Stress is an inevitable part of life, but it can take a toll on both our mental and physical health. From work-related stress to personal issues, it's important to find ways to manage stress before it becomes overwhelming.

One popular method that's gaining popularity is CBD, a natural compound found in cannabis plants. CBD has been shown to have a range of potential benefits, including stress relief. In this blog post, we'll explore how CBD can help with both internal stress (such as anxiety) when ingested, and external stress (like eczema) when applied topically.

So, if you're looking for a natural way to manage stress levels, keep reading to find out how CBD may be able to help.

Understanding stress:  

Stress is the body’s natural response to external or internal stimuli that disrupt our normal equilibrium. Chronic stress can negatively impact mental and physical health, leading to various ailments such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.

 

External signs of stress: eczema, psoriasis, pruritus, inflammatory conditions, and acne.

The skin is the largest organ in the human body and plays a crucial role in protecting the body from external factors such as the sun, bacteria, and other environmental factors. Stress can have a significant impact on the health of the skin and can contribute to various skin conditions.

Stress can affect the skin in several ways, including

Inflammation : Stress can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, resulting in the release of cytokines that can cause inflammation of the skin. Chronic inflammation can contribute to skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and psoriasis.

• Increased sebum production: Stress can also lead to increased oil production, which can contribute to acne and other skin conditions.
• Impaired skin barrier function: Chronic stress can disrupt the skin's barrier function, leading to increased water loss and dryness. This can exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema.
• Impaired wound healing: Stress can also impair the skin's ability to heal wounds, leading to delayed wound healing and an increased risk of scar formation.

 

 

Stress and inflammatory skin conditions

Stress is known to play a role in the development and exacerbation of inflammatory skin conditions. Inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, pruritis, and acne are all characterized by inflammation and immune dysfunction. Chronic stress has been shown to alter immune function, leading to an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines and a decrease in anti-inflammatory cytokines, which can contribute to the development and worsening of these conditions.

 

eczema, for example, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Stress has been shown to worsen eczema symptoms and stress reduction techniques have been shown to improve symptoms. Psoriasis is another chronic inflammatory skin disease that is characterized by red, scaly patches. Stress has been shown to trigger and worsen psoriasis flare-ups.

 

To use CBD oil for eczema and psoriasis, you can follow these steps:

1. Start by cleaning the affected area with mild soap and warm water. Gently pat it dry with a clean towel.
2. Take a small amount of CBD oil and apply it directly to the affected area. You can also mix it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil for easier application.
3. Massage the oil into the skin using circular motions until fully absorbed.
4. Repeat as many times as needed, usually 2-3 times a day.

Acne is another skin condition influenced by stress. 

Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that increases sebum production in the skin. Excess sebum can clog pores and lead to the development of acne. To apply precious oil for acne, you must first,

Cleanse your face with a mild cleanser. Then, apply a small amount of oil to your fingers and gently massage your face with circular motions until the oil is absorbed. You can also use a cotton swab to apply the oil directly to the areas affected by acne. It is recommended to use the oil at night before going to bed. Be sure not to use too much oil, as this can clog pores and make acne worse: once a day maximum.

              CBD and Inflammatory Skin Conditions

CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential treatment option for inflammatory skin conditions.

 

CBD works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating inflammation and immune function. CBD has been shown to modulate the activity of immune cells, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

CBD has also been shown to have antimicrobial properties, making it a potential treatment option for acne. CBD has been shown to inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria, reduce sebum production, and have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.

 

In conclusion, outside stress can have a profound impact on the health of our skin, leading to a variety of inflammatory conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, pruritis, and acne. CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it a potential treatment option for these conditions. While more research is needed, CBD offers a promising avenue for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions.

   The endocannabinoid system and CBD have a huge                       impact on stress management

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signalling system present in the human body that plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis, which is the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment. The ECS is involved in various physiological processes, including mood regulation, immune response, inflammation, pain perception, and stress management.

 

                   The Role of the ECS in Stress Management

The ECS plays a significant role in the body's stress response. When exposed to stressors, the body increases endocannabinoid production, which then acts on CB1 and CB2 receptors to help regulate the stress response and promote homeostasis.

