In recent years, the UK has witnessed an extraordinary surge in interest surrounding CBD, or cannabidiol. Once shrouded in misconceptions and stigma, CBD has experienced a remarkable transformation in public perception, initially due to its claimed effects on pain and inflammation, but more recently emerging as a captivating substance to support cognitive health and general mental well-being.
How does CBD work?
CBD is one of over a hundred compounds found in the cannabis plant, known as cannabinoids. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce a “high”. Instead, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters involved in helping us self-regulate. In today’s highly stimulated world, our ECS has to work harder than ever to keep us balanced, and it’s no surprise that we struggle sometimes to keep up. Exhausted but buzzing. Tired but stressed. Over-stretched. Over-promised. Hung-over. Our ECS plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including mood, memory, appetite, and sleep.
While research on the cognitive benefits of CBD is still evolving, the existing evidence suggests that CBD has promising potential to enhance cognitive function and mental well-being. CBD interacts with ECS receptors primarily found in the brain and immune system. By jump-starting the activity of these receptors, CBD can therefore directly affect how we feel.
Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can impact memory, attention, and decision-making. CBD has shown promise in countering anxiety; interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain, increasing serotonin levels and promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. In turn, this can then help improve focus and productivity.
Sleep
all know a good night’s sleep is essential for optimal cognitive function, including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. CBD has been investigated for its potential role in improving sleep quality and addressing sleep disorders such as insomnia.
Memory
indicate that CBD can modulate the formation and retrieval of memories by influencing the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for learning and memory. CBD may enhance the consolidation of memories and improve the retrieval process, leading to better overall cognitive performance.
Anti-inflammatory
Research suggests that CBD has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. By reducing inflammation, CBD may help protect against cognitive decline and enhance overall brain health.
Okay, I’m sold. How should I take CBD?
For us, the best way to incorporate CBD into our every day is to think of it like coffee. If we just drank coffee for the caffeine hit, would we not be better at taking a caffeine pill instead? No, because coffee tastes delicious. You can do it in a meeting, after dinner, while out for a walk. For us having a delicious INTUNE CBD drink instead of just relying on drops or capsules means we’re already engaging our brain and producing serotonin which can only be a good thing.