CBD For Anxiety: What You Need To Know

Anxiety, as an instinctive response, is necessary for some threatening situations for our own or loved one’s safety. But when the same response gets to our nerves and agitates our peaceful living, it needs treatment. Paying attention to anxiety symptoms can prevent it from taking over our lives. Many, irrespective of age, fall victim to different forms of anxiety disorders. An epidemiological survey specified that in this 21^st century about 33.7% of the population suffer from such disorders during their lifetime. Women are more likely to suffer from anxiety disorder due to several reasons. According to the H.H.S (Health and Human Service, U.S), there are primarily 5 types of anxiety disorders – GAD (generalized anxiety disorder), OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), panic disorder, and SAD (social anxiety disorder).

What is CBD Oil?

CBD or cannabidiol is one among the hundred other cannabinoids, found in the cannabis sativa and cannabis indica plants. To be specific 40% of the plant’s extracts is cannabidiol. CBD strains deliver a lot of medicinal benefits without making you feel elevated, not like the other equally important compound THC or tetrahydrocannabinol which causes the feeling of ‘high’. It can help in restricting the growth of cancer cells and also work as anti-pain relief, control seizures, treats epilepsy, Alzheimer disease, and so on. This intoxicating compound of cannabis is also given credits to help treat different forms of anxiety.

How can CBD oil help treat anxiety?

The human body consists of the endocannabinoid system also known as ECS which has two main receptors- CB1 and CB2. These receptors are spread out through the body. The CB1 receptors are found in the brain and regulate our cognitive and emotional functioning. CB2 receptors are found in the gastrointestinal system and modulate inflammations in the body. Getting a dose of additional cannabinoids to interact with these receptors can help assist the functioning of the endocannabinoid system in retaining homeostasis in our body.

Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, also scientifically called 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is responsible for sending messages throughout our nervous system. The chemical properties of CBD oil amalgamate with the serotonin receptors of the ECS, found in the digestive system (gastrointestinal tract) and in the central nervous system. Serotonin or 5-HT helps regulate mood, digestion, sleep, memory, etc. Age and depression reduce the level of 5-HT receptors. CBD oil supports it to help treat anxiety, mood disorders, and pain management in the human body.

There are some studies which stated that CBD is a viable natural remedial for anxiety disorders. Another research indicates cannabidiol is a great treatment for social phobia. Public speaking tends to make one anxious if suffering from social anxiety disorders. Use of CBD oil can help reduce this concern.

For patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, a recent study gave the conclusion that CBD provides benefits by helping them deal well with traumatic memories.

CBD oil can also be an effective means of treating OCD or obsessive-compulsive disorder. People diagnosed with OCD are gravitating towards CBD as natural treatments they could administer themselves. Using CBD oil also elevates the level of anandamide, a cannabinoid neurotransmitter naturally produced by the body. It is also called the ‘happiness hormone’. 

Can CBD oil replace antidepressants?

The traditional medications for anxiety and depression are Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors or SSRIs. Drug companies highly target to develop SSRIs to help transmit serotonin signals in the brain cells. Prozac and Zoloft are antidepressant medicines given for treating different types of anxiety disorders. But these come along with several side effects leading to worsening the condition of the patient. This is the reason why people are switching to an alternative option or maybe to say a healthier option of treating such issues. In addition, you can always try some antioxidant foods to help combat anxiety disorder and depression. Studies do support the therapy of antioxidants supplements in treating patients with such disorders.

CBD has created a revolution in treating several ailments especially in working as an anti-inflammatory natural treatment. CBD offers potential benefits to people suffering from chronic inflammations both mentally and physically. Research states that when our body is going through an inflammatory state to fight diseases, we tend to suffer from symptoms of depression or anxiety. We suffer from insomnia and mood disorder that affects other normal functioning. 

CBD oil is a natural alternative for treating anxiety. But due to the stigma around it, most people tend to stick to antidepressants prescribed to them even though they have severe side effects. If we consider the age factor, the youth are more welcoming towards cannabis. The older generation has concerns about its legality and usage constraints. 

How to use CBD oil for anxiety?

Severe forms of anxiety may lead to several other diseases like heart disease, respiratory troubles, and gastrointestinal issues. It can also contribute to tensions in the throat like coughing up green mucus chunks or feeling like something is stuck in your throat. If you are deciding upon giving CBD oil a chance to treat your anxiety disorders, you must be wary about its proportions of usage. The answer to this may differ according to the individual. Our reactions to CBD oil depends on our physiology, CBD tolerance or the patient’s level of disorder. You can try and find out how much CBD you need to take considering the given factors. There is apparently no ideal dosage of CBD oil. In general, new users should start with a very low dose. Consult a physician before shifting your choice of treatment.

Note: Crosscheck the level of contents of THC and CBD in your CBD oil products.

More studies on CBD oil as a therapeutic treatment for anxiety is yet to come. Anxiety is a serious concern. Allowing it to affect your lives means giving an opportunity to other physical health problems. If cannabis is legal in your region, give CBD oil a try to control your anxiety disorders. Do not go overboard instantly. Moreover, Cannabis can be used in many forms to treat many diseases,for example, Grandaddy Purple is an Indica hybrid that delivers potent psychoactive effects with cerebal euphoria and physical relaxation.

Author’s Bio

Harold is a cannabis and health industry consultant who frequently writes about the latest trends in the industry. She has been writing for a long time now. Through her writing, she hopes to influence as many people as possible to help maintain better health and lifestyle.