During these trying times and as we take steps to move forward in our new normal, we know that it’s more important than ever to manage our stress and anxiety, to get quality sleep, and find meaningful ways to create a sense of calm.
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound extracted from the hemp plant. CBD products do not get you high. CBD interacts in our body through our endocannabinoid system (ECS). Researchers know that this system plays a role in major bodily functions like mood, sleep, memory, appetite and digestion.
The ECS has 3 parts: receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids, all of which exist and function whether an individual consumes CBD or not. Taking CBD is like adding a catalyst to the system, it helps the process function more effectively.
So what does all this mean? When someone takes CBD, it enters the body and is absorbed by the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Those enzymes metabolize the CBD and then the broken-down CBD activates the receptors. The activated receptors produce symptom relief.
While more research still needs to be conducted about the mechanisms behind CBD’s anxiolytic effect, we do know it has a lot to do with our serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is found in the brain. CBD stimulates our serotonin receptors and helps to retain serotonin levels to regulate our mood.
Another great benefit many CBD users report is better quality of sleep. According to Harvard Medical School, more than 50 percent of adult patients with generalized anxiety disorder struggle to get quality sleep. Since our endocannabinoid system regulates things like sleep and mood, adding additional cannabinoids into our body can aid in a better night’s sleep and decreased anxiety.