The popularity of CBD, or cannabidiol, as the proverbial “chill pill” is based not only on countless anecdotes from users but also on a growing body of scientific evidence. The scientific understanding of the potential health benefits of CBD — particularly CBD from hemp — is still in its early stages and studies have mainly focused on this compound’s calming and relaxing properties. Early evidence also suggests, however, that CBD may help improve energy and focus. 

How can a chemical compound that promotes calmness and relaxation also have the opposite effect? Let’s take a closer look. 

Can You Take CBD for Energy and Focus?

CBD’s potential effects on mental focus are wide and varied; only recently has research explored its potential as a wake-inducing and energy-boosting chemical. One study, in particular, looked at how CBD’s pharmacological properties may influence sleep modulation and mental alertness. 


The experimental evidence still requires further research, as the exact mechanism of CBD’s sleep-wake modulation is yet to be clearly understood. Still, the research cites several other studies that indicate a connection between cannabidiol and alertness. There is some evidence that suggests administering CBD during lights-on periods will increase alertness. In other studies, administering CBD to the hypothalamus activated the wake-related areas of the brain. It’s hypothesized that cannabinoids affect the dopamine system, increasing and decreasing dopamine levels in different parts of the brain depending on how CBD is administered. Dopamine, also called the motivation molecule, is heavily involved in our sense of motivation, focus and wakefulness, as well as the pleasurable sensation we get when we accomplish something. 

How to Use CBD for Energy and Focus

CBD products come in many forms, and even the same forms may have substantial differences in formulation depending on the manufacturing process, CBD source and type of extraction. There are no established guidelines yet on how to take CBD for any particular condition, as studies are still ongoing and conclusive scientific evidence is still lacking. 

If it’s your first time taking CBD, the general recommendation is to start low and slow. This means starting with the lowest dosage (around 10mg is ideal) and slowly increasing your dosage until you experience the result you’re seeking. Ideally, give your body at least a week or longer to respond to the dosage before making any adjustments. 

Choosing the Best CBD Product

The plethora of CBD products available online makes it too easy to choose the wrong one. And while the scientific jury is still out on the effectiveness of CBD as a potential remedy for specific ailments, choosing the right CBD product backed by scientific research is always your best bet if you’re looking to experience the best possible results. 


In addition to using high-quality CBD and the best extraction processes, the manufacturer should also understand CBD bioavailability. StatPearls, a library of medical education, defines bioavailability as “the extent [to which] a substance or drug becomes completely available to its intended biological destination(s).” It’s a measure of how quickly a supplement reaches your bloodstream (where your body can use it) or is metabolized (where your body flushes it).


In simple terms, bioavailability refers to how much of a substance — in this instance, cannabidiol — is effectively absorbed by the body. Unfortunately, many CBD manufacturers do not account for the bioavailability of cannabidiol contained in their products and formulations. To maximize bioavailability, NextEvo’s SmartSorb formulation takes into account CBD’s lipophilic properties to ensure that the CBD is more available to the body.



The Bottom Line

While the benefits of taking CBD for energy and focus are still inconclusive, there are plenty of studies that have found a connection between cannabinoids and improved energy and focus. By taking quality CBD products that absorb better, you’ll be more likely to experience the positive effects.


Michelle Lievense is a long time writer who focuses on science-backed revelations and small business development. When she isn’t tapping the keyboard, you’ll find her hiking the front range of Colorado, slinging mud in her pottery studio, or curled up with a good book in her garden. 


Sources: 

Current Neuropharmacology - “Potential Effects of Cannabidiol as a Wake-Promoting Agent

Neurotherapeutics - “Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders

The Permanente Journal - “Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series

Frontiers in Pharmacology - “A Balanced Approach for Cannabidiol Use in Chronic Pain

StatPearls - Drug Bioavailability



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