CBD Oil For Anxiety: Does It Work?
CBD oil can help mitigate the effects of anxiety, as indicated by medical and scientific studies.
Mental fatigue has increased in the last two years. The isolation caused by the Covid-19 contingency has dramatically increased the number of cases of patients with generalized anxiety, according to a PAHO (Pan American Health Organization) report. It should be noted that this type of mental disorder is affecting even young people.
In this post, we will explain whether CBD oil or cannabidiol really works to relieve anxiety. At the same time, we will indicate some recommendations on its use in order to minimize the risk of side effects.
How does CBD or cannabidiol work?
CBD is extracted from the hemp plant. However, it has 0.2% THC or less, so it has no psychoactive, mind-altering effects. At the same time, CBD is not addictive.
The Electronic Journal Ars Pharmaceutica points out "the great potential of cannabinoids as therapeutic substances, beyond their analgesic or antiemetic use, that is, in neurodegenerative diseases".
The Canna Foundation explains that "CBD is one of the two most important cannabinoid components of the cannabis plant". The same Foundation explains that "CBD has anticonvulsant action, so it is used in the treatment of some types of epilepsy".
The FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) "Approves the use of [CBD] for the treatment of seizures associated with two rare and severe types of epilepsy - Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome (severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy) - in patients two years of age and older." This is stated on its official website.
On the other hand, some scientific research has indicated that it does not act on the endocannabinoid system, rather, its function affects the 5HT1A serotonin receptors. Thus, it can reduce anxiety symptoms and increase the feeling of relaxation. In fact, some experts point out that its properties allow the patient to improve mood and even help to sleep better.
An interesting fact regarding the functioning of CBD in the organism is that it acts on the neurotransmitters responsible for the sensation of fear and the hippocampus. Thus, "it can contribute to lowering episodes of stress and anxiety".
All our oils contain CBD, CBG, CBN, CBDA and CBDV. This makes them 4 times more effective than other brands with only CBD.
Does CBD really work to combat anxiety?
Scientific studies highlight the potential benefits of CBD against anxiety episodes. Therefore, we can point out that it can work. For example, a clinical trial conducted in New Zealand on 400 patients showed positive results not only in the field of anxiety and depression, but also in the treatment of pain (not related to cancer).
The team of experts pointed to "CBD oil as an effective treatment for muscle pain, stress and anxiety". Of course, further clinical trials are needed, but early results are promising.
Moreover, the positive effects of Cannabidiol have been published in prestigious scientific journals such as the Revista Brasileira de Psiquiatria. Experts conclude that CBD can be excellent as a "treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders".
According to a certain study published in the National Institutes of Health, it was noted that CBD "alleviates generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder".
Benefits of CBD oil for anxiety
CBD seems to offer advantages that make it superior to other therapies to combat episodes of anxiety or stress. CBD itself is not a treatment, but an ally that complements the treatments indicated by a health specialist. Below, we will indicate the most outstanding benefits:
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It is 100% natural, which reduces the risk of side effects.
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Relieves post-traumatic stress.
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It has relaxing properties, helps to achieve quality sleep.
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Calms nerves in periods of high pressure or mental exhaustion.
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CBD is not addictive
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It is useful in different types of anxiety
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It is available in CBD presentations for easy application.
How to use CBD for anxiety?
CBD is a cannabinoid from the Cannabis Sativa plant, which has been approved for use or consumption by the general population in countries where it is regulated. However, in some countries oral consumption is prohibited.
Spanish regulations state that although in the United States and other countries CBD oil can be used in drops with beverages or sublingually, in Spain it can only be used externally, that is, topically.
There is a wide range of presentations available for topical use such as soaps, creams, oils, among others, which can contribute to improve anxiety episodes and even other ailments.
The topical benefits of CBD
CBD oil is one of the most demanded presentations in the market. This type of formulation has low or even no THC levels, which can be highly beneficial to health.
The presentation in oil is useful in the cosmetic field improving the appearance of skin and hair.
Does CBD cause side effects?
CBD is considered safe for use. So far, clinical trials have shown few side effects. Here are some of the symptomatology that can be caused by the use of CBD:
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May cause headaches
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Diarrhea
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Dry mouth
In countries where the use of oral CBD is allowed, it can cause dry mouth, while it can also lower blood pressure. In this regard, people with chronic conditions should discuss the use of CBD with their primary care physician.
In conclusion, we can point out that CBD oil has potential benefit in reducing anxiety episodes. There is scientific support that attests to this. On the other hand, it is important to point out that although the use of CBD oil is beneficial as a treatment for anxiety, the other presentations can also be useful, and even to relieve pain or improve the appearance of the skin.
CBD dosage for anxiety
If you are interested in trying CBD oil for anxiety, be advised that more clinical trials are needed to provide definitive clinical guidance on dosing for anxiety.
In a 2018 study, male subjects received a 300 mg dose of CBD orally before undergoing a simulated public speaking test. The researchers concluded that the dose, administered 90 minutes before the test, was sufficient to significantly reduce the speakers' anxiety.
However, the staggering method is recommended to reach the ideal dosage for each of us. From Upani we always recommend starting with low doses, approximately 3 drops. If with that amount you see that the CBD oil against anxiety fulfills its function, you will have found your minimum effective dose. Otherwise, you can progressively increase it week after week. And each of us may require a different dose, what does it influence?
- Weight, age and gender: some studies suggest that women are more sensitive to cannabinoids than men.
- The percentage when buying cannabidiol oil.
- The method of consumption: general recommendations are based on products such as oil where the user holds it under the tongue before swallowing.
Bibliography
Data from studies developed by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, the largest health library of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
2. Healthline and Medical News Today: : media specialized in health and wellness.
3. Studies linked in the section "Research and evidence: CBD oil and anxiety".
Links to these sources of information are found throughout this article, dedicated to CBD oil treatments for anxiety.
*This article is purely informative. It does not provide professional, medical or legal advice.
