Addiction is a complex issue, and there is no simple answer to whether CBD can help lessen withdrawal symptoms. However, we know CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates many essential functions in the body. Also known as the ECS, it may help with mood, appetite, pain perception, and memory.
What is Addiction?
Addiction is a condition that results when a person ingests a substance or engages in an activity that can be pleasurable. People with addiction may not stop using the substance or activity, even though it causes problems. Still, its continued use becomes compulsive and interferes with ordinary life responsibilities, such as work, relationships, or health.
Addiction involves synthetic chemicals that affect our brains. These chemicals override our natural ability to feel pleasure. This change can lead to cravings and continued use, even when the person wants to stop.
How Does CBD Work?
CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system of receptors and neurotransmitters helps regulate many essential bodily functions, including mood, appetite, pain perception, and memory.
The ECS comprises two types of receptors, CB1 and CB2, found throughout the body. CBD interacts with these receptors to produce a variety of effects.
For example, studies show CBD reduces anxiety and improves sleep in people with related disorders. Also, CBD research points to evidence that it reduces inflammation and pain in various conditions, including arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain.
Can CBD Help With Addiction?
There are several ways CBD might help people with addiction. Let’s review withdrawal symptoms and compare them to what we know about CBD.
Withdrawal symptoms are the changes a person experiences when they stop using a substance or activity they’re addicted to. These symptoms can be physical, mental, or emotional.
Physical withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Nausea And Vomiting
- Shaking
- Sweating
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Fatigue
Mental and emotional withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Insomnia
This list isn’t exclusive. Also, several factors influence withdrawal symptoms, such as the specific substance, length of time someone’s been struggling with dependence, the severity of addiction, and individual metabolism.
Some research suggests CBD may help reduce withdrawal symptoms.
CBD for Gastrointestinal Issues
CBD may help gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and typical withdrawal symptoms. The hemp compound works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate many essential bodily functions, including appetite and nausea.
Studies show CBD reduced vomiting and nausea caused by chemotherapy. The researchers concluded CBD might be an effective treatment for these symptoms.
CBD for Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are common withdrawal symptoms. CBD may help reduce these symptoms by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood.
A review of studies found CBD may help reduce anxiety and improve sleep in people with conditions such as:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Panic Disorder
The review’s authors concluded CBD might be an effective treatment for these disorders.
CBD for Pain
Many people with addiction have underlying conditions that contribute to their addiction, such as chronic pain. CBD may help reduce pain by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate pain perception.
Studies have found CBD may help reduce inflammation and pain in various conditions. The review’s authors concluded CBD might be an effective treatment for these conditions.
The compound also has the potential to help with nerve-related pain, such as that seen in conditions like multiple sclerosis and diabetic neuropathy.
CBD for Irritability
Irritability is a common withdrawal symptom. CBD may help reduce irritability by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood. Research and consumer testimonials show the compound may produce calming effects and improve mood.
CBD to Improve Focus
Difficulty concentrating is a common withdrawal symptom. CBD may help improve focus by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood and sleep. Research suggests CBD may enhance sleep quality, which can, in turn, help improve focus and concentration.
CBD for Sleep
Insomnia is a common withdrawal symptom. CBD may help improve sleep by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate sleep.
Research shows CBD may help improve sleep in people with conditions such as:
- Insomnia
- Sleep Apnea
- Rem Sleep Behavior Disorder
Researchers don’t know exactly how CBD works for sleep. But studies suggest consumers sleep better with lower anxiety and pain levels.
Is CBD Safe For People with Addiction?
Medical professionals and scientists generally consider CBD safe. However, it can interact with other medications and cause side effects. Therefore, anyone contemplating using CBD should speak to their doctor first, especially if they have an existing medical condition or are taking other medications.
What Are the Side Effects of CBD?
CBD is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects, such as:
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Changes In Appetite
People with addiction may be more susceptible to these side effects. Therefore, working with a rehabilitation specialist to monitor side effects and adjust CBD dosage as needed is essential.
Different Methods to Use CBD for Addiction
Several options are available to support addiction treatment. Here are the ways to use CBD:
Sublingual tincture: A tincture is a CBD extract placed under the tongue. The CBD absorbs into the bloodstream, interacting with the endocannabinoid system. Sublingual absorption works in less than 20 minutes and lasts four to six hours.
Topical: A topical is a CBD-infused cream, lotion, or salve applied to the skin. The CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system through receptors in the skin. You can apply this formula as needed and use it with other products, including tinctures, edibles, and vape pens.
Edibles: Edibles are foods and drinks that contain CBD. The CBD is absorbed into the bloodstream through the digestive system. Edibles take longer to work because they go through the digestive process. They take about 30 to 90 minutes to work and have a four- to six-hour duration. Try Akira Botanicals CBD/CBG edibles for a tasty and calming experience.
Vaping: Vaping is a method of inhaling CBD as an aerosolized liquid. The CBD enters the bloodstream through the lungs. Vaping is the fastest way to relief. Users experience the effects in a minute or less. But it doesn’t last long. Vaping peaks in 30 minutes and only has a 60-minute duration.
How Much Should You Take?
CBD dosages vary depending on the method of delivery. Start with a low dose and increase as needed. The goal is to find the lowest effective amount to minimize side effects.
- Start with 0.5–1 milliliter (ml) under the tongue for sublingual tinctures.
- For topical products, start with a small amount and increase as needed.
- Edibles and vape products come in different strengths. Start with a low dose and increase as needed.
CBD is a promising addiction treatment, but they needed more research to understand its efficacy. Speak to a doctor or rehabilitation specialist about whether CBD is suitable for you.
When you’re ready to try CBD, check out the vast selection of premium CBD products at Akira Botanicals. We have everything from CBD gummies to CBD oil tinctures so that you can find the perfect product for your needs.