How CBD Might Help Those Struggling with PTSD

How CBD Might Help Those Struggling with PTSD

Cannabidiol has been shown to have numerous health benefits when used properly to treat various ailments. Recently clinical studies have shown CBD (cannabidiol) may have a role in treating the symptoms of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). Extracted from cannabis, this cannabinoid has been studied for its ability to help those coping with PTSD symptoms and progress their treatment. There are a number of studies as well as anecdotal reports that use of cannabis or treatment with CBD has a role in reducing the symptoms experience by those who suffer from PTSD.

The effect of CBD on the endocannabinoid system is suggested as the explanation for the therapeutic effects of cannabis. The stimulation of the endocannabinoid receptor with CBD is responsible for the treatment of PTSD symptoms. Martin Lee, director of Project CBD, has researched clinical treatment of PTSD patients. “Researchers found that people with PTSD had lower levels of anandamide, an endogenous cannabinoid compound, compared to those who did not show signs of PTSD,” Lee wrote, “Innate to all mammals, anandamide (our inner cannabis, so to speak) triggers the same receptors that are activated by THC and other components of the marijuana plant.” This cannabinoid deficiency explains how treatment with CBD and other cannabinoids can be successful for PTSD patients. By providing deficient endocannabinoids to patients, we can expect to give relief to PTSD patients.

The CB-1 receptor has been identified as key in functioning of memory when signaling normally. When signalling is interrupted by cannabinoid deficiencies a marked reduction in the ability to process and suppress traumatic memories can be expected. Researchers have found that the CB-1 and CB-2 receptors (the primary receptors affected by cannabinoids) have significant effects on memory when stimulated with both endogenous (natural) cannabinoids, and those provided by cannabis. Low THC cannabis has been produced with high concentrations of CBD to alleviate the effects of a cannabinoid deficient CB system.

Before treating PTSD symptoms with cannabis you should consult a health professional. Advancements in the treatment of PTSD may see the availability of cannabinoid related medications. For some, cannabis provides relief of PTSD symptoms that can’t be provided by any other pharmaceuticals, this has led to the creation of medical marijuana programs by state legislators as well as an increasing amount of clinical studies examining the potential of CBD as a PTSD treatment. Project PTSD has been established as a US non-profit dedicated to encouraging clinical research into the treatment of PTSD with cannabis and cannabinoid compounds. There is hope for PTSD sufferers that these studies will produce a safe and effective set of cannabinoid compounds that successfully treat the symptoms of PTSD.