Can CBD Help in Removing Fear of Flying?

Flying can make you feel anxious, especially for the first time. However, CBD can help people enjoy the flight and feel comfortable by creating a relaxing environment. A person can use CBD before, during, and after the flight.

Traveling is not always fun; it causes stress and fatigue. When planning to travel by air, one might get anxious and stressed before boarding the flight. There are conventional drugs that one may use to alleviate flight fear and anxiety, but some may lead to a lack of appetite during flights. However, organic products are a better solution; they are harmless and put the body and mind at ease. CBD products are an example of organic products ideal for flying. This article discusses how CBD helps with the fear of flying.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is an organic compound derived from hemp or marijuana. However, these compounds also contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), terpenes, and flavonoids. Unlike marijuana for recreational value, hemp is used for therapeutic benefits. Since the plants belong to the same family, cannabis sativa, there are inaccurate misconceptions regarding the effectiveness of CBD oil because of marijuana. CBD has THC levels below 0.3%. A few drops taken before or on board help calm the nerves and release the tension caused by anxiety, making the flight less stressful. CBD also allows the body and mental relaxation for adequate rest once onboard.

How CBD Works

The human body already has cannabinoids in the endocannabinoid system. The role of CBD is to activate the receptors around the body and brain. According to Staurengo et al.  (2019), it optimizes body processes and functions, enhancing anti-inflammatory, stress-reducing, and pain-relieving actions in the body and mind. The process is natural and eases the stress and anxiety associated with traveling. Yang et al. (2021) explained that the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD are also important when flying; it helps relax muscles and organs. This study also shows that CBD oil aids people to sleep during the flight.

Is CBD Legal?

The legality surrounding CBD products is a bit confusing; therefore, before deciding to travel with any hemp-based products from one state to another or a country to the other, confirm their legality. According to the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD products are only legal in the US if their THC levels are below 0.3%. According to Fattore et al.  (2011), THC is an intoxicating compound that gives a "high." It could not lower the high effect among hemp-based users. Hemp products are legal in most states in the US since their THC levels are below 0.3%.

Although the Farm Bill legalized hemp-based products in the US, it mandated federal governments to set regulations within their territories. As a result, states regulate the use of hemp-based products within their territories. In states like Idaho, hemp-based products are restricted completely, including for medicinal value. Therefore, before traveling with CBD to any state or country, it is important to confirm their regulations to avoid law violations that might get you in trouble.

When Should You Use CBD Oil?

There are three options; before, during, and after. Like any medication, CBD is more effective before getting on the plane. Take considerable doses to lower the anxiety and fear levels.

Pre-Flight

Pre-flight CBD is taken to tackle the anxiety before the flight. It also curbs any panic attacks. Considerable potencies should be key since too much CBD can mess up the entire flight thAn making it better.

During

Unlike THC, which might result in intoxicating side effects, CBD is safe during the flight. Since it is classified under foods or beverages, an individual can take it at the airport and must go through security. However, confirm its legality in the place of destination to avoid violating federal laws.

After

Some people still feel discomfort after the flight. Therefore, you can take CBD oil up to three days after the flight. However, it is wise to consult a GP before consuming any hemp-based product for them to determine its impact on the body and mind. Most products have prescriptions, although minor doses are ideal.

What Type of CBD Is Suitable for Flights?

Pay attention to the type of CBD; full-spectrum, isolate, and broad-spectrum. Full-spectrum CBD has all the organic elements, including THC. Therefore, it might not be suitable for addressing flight fears or anxiety. THC has intoxicating side effects, including heightening anxiety levels.

Broad-spectrum works best in place of full spectrum. It has various useful elements of hemp, including terpenes, flavonoids, and CBD. Besides lowering anxiety, it can be used for various health benefits. According to de Assis et al. (2021), broad-spectrum CBD is suitable for lowering pain levels, external and internal. It has an entourage effect, offering more health benefits due to multiple compounds. However, it should also be taken in micro doses to avoid possible side effects. Isolate CBD is also ideal for a flight. It is the pure form of CBD. Pure CBD is limited to health benefits associated with cannabidiol, such as lowering anxiety levels. However, it should be of considerable potency. According to Liu Tina (2019), too much of it can cause diarrhea and anxiety, interfering with the flight’s comfort.

Conclusion

Consumers should no longer worry about flight fears or discomfort with CBD. It is an organic solution that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoids to lower anxiety and stress levels. CBD also has relaxing effects that make you fall asleep during the flight. However, it is only effective at considerable potencies. High potency levels can cause anxiety and other side effects such as diarrhea, dry lips, and a change in appetite. Broad-spectrum and isolate are highly recommended due to the absence of THC. Traveling with CBD should be done carefully. Before boarding a plane with these products, confirm they are legal in your destination to avoid violations of federal or state laws. CBD is only legal in the US if its THC levels are below 0.3%.

References

de Assis, P. M., Ferrarini, E. G., Baldasso, G. M., Paes, R. S., Gouvêa, M. C., Segundo, C. E. N., ... & Raposo, N. R. B. (2021). Broad-spectrum Cannabis oil alleviates behavioral symptoms associated with stress-related anxiety and depression in mice. Pharmaceutical Sciences, 28(2), 239-250.

Fattore, L., & Fratta, W. (2011). Beyond THC: the new generation of cannabinoid designer drugs. Frontiers in behavioral neuroscience, 5, 60.

Staurengo-Ferrari, L., Badaro-Garcia, S., Hohmann, M. S., Manchope, M. F., Zaninelli, T. H., Casagrande, R., & Verri Jr, W. A. (2019). Contribution of Nrf2 modulation to the mechanism of action of analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs in pre-clinical and clinical stages. Frontiers in pharmacology, 9, 1536.

Liu, T. (2019). What is CBD Oil? Learn the Facts: Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects.

Yang, L., Zhang, J., Zheng, S., Hou, A., Wang, S., Yu, H., ... & Jiang, H. (2021). The phytochemistry, pharmacology and traditional medicinal use of Glechomae Herba–a systematic review. RSC advances, 11(31), 19221-19237.