The global prevalence of addictive substances such as opioids, cannabis products and alcohol has caused an alarming increase in addiction and drawn millions of people into a dangerous cycle of addiction. Of particular concern is the fact that, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), cannabis and opioids are responsible for the majority of addiction-related deaths and are considered particularly addictive. However, in the midst of this crisis, research by British scientists suggests that the active ingredient cannabidiol (CBD), which is derived from cannabis, could be a promising treatment option for addiction. This may seem paradoxical at first glance, but in this article we will take a closer look at the potential of CBD to support addiction recovery and highlight its role in managing addiction.
The opioid crisis is a challenge of global proportions. More and more people are becoming addicted after being prescribed opioids. In the UK and Canada in particular, there has been a worrying increase in opioid prescriptions, use and overdoses in recent years. There can be many different reasons why people turn to drugs. Persistent negative emotions, loss of control or the inability to control impulses can contribute to people falling into addiction. Our environment and genetics are also factors that can put us at risk of developing an addiction.
The constant release of dopamine is a key factor in the development of addiction. This leads to the body reducing its ability to produce dopamine naturally. When dopamine levels fall, the brain becomes accustomed to the addictive substance and searches for it more frequently. This results in a deep dependence on drugs or alcohol to produce enough dopamine.
For this reason, CBD is often recommended as a supportive measure for recovery. CBD can help restore and stabilize dopamine levels in the brain by interacting with our body's endocannabinoid system and suppressing neurons that inhibit dopamine production.
CBD as a substance has a rather mild effect on the cannabinoid receptors. In contrast to the active cannabis ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is not psychoactive - meaning it is not addictive. Due to its ability to block the effects of THC, CBD is also considered a potential candidate for the treatment of cannabis addiction. An early-stage clinical trial is investigating just that. Valerie Curran, who is collaborating on a study at University College London, says: "Our results suggest that CBD doses of 400 to 800 milligrams daily have the potential to reduce cannabis use in clinical settings. However, higher doses are unlikely to provide any additional benefit. Larger studies are still needed to determine exactly how much benefit daily CBD has in reducing THC use." [1]
Furthermore, the use of CBD can improve overall mental health and assist in coping with withdrawal symptoms. All of these positive effects make CBD a promising option for the professional treatment of addiction and to support a holistic recovery process.
With the many different ways you can enjoy CBD, you can find out what is most effective and suits you best. You can use it sublingually by applying cannabidiol to your tongue with a pipette. There are also CBD oil vape products that allow you to inhale CBD. Or you can consume it orally as a capsule, chocolate bar or in other snacks. It's entirely up to you. The only important thing is that you always consult your trusted doctor, especially if you have an addiction.
Addiction disorders are very complex and difficult to treat. CBD could represent a natural, supportive alternative to other treatment methods. Overall, it has to be said that more in-depth studies are still needed. Nevertheless, the available studies are promising. There is no arguing about the many positive aspects, which are obvious. What is clear is that it is very popular and many people suffering from addiction are already benefiting from it.
[1] https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(20)30290-X/abstract