According to the Office for National Statistics, 37% of adults in the UK believe that Covid-19 has increased feelings of anxiety and lower moods. If hobbies aren’t giving you mental relief, CBD oils could possibly be your lockdown saviour.
You might have already tried different ways to help you relax and focus on the present. Hobbies such as reading, baking or taking daily walks should have a short-term calming effect on the body, but with correct medical guidance, CBD could be a longer-term solution to persistent anxiety.
Many people have turned to this natural remedy for support this year. It’s a natural plant compound that doesn’t induce the intoxicating effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis) and it’s legal in the UK.
Joseph Gerrity is CEO of Crescent Canna and shares some need-to-knows about the phenomenon that is CBD.
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the most researched cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike the cannabinoid THC — which can cause you to feel “high” — CBD has no psychoactive or intoxicating effects. It’s also safe, non-addictive and can offer a range of health benefits.
How can it help with anxiety?
The root of anxiety disorders is low serotonin. While research is still preliminary, scientists at University of San Paulo in Brazil and King’s College in London suggest that this natural compound can help the body produce serotonin. CBD has been noted to have a calming effect on people and lower the intensity of their emotions due to its therapeutic properties.
What does CBD do to your brain?
Throughout our lives, our brains grow and adapt by forming new neurons. This natural plant extract could help to counterbalance the brain changes caused by chronic stress. This study concluded that it encourages neural regeneration and that, “pharmacological targeting of the cannabinoid system as a regulator of neurogenesis may be vital in the prevention of treatment of mood or memory disorders.”
How do you choose the right CBD?
CBD comes in several forms — oils, capsules, freeze rollers, edibles, drinks, food and vapes. Choosing the right product is a matter of preference.
The overall strength of a CBD product is directly related to its effectiveness. Cheaper products typically contain less and are therefore less effective. High-potency CBD products stand out in the market.
No matter what you’re using it for, look at each product’s specifications and use your own judgement when deciding what to buy.
How should I take CBD?
The way you take CBD depends on why you need it, where you want it to reach and how quickly you want it to work. A popular method is simply placing an oil under your tongue. This bypasses the liver, allowing it to enter the bloodstream immediately.
You can also take it with food. There are products available such as chocolates and gummies. Ingesting CBD takes longer than other methods as it’s partially broken down by the liver and digestive tract. You can also apply topical CBD or inhale by vaping it.
How much CBD should I take?
Dosage depends on weight, age, medical conditions and the concentration. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all dosage and there might be some trial and error in the beginning.
Many experts agree that to begin with, start with a low dose and gradually work your way up. The dose can also vary by form. For example, gummies typically contain ten to 25 milligrams per gummy, while a oil product could contain anywhere from ten to 300 milligrams per dose. Always talk to your doctor if you have a medical condition or are taking any other medication.
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