Cannabis, which is also known as marijuana, is a type of drug found in the cannabis plant. Most people use this drug for recreational or spiritual purposes. Cannabis uses to combat stress and anxiety have been known for centuries, and now medical researchers have come up with ways to control the THC and CBD compounds found in the drug for better medical results.
Difference between THC and CBD
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most psychoactive component found in cannabis.it is known to give a high sensation by directly smoking the cannabis plant .it can also be found in the form of edibles like oil and capsules. Cannabidiol (CBD) on the other hand is an extract from the cannabis plant, making it milder than its counterpart. CBD can be found in the form of gummies, supplements, oils, and more. When these compounds interact with our bodies, they give different effects.
THC on its own produces high euphoria after binding with the CB1 brain receptors. On the other hand, CBD binding to CB1 receptors can be low to none. This makes the CBD dependent on THC for the binding, and in return, CBD helps to lessen the psychoactive effects of the THC.
Medical research on cannabis
Study shows that low levels of THC reduce stress: to reduce nervousness when doing public speaking, a low dose of THC can come in handy. On the other hand, using a high dose can make you more anxious.
Research on cannabis effects on stress and depression has exclusively been done in laboratories by administering the THC pills orally. This research has shown that high CBD and low THC can reduce depression and stress.
Results on stress reduction with cannabis
The same study indicated the effects of inhaling cannabis by testing it on a group of people. 89.3% of the ones tested, showed a significant reduction in symptoms of depression while only 3.2% showed an increase to the symptoms, while 7.5% showed no changes at all.
Symptoms of stress and anxiety also recorded 93.3% and 93.5%, respectively, of cases that showed improvement, while 2.7% and 2.1% respectively showed an increase in their symptoms. 4% showed no changes in stress levels.
Further, results indicate that Cannabis uses to combat stress is more effective to women than it is to men.
In conclusion, it is okay to say that cannabis uses to combat stress and depression are effective, but only when used in small doses and in moderation. It is highly recommended seeking professional guidance and get the tested and modified cannabis, rather than directly smoking it, as this could make your symptoms worse.