How Do You Know When You Need CBD?
CBD is being used by more and more people as a means to relieve chronic pain, sleepless nights, or anxiety and depression. But many studies remain in the early stages, and many doctors remain ill-equipped to respond to patient questions about CBD honestly and without giving the cannabinoid too much or, as is more often the case, too little credit. So you might be asking yourself, “How do I know I need CBD?”
Taking CBD for Pain
CBD interacts with certain neuroreceptors in our brains, specifically the endocannabinoid system. Our bodies naturally produce cannabinoids, meaning we’re built to interact with cannabinoids like the CBD found in hemp.
Some research has shown that CBD may act as an anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce swelling and lead to a reduction in pain. This has made CBD a popular natural supplement for individuals dealing with chronic pain, recovering from soreness after a workout, or overcoming acute headaches from day to day.
The question is, how do you know when CBD is right for you?
There is more to learn, and all consumers should consult with their doctor before introducing a new supplement to their daily routine. But cannabidiol’s tangible results for thousands of people are undeniable. And we know that the potential for side effects is relatively low, especially when compared to opioid painkillers.
Consult your doctor before dropping your current pain relief regimen, and always use caution if you plan to take CBD or any other supplement alongside other medications.
CBD for Better Sleep
There seem to be endless reasons for poor sleep. While some of these are within our control – like having that extra late night coffee or turning on Netflix at 11pm – there are at least as many cases when our lack of sleep is beyond our ability to regulate.
Stress about work, anxiety over a difficult conversation with friends or family, chronic pain, or the use of other medications can all quickly affect your ability to fall asleep and wake up feeling rested. And while CBD isn’t a cure all, it has shown significant promise in helping relieve many factors that contribute to poor sleep. When combined with the support of a medical doctor (and don’t ignore the incredible benefits of seeing a qualified counselor when you feel helpless or overwhelmed), CBD can truly feel like a mini miracle in a bottle.
Anxiety or Depression
Anxiety and depression often go hand-in-hand, and they can both be the cause of sleep problems. They can be obvious factors affecting our quality of life, or they can be subtle feelings that leave us wondering if we’re “just not strong enough,” (ignore that thought – you are strong enough, and we all need a little help sometimes).
Something as simple as a change in routine can trigger anxiety. And while you might think, “I’m still adjusting to this new thing in my life,” that doesn’t mean you have to do it all on your own. Sometimes reducing the most distressing symptoms and giving yourself a chance to take a deep, calming breath can give you the renewed strength and perspective you need to continue on the road to better wellbeing.
As always, our recommendation is to consult a doctor, especially if symptoms like pain, lack of sleep, anxiety, or depression are getting worse or if you notice other changes in your body. But if you find yourself unable to settle into a new routine like you thought you would, or if you can’t stop replaying worries about what has happened or might happen, it may be worth considering how CBD could help you get to the life you want to live.
And before introducing CBD to your daily routine, take the time to find a brand you trust, and a product with the right dosage and method of intake for you.
