CBD oil is a mixture of oil and Cannabinoid (CBD) extract. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is not psychoactive and therefore won’t give you the “high”.
How does CBD oil work to cure anxiety?
According to HealthLine, the human body has many different receptors, protein-based chemical structures that are attached to your cells that receive signals from different stimuli, and CBD is thought to interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Scientists don’t fully understand how CBD interacts with these receptors but it is believed that it can alter serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a really vital role in your mental health. It is also known as a happy hormone. When someone is suffering, their serotonin levels are often low. Anxiety is associated with low levels too.
Sometimes people prefer using CBD for their anxiety instead of prescription drugs, such as sertraline (Zoloft) or fluoxetine (Prozac). Unlike, these drugs CBD can be bought over the counter without having to get a prescription paper from a doctor.
In other researches and studies, CBD oil has been found to cure stress and anxiety in animals too.
Does CBD have any side effects?
Although, CBD is not generally harmful, there are some side effects to look out for. They include:
- diarrhea
- fatigue
- changes in appetite
- changes in weight
It is also advisable that you do not replace your prescription medication with CBD oil unless you have consulted with your doctor. Usually, people start using CBD oil when their mental health has gotten better.
CBD may also interact with other medications or dietary supplements you’re taking, HealthLine says. Exercise particular caution if you take medications, such as blood thinners, that come with a “grapefruit warning.” CBD and grapefruit both interact with enzymes that are important to drug metabolism.