CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. IIt is related to our endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex biological network in our bodies. The ECS plays a large role in balancing some of our body’s most important functions, including sleep, focus and mood.
It’s no surprise, then, that this compound is becoming increasingly attractive to many folks in the UK and beyond. Whether it's adjusting to being back at the office desk on a Monday morning or even just for housework and life admin, many of us regularly find staying focused a real challenge. It’s easy for our brains to lose focus if we haven’t got enough sleep, our jobs and obligations are stressful, or if we regularly struggle with anxiety.
With that in mind, let’s dig deeper into how people use CBD as part of their daily routine for greater concentration and focus.
CBD for focus and concentration
CBD interacts with the body in various ways, affecting a whole host of processes within the central nervous system. It’s thought that CBD binds to certain receptors within the ECS, acting on those that relate to mood, and therefore helping to regulate our emotional state.
In regards to boosting concentration, CBD may help to do this by easing the flow of serotonin towards the brain. This neurochemical is widely known as a mood stabiliser, serving to sedate the receptor associated with anxiousness. CBD may also influence the levels of dopamine in our brains, the hormone linked to memory and awareness, but most importantly for this discussion, the ability to focus. When we are lacking in dopamine, our attention suffers as a result. In this way, CBD can potentially influence a range of underlying factors that impair our concentration.
All in all, taking the compound may be able to help control how our body achieves balance — including reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep and focus, and supporting our immune system.
Anxiety
CBD’s impact on mood and feelings of calm is one of its most attractive aspects. This 2019 study found that participants who consumed 25-175mg of CBD a day, benefitted from “decreased anxiety scores”compared to those who took a placebo. A non-human study involving mice also echoed these results, revealing that the compound has effects similar to taking antidepressants.
Stress
CBD is mentioned more and more as a natural remedy for stress, this 2019 study found the presence of CBD helpful in “significantly reducing the stress response” finding “decreased cortisol levels”. Cortisol is also known as the stress hormone.
Further studies have found that CBD may help to alleviate stress through engagement with the endocannabinoid system — which is seen as integral to the body’s controlling of responses to stress. This can in turn help improve concentration.
Sleep
CBD is also used by many to help with sleep. Preliminary trials have shown that consistent CBD use in adults over a six week period saw an improvement of 20% both in sleep quality and quantity. This has led to further research into the potentially positive effect of CBD on insomnia and other sleep-related disturbances. Considering sleep deprivation is one of the main causes of a lack of concentration, it’s again easy to see why CBD could be used to combat this.
How to use CBD oil for focus
When using CBD for focus, the simplest way to take it is oral ingestion via oil. With a few drops of a selected amount on your tongue, you may notice a change quite quickly, should you be in search of a way to swiftly deal with your distraction.
When it comes to dosage, it’s sensible to begin by consistently using a small amount each day. After a period of regularly dosing this way, take stock: if you feel as if you need a larger quantity because you’re not experiencing the desired effect, you may increase the amount — do so gradually. Some users find that a good way to stay on top of how much they are taking and analysing their symptoms is through writing in a journal or other method to keep track.
Before you begin, it may also be worth consulting with a medical professional (such as your GP) if they have an understanding of CBD. They should be able to offer advice on how the compound may react with you personally.
Alternative methods
For those looking for a different way to take CBD, at TRIP we provide a range of CBD-infused drinks, from Cold Brew Coffee to chilled soft beverages in flavours including Elderflower Mint, Lemon Basil, and more. We’ve done the hard part for you — all you’ve got to do is drink up!
General practices
While CBD oil can work wonders, be sure to use it alongside activities and exercises that have been proven to stabilise the mood and minimise distractions, including:
Take a moment in nature
Research continues to show how valuable time outside in nature is for your body and brain. Whether it’s a run, a stroll around the block or a quick trip to the corner shop for snacks, physical activity in fresh air can clear your mind, boost your brainpower, and help you relax.
Make time for yourself
Making sure you take time for self-care is also vital for improving your concentration. This can look different for everyone, whether it is taking time to
do your skincare routine, meditating or just climbing into bed early and watching your favourite show. Doing so is essential to helping you wind down, ready to focus the next day.
Stay social
Spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress and ultimately help you concentrate. During your lunch break on a workday, set aside time to chat to a friend or loved one online, or arrange to meet them for a walk or coffee. Simply interacting with others has been shown to boost neural activity essential for cognition and memory, especially in older adults.
Summary
In short, CBD may potentially help us be more alert, less distracted and more aware. Alongside this, it can help with problems surrounding stress, anxiety and lack of sleep. CBD oil may have positive effects on focus and memory, helping to boost our sense of calm and balance our mood.
However, CBD oil is not a magic cure for poor concentration. The compound works best when used in conjunction with other lifestyle changes. Being sure to take regular walks in nature away from your desk, keep on socialising with friends, and practice self-care through meditation or other means are all excellent ways to boost your ability to focus too.
