Which CBD for withdrawal?

Cannabidiol, commonly known by the acronym CBD, is a component of cannabis with numerous health benefits. Among its many benefits, CBD is said to have properties that help overcome tobacco, alcohol, or cannabis addiction. So, which CBD for withdrawal?

The health benefits of CBD

Hemp has been used for several centuries for its therapeutic effects. CBD in particular concentrates many of the virtues of this medicinal plant. More than one scientific study proves its properties in particular :

• pain-relieving ;
• anti-inflammatory ;
• antiseptic ;
• regulating the central nervous system ;
• regulating the digestive system ;
• calming and relaxing : cannabis extract acts in particular against sleep disorders.

In addition, certain scientific observations even demonstrate that the cannabidiol molecule would inhibit the development of tumors and cancers. This substance would also promote growth.

Does CBD cause addiction?

Cannabidiol is one of the main cannabinoids present in the composition of Cannabis Sativa L.. But unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the CBD molecule does not have a psychotropic effect and does not create cannabis dependence. The substance is therefore not classified in the category of drugs. This information is confirmed by numerous scientific studies and supported by the WHO. Moreover, this explains why the cannabis compound is legally authorized for cultivation and consumption in France and in several European countries.

CBD for cannabis withdrawal

Tetrahydrocannabinol is the cannabinoid that is at the origin of the euphoric effects of marijuana. Indeed, this substance is one of the most widely used drugs in the world for recreational purposes.

As a reminder, the consumption of THC and other drugs is strictly prohibited by law. This practice is punishable by a fine that can amount to 3 750 Euros and 1 year of imprisonment.

Science proves that the consumption of CBD helps to considerably reduce the desire to take tetrahydrocannabinol. In the long term, the taking of Cannabidiol would even contribute to a definitive cessation of THC. Furthermore, scientific trials demonstrate that the extract of Cannabis Sativa L. would inhibit the euphoric effects of THC.

In addition, the molecule derived from Cannabis Sativa L. promotes the concentration of anandamide in the body. This neurotransmitter regulates mood, emotions as well as the perception of pain. The substance in particular balances the excessive release of dopamine caused by THC and at the origin of euphoria. CBD then acts, by inhibiting the symptoms of cannabis addiction.

Cannabidiol against tobacco dependence

Several scientific studies show that the CBD molecule effectively contributes to smoking cessation.

CBD to Reduce Tobacco Cravings

According to the results of a study conducted in 2013 by scientists at University College London, CBD optimizes nicotine withdrawal. The experiment was carried out on 24 smokers who wanted to quit tobacco. 12 smokers took CBD via inhalation. The 12 other smokers were given a placebo treatment.

After one week, the observations established that the 12 people who took cannabidiol via inhalation saw their tobacco consumption reduced to 40 %. Furthermore, the group did not experience any side effects related to nicotine withdrawal throughout the treatment. Among the 12 others on placebo, the researchers noted no improvement in the number of cigarettes smoked.

CBD and Nicotine Cravings

Another scientific study on the subject was carried out in 2018 at the Psychopharmacology and Addictions Unit of the University of London. The researchers made observations on 30 smokers who did not want to quit tobacco. The trial aimed to highlight the effects of CBD on nicotine cravings in the body. At the same time, the scientists noted the side effects of cannabidiol in the context of smoking cessation.

Initially, the researchers imposed tobacco abstinence overnight for all participants. Then, during the following period, participants had to smoke before sleeping. At one point during the experiment, participants took 800 mg of CBD via inhalation and were then given a placebo. This study established that cannabidiol helps reduce nicotine cravings in daily life. The trial also demonstrated that the component of Cannabis Sativa L. does not cause any side effects.

CBD Against Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol dependence is one of the most common addictions. Consuming cannabidiol would significantly reduce the urge to drink alcohol.

Furthermore, CBD would also be effective against the damage caused by alcohol in the body. Indeed, alcohol alters the functioning of the endocannabinoid system. The alcoholic beverage limits the secretion of cannabinoids. The consumer is thus left unable to manage anxiety and stress. They then present more or less severe anxiety disorders. The consumption of cannabidiol helps regulate, or even promote, the production of cannabinoids. The cannabinoid restores the natural functioning of the endocannabinoid system.

Alcoholism is often linked to a situation of worry or stress. Indeed, alcohol dependence is generally linked to the inability to cope with a difficult, out-of-control situation. By completely disrupting the endocannabinoid system, alcohol thus creates a vicious cycle. Drinking alcohol regularly leads the consumer to progressively lose control of their emotions and the physical reactions linked to anxiety. Their stress only increases, thereby sustaining their cravings for alcohol.

Taking CBD represents an effective solution to overcome alcoholism.

How can the effectiveness of CBD be explained in the context of withdrawal?

In addition to balancing the body's functioning, the cannabidiol molecule has specific properties that help avoid any physical and psychological symptoms related to withdrawal. The lack of a substance generally manifests through physical and psychological symptoms such as headaches and great irritability. These constraints are particularly responsible for relapse. Indeed, to get rid of them, the individual is strongly tempted to resume the substance to which they are addicted.

Thanks to its analgesic and relaxing properties, the product derived from cannabis makes these discomforts disappear. Thus, cannabidiol is an invaluable aid for withdrawal.

Which CBD for withdrawal?

Cannabidiol is sold in different forms. You can notably purchase:

• CBD oil: to be consumed sublingually or added to a meal;
• seeds, leaves, and flowers: to be taken as an infusion;
• CBD e-liquids: to be consumed by vaping in electronic cigarettes. This form of CBD is especially recommended for smoking cessation.
• CBD capsules: these capsules containing CBD powder are the most practical forms of CBD for daily consumption as part of quitting smoking, cannabis, or overcoming alcohol dependence;
• CBD resin or hash: this type of product has a high concentration of CBD and lends itself to different methods of use;
• food products with cannabidiol: candies, chewing gum, etc. These types of products are the most suitable if you wish to incorporate CBD into your daily life.

It is strongly recommended to consult a specialist to determine the required dose in the context of withdrawal.

The risks associated with taking CBD for withdrawal

For information purposes, the effects of CBD vary considerably from one person to another. CBD can cause side effects or opposite effects on the body. These consequences generally result from an overdose of cannabidiol, a poor-quality product, or an interaction with medications. The most common risks are:

• drowsiness: related to CBD's actions on the sleep hormone;
• severe fatigue;
• migraines;
• digestive disorders characterized by a more or less significant loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, or even vomiting.

Furthermore, some CBD consumers are exposed to a risk of bothersome dry mouth. This is due to the effects of cannabidiol on the salivary glands. However, drinking a large glass of water right after taking CBD helps immediately rehydrate the mouth.

The exclusive use of CBD products and quality CBD extracts is the only guarantee of avoiding these side effects.