According to the United States National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 31.1% of adults have anxiety disorders. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the well-researched compounds in the cannabis plant known to have many potential health benefits. As you know, one of its many applications is in anxiety relief.
Below is how you can use CBD oil for anxiety. You’ll learn what the experts say concerning CBD for anxiety relief and the best ways to use it. We’ll also talk about the potential side effects and the best place to get CBD products.
CBD and Anxiety
The cannabis Sativa plant contains over 500 cannabinoids and compounds, including CBD. CBD is one of the most researched compounds in cannabis. It’s non-psychoactive, so it won’t get the user high.
Cannabinoids, like CBD, bind to certain receptors in the brain to exert their functions. The impact of this bond is the numerous health benefits associated with these cannabinoids.
Studies currently suggest that CBD has multiple pharmacological effects. The legalization of hemp, a class of the cannabis plant, has encouraged many researchers to carry out studies on CBD.
Anxiety disorders are one of the popular areas people use CBD. The question is whether CBD can effectively alleviate anxiety or not.
Let’s look at what some of the research says.
What Does the Research Say?
The authors of a 2015 review state that evidence strongly supports CBD as a potential aid for anxiety. According to them, CBD interacts with some receptors in the brain, including the serotonin receptor.
CBD acts as an activator of a serotonin subtype receptor: the 5-HT1a receptor. As a result, it regulates paranoia and anxiety-induced symptoms.
Also, in the review, the authors found evidence suggesting CBD could help in the following anxiety disorders:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Panic disorder (PD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
More recently, researchers in a 2020 study examined the effects of CBD in 397 adults. This study involved New Zealand adults with various ailments. Each group received CBD treatment for their specific health conditions, including mental health issues, pain, and cancer-related symptoms.
The patients who received CBD reported overall health improvement after three weeks. The group with anxiety or depression recorded an improved ability to function in their daily lives and reduced symptoms.
Overall, 70% of the participants reported improvement in their symptoms and were satisfied.
About 9.9% experienced side effects like sedation. A small portion of the study – 0.8%, didn’t notice any improvement.
Best Ways to Take CBD for Anxiety
Currently, there is no standard dose of CBD for anxiety. Medical professionals and researchers are yet to come up with a recommended dosage.
In one of the studies involving 57 men, CBD doses between 300 to 600 mg significantly reduced anxiety. An effective CBD dosage for any health issue depends on the CBD products and how you use them.
Some of the popular methods of administering CBD include:
CBD sprays: These products usually come in bottles with nozzles. So, you can easily spray them into your mouth.
Oral: CBD oils, tinctures, gummies, and capsules are some of the CBD products you can consume orally.
Gummies are sweet, chewable candies infused with CBD. Oils and tinctures are often available in dropper bottles.
Vapes: CBD e-liquids contain CBD, and when you heat them, it results in inhalable vapors.
Topicals: Creams, gels, salves, and lotions are CBD topical products. You apply directly to the skin for localized relief or treatment.
CBD bath bombs: The way you use these is similar to how you would have an Epsom salt bath to relax after a stressful day.
The method you choose determines how quickly you feel the effects of CBD. For instance, vape CBD products produce immediate effects. Meanwhile, oral administration may take 30 minutes to 2 hours before they begin work.
Although vaping CBD gives an immediate result, its effect doesn’t last long. But, with oral products, the desired effect goes on for hours throughout the day.
Regarding dosage, experts always suggest starting from small CBD doses. From there, you can gradually work your way up depending on your body’s response.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
In this 2015 review, researchers studied the safety and side effects of CBD. They confirmed that users tolerate up to 1500mg CBD per day.
Some common side effects of CBD intake include:
- Dry mouth
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- Changes in weight
- Drowsiness
- Possible interaction with some medications
There are many CBD brands in today’s market. You need a high-quality CBD oil to cure anxiety without putting yourself at risk.
Keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate CBD products. So, it’s in your best interest to conduct your research when purchasing CBD.
Also, if you’re considering vaping CBD, keep in mind that it could cause some potential damage to your lungs.
Only buy CBD from reliable brands that provide independent third-party results or Certificate of Analysis (CoA). You should research and the purchase from the highly suggested CBD oil brands for anxiety or other uses.
These brands produce quality products and are also well-known in the industry.
Where do I Get CBD oil for Anxiety?
There are plenty of places to purchase from if you want to use CBD oil for anxiety. You can buy either from your local health stores or online.
In some states where CBD is legal only on medical grounds, you may need a doctor’s report. That said, the best place to buy CBD oil for anxiety is from online stores.
You have unlimited options when you buy online. Also, you have the time to research each brand before finally settling for the one you want.
Where to buy CBD oil from isn’t a problem because CBD products are currently rampant. How to choose the best CBD oil from a heap of available options is where the problem lies.
Some considerations can help you choose the right brand. The first is to check for brands that carry out third-party tests.
These tests help verify the safety and authentication of the products. Also called Certificate of Analysis (CoA), it helps ensure the product contains what the manufacturer states on the label. So, always check the COA against what’s written on the product label to ensure they match.
In addition to verifying the test results, you also want to check the following:
- The source of hemp plant: Products from U.S-grown hemp are your best bet due to strict regulations guiding its cultivation.
- The ingredients present in the product
- The THC content of the product: It should be less than 0.3%
- Reviews from customers and independent forums or websites
Conclusion
Although study and research on CBD still in its primary stages. The results are very promising. Anxiety management with CBD oil is becoming increasingly popular throughout the world. With a growing body of data supporting cannabidiol’s favourable benefits on a person’s mental health, it’s no surprise that more individuals are turning to CBD for aid.
