CBD or cannabidiol is a medically active compound in the cannabis sativa plant. It has been gaining popularity in the past few years in the treatment of anxiety & OCD disorders.
It is the second most active ingredient after (THC)Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in cannabis. CBD is extracted directly from the plant and is free of THC.
THC is the only compound in cannabis responsible for “High” in individuals, so CBD does not cause any “high”.
Some more facts about CBD:
- CBD is a natural ingredient extracted from cannabis.
- After THC, it is the second most active ingredient in cannabis.
- There is a history of usage of CBD in Chinese culture.
- CBD is free from THC- a compound that causes a “High” in individuals.
- CBD does not cause any “high” to individuals unless blended with other substances.
- There are no reported health issues associated with the usage of CBD.
- Currently in America, the FDA regulates CBD products.
- “Epidiolex” is the only FDA-approved product in the market for medicinal usage. It comes in oil form.
- CBD interferes with neurotransmitters in the brain to give a calming effect to treat symptoms of OCD, anxiety, and chronic pain.
- In the market, it is available in the form of oils, tinctures, sprays, and capsules.
- There is a lack of research on CBD, so it cannot be an alternative to anxiety & OCD medications.
How CBD Benefits Anxiety and OCD
As per new studies, our body has one more system called the “Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
The ECS system controls lots of our bodily functions such as learning and memory, emotional processing, sleep, anxiety, fear, pain control, repetitive behavior, and eating. In simple words, it regulates the neurotransmitters(serotonin) in the brain.
CBD interferes with our body’s endocannabinoid system and CB1 and CB2 receptors, which ultimately regulate the neurotransmitters called serotonin that are scientifically proven to ease symptoms of anxiety and OCD.
CBD for Anxiety
Studies show the benefits of CBD in treating anxiety symptoms.
CBD works by interfering with CB1 and CB2 receptors which control the formation of serotonin. Serotonin plays a major role in maintaining mental health. Serotonin increases the calmness and happiness in the body.
Low levels of serotonin in the body indicate the chances of developing depression which could be the root cause of anxiety patients.
Also, serotonin is directly linked with cortisol. Low serotonin in the body increases the cortisol ratio.
Higher amounts of cortisol cause high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and mood disorders. So, an increase in serotonin helps keep a good mood and mental health.
CBD can help treat the following types of anxiety:
- Generalized Anxiety (GAD)
- Social Anxiety
- Certain Phobias
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
CBD for OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder in which a person experiences uncontrollable and recurring thoughts or obsessions and does repetitive behaviors.
CBD drugs are new in the market that require more research on the subject.
CBD drugs like the FDA-approved oil “Epidiolex” are a proven treatment for Epilepsy. It is also helpful in Parkinson’s disease and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
As earlier said, CBD interferes with the body’s Endocannabinoid System, receptors CB1 and CB2 responsible for regulating various neurotransmitters which help in sleeping, managing emotional balance, pain control, and repetitive behavior in individuals.
CBD seems to control intrusive thoughts and repetitive behavior which are common signs of OCD. Also, it induces the sleep cycle of the individual to increase inner calmness and peace.
Some other benefits of CBD for OCD
- Corrects the sleep pattern
- Reduces cortisol in the body to increase relaxation
- Reduces inflammation
- Corrects mood disorder
- Reduces chronic pain
- Relaxes muscle
- Improves appetite
CBD Physical Forms
- Flavored Gummies
- Mouth Sprays
- Soft-gels or oil-filled Capsules
- Inhalable vapor vapes
- Creams or gel
- Tinctures
Side-Effects of CBD
- Low blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Dry Mouth
- Drowsiness
- Reduced Appetite
- Interaction with other OCD and anxiety medications
Some Other Healthy Alternatives to CBD
1. Anxiety Calming Foods
Certain foods are considered as anxiety calming foods. These foods have some nutrients that give a calming effect to the body. These foods contain potassium, magnesium, vitamin B9, and vitamin D which increase the calming effect in the body. Tryptophan, another agent present in some food, induces the making of serotonin in the body. One can easily replace old food items with this one. Here’s a list of such foods:
- Fatty Fish like Tuna and Salmon
- Whole Eggs
- Banana
- Nuts like almonds and Brazil nuts
- Chamomile & Green Tea
- Dark Chocolate
2. Supplements
Supplements are high sources of nutrients required for good physical and mental health. And, Supplements provide direct nutrition to the body in a shorter time. Here is a list of some useful supplements that help reduce anxiety and OCD symptoms and increase calmness in the body:
- Magnesium
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin D
- Omega 3
3. Workouts and Exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety disorders. Exercise especially running and cardio exercises are one the best to perform for good results in a shorter time. Also, Exercise provides other physical benefits like improvement in cardiovascular health, body strength, and endurance.
Final Sentence
CBD can help reduce some symptoms of anxiety and OCD. However, it cannot replace conventional medications. A lot of research is required to increase its usage in the treatment of anxiety and OCD. Currently, CBD can be taken only as a supportive method to help with anxiety and OCD.