CBD For OCD. Is it effective?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a specific type of anxiety disorder. The patient with this ailment is tormented by obsessive thoughts (obsessions), with which he tries to cope relying on the help of repetitive actions (compulsions). This type of disorder is very difficult to treat and can seriously impair the quality of life. OCD very often causes social maladjustment, making patients unable to work and build relationships.

Classical approach of treating OCD

There are several approaches to treating OCD. The most famous is drug treatment. It is carried out according to a clear protocol generally accepted in the world: they start with the first drug, and if it does not work in maximum doses, the second drug is prescribed and its effectiveness is evaluated for a certain time, and so on until the result is achieved.

It is believed that falling in love resembles OCD symptoms. Indeed, falling in love is a mental fixation on one object. In terms of the power with which falling in love captures our thoughts, there really is a similarity. But at the same time, unlike OCD, falling in love is pleasant, as a rule, you don’t want to get rid of it. It often helps a person, make him more efficient and productive, in contrast to OCD, which can seriously disrupt the quality of life.

Can CBD oil treat Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

As some studies show, yes. CBD does indeed have a positive effect on the condition of OCD sufferers. It reduces stress and anxiety and has a beneficial effect on the nervous system. Another question is how long the effect lasts. There are currently no clear studies to support the long-term benefits of CBD oils for patients with OCD. But cannabis can still provide some benefits.

How exactly can CBD help?

Let’s take a look at how CBD specifically affects people with OCD. Here is the list of the main effects:

1. Cannabinoids are able to relieve symptoms by activating CB1 receptors (a major component affecting behavioral habits and emotions).
2. In low doses, CBD acts as a sedative, desensitizing receptors.
3. Reduces fear and obsessive thoughts.

As we can see, CBD components have tremendous potential for treating OCD.

Latest news and research

An interesting study recently appeared in the Journal of Affective Disorders. It states that cannabis has a short-term positive effect on symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), reducing their severity in half. But there is a small catch – over time, when used, the tolerance to the effects of medical marijuana increases, and the effect itself diminishes entirely. Thus, CBD only temporarily helps reduce the effects of OCD according to this study.

Another study made in 2015 confirms the benefits of CBD oils. It talks about alleviating anxiety and calming the nervous system, which, even with short-term action, can globally change the patient’s condition.

Takeaways

Thus, CBD has great potential for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder. Its temporary effectiveness has been scientifically proven, and it is possible that the long-term effects of CBD oils on OCD patients will be studied in the future.