The History of CBD and Mental Wellbeing
CBD has been getting a lot of attention because of the studies done on it in the past few years. As more and more producers shift their sight towards finding the niche markets for CBD consumables and supplements. One of the key benefits of CBD is reducing anxiety. Multiple studies have pointed towards CBD being a healthy alternative in dealing with stress and anxiety.
Hemp and Cannabis are nothing new, it has been used for centuries in ancient healing practices, rituals of spiritual enlightenment, and as a counterculture consumable to liberate the mind and soul. From the ancient techniques of the transcendental shamans to the hippie movement of the 70’s, all of these practices share one common goal, to reduce the feeling of existential anxiety and daily mental stress.
CBD (Cannabidiol) is a type of cannabinoid, it is one of the chemicals that is found in the hemp plant. How this chemical works was, and to some extent still is, a mystery; but scientists recently found that the CB1 and CB2 receptors found in the human body are protein based receptors attached to the cells that are used in receiving electrical input when CBD is consumed.
What this means is that the relationship humans have formed with the hemp plant far exceeds what we initially knew about it. Research indicates that these receptors when triggered by CBD, signal our brains to release serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in the mental wellbeing of individuals. People who normally have a lower level of serotonin can face problems such as depression and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Naturally, when the CBD is consumed, the transmitters are activated and the brain releases the feel-good chemicals, which brings over a state of serenity and calmness.
Prescription drugs like Prozac are normally used by medical professionals to treat depression and anxiety, there are many side effects associated with these drugs, like feeling sick (nauseatic), getting headaches, and having trouble sleeping. Early studies have shown that CBD is a much better alternative at managing stress and anxiety, though anyone opting for these treatments over the conventional prescription drug treatment should speak to their doctor beforehand.
Many people have started opting for CBD extracts over the consumption of hemp to avoid the intake of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is a psychoactive and can have adverse side effects on a person’s mental wellbeing, so preferring CBD over a combination of chemicals associated with hemp just seems like a more rational approach. The few producers producing 100% CBD extract are making sure that nothing apart from the CBD is left behind after it has been extracted, allowing the consumer to have all the benefits of CBD while bypassing the “high” or euphoria that comes.
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2020-08-31
