Let go of stress: How CBD can scientifically help you switch off

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Entspannen mit CBD – moderne Wohnszene mit CBD Öl, Hanfblättern und einer Gedankenblase mit dem Wort CBD als Symbol für mentale Ruhe

In our modern performance-oriented society, “switching off” has often become a bigger challenge than the work itself. Our diaries are full, our smartphones demand our constant attention and our cortisol levels remain permanently high. Those who lie in bed at night and cannot stop the carousel of thoughts are often not looking for wellness tips, but a physiological “brake” for the nervous system.

This is precisely where cannabidiol (CBD) comes into focus – not as a miracle cure, but as an antagonist to our body’s stress hormones. As specialist retailers, we at Herba di Berna are asked every day: can CBD really relax us physiologically or is it just a placebo?

In this article, we leave the realm of pure anecdotes behind. We shed light on what current research says about the endocannabinoid system, how you can safely integrate CBD into your everyday life and which of our product variants – from indoor flowers to CBD oil – are best suited to you.

Why relaxation is so biologically difficult for us today

A woman relaxes on the sofa with a cup of tea and CBD products to relieve everyday stress.

From a biological point of view, stress is nothing more than an ancient survival program – the so-called “fight or flight” mode. In stressful situations, our body is flooded with stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. What used to be essential for survival becomes a problem in modern everyday life: as we often no longer physically relieve stress (e.g. by running away), the level of stress hormones remains permanently elevated.

The result: our inner system is out of sync because the necessary counterpart in the nervous system – the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for recovery – is no longer sufficiently active.

It is precisely at this physiological point that the scientific interest in cannabidiol (CBD) begins. The decisive difference to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is its mode of action: CBD does not have a psychotropic or intoxicating effect. For everyday use, this means that you remain completely clear-headed and efficient. It is not about an artificial anaesthetic, but about helping the body to regain its natural balance.

The endocannabinoid system: the conductor in the background

To understand why CBD is not just hype, it is worth taking a look at human biology. Every human being has what is known as an endocannabinoid system (ECS). This complex network of receptors (especially CB1 and CB2) runs through our entire body and nervous system.

Put simply, the ECS acts as a “regulatory system” that strives to maintain homeostasis – i.e. the internal biological balance. When stress disrupts this balance, the ECS tries to counteract it. (If you want to know exactly how this fascinating system works, we recommend our detailed article on the endocannabinoid system).

What does the research say? Scientific studies have clearly shown that CBD interacts directly with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). In particular, it modulates the CB1 and CB2 receptors and can slow down the breakdown of the body’s own cannabinoids. The interaction of the various plant substances – the so-called entourage effect – is particularly effective and significantly supports the synergy of full-spectrum extracts.

A widely cited clinical study published in the Permanente Journal (Shannon et al., 2019) investigated the effect of CBD on 72 adults with anxiety and sleep problems. The results were promising:

  • In 79.2% of participants, anxiety levels fell in the first month.
  • Sleep quality improved in 66.7% of subjects in the first month, with the effect on sleep fluctuating more over time than the anxiety-relieving component Shannon, S.; Lewis, N.; Lee, H.; Hughes, S. (2019).

Important note on classification: Although these results are positive, from a legal and medical point of view CBD is not a medicinal product, but a means of supporting well-being.

Which CBD product suits my relaxation?

At Herba di Berna, we offer various ways to use CBD. The choice depends largely on how quickly you want to feel an effect and which rituals you prefer.

1. the classic: CBD oil for everyday use

If you are looking for a discreet application, our CBD oil is ideal. The drops can be dosed precisely thanks to the pipette. Many of our customers use the oil as an integral part of their evening routine to leave the day behind them.

A look at the research helps to understand the differences: Scientific reviews on pharmacokinetics show that absorption via the mucous membranes or the digestive tract is delayed compared to inhalation, but that the concentration of active ingredients in the body is maintained over a longer period of time Blessing, E. M.; Steenkamp, M. M.; Manzanares, J.; Marmar, C. R. (2015).

2. the ritual: CBD flowers (indoor & outdoor)

For many, switching off begins with the conscious ritual of smoking or vaporizing. The focus here is on taste and the terpene profile:

  • For connoisseurs: Our indoor flowers offer the most intense aroma and highest quality.
  • Close to nature: If you like it original and inexpensive, choose our outdoor versions.
  • Price-conscious: Want to relax without breaking the bank? Then our Trim is an excellent choice – many people also like to use it for making tea.
CBD for relaxation - natural, fresh mood with CBD oil and cannabis flowers for a positive sense of well-being

When inhaling, the effect is often noticeable after just a few minutes, but usually lasts for a shorter time than when using oil.

