How CBD Affects The Brain?

CBD does not cause high or euphoria. It is unlike marijuana, which causes a high due to its high content of THC. However, this does not mean that CBD does not affect the brain. Its effects are more subtle. They are mild enough that one is even allowed to drive when using CBD products vape. So, let us explore how CBD affects the brain and does CBD vape gives me headache?

Panic attacks mainly occur in people living with anxiety disorder. These attacks are generally managed using medications like benzodiazepines. Although CBD is not a medication, people often use it as a non-pharmacological means to stop panic attacks.

Moreover, it is no secret that people who have panic attacks are generally able to say sometime before when they are going to have an issue. Thus, they have a time to take measures and stop things getting worse. There are many studies suggesting that CBD may have a role in preventing or stopping panic attacks.[3]

However, there are a few things to know. Most commonly sold supplements follow FSA guidelines and have very low CBD concentrations. Studies show that one would need to take CBD at higher dosages to prevent panic attacks. Thus, for example, FSA’s updated recommendation says that people should not consume more than 10 mg of CBD a day. However, studies show that to stop panic attacks, one would need dosages like 400-600 mg.[3,4]

Therefore, if one is using CBD supplements or vapes to stop panic attacks, one would benefit more by using full-spectrum CBD, which may help prevent panic attacks at much lower dosages.

To sum up, CBD does influence the workings of the brain. However, its influences are quite mild. To enjoy its health benefits, one should not overdose on it and follow FSA’s guidelines. Nonetheless, sometimes one may use CBD at higher dosages, but one should do that only after consulting a healthcare specialist.

its health effects. Thus, one of the most extensive scientific surveys in the UK found that people use CBD to reduce anxiety, enhance sleep quality, and counter stress. All these benefits are only possible if CBD affects the brain.[1]

So, how CBD affects the brain or how long does CBD oil take to work for anxiety? Well, it causes a mild relaxing effect. It also helps reduce anxiety and excitement and thus improve sleep quality. On prolonged use, it may alter certain neural responses, which may result in an enhanced feeling of wellness and lower stress sensation.

Science is still exploring its mechanism of action, and there are many knowledge gaps. Nevertheless, in recent years, science has made much progress. One way it helps or influences the brain’s working is through its effect on the endocannabinoid system and other neurotransmitters like GABA.[2]

It seems that CBD can help reduce the activity of various excitatory neurotransmitters in the brain. Additionally, it acts on endocannabinoid receptors like CB1 and CB2. Of course, researchers have identified many other receptors that are influenced by CBD. So, there is scientific evidence that it affects the brain, but without causing a high.

1. Moltke J, Hindocha C. Reasons for cannabidiol use: a cross-sectional study of CBD users, focusing on self-perceived stress, anxiety, and sleep problems. J Cannabis Res. 2021;3:5.
2. Peng J, Fan M, An C, et al. A narrative review of molecular mechanism and therapeutic effect of cannabidiol (CBD). Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology. 2022;130:439–456.
3. Wright M, Di Ciano P, Brands B. Use of Cannabidiol for the Treatment of Anxiety: A Short Synthesis of Pre-Clinical and Clinical Evidence. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2020;5:191–196.
4. Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland update consumer advice for CBD | Food Standards Agency [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 2]. Available from: https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/news/food-standards-agency-and-food-standards-scotland-update-consumer-advice-for-cbd.