CBD or cannabidiol has quickly grown into a billion-dollar industry. This hemp-derived compound is now infused into everything from drops to gummies and topicals. But why are so many people turning to CBD? What does the research say about its much-hyped benefits? How does CBD help people?
CBD May Relieve Pain and Inflammation
One of the most common reasons people use CBD is for natural pain relief. Studies indicate CBD may help reduce chronic pain from conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis and neuropathy.
CBD is believed to ease pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates functions like immune response, sleep and pain. CBD also has known anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce swelling and discomfort.
Research shows combining CBD with THC provides enhanced pain relieving effects. Topicals and vaping CBD offer the fastest relief, while tinctures and gummies provide longer lasting effects. Those with severe pain may find the most benefit from higher potency CBD.
It Can Lessen Anxiety and Depression
With its calming and relaxing effects, CBD is also becoming a popular alternative to treat anxiety and depression.
Studies show CBD can reduce social anxiety, alleviate PTSD symptoms, ease generalized anxiety disorder and elevate moods. However, evidence is mixed as to whether CBD alone effectively treats clinical depression.
CBD is thought to improve serotonin levels and brain signaling pathways tied to mood regulation. Vaping and sublingual tinctures offer the quickest effects, while capsules and edibles provide extended relief.
CBD May Improve Sleep Quality
Do you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep? CBD’s mellowing effects may help you get deeper, more restorative sleep.
Studies indicate CBD can increase overall sleep amounts. It’s been shown to reduce insomnia and REM sleep abnormalities. CBD may also calm anxiety that inhibits quality slumber. However more studies are still needed on ideal CBD dosages for sleep.
Users report both CBD oils and CBD gummies help regulate sleep cycles. Start with a low dose taken about an hour before bedtime. Increase gradually as needed.
It May Ease Addiction Withdrawal
There’s promising early research showing CBD could help ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce relapse in those recovering from addiction.
In one study, CBD reduced heroin-seeking behaviors in addicted rats. Other studies confirm CBD’s potential to help curb cravings and anxiety among recovering opioid, cocaine and tobacco addicts. More research about how CBD helps withdrawal symptoms is still underway.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can CBD help with pain?
CBD is shown to reduce pain and inflammation through its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system. It may also limit the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Topicals, tinctures and vaping provide the fastest relief.
What types of anxiety can CBD help with?
Studies show CBD can be effective at reducing many types of anxiety including social anxiety, PTSD, OCD and generalized anxiety disorder. It may also help treat depression.
Will CBD help me sleep better?
CBD is known to improve overall sleep amounts by increasing time spent in deeper sleep stages. It may help reduce insomnia and REM sleep behavior disorders as well. Oils and gummies are good options.
Can CBD help people recover from addiction?
Early research indicates CBD may reduce drug-seeking behaviors and withdrawal symptoms. More studies are underway on CBD’s potential to reduce cravings and anxiety in those recovering from addiction.
Summary – Different Ways CBD Helps People
The article explores how CBD can provide various health benefits for people. It explains that CBD may help relieve pain and inflammation due to its interactions with the body’s endocannabinoid system and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show it can lessen anxiety and elevate mood through its effects on serotonin and mood regulation in the brain. CBD may also improve sleep quality by increasing time spent in deeper sleep stages.
Finally, early research indicates CBD could help ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce relapse in those recovering from addiction by reducing drug cravings and anxiety. The article concludes that more research is still needed, but CBD shows promise for natural relief of pain, anxiety, sleep disorders, and substance addiction.