Cigarette smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide, and despite the known health risks, it can be extremely difficult for smokers to quit.
Nicotine, the addictive substance found in cigarettes, is one of the most addictive drugs, and quitting smoking can be a challenging task for smokers.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that is being studied for its potential health benefits, including its ability to help smokers quit. But does CBD really help cigarette smokers quit, and can you use cbd to quit smoking?
CBD is thought to work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body. The ECS plays a role in regulating various bodily functions, including mood, appetite, and addiction.
It does this by producing its own cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids, which bind to receptors throughout the body. Nicotine, the addictive substance found in cigarettes, is thought to work by activating the ECS, which leads to the release of pleasure-inducing chemicals in the brain.
CBD is thought to interact with the ECS by modulating the production and availability of endocannabinoids. It has been found to inhibit the breakdown of anandamide, an endocannabinoid that is known for its role in regulating mood and appetite.
By inhibiting the breakdown of anandamide, CBD is thought to increase its availability and enhance its effects.
CBD is also thought to interact with other receptors in the body, including the serotonin receptors, which are involved in regulating mood and anxiety.
By binding to these receptors, CBD is thought to have anxiolytic effects and may be beneficial for people with anxiety disorders. This could help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with quitting smoking.
CBD has also been found to have anti-inflammatory effects and may be helpful for reducing the inflammation caused by smoking. This is believed to be due to its ability to modulate the immune system and suppress the production of inflammatory compounds.
CBD is also known to have neuroprotective effects, which could help reduce the damage caused by smoking to the brain. This is believed to be due to its ability to reduce inflammation and protect nerve cells from damage.
Additionally, a pilot study conducted in 2019 with 24 smokers, found that those who used a CBD inhaler for one week, reduced the number of cigarettes smoked by 40%.
Furthermore, another study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, found that CBD helped reduce the symptoms of withdrawal and cravings experienced by smokers trying to quit.
So, can cbd help you quit smoking? It’s important to note that while there is some evidence to suggest that CBD may be helpful for smokers trying to quit, more research is needed to fully understand how CBD works and to confirm its potential health benefits.
Additionally, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD, especially if you are taking other medications or have a medical condition.
In conclusion, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that has been found to have a wide range of potential health benefits, including its ability to help smokers quit.
Studies have shown that CBD may have the ability to reduce the symptoms of withdrawal and cravings, decrease the number of cigarettes smoked, and reduce stress and anxiety associated with quitting smoking.
However, more research is needed to fully understand how CBD works and to confirm its potential health benefits for smokers trying to quit.