Over 40 million adults in the United States suffer from anxiety disorders each year. Panic attacks and phobias are among the symptoms of anxiety. There are many ways to ease anxiety, including therapy and medication, but some are seeking natural options such as CBD.
How do cbd gummies reduce anxiety?
While more research is still needed, preliminary studies indicate that CBD helps alleviate anxiety through its effects on the endocannabinoid system – a complex cell-signaling system in the body that helps regulate sleep, appetite, pain, and other functions.
- Brain and central nervous system receptors for CB1.
- Immune cells and peripheral nervous system contain CB2 receptors.
Research shows CBD binds to these receptors and influences neurotransmitter activity in a way that reduces inflammation, eases pain, and promotes relaxation. Through these mechanisms, CBD is thought to help dampen stress response, reduce muscle tension, calm worried thoughts, and promote restful sleep – all of which lower anxiety levels. Specifically, studies indicate CBD helps with anxiety by:
- Reducing stress hormone levels like cortisol
- Decreasing activity in the limbic system, the part of the brain associated with fear and anxiety
- Increasing signaling through serotonin receptors – low serotonin levels are associated with anxiety disorders
- Improving symptoms of PTSD and sleep issues often linked to anxiety
- Alleviating physical symptoms of panic attacks like rapid heart rate
Consuming cbd gummies for anxiety provides longer-lasting effects than vaping or smoking cannabis flower, allowing for sustained relief of tense muscles, nervousness, fear, irritability, and excessive worrying. The fixed doses and fun flavors also make consistent dosing easy without constant management.
Benefits of cbd gummies for anxiety
Many people struggling with anxiety choose to take CBD gummies instead of medications or alongside treatment for the following reasons:
- CBD gummies will not impair judgment, coordination, or other functions. This makes it easier to perform work, school, and social activities without worrying about drowsiness, blurred vision, dizziness, or other side effects.
- Research shows the potential for addiction and abuse is lower with CBD than traditional anxiety medications. CBD does not induce severe withdrawal effects when stopping suddenly like some prescriptions.
- CBD gummies are purchased without a prescription in most states, making them more accessible than some anxiety medications that require approval from a doctor.
- CBD gummies tend to cause fewer side effects than medications, though some people experience diarrhea, changes in appetite/weight, or fatigue.
- For those seeking a natural remedy, CBD gummies provide therapeutic benefits without the synthetic chemicals found in traditional meds. The cannabis plant offers a host of health-boosting compounds besides CBD as well.
Between fun flavors and convenient consumption methods, CBD gummies feel more like a treat than medication. This makes it easier for some to integrate into a daily wellness routine.
