CBD is becoming increasingly popular for its medicinal benefits, with more research and anecdotal evidence presented all the time. It is well known for its calming effects, which means CBD could help those suffering from social anxiety. CBD-rich hemp flower, with its fast absorption, offers a promising treatment.
Do you have social anxiety?
Are you extremely afraid of being judged by others? Does your anxiety make it difficult to do everyday things like talking to a cashier or speaking in class? If so, you may have social anxiety disorder (SAD) — which is a persistent fear of being watched and judged by others. The National Institute of Mental Health lists the following symptoms for SAD:
- Avoidance of social settings
- Feeling extremely self-conscious, embarrassed, and awkward
- Finding it scary or difficult to talk to others
- Being afraid that others will judge them
- Nausea/sick to the stomach feeling
- Rapid heart rate
- Sweating and blushing
- Trembling
- Blank mind
- Trouble catching your breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Panic attacks
Additionally, someone with SAD may overanalyze social interactions afterward, looking for ways in which they may have embarrassed themselves. Their physical symptoms can cause more anxiety, as they may worry that others will notice their blush or shaky voice. This persistent fear of potentially embarrassing themselves prevents them from doing or saying things they would normally do or say. Suffering from social anxiety can prevent a person from reaching their full potential.
What is CBD and how can it help?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid, a naturally occurring compound found in cannabis plants. CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the two most prominent cannabinoids, though they function differently in our endocannabinoid system. THC is the intoxicating element that gets you high, while CBD is non-psychoactive. Both hemp and marijuana plants contain these cannabinoids. Where hemp has a low level of THC and high CBD, marijuana is the opposite. The products you see on the CBD market today are derived from the hemp plant, which was made legal to cultivate in the United States by the 2018 Farm Bill.
The benefits of CBD are numerous and can help treat a variety of medical conditions, including but not limited to:
- Inflammation
- Anxiety and depression
- Chronic pain
- Autoimmune disorders
- Neurological conditions
- Insomnia
CBD facilitates functions in our endocannabinoid system, which regulates homeostasis and affects our central nervous and immune systems. Experts believe that CBD acts similarly to SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as Prozac and Paxil by preventing the breakdown of endocannabinoids. This allows these molecules that signal your body to act (to relax, for example) to have more of an effect.
What about CBD flower?
CBD has taken the world by storm, and it comes in just about every form — oils, edibles, tinctures, topicals, sprays, concentrates, and of course CBD flower. Most people know about intoxicating marijuana buds, but what is CBD flower? Harvested from the hemp plant, CBD bud usually contains a low level of THC so users will experience somewhat of an entourage effect with the combination of terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids. You can find several strains of CBD-rich flower, like sour space candy or classic kush.
While many different CBD products offer calming and relaxing effects, the fastest delivery method is to inhale it by smoking or vaping. When you smoke CBD flower, the cannabinoid will go directly into your bloodstream, allowing you to feel the effects much faster. This quick method is especially beneficial for those who suffer from social anxiety. Pre-rolled CBD flower cigarettes are designed to be extremely discreet with no hemp odor (or nicotine). If you’re feeling anxious before a social event, you could simply smoke a CBD cigarette beforehand.
If you have social anxiety, you’re not alone — about 7% of Americans are with you. Talk to your doctor about possible treatments for your anxiety, including CBD dosing. Remember that even while CBD is natural, smoking it could have possible side effects and the low THC content will show up on a drug test.
