Cannabidiol (CBD) is a  cannabis Sativa constituent and over the years is being used for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. The other most common cannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC has psychotic effects and is the component that makes you feel ‘high’. On the other hand, CBD does not possess any psychotic effects and is useful to treat medical conditions. 

What is Stress?

Stress is the body’s response to pressure. Different situations and phases of life can cause stress. It is mainly triggered when something unexpected happens that threatens our sense of self or even we have very little control over a situation.  

Every human deals with stress differently and the ability to cope up depends on genetics, life events, personality and economic or social situations. Our body releases stress hormones upon facing stress that triggers a fight response and activates our immune system. This helps in responding to dangerous situations quickly.  

In some cases, stress can be good as it will help us get through fear. Completion of stressful levels may assist with lowering stress hormones. However, too much stress can have negative effects. Long term stress can affect and impact our mental and physical health.  

What are the common signs of stress?

• Feeling anxious
• Sad
• Frustrated
• Depressed
• Angry
• Fear

The human body reacts in different ways to stress. Here are some symptoms one will face upon being stressed

• Nausea
• Headache
• Sweating
• Heart palpitations
• Aches and pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhea 
• Bloating  

CBD oil and Stress

Studies have shown that patients using CBD Oil have a significant reduction in their feeling of stress and anxiety. Using both CBD and THC also showed a great reduction in depression among people. Anxiety and depression are symptoms of stress and CBD helps in reducing them. According to a study conducted in 2015, CBD interacts with the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R), serotonin 5-HT1A receptor and other receptors in the brain that regulate fear and anxiety.

CBD is also known to be effective to treat various anxiety types disorders such as 

• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder 

CBD oil starts showing an effect within 30 minutes to 2 hours upon consumption.

What are the possible side effects related to CBD oil?

Research says that people can tolerate CBD well and may have very few side effects. However, there may be a few people who do not react well to this and will face side effects such as 

• Drowsiness
• Decreased appetite
• Weight change

While many are turning towards CBD to treat medical conditions, one should know that different doses have different effects on people and hence it is best to consult your doctor and get necessary approvals before consuming them. Buying from the black market is risky as they are not tested and can cause harm to your body. Doctors can also customise your dose according to your need. 

External links:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-use-cbd-for-anxiety#summary 

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/s/stress#:~:text=Stress%20is%20the%20feeling%20of,Last%20updated%3A%2017%20September%202021 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/ 

https://www.healtheuropa.eu/cannabis-combats-stress/93193/ 

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_3