Summer Tacos
CBD for Stress and Anxiety
You have probably heard of CBD the new trendy ingredient known for its relaxation, anxiety relief and pain relief product. It generally can be used in a variety of forms from drinks, candy, beauty products, sweets, oils even vapes now.
Stress can come in many forms for me anxiety is prevalent in a number of settings where more often than not my panic often sets into fight or flight causing havoc for even normal day activities. The feeling of dread and imminent danger set of from anxiety can become chronic and often debilitating. My symptoms result in fatigue and chest pain but we all suffer anxiety and stress in a variety of forms.
Todays world and with lockdown we need to combine methods to help combat these issues. CBD is able to combat this by stimulating neurotransmitters treating sources of stress. CBD is now a mainstream product backed by plenty of convincing research - with even doctors now suggesting it as a combined treatment with yoga and mediation. I have tried it as a way to combat anxiety and it has helped me but with other methods such as diet, mindfulness and alternative therapies but I would suggest talk to a medical expert first especially if on other medication and diets.
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What is CBD?
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A substance extracted from hemp called cannabidiol has very low levels of THC a substance normally high in marijuana therefore its safe enough to take and will not make you high as the cannabis plant does. CBD however is derived from hemp but another part of the plant which make it differ to normal hemp oil that is extracted from the whole plant.
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How does CBD Work?
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CBD works with the body’s receptors in part of the ECS (endocannabinoid system) with the receptors CB1 and CB2 located in the brain, immune system and brain. CBD is able to stimulate these receptors whereby they work the ECS which mainly functions to balance the body’s hormone system which includes regulating neuron acidity in the brain - its main aim is to regulating anxiety related behaviour and also facilitating sleep patterns. Research has proved it to be safer version to Marijuana which is high in THC which has unsafe side effects.
What can CBD help?
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More common treatment suggested from researchers is CBD acts to relive anxiety, sleep disruption, depression, inflammation, chronic pain and strong evidence in treating epilepsy. A number of other conditions are known to be treated with ongoing research to include cancer and cardiovascular issues.
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What should I take?
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There are an array of products from oil, supplements, vape, even gummies on the market but be sure to always buy from established brands, check the companies website for certificate of analysis. Also ensure CBD levels are acceptable for any doubt check the FDA since more often than not the CBD levels stated are often lower than what is recorded on labels. Most studies have shown an improvement in anxiety symptoms with dosage of up to 50mg per kg of body weight -but researchers suggest all dosage trials first. Always look for organic USDA, no added preservatives, bottles that have light blocking containers and high potency cannabinoid extract of 100% organic USDA certified is a good indicator of quality.
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Also for pain relief and inflammation numerous creams, salves and oils available for skin use directly which can help with aches, arthritis and joint pain.(tested products include :Veritas farm cream or Nuleaf naturals CBD verified FDA).Again if you choose a supplement and your not sure do seek medical advice and I hope you can use this as one of the many methods to enhancing our wellbeing which includes mind body and soul.