You’ve no doubt smelled the acrid smell of burning tobacco, whether it be from a slim cig or a fat cigar. Inhaling burning tobacco has been around for centuries, with many historians estimating cigars being used by the ancient Mayans as early as the 10th century BCE. When companies like Phillip Morris and Camel were introduced, consumers were incredibly naive to the dangers of nicotine. You have most likely heard of doctors in the 1980s recommending the stuff to children before they knew the truth about its harmful health detriments.
As research has progressed, smokers continue to learn about the detriments and strive to wean themselves off the addictive nicotine via patches, chewing gum, or even quitting cold turkey. But perhaps there’s something else that can help…could it possibly be CBD? In this article, we’ll be looking into whether or not cannabidiol is a successful way to curb those uncomfortable nicotine cravings. Let’s take a look at what some of the experts have to say.
A Word From The Experts
A study from Washington State University found that low amounts of CBD may be a way to inhibit how quickly the nicotine metabolizes in tobacco users. It is estimated that the CYP2A6 enzyme metabolizes more than 70% nicotine, resulting in frequent cravings to replenish the depleted nicotine. The WASU study suggested that low doses of CBD may effectively hinder the production of enzymes (specifically CYP2A6) in the metabolization of nicotine. This means that with CBD consumption, nicotine is digested more slowly, ultimately resulting in less frequent cravings.
In 2013, a study showed CBD was effective in reducing the number of cigarettes smoked by up to 40%. Tobacco users not only reduced their overall cigarette consumption in the study, but maintained their newfound frequency in follow-up interviews. Many experts are encouraged by the outcomes of these studies, but advocate for continued research to confirm if CBD can actually work to help people quit using tobacco permanently.
Additionally, the founder of Mamedica John Robinson has great confidence that CBD can offer a viable option for those looking to kick the habit once and for all. Robinson urges those looking to successfully quit smoking to look into CBD products for a smoother exit strategy rather than trying to eliminate it completely all at once. While CBD isn’t addictive to the user, it may be more effective to use in tandem with other cessation options.
Managing Withdrawal Symptoms
CBD has proven to be effective against uneasiness, a common withdrawal effect from those cutting back on their nicotine intake. Getting rid of a habit can be frustrating and stressful, especially if you go through several packs a day. CBD has shown great success in helping consumers better manage stress, leading to the possibility that this side effect of smoking cessation may become more manageable with cannabidiol. Many smokers lean on nicotine as their way of coping with daily stress; while some are able to quit cold turkey, those with higher levels of stress may find it more difficult to function without nicotine.
Replacing The Habit Rather Than Breaking It
Eliminating a habit entirely can prove quite challenging to some individuals. There are many success stories of people quitting cold turkey, while others struggle to completely remove it from their daily routine. This is where CBD may offer a crucial pivoting point: rather than relying on sheer willpower, it may be possible to “switch” from nicotine to CBD. Consider vaping CBD via CBD vape juice or opting for CBD pre-rolls. The same breathing techniques, the familiar comfort of holding something while exhaling, and the effort of walking outside and standing contemplating your inner thoughts may prove to be more effective than simply chewing nicotine gum or slapping on a patch every time you feel those annoying pangs.
Increased Overall Wellness
In the last decade, there’s been a huge push to show the detriments of smoking. Commercials, billboards, ads, you name it. All with the same message of “Smoking? Bad!, Living? Good!” What these warnings don’t talk about is the benefits of nicotine cessation. Incorporating CBD into your cessation routine can come with even more health benefits.
For example, chronic smokers can expect lung tissue inflammation and deterioration. However, CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties; while it won’t necessarily reverse the effects, it can help reduce inflammation within your lungs and may even encourage healing in your lung tissue.
CBD can also help restore balance in your sleep schedule, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed. It can help you focus, rather than depending on nicotine to power through the day. CBD is ideal for those with low energy, helping replace your morning nicotine fix along with a cup of coffee. Cannabidiol has a plethora of health benefits that research is still studying, but there are many confirmed cases of CBD helping to restore balance to your endocannabinoid system and reducing your dependence on outside (and often detrimental) coping methods like caffeine, nicotine, sleeping pills, and much more.
Can CBD BE Addicting?
It’s understandable to have questions when considering replacing an addictive chemical with a plant-derived compound. The biggest one being that, since nicotine is an addictive substance, can CBD also be addictive? The good news is that, as far as research can tell, CBD is neither harmful nor addictive. In fact, any side effects of CBD are often mild and temporary. The World Health Organization confirms that CBD has a “favorable safety profile” and does not exhibit any effects that might indicate abuse or dependence. CBD is actually well received by those who consume it, who frequently cite an improvement in both physical and mental areas.
Additional Treatment Options For Nicotine Cessation
The biggest decision with nicotine cessation is to consciously make the decision to quit. Whether you possess the incredible willpower to stop immediately or look to gradually wean yourself off, know that there are additional ways to help curb those nicotine cravings. Certain prescription medicines (i.e., patches, chewing gum, oral sprays) contain low doses of nicotine, a viable option as it completely removes any exposure to tar, carbon monoxide, and other toxic chemicals found in tobacco smoke. These prescription medicines can also help reduce undesirable side effects like nicotine cravings, mood swings, and others.
Therapy and counseling are also incredibly helpful as they allow a judgment-free time for those struggling with frustrations, concerns, and doubt. Family and friends can often be a good support system, offering praise and encouragement in times of struggle. As with any lifestyle change, there will be some discomfort and challenges. Surrounding yourself with positivity and encouragement may be crucial to helping you kick the habit for good. But it’s also important to be upfront about any potential outcomes, such as irritability, pleading, or mental anguish. Avoid putting yourself in tempting situations, such as social gatherings with heavy smokers or being around those who continue to smoke, as they may offer the very thing you’re looking to avoid.
Final Thoughts
Cannabidiol has the potential to help reduce your nicotine cravings, but ultimately, complete nicotine cessation depends on you. While CBD most likely won’t eliminate all cravings or prevent any withdrawal symptoms, the plant-derived compound may prove to be quite helpful as your work to completely kick the habit. Experts recommend incorporating CBD into other cessation methods and studies show promising results that those who do reduce their nicotine consumption due to CBD are successful in maintaining the reduced amount. CBD should never be viewed as a “miracle drug” or a cure-all for what ails you. Rather, it should be viewed as a way to restore balance and order into your life, helping you along the way to regaining control of your physical and mental health.
Here at ERTH Wellness, we are dedicated to offering the finest cannabidiol infused products in the industry. We carry an exquisite collection of edibles, ranging from gummies, softgels, tinctures. If you think you would prefer a product type to mimic your nicotine inhalation options, check out our collection of inhalables featuring CBD vape juice and pre-rolls . All of our products have been thoroughly tested by third-party independent labs to ensure purity and potency. You can view these results by scanning the QR code on the product’s packaging or by clicking the embedded link in each product’s description. Should you have any questions regarding CBD and other hemp-derived cannabinoids, feel free to reach out to us! Our dedicated team of experts look forward to speaking with you. In our next article, we will be looking into some of the ways that CBD might be able to help college students perform better in their studies. Be sure to check back soon for this and other in-depth topics surrounding the wonders of the cannabis plant. Hope to see you there!
