Is CBD effective against stress?
Cannabis is a plant containing numerous compounds called cannabinoids. One of the best known is CBD (cannabidiol), which has gained in popularity in recent years due to its effects on the body. Numerous scientific studies have examined its beneficial action, particularly against stress. How does CBD work in the body? Does it really work? Here are our answers.
Does CBD really work against stress?
CBD is a molecule that interacts with several receptors of the endocannabinoid system. This vast network of neurons, cells and receptors plays an essential role in regulating many cognitive and physiological functions, such as sleep and appetite. One of the objectives of the endocannabinoid system is to neuroprotection. In the event of excessive stress, it is activated and helps the body to return to a normal state.
According to several studies, CBD helps combat stress thanks to its anxiolytic effects. In particular, it is said to help reduce anxiety, both in its behavioral and physiological aspects.[1]. This action is observed even with small doses of CBD, i.e. less than 5 mg/kg[2]. One trial[3] was carried out with young people aged 12 to 25 suffering from anxiety. After taking CBD regularly for 12 weeks, they saw significant improvements in their anxiety without noticing any serious side effects.
In 2020, a study[4] was conducted in New Zealand on 397 adults. Participants received medical prescriptions for CBD for several problems, including signs of a mental health disorder. Those who received CBD treatment for anxiety saw an improvement in their ability to perform daily tasks and in reducing signs of stress.
While several studies seem to attribute relaxing and stress-relieving effects to CBD, scientific research needs more clinical data to confirm this.
> Also read: What are the effects of CBD?
What are the best CBD products for anxiety?
Are you considering taking CBD to relieve stress and relax? The most recommended forms are :
- The pellets
They melt on the tongue and offer a long, gentle action. By acting directly on the mucous membranes, they offer excellent CBD availability.
- Visit oils
Convenient to carry, this format is ideal for beginners and allows you to adapt the dosage to your needs. To consume, simply pour a few drops under the tongue without swallowing.
- The herbal teas
Ideal for relieving stress, they promote relaxation and can be integrated into your daily routine for a welcome moment of relaxation. Our tip: infuse them in boiling water with a fatty substance (butter, milk) to enhance cannabinoid absorption.
- The vaping
CBD is inhaled via a liquid. As one of the most concentrated cannabinoids (between 50 and 60%), this format produces more immediate effects and a significant relaxing effect. It's an interesting solution in cases of high stress.
How much CBD should I take if I'm stressed?
The ideal dosage varies from person to person and depends on factors such as body weight and individual sensitivity. If you've never taken CBD before, start with a low dose and gradually increase it according to the effects you feel, until you find the optimum dosage. To help you, discover our dosage calculator It calculates the right dose for your situation.
Sources :
[1] 50 N. D. Volkow,, "The biology and potential therapeutic effect of cannabidiol", Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control, 2015, https://www.drugabuse.gov/about-nida/legislative-activities/testimony- to-congress/2015/biology-potential-therapeutic-effects-cannabidiol
[2] 51 D. Morabito, P. Soyster, S. Ramey-Wright, K. A. Belendiuk, M. O. Bonn-Miller, "A Review of Recent Advances in the Therapeutic Uses of Secondary Cannabinoids, Current Addiction Reports 3, 230-238, 2016, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/293488343_A_Review_of_ Recent_Advances_in_the_Therapeutic_Uses_of_Secondary_Cannabinoids
[3] Berger M, Li E, Rice S, Davey CG, Ratheesh A, Adams S, Jackson H, Hetrick S, Parker A, Spelman T, Kevin R, McGregor IS, McGorry P, Amminger GP. Cannabidiol for Treatment-Resistant Anxiety Disorders in Young People: An Open-Label Trial.J Clin Psychiatry. 2022 Aug 3;83(5):21m14130. doi: 10.4088/JCP.21m14130.
[4] Gulbransen, Graham et al. "Cannabidiol prescription in clinical practice: an audit on the first 400 patients in New Zealand." BJGP open vol. 4,1 bjgpopen20X101010. 1 May. 2020, doi:10.3399/bjgpopen20X101010