden and frequent episodes of panic and fear. The causes of this condition include a neurotransmitter imbalance and stressful life events. Symptoms include nausea, chest pain, increased heart rate, tremors, and hot flashes.
Post-traumatic stress disorder: This mental illness arises as a consequence of traumatic events. When a person has difficulty coping with such situations, he or she may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and extreme anxiety. Check out the best cbd oil uk for additional tips and information.
What is the relationship between CBD and anxiety?
Does CBD deserve a place on this list? And what is the relationship between CBD and anxiety? At this time, we don’t know. Decades of prohibition prevented human clinical trials in the past, and modern restrictions and bureaucratic mazes continue to make it difficult to conduct them. However, the studies that are underway are very promising.
Researchers are doing their best to analyze the effects of CBD on different types of anxiety. Cell and animal trials continue to uncover how cannabinoids like CBD work in the body to produce relevant physiological changes. So far, CBD has been shown to influence the body and brain by binding to certain receptors, such as serotonin receptors and those that make up the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
