CBD and Anxiety
Anxiety has its roots in our basic evolution as mammals. When a threat is detected by the brain’s surveillance system, it responds by releasing a cascade of chemicals such as cortisol and adrenalin, that literally changes our physiology and enables us to quickly respond, you may be familiar with the term ‘the fight or flight’ response.
Some of the physical effects on the body can be felt as tension in the musculoskeletal system; in the cardiovascular system in the form of a raised heart rate / palpitations; and in the gastrointestinal system with accompanying nausea or diarrhoea.
Living in the 21st century can be very stressful
This response worked very well for our ancestors who actually could run away from, or fight with, physical predators, occasionally, and for very short bursts of time. It’s less helpful in the 21st Century where we are all experiencing almost continuous stress. This stress comes from a number of different sources for long periods of time, and for some people, the anxiety doesn’t subside, and the feeling can be overwhelming.
There are many forms of treatment available to help with anxiety disorder, including prescribed medications such as Valium or Xanax, counselling and cognitive behavioural therapies, meditation and yoga. However, there is a growing body of evidence that proves the beneficial effects of Cannabidiol (CBD) in the treatment of anxiety disorder.
Treatment is available
CBD, through its action on the human endocannabinoid system, demonstrates anxiolytic (anxiety reducing), panicolytic (reduced flight’ response), and anticompulsive effects. It also helps to ‘calm down’ the body’s autonomous response to stressors and reduces the severity of the physical symptoms mentioned above.
For further information as to the mechanism of action of CBD on the endocannabinoid system, please follow this link to a study undertaken in 2015 by the New York University School of Medicine
CBD is safe to take alongside other prescribed medications, providing there is a slow and gentle introduction. Please speak to us for more information around strength and dosage.
We offer a range of CBD oils at different strengths, as well as CBD capsules, to suit your personal preferences.
Please contact us for more information about how CBD oil can help you to manage your anxiety levels