Stress affects our bodies in remarkable ways. Stress can affect every system in your body, from the nervous system to the immune system, causing everything from headaches and insomnia to heart attacks. That is why finding ways to reduce stress is so important. People who experience stress and its many physical symptoms have a potent ally in CBD plants.
What is CBD?
CBD is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in the resin of cannabis flowers reports information at Weed Seeds USA. CBD reacts with the nervous system and has been known to decrease pain, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation among other benefits. If CBD is the family member who always wears his seat belt and shows up to work on time, his cousin THC is the party animal all too eager to stay out all night. Both are cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, but unlike CBD, THC benefits come with a twist in the form of psychoactive effects that can actually induce anxiety, which is not what you want when you are trying to relax. It is said that nature seeks balance, that is exemplified by how CBD and THC work. The yin to THC's yang CBD has the ability to balance out the psychoactive side effects of THC which is why Chef's who specialize in cooking with cannabis will often end the meal with a course that features CBD only to help balance out the impact of the previous courses which typically contain THC.
Medicinal Uses of CBD
Cannabis has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Its first known documented use was in 2737 BC by Chinese Emperor Sheng Nung, who used it to make a cannabis infused tea. He drank the tea to support several ailments which included memory, malaria, and gout. Queen Victoria is believed to have used it as a treatment for menstrual cramps. The modern study of cannabinoids and their effects on the body began in 1940, but the use of cannabis was outlawed in 1978 as part of the controlled substance act and remained unavailable for medicinal use until 2018.
CBD like THC can be used to treat a number of physical ailments, but it excels at reducing stress and anxiety. When CBD is consumed, often as CBD oil, it reacts with the endocannabinoid receptors in our body. Those receptors release serotonin into the body counter acting the cortisol that the body releases during times of stress. The release of serotonin helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation and improved mood.
CBD Products
CBD products can be purchased in a variety of forms. Oils, pills, edibles, topical creams, and vapes are just a few of the most common. The type of product you purchase will probably be determined by what you are using as a remedy for. For the relief of stress and anxiety, an oil or tincture administered directly under the tongue and swallowed is the most potent and effective method of delivery. There are several trusted brands available in stores, but for the more adventurous you may also consider purchasing seeds with which to grow your own CBD plants.
There are many ways to use cannabis plants. Extracting the CBD for use as a therapy for stress is one common and effective use that can induce relaxation without the high.
