What role do cannabinoids play in modulating the stress response and overall mental health?
What role do cannabinoids play in modulating the stress response and overall mental health? Cannabinoids play a significant role in modulating the stress response and influencing overall mental health through their interaction with the endocannabinoid system. Research indicates that cannabinoids, particularly CBD, can help reduce anxiety and stress-related behaviors by modulating the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol. By interacting with cannabinoid receptors in brain regions associated with stress regulation, cannabinoids may promote a sense of calm and well-being. Additionally, cannabinoids can enhance neuroplasticity and resilience to stress, potentially protecting against the development of stress-related disorders. Understanding the mechanisms by which cannabinoids affect the stress response can inform the development of targeted therapies for mental health conditions (Aso et al., 2021).