 

Research has shown that chronic stress can lead to a dysregulated ECS, which may contribute to increased anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. By interacting with the ECS, CBD has the potential to restore balance to the system, thereby promoting stress relief and overall well-being.

 

In summary, the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's homeostasis and managing stress. CBD interacts with the ECS in various ways, offering potential therapeutic effects in stress management. More research is needed to fully understand these interactions and their long-term implications for human health.

 

                 Components of the endocannabinoid system

 

The endocannabinoid system is made up of three main components:

1) Endocannabinoids : These are natural lipid-based neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors. The two main endocannabinoids are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).

 

 

2) Receivers : Cannabinoid receptors are present throughout the body and are responsible for the action of endocannabinoids. The two main types of cannabinoid receptors are CB1, found primarily in the brain and central nervous system, and CB2, which are found primarily in the immune system and peripheral tissues.

 

 

3) Enzymes : These enzymes are responsible for the synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids. The two main enzymes involved in the regulation of the endocannabinoid system are fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL).

 

 

Interaction of CBD with the ECS system

 

 

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike its psychoactive counterpart, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce intoxicating effects. Instead, it interacts with the ECS in a more subtle and complex manner.

 

1. Indirect interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors: CBD does not directly bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors but can modulate their activity by indirectly influencing their signalling pathways. This interaction helps regulate various physiological processes, including stress response and mood.

 

1. Inhibition of FAAH: CBD has been shown to inhibit the FAAH enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down anandamide. By inhibiting FAAH, CBD can increase anandamide levels in the body, thereby enhancing the overall functioning of the ECS.

 

1. Interaction with other receptors: CBD also interacts with other non-cannabinoid receptors, such as serotonin (5-HT1A) and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) receptors. These interactions may contribute to CBD's potential therapeutic effects, including stress relief and mood enhancement. 

 

 

 

 

Interaction of CBD with the neurotransmitter GABA

 

GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, is a neurotransmitter in the brain that is responsible for reducing neuronal excitability. It acts like an inhibitor in the brain. It helps to reduce the activity of neurons and is responsible for calming the nervous system, promoting relaxation, and reducing anxiety. When GABA binds to its receptors in the brain, it reduces the firing of neurons, resulting in a decrease in anxiety and stress levels.

 

Studies have shown that CBD can indirectly enhance GABA signalling by increasing the availability of GABA in the brain. CBD has been found to inhibit the activity of an enzyme called GABA transaminase, which is responsible for breaking down GABA. By inhibiting this enzyme, CBD increases the levels of GABA in the brain, which enhances its inhibitory effects and helps to reduce anxiety and stress. 

 

Additionally, CBD has been found to bind to the GABA-A receptor, albeit at a low affinity, and modulate its activity. This receptor is the primary target of benzodiazepines, a class of drugs commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders. CBD's ability to interact with this receptor may contribute to its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. 

 

Overall, the interaction between CBD and GABA appears to be complex and multifaceted. By increasing GABA levels and modulating the activity of its receptors, CBD helps to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and lower stress levels.

 

 

Recent research has shed light on the potential therapeutic effects of CBD on anxiety. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain how CBD can relieve anxiety, including its impact on serotonin levels and neuroinflammation.

 

                             Modulation of serotonin levels

 

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in mood regulation, as well as other physiological functions such as sleep, appetite, and cognition. An imbalance of serotonin levels in the brain is associated with various mood disorders, including anxiety and depression.

CBD has been found to interact with the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, which is a subtype of the serotonin receptor family. This interaction is thought to contribute to CBD's anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and antidepressant effects. By acting as a partial agonist at the 5-HT1A receptor, CBD may increase the availability of serotonin in the brain, potentially improving mood and reducing stress.

 

                      Reduction of neuroinflammation

 

Chronic stress can lead to inflammation in the brain, which may exacerbate anxiety and depression. Neuroinflammation is a response of the central nervous system to various stimuli, including injury, infection, and psychological stress. It is characterized by the activation of immune cells, such as microglia, and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

CBD has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the brain from stress/anxiety-induced damage. Several studies have demonstrated that CBD can reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibit the activation of microglia, potentially alleviating neuroinflammation.

