Thanks to its benefits for the body, CBD could be used to combat certain addictions.
Several studies* have shown that CBD helps in the withdrawal of many addictions. How does it work? CBD can act on the endocannabinoid system and activate the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are themselves connected to the central nervous system. By modifying the neuronal message, CBD compensates for the various drugs by reducing the sensation of desire. For example, it can inhibit the release of messenger substances such as dopamine and reduce the feeling of pleasure experienced when using a drug by deactivating the reward system.
CBD also helps to reduce withdrawal symptoms through its various benefits. By reducing the feeling of anxiety, CBD partially or totally calms the feeling of withdrawal of an addict. It helps to restore a calmer mind and improve the ability to concentrate.
In short, you will have understood that CBD is an ally in the fight against all sorts of addictions (tobacco, alcohol, heroin, opiates, bulimia...). Here we will focus on three addictions in particular.
CBD against nicotine addiction:
Many smokers who want to stop smoking are turning to CBD. Not only does it reduce withdrawal withdrawal by acting on the endocannabinoid system, but it can also provide a sense of psychological satiety and in general CBD has a relaxing effect that provides a sense of calm and well-being to reduce the feeling of addiction.
Some smokers then turn to electronic cigarettes. On the one hand, inhaled CBD can partially or totally calm the sensation of nicotine withdrawal thanks to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system. On the other hand, the electronic cigarette allows for a smoother transition towards quitting smoking, as a sudden stop is often synonymous with failure. It has the advantage of retaining the smoker's habits due to its "cigarette" effect in the mouth and the gestures which remain similar. Some CBD e-liquids contain nicotine in very low doses, which helps to overcome the withdrawal associated with smoking.
To help you quit smoking, it is possible to turn to different CBD products: CBD crystals, CBD oil, flowers and resins or CBD e-liquids. The trick is to see which product suits you best. Some products such as CBD crystals and flowers can contain up to 80-99% cannabidiol and will have even more powerful effects. CBD crystals also allow you to make your own e-liquid.
CBD against alcohol addiction
Several studies have shown that CBD also has interesting properties to help alcoholics fight their addiction and reduce withdrawal symptoms. However, it is not recommended to mix the use of CBD with alcohol, but using the two substances separately could work wonders.
Excessive alcohol consumption tends to damage the body and increase the risk of developing chronic diseases. Alcohol disrupts the natural neurochemical balance of the brain and decreases the predominance of CB1 receptors. CBD, on the other hand, has antioxidant properties, protects cells from alcohol-induced damage by rebalancing the initial chemical aspects, and promotes cell regeneration. Overall, CBD has been shown to help prevent relapse, significantly reduce alcohol consumption and combat alcohol-induced brain damage.
CBD for cannabis addiction
Even though CBD and THC are substances from the same plant, CBD is not addictive, unlike THC. The advantage of CBD in this addiction context is that it can counteract the symptoms associated with THC addiction. Thanks to its various properties and its action on the general well-being of the mental and physical state, CBD will neutralise the effects caused by THC addiction such as: insomnia, nervousness, depression, aggressiveness, nausea etc.
How is CBD used to combat addiction?
CBD-based products can be found in various forms: CBD oils, CBD flowers, CBD e-liquid, CBD softgels... It is preferable to choose a product according to its mode of administration, which best suits your habits and preferences. However, not all methods of administration will have the same effects, some take longer than others to work. We tell you more about the different methods of administration in the article " How to consume CBD and in what quantity ". Generally speaking, CBD oil will have the fastest and longest lasting effects. Absorbing the oil sublingually allows for a better absorption of CBD by the body. The product is absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the blood capillaries under the tongue. The oil is then 4 to 5 times more potent than a conventional oral intake of CBD.
There is no specific recommendation for the dosage in the fight against addiction. We advise you to start with small doses and to increase them as you go along, depending on the effects you feel and desire. The amount of CBD varies from one product to another, from the concentration of CBD in the product itself and according to the needs of the consumer. Each body reacts differently and some will be more sensitive to CBD than others. Do not hesitate to involve your doctor in order to have his or her opinion on the quantity to be taken and a follow-up during your withdrawal. Be careful as CBD can cause some side effects if overused. Our article " What are the side effects of CBD " tells you more about this.
Some studies have demonstrated the use of CBD to combat addiction:
