The World Health Organization estimates that managing depression and anxiety, considered the two most prevalent mental health disorders globally, costs more than $1 trillion. Over the years, the use of anti-anxiety drugs and therapy have been the main modes of treatment. Lately, the discovery of the therapeutic benefits of cannabidiol, popularly referred to as CBD, has seen an increased swift, with most patients and caregivers preferring it besides the conventional remedies. However, does CBD help with anxiety, or is it just an overhyped supplement?
There are several reasons for CBD’s growing popularity as a reliable treatment for anxiety, stress, depression, and other mental health issues. Top on the list is the fact that it is a natural chemical compound with no severe side effects. Furthermore, it is highly tolerated by the body. On top of that, it is good for the overall wellbeing of the body, as it helps manage other conditions such as pain, sleep disorders, skin health, and even digestion.
CBD and Anxiety
The mechanism of action of CBD in managing anxiety and other medical conditions is believed to be linked to its ability to alter or improve the functioning of the endocannabinoid system. The ECS has a broad network of receptors that reach all parts of the body known as receptors. Situated in the central nervous system, the two most popular receptors that bind with CBD to boost the overall performance of the ECS are the CB1 and CB2 receptors.
The neurotransmitters pick signals from various parts of the body and transport the same to the brain, triggering the necessary response to restore homeostasis. In this situation, enough CBD levels in the body aid in the regulation of serotonin production, the “feel-good hormone” that regulates mood, as well as other processes, including memory, digestion, and even learning. More studies are still ongoing to establish, with certainty, the accurate effects of CBD on anxiety.
When it comes to CBD oil and anxiety, there are a few things you need to know. Not all CBD oils are created equal. Some brands are better than others, and some are more effective at treating anxiety. So, when choosing a CBD oil for anxiety, be sure to do your research.
What Does Research Say About CBD and Anxiety?
There exists sufficient evidence from preclinical trials on both humans and animals showing that CBD works for anxiety. Panic disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder are among the conditions for which it is believed and recommended. The main concern that most experts have raised is the lack of proper dosage due to the diversity of CBD oil products that come in different forms and strengths. Even though the existing evidence is sufficient on the effectiveness of CBD oil for anxiety, more human-centric studies are needed. For medical use, you are encouraged to always consult your doctor.
How Do You Use CBD Oil for Anxiety?
If you’re looking for an all-natural way to treat your anxiety, you may want to try using CBD oil. CBD oil is known for its calming effects, and it can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions. Here’s everything you need to know about using CBD oil for anxiety.
- Sublingually: CBD oil is best administered sublingually. Using a dropper, place one or two drops of the oil below the tongue and let it stay there for a few minutes. This gives it time to get absorbed into the bloodstream through the mucous membrane. You can then swallow whatever is left. This method is recommended for faster anxiety and pain relief because the mixture doesn’t go through the complex digestive system. Furthermore, some people might find the earthly sour taste of pure CBD oil is unpleasant.
- Edible CBD: Edibles are the most popular forms of CBD. They are available in different flavors and formulations, such as gummies, pills, capsules, and candies. Edibles are made by adding CBD to normal foods. The primary advantage of edible CBD oil for anxiety is that the effects last longer as they must be processed through digestion. However, it takes longer for the effects to kick in.
- Topical balms and creams: You can also apply CBD topically on the skin, just like any typical cosmetic product. Creams and balms are best applied generously on affected parts of the body for CBD to penetrate the thick layers of the skin.
- Vaping: This is recommended for experienced CBD users, especially those familiar with general vaping. It requires the use of a specialized vape pen and CBD vape. The effects are faster than other methods of consumption. However, it suffers from a similar shortcoming to sublingual administration, as the effects don’t last for long.
The choice of the type of CBD oil for anxiety should be determined by the severity of the condition.
How Much CBD Do You Use for Anxiety?
One of the main challenges that medical experts have raised concerning the use of CBD for anxiety is the lack of precise dosage guidelines. Just like it is the case with most natural supplements, it is not easy to determine the perfect dosage posing the risk of taking too much or too little. To avoid that, you are advised to start with the recommended dosage on the package label. Note that this is usually for guidance purposes only, but you can always refer to the table depending on the potency of the CBD oil you are using, your body mass, how severe the medical condition is, and mode of consumption.
The most recommended method is to start off with low dosages, say a drop of pure CBD oil sublingually. You should then observe how your body responds to the treatment and decide whether to increase or reduce the dosage accordingly until you attain peak performance. If you experience challenges, consult your doctor.
Additional Benefits of Using CBD for Anxiety?
Using CBD oil for anxiety offers other benefits for the overall wellbeing of the user. Some of them are:
- It can help manage sleeping disorders.
- It could be effective in managing depression.
- It has scientifically been proven to manage symptoms of epilepsy. Drugs like Epidiolex are FDA-approved and contain CBD as an active ingredient.
- Addicts struggling with cessation can equally find reprieve in CBD oil.
- It can be used for pain relief due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics.
Side Effects of Using CBD for Anxiety
There are very rare cases of CBD side effects. However, some users have reported some side effects, which may vary from one person to another depending on numerous factors such as type of CBD, dosage, mode of consumption, pre-existing medical conditions and other drugs being used. The following are some of these side effects.
- Dizziness and nausea.
- Mood changes.
- Can alter appetite.
- Dry mouth, especially with full-spectrum CBD oil.
- Can interact with other medicines.
Where to Buy CBD Products Legally?
The Food and Drug Administration does not currently regulate CBD products. Thus it is up to the customer to select high-quality CBD products. The Certificate of Analysis report and that third-party testing was performed by a reputable laboratory to assure the highest quality extracts. Many online vendors will offer customers third-party test reports and certificates of authenticity (COAs).
So if you want to take the best quality CBD for your anxiety, then choose from the trusted brands. Trusted firms like these should give third-party test findings and will mention the legal THC concentrations (less than 0.3%). Avoid items from companies that refuse to disclose information or that put misleading labeling on their package.
Final Thoughts
Managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health complications can be expensive. The use of CBD oil for anxiety treatment is a natural and effective remedy that has scientifically been proven to work. You must, however, ensure that you purchase and consume only the best CBD oil products from reputable brands for the best effects.
