In 2021, almost 4.5 million people consumed THC, the addictive component of the hemp plant. The experts assume that the number of unreported cases in Germany is significantly higher. But smoking weed often leads directly to addiction. Fighting cannabis addiction with cannabis components - sounds paradoxical, but it's actually supposed to help.
Cannabis addiction occurs when those affected are dependent on the psychotic component THC. CBD and THC dock on the same receptors in the body. The theory is that CBD blocks the harmful effects of THC.
The first evidence for this assumption has now been found in a study.
Reduce or quit completely
When addicts go through withdrawal, they are faced with the choice of reducing the amount or quitting completely. At first the reduction sounds easier because you are weaning your body off. In practice it has been shown that exiting is easier.
Reducing has the following disadvantages:
- You come into contact with the drug again and again
- You have to define clear goals. “I want to smoke weed less.” “I only smoke once a week”
- It takes enormous willpower to repeatedly decide against consumption
What happens in the body during withdrawal?
The first withdrawal symptoms usually appear in the first 48 hours and peak after 4-6 days . Normally these disappear again after 3 weeks .
Common symptoms include:
- Muscle tremors, heavy sweating, hot flashes, increased temperature
- Diarrhea, stomach problems, nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Nervousness, restlessness
- Irritability, aggression
- Mood swings, depression
- Sleep problems and confused dreams
- decreased or increased appetite
- aggressiveness
- depressions
- Fear
However, it can take 5-6 weeks until the craving (carving, addictive pressure) for cannabis diminishes. Even after that, cravings can occur in an addict throughout their life. This makes it all the more important to establish a stable environment and fixed routines that will help you in the event of an impending relapse.
CBD as a withdrawal aid
In a study, British researchers have now discovered initial evidence of a positive effect of CBD during withdrawal . Taking 400 or 800 mg of CBD daily helps you avoid THC more often. Current research shows that this cannabinoid can alleviate withdrawal symptoms and the pressure of addiction.
In particular, the sleep-promoting effect and the anxiety-relieving effect are said to be particularly important during withdrawal.
The experts are insisting on further studies to substantiate these initial indications. However, they advise against commercially available CBD products because they are not sufficiently concentrated and controlled.
Alcohol, tobacco and opiates
The ingredient in the hemp plant also helps you get rid of other addictions . Because CBD docks onto the serotonin receptors, happiness hormones are released. This counteracts the withdrawal symptoms. There are already initial studies confirming the positive effect of CBD during withdrawal for opiate, alcohol and nicotine addictions.
Approach withdrawal correctly
Breaking free from an addiction is no easy task. CBD can help with withdrawal, but is not a miracle cure. It is important to integrate new routines into your everyday life and to get support from your family and friends .
In any case, professional help should be sought to have experts accompany you through this process. Ideally, CBD will be used alongside therapy.
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