Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of many molecules known as cannabinoids that are found in different varieties of the cannabis plant, including marijuana and hemp. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that’s responsible for marijuana’s high, CBD is not intoxicating, even in large doses.
CBD and Mental Health
CBD has shown promising results as a potential treatment for a wide range of mental and physical ailments, including epilepsy, anxiety, opioid addiction, insomnia , schizophrenia, and chronic pain .
But evidence of its benefits is still highly preliminary, experts warn. More research is needed both to be sure of its effects and to establish appropriate dosing recommendations.
Cannabis has a long history as a sleep aid, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and increasing time spent asleep. CBD specifically may also been found to help people fall asleep and stay asleep. The compound also eases anxiety, which may be another route that it can improve sleep.
CBD can relieve symptoms of anxiety, research suggests, and it may therefore help treat conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post- traumatic stress disorder. But scientists still don’t understand how exactly CBD affects the brain to deliver those benefits.
Explore More About CBD
For a comprehensive understanding of cbd, read our complete guide: