A fascinating new study has found that CBD can effectively reduce nightmares and anxiety caused by conditions such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) without any adverse side effects whatsoever.
This is not the first study to prove CBD’s usefulness in treating PTSD or sleep disorders, but it is one of the first to highlight its effectiveness at reducing distressing dreams and nightmares.
Endocannabinoid system
How this is possible is thought to be down to CBD’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system (the ECS) – a system of receptors found in the nervous system of all mammals.
It regulates many bodily functions and works to keep the body in homeostasis. If it becomes out of balance, it can lead to hormone imbalances, physical illness, mental health problems, and sleep disorders.
Cannabinoids like CBD (and its more well-known, psychotropic cousin THC) interact with the ECS by binding with or affecting the ‘cannabinoid receptors’. These receptors, and thus the ECS itself, was only discovered by science in the late 1980s.
New CBD reseach
PTSD is an anxiety disorder which can be caused by a very frightening or distressing event. Many people with PTSD suffer from nightmares. Military veterans, in particular, are likely to suffer from PTSD after being in combat situations. Abuse can also be a cause of PTSD.
According to the new research, which was carried out recently at the University of Colorado’s Department of Psychiatry in Denver, orally-administered CBD was found to decrease anxiety and have positive effects in 57 patients out of a total of 72 within the first month.
Sleep quality improved for 48 of the subjects.
Well tolerated
CBD was also well tolerated and none of the patients had to stop the treatment because of any unpleasant side-effects.
‘”CBD appears to be better tolerated than routine psychiatric medications,” says Dr. Scott Shannon, one of the authors of the new study.
He continues, “Furthermore, CBD displays promise as a tool for reducing anxiety in clinical populations.”
Cannabidiol, or CBD, derived from hemp is completely legal in the United Kingdom and is being sold in high street shops as a food supplement. You can also buy it online. It’s even becoming a hot new ingredient in cosmetic and beauty products.
Cover photo: Joanna_Nix
