The human body is capable of producing naturally occurring cannabinoids called endocannabinoids, which are integral to recovery from trauma and emotional management. By looking at how these compounds interact with cannabinoids derived from cannabis plants, we can see various potential therapeutic avenues for survivors of trauma.

The Endocannabinoid System and Its Role in Trauma

The endocannabinoid system manages three processes: the stress response system, memory consolidation, and emotional processing. All of these systems are involved in recovering from trauma. If and when the body experiences trauma, the endocannabinoid system becomes dysfunctional and neurotransmitters become imbalanced and proper stress management cannot occur. So, the relationship of cannabis and trauma, in essence, involves the means by which external cannabinoids can be involved in reestablishing this natural balance.

Managing the Stress Response

Endocannabinoids reduce the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which releases stress hormones. Trauma disrupts this ability and often puts an individual into persistent and chronic states of fear and heightened vigilance. Supplementation of endocannabinoids with the compounds found in cannabis can help displaced endocannabinoids recover and possibly return to normal stress response levels.

Benefits in Processing Traumatic Memories

Cannabis may benefit survivors of trauma by aiding in memory processing and retrieval of the difficult memories that are tied to trauma. THC and CBD affect the consolidation of these memories with time and erase or lessen the immediate emotionality linked with the traumatic memory. This would help an individual work through traumatic experiences without over-activating their emotional self.

Managing sleep and anxiety

Often trauma plays a major disruption on sleep and increases levels of anxiety. The compounds found in cannabis can help improve sleep by lessening disruptions in sleep. REM sleep is often interrupted with intense dreaming or nightmares, which are common in individuals who are suffering from PTSD. The anxiolytic qualities of some cannabinoids can better manage or remove symptoms of hyperarousal, leaving the individual able to engage with the day-to-day functioning.

Promoting neuroplasticity

Cannabis and trauma are connected in another area: promoting neuroplasticity in the brain. Neuroplasticity refers to the capacity of the brain to create new neural connections. It is essential for recovering from trauma, as it allows the brain to develop healthier ways of responding and reduce the impact of traumatic conditioning.

Reducing Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is often associated with trauma and can be present in both the brain and the body. The plant compounds found in cannabis have anti-inflammatory abilities that may help to reduce inflammation associated with traumatic experiences and may help relieve both physical and mental symptoms related to trauma exposure.