CBD’s Effects on the Brain: How CBD Works

Many people choose to use CBD products because of the effects on the brain CBD offers. Taking an active role in your body’s health and wellness is important, and understanding what CBD does do to the brain gives you the facts you need to make a more informed decision. It’s a decision people are making increasingly to help them cope with the day-to-day stresses of life, find a level of focus that helps them succeed professionally, and even get their day started right with more wakefulness and fewer jitters. Adding CBD to your daily regimen can be the right way to find a happier, healthier you.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, commonly abbreviated as CBD, is one of over 100 active compounds found in cannabis plants. CBD oil is derived from industrial hemp which has a THC concentration of 0.3% or less by dry weight. This is the primary distinguishing characteristic between hemp and marijuana, which can have concentrations of THC over 30%, leading to the strong psychoactive effects--or “high”--associated with it. CBD derived from industrial hemp is safe, federally legal, won’t get you high, and should not cause a false positive on drug screens. This lets you explore the benefits of CBD effects on the brain without risking an intoxicated mental state.

What Does CBD Do to the Brain?

It’s important to note that CBD in the doses commonly found in supplements is not for the treatment, prevention, diagnosis, or cure of any illness, disease or condition. While the fact that CBD has effects on the brain is undeniable, in many cases the research into it is nascent, and should only be viewed as informational.

• Increased Endocannabinoids - It’s important to understand that unlike some cannabinoids, which work directly with your body’s endocannabinoid system, CBD helps encourage the production of your own naturally occurring cannabinoids which then, in turn, affect the endocannabinoid system. In short, CBD creates effects on the brain by stimulating your body to have a specific set of responses which can be beneficial to your brain’s structure or function.
• Increased BDNF Production - Not familiar with Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor? That isn’t surprising. This protein plays an important role in keeping your existing brain cells healthy. Studies show CBD use may help increase your body’s output, protecting your neurons.
• Prevents Hippocampus Atrophy - One of the effects of CBD on the brain is the protection it gives this vital area of your brain that’s responsible in part for mood. It is frequently found to be a smaller organ in people suffering from clinical depression and some other maladies. One study suggests CBD may help prevent this atrophy, which could help account for the more positive demeanor and outlook many CBD users cite as an effect.
• Helps Regulate Serotonin Levels - Serotonin is a chemical that does a lot of heavy lifting in our body. From metabolism to brain function, it helps regulate our systems, and research has shown that CBD mimics serotonin on some receptor sites in the brain. This can help you take control of your well being if your body has problems producing serotonin or has problems using it correctly.

Effects of CBD on the Brain

While those are a few of the ways that explain how CBD works on your brain, it doesn’t tell you what it does. The physiological responses listed above, along with others, can offer a wide range of effects.

• Less Anxious Thoughts - CBD is known for promoting a calmer demeanor and much of that is due to the serotonin-like effects it offers. Increased serotonin levels have been shown to lower anxiety. Many people who use CBD in addition to traditional anxiety management feel it gives them a little extra support.
• A More Positive Outlook - Atrophy of the hippocampus is often seen with clinical depression. As this part of the brain loses function, it can make you feel listless, lethargic, and generally down. CBD not only can help protect your existing neurons but help promote the regrowth of already atrophied areas. This can help lead to a brighter outlook in general and more pep in your step.
• Improved Focus - Many people choose CBD for focus and to help manage their studies at school or to impress at the office. By helping you maintain a positive outlook and rein in impulses, you’re better able to approach tasks methodically.
• More Confidence - When you have a more positive outlook and aren’t tied up by unfounded worries due to the effects of CBD on the brain, you’re better able to take decisive action. This can not only make it easier to make a decision but to see it through because you feel more positive about the decision you’ve maFde.
• Fewer Jitters - One of the ways that the calming effects of CBD translate into a physical response is by helping you better control your muscles. Muscle twitches or jitters are sometimes due to the body not being fully in control of the impulses sent through neurons to the muscles. By helping promote healthier neurons and neurological activity, CBD helps you better rein in these stray impulses.

Give Your Brain the Best

If you want to explore the effects of CBD on the brain, make sure you’re only using premium CBD products. Reach out to the top manufacturers in the industry to bring you safe, potent CBD oil products -- like hemp cigarettes, edibles, terpenes, vapes, and topical ointments -- you can count on. These include full-spectrum products that let you enjoy the benefits of both CBD and a range of other cannabinoids.