Can CBD Tame The Symptoms Of PTSD?

30 Aug Can CBD Tame The Symptoms Of PTSD?

Recent statistics show that 70% of US adults experience some traumatic event in their lifetime. This adds up to more than 220 million people.

Sadly, many people don’t get the help they need to recover. This trauma, coupled with lack of support leads to post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. Fortunately, instead of just depending on chemical-based pills, there are alternative remedies available for you to try. One of these remedies is CBD. Here’s a quick glance at CBD for PTSD. 

What Is PTSD?

People usually develop PTSD after an encounter with a traumatic event. Such an event can range from an attack to an accident. It also includes combat, a key reason why many veterans have this condition. 

PTSD triggers lingering traumatic memories that can cause:

• Depression
• Severe anxiety
• Emotional instability 
• Insomnia
• Loneliness
• Alienation

With time, this can often lead to substance abuse and, overdoses. It can also lead to self-destructive behavior.

What Is CBD?

CBD or cannabidiol is one of the several chemical compounds of the cannabis plant. Most companies manufacture various CBD products like:

• Edibles
• Oils
• Foods
• Drinks

CBD provides a feeling of peace and relaxation. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it doesn’t have any psychoactive effects or get you high. 

What’s The Link Between CBD and PTSD?

CBD significantly improves the function of the endocannabinoid system. This system plays a vital role in retrieval and memory consolidation. This is one of the vital reasons why CBD is great when it comes to helping patients suffering from PTSD. 

The CBD activates the CB1 and CB2 receptors. It instructs our system to produce neurotransmitters. This process can lead to increased happiness and pleasure. It also prevents the retrieval of certain memories.  

By checking these memories, CBD can help with traumatic nightmares. This can help patients with PTSD achieve a higher level of emotional wellbeing. With time, it can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

How CBD Helps With PTSD

Now that you know more about the use of CBD for PTSD, let’s taked a closer look at some of its benefits:

Provides a Deep Sense of Relaxation

High quality CBD at the right dose can bring about a deep sense of relaxation. Research shows that CBD can help reduce anxiety. 

In 2010, a clinical study found that CBD could help with symptoms of depression and anxiety, specifically. After conducting brain scans of the volunteers, the results showed an alteration of the blood flow to the part of the brain linked to anxiety. 

In a 2015 analysis, studies showed that CBD oil could help with:

• Social anxiety disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Panic disorder

The analysis also figured out that CBD oil could be useful in treating PTSD.

• Treating Panic Disorders
• People with PTSD often suffer from severe panic responses. This can be in the form of:
• Fast breathing
• Increased heart rate
• Pupil dilation
• Loss of focus
• Hearing loss
• Increased sweating

These panic attacks if not treated can lead to social withdrawal and isolation. The chances of depression increase and, of course, suicidal tendencies. 

By providing a deep sense of relaxation, CBD can help reduce the severity of a panic attack. 

Improves Quality Of Sleep

Lack of restful sleep is common in people with PTSD. When the body goes to sleep, it can tap into your subconscious. At this point, your mind may make you revisit an event even if you don’t want to. 

As a result, people with  PTSD either experience bad dreams continually or try and avoid sleep altogether. They may also turn to prescription medication and opioids for help. CBD has been found to improve the quality of sleep by relaxing your body and reducing your stress and anxiety. 

Easing Depression 

People suffering from PTSD often feel excessive anxiety, which can make them isolate themselves from the outside world. As time passes, these people can even lose touch with their loved ones. They may also lose their job. 

CBD positively influences the serotonin receptors in the brain. By doing so, it can promote a feeling of enhanced well being and happiness. Furthermore, CBD has far fewer known side effects, and it is non-addictive.

Are you a veteran using CBD? We would love to know more about your experience in the comments below.

Not sure where to find CBD? Try CBDOILS.com for high-quality CBD oils!

CBD has been widely known for its ability to reduce pain and inflammation. Arthritis can be one of the ailments that can be treated with the help of CBD products.