 

These anti-inflammatory effects of CBD may contribute to its potential therapeutic benefits in stress and anxiety disorders, as reducing neuroinflammation may help restore normal brain function and promote mental well-being.

 

 

 

Clinical studies:

 

 

Several clinical studies have demonstrated the potential benefits of using CBD to combat stress and anxiety. Here we provide more information on two key studies mentioned above:

 

 

1. 2011 study on CBD and social anxiety disorder during public speaking in public (Bergamaschi et al., 2011),

 

 

In a 2011 study by Bergamaschi, the researcher examined the anxiolytic effects (anxiety-reducing effect) of CBD on participants with social anxiety disorder (SAD) in a simulation test of public speaking. The study involved 24 participants diagnosed with SAD, who were divided into two groups. One group received a single dose of CBD (600mg), while the other group received a placebo.

 

The results showed that the CBD-treated group experienced a significant reduction in anxiety, cognitive impairment, and embarrassment in speech performance compared to the placebo group. This study provided evidence of the anxiolytic effects of CBD in a situation known to induce acute anxiety.

2019 Review of Multiple Studies on CBD and Anxiety-Related Disorders

 

A 2019 review by Linares et al. analyzed multiple studies to assess the potential effectiveness of CBD in treating anxiety-related disorders. The review included studies conducted in animal models and human subjects, which examined the effects of CBD on various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.

 

The authors concluded that the available evidence from preclinical, clinical and epidemiological studies suggests that CBD has the potential to be an effective treatment for anxiety-related disorders. However, they also stressed the need for further research to establish optimal dosage, long-term safety, and precise mechanisms of action.

Stress can have a significant impact on our mental and physical health, and finding ways to manage stress is important. CBD, a natural compound found in cannabis plants, has shown potential benefits in managing stress.

CBD can help with both internal stresses, such as anxiety, when ingested, and external stress, like eczema when applied topically. CBD has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it a potential treatment option for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, pruritus, and acne.

Additionally, CBD has been shown to interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis and mood regulation. While more research is needed, CBD offers a promising avenue for stress management and the treatment of various ailments associated with stress.

 

 

 

Sources : 

 

• Aizpurua-Olaizola, O., Elezgarai, I., Rico-Barrio, I., Zarandona, I., Etxebarria, N., & Usobiaga, A. (2017). Targeting the endocannabinoid system: future therapeutic strategies. Drug Discovery Today, 22(1), 105-110. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drudis.2016.08.005

 

• Bergamaschi, M. M., Queiroz, R. H. C., Chagas, M. H. N., de Oliveira, D. C. G., De Martinis, B. S., Kapczinski, F., ... & Crippa, J. A. S. (2011). Cannabidiol reduces the anxiety induced by simulated public speaking in treatment-naïve social phobia patients. Neuropsychopharmacology, 36(6), 1219-1226. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2011.6

 

• Blessing, E. M., Steenkamp, M. M., Manzanares, J., & Marmar, C. R. (2015). Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 825-836. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1

 

• Gouin, J. P., & Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K. (2011). The impact of psychological stress on wound healing: methods and mechanisms. Immunology and allergy clinics of North America, 31(1), 81-93. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3151522/

 

• Kim, K. H., & Choi, H. M. (2019). Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of selected natural plant extracts on Propionibacterium acnes and inflammatory cytokines in vitro. Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 18(4), 1108-1114. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12847

 

• Lu, H. C., & Mackie, K. (2016). An introduction to the endogenous cannabinoid system. Biological Psychiatry, 79(7), 516-525. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.07.028

 

• Nagarkatti, P., Pandey, R., Rieder, S. A., Hegde, V. L., & Nagarkatti, M. (2009). Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs. Future Medicinal Chemistry, 1(7), 1333-1349. https://doi.org/10.4155/fmc.09.93

 

• Oláh, A., Tóth, B. I., Borbíró, I., Sugawara, K., Szöllõsi, A. G., Czifra, G., ... & Bíró, T. (2014). Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects on human sebocytes. The Journal of clinical investigation, 124(9), 3713-3724. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI64628

 

• Russo, E. B. (2016). Clinical endocannabinoid deficiency reconsidered: current research supports the theory in migraine, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel, and other treatment-resistant syndromes. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 1(1), 154-165. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2016.0009