We are living in stressful times and everyone has their own coping strategies: a glass of wine or two at the end of the day, or zoning out and binging a favorite show. When left unchecked however, stress can make us sick as it is linked to everything from depression and anxiety, to heart attacks, issues with gut health, and even cancer.
Many are looking to natural remedies to help keep stress and anxiety at bay, and adaptogens have become a popular choice. Adaptogens are plant-based medicines that people primarily take as a way to help the body become more resistant to all kinds of stressors. Chinese and Ayurvedic traditions have used these plants for centuries, but the term adaptogen originated in the 1950s and ‘60s as a way to describe compounds that would increase our resistance to stress. Examples of known adaptogens include ashwagandha, maca root, rhodiola, siberian ginseng and holy basil, with studies suggesting they can help return the body to a state of balance, reducing symptoms like anxiety, brain fog, fatigue, and low immunity.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is the non-intoxicating cannabinoid extracted from cannabis plants that can be used to reduce stress and help the body function at its best. Like adaptogens, CBD can help bring homeostasis to internal systems which in turn can reduce anxiety, ease depression, combat fatigue and boost the immune system. One difference between the two is that adaptogens target the adrenal glands, while CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Despite this difference, many medicinal properties of CBD mimic effects that adaptogenic herbs have on our adrenals and immune system, both of which play an integral role in our body’s ability to stay healthy, fight disease and manage stress.
CBD helps to maintain homeostasis in the body and can help boost focus and clarity, or have a relaxing effect. There are many health benefits of CBD including decreased anxiety, more restful sleep, lower blood pressure, and unlike adaptogens alone, CBD provides relief from pain and inflammation. The anti-inflammatory effects of CBD play a role in boosting our mood, reducing pain, and improving our general wellbeing.
If you are exploring replacing a herbal adaptogen with CBD, or combining CBD with adaptogens, we suggest starting by taking one at a time to find the right dosage for each and help you to hone in on the best regimen for you. The quality of products can vary significantly between different retailers which will affect how much of a benefit you'll see. All Ouide products are made from only the highest quality ingredients, including full-spectrum CBD oil carefully crafted in our boutique lab. For CBD with minimal THC try our Relieve+ Healing Oil, or for slightly higher THC content try our Recovery Mending Oil. CBD is also available through our lines of flavored gummies and pastilles in varying doses, with either sativa, indica, or hybrid options depending on what you’re looking for.
As always, if you are taking other medications be sure to talk to your doctor first to ensure no unwanted interactions will occur. Start low and go slow to ensure the best experience and result.
Comments