Having racing, obsessive, and even compulsive thoughts is more common than you might think in these stressful times. While 2.2 million Americans have an official diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), many more struggle to shut off their inner monologue and relax. Obsessive thoughts come in the form of constant worrying, avoiding germs, looking for exits, suspecting your partner is cheating on you, and more. Pharmaceutical treatments such as antidepressants and benzodiazepines come with such unpleasant side effects as addiction, nausea, headaches, and sexual dysfunction. Of the many natural remedies that people have tried, CBD oil stands out as a superior treatment.
CBD oil contains numerous phytocannabinoids and terpenes that can help boost mood and relax the mind. The terpenes linalool and myrcene relieve anxiety and promote calm, which can help you enjoy the moment instead of focusing on details that you can’t control. The phytocannabinoid CBD works to balance your brain by directly activating serotonin receptors and a small subset of dopamine receptors, reducing ruminating thoughts and allowing your mind to quiet. In fact, a 2011 study by the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that 400-milligram CBD oil capsules were effective at reducing obsessive-compulsive behavior. While CBD oil may help healthy people relax at wellness doses of 25–50 milligrams per day, it is an addition to, not a replacement for your current treatment regimen.
TAKE CARE
CBD oil may interact with certain psychiatric medications. Do not use it before speaking with your doctor.