Tips for the shutdown application

For relaxation with CBD to work, the application alone is often not enough. See CBD as a tool, not a magic button.

Application: “Start low, go slow” As every body reacts differently, there is no universal quantity X for everyone. In the specialist literature on the use of cannabinoids, the principle of titration is therefore almost always recommended: Start with a low dosage and increase it slowly over several days to avoid unwanted side effects and find your personal “sweet spot”.

Do you have any questions about the right application or product selection? We will be happy to advise you personally and discreetly in our CBD specialist store in Bern.

Conclusion on relaxation with CBD: find your personal haven of peace with Herba di Berna

In a world that is spinning ever faster, a conscious break is not a luxury, but a necessity. At Herba di Berna, we are convinced that true relaxation begins where quality and naturalness meet.

You should take just as much time and rest for yourself as we give our plants to grow and mature. Whether you end the evening with a few drops of our CBD oil or enjoy the aroma of our indoor flowers is of secondary importance. The important thing is that you find a way that suits you.

We invite you to discover our range and find your own companion for more serenity in everyday life. Listen to your body, start slowly and enjoy the moment.

Häufige Fragen (FAQ) zum Thema Entspannung und CBD

Wie kann CBD im Körper zur Entspannung beitragen?

Research suggests that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system and can influence receptors that are responsible for stress processing and anxiety regulation (e.g. serotonin receptors). This can lead to physical tension and inner restlessness being dampened without an intoxicating effect occurring Blessing, E. M., et al. (2015).

Kann CBD auch müde machen, wenn ich es tagsüber nutze?

CBD is generally not considered sedating (sleep-inducing) like classic sleeping pills, but rather has a regulating effect. However, studies show that very high doses can cause drowsiness in some people, which is why the “start low, go slow” principle is essential Blessing, E. M., et al. (2015).

Kann ich CBD Öl mit Alkohol kombinieren?

It is recommended that alcohol and CBD are not consumed in large quantities at the same time, as they could reinforce each other’s effects (e.g. tiredness). If you want to relax, you should ideally consider CBD as a healthy alternative to an “after-work beer” and not as an additive.

Macht die regelmässige Einnahme zur Entspannung süchtig?

No, according to the WHO, CBD has no potential for abuse or dependence. It can therefore be used regularly for relaxation without developing a physical dependency as with nicotine or strong sedatives.

Wann ist der beste Zeitpunkt für die Anwendung am Abend?

Experts in sleep hygiene and cannabinoid research often recommend using it about an hour before you plan to go to bed. This gives the body time to calm down and adjust to the night phase while the relaxing effects can unfold Shannon, S.; Lewis, N.; Lee, H.; Hughes, S. (2019).

Gibt es beim Entspannen mit CBD Nebenwirkungen?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CBD is considered to be well tolerated and safe, but can cause side effects in rare cases. These include dry mouth, slight dizziness or changes in appetite, which usually disappear when the dose is reduced.

Ist CBD auch bei starkem psychischen Stress geeignet?

Many people use CBD to help with stress, but it is not a substitute for professional therapy. If the stress is chronic or anxiety disorders are present, the use should always be discussed with a doctor or therapist beforehand.

Welche Dosierung ist für den Anfang optimal?

There is no general dosage, as every body reacts differently. Experts advise starting with a low dose (e.g. 2-3 drops of a 5% or 10% oil) and slowly increasing this over several days until the desired relaxation effect occurs.

Sources & further links

Shannon, S.; Lewis, N.; Lee, H.; Hughes, S. (2019)
Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series.
The Permanente Journal, Volume 23, Article 18-041.
Link to the study

Huestis, M. A. (2007)
Human Cannabinoid Pharmacokinetics.
Chemistry & Biodiversity, Volume 4, Issue 8, Pages 1770-1804.
Link to the study

Healthline (medically reviewed) (2023)
CBD and Alcohol: What Happens When You Mix Them?
Healthline Media.
Link to article

Wikipedia Cortisol Wikipedia
Link to the definition

lessing, E. M.; Steenkamp, M. M.; Manzanares, J.; Marmar, C. R. (2015)
Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders.
Link to the study

Babson, K. A.; Sottile, J.; Morabito, D. (2017)
Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: A Review of the Literature.
Current Psychiatry Reports, Volume 19, Article 23.
Link to the study

Millar, S. A.; et al. (2018)
A systematic review on the pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol in humans.
Link to the study