Can you use CBD for anxiety? The answer is yes! Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant that has been shown to provide numerous health benefits. It is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative treatment for anxiety and other mental health disorders, and its use is rapidly growing in popularity.
In this article, we'll cover how to use CBD for anxiety, the possible benefits it can provide, and any potential side effects that may occur. We'll also discuss how to determine an appropriate dosage of CBD for each individual's needs.
What Is CBD?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is a compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce any psychoactive effects or cause a "high" when consumed. Instead, this hemp extract has been shown to provide various health benefits without causing intoxication. Most people use CBD to manage physical or mental health issues, including anxiety.
Understanding Anxiety And Stress
Anxiety and stress are two different things, but they often overlap and can both cause similar symptoms. Stress is a normal response to a situation that causes emotional or physical discomfort. It can be caused by both positive and negative events, such as getting married, losing a job, or taking an important test. While stress is a necessary part of life and encourages adaptation in the face of challenging circumstances, chronic stress can have serious health consequences like increased blood pressure and depression.
Anxiety, on the other hand, is an individual's particular reaction to stress and can be traced back internally. It usually involves a lingering feeling of apprehension or worry in situations that are not actually dangerous. When it grows more intense, anxiety may develop into an anxiety disorder - the most common mental health problem in America today!
These disorders can take on many forms, like generalized anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, social anxieties, obsessive-compulsive behavior, and post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD). Most times, anxiety can be managed with lifestyle changes, counseling, and medication. For many people, CBD may also help to reduce their symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Causes
There are many potential causes of stress and anxiety. These include:
- Intense work pressure or deadlines: Most times, people who feel pressure to perform well in their jobs or complete tasks quickly can become overwhelmed and anxious.
- Financial problems or worries: Income insecurity, debt, or feeling like you are unable to pay bills can all cause stress and anxiety.
- Relationship issues: Difficulties with family members, partners, and friends can be a source of stress and anxiety.
- Health concerns: Illness, chronic pain, or medical treatments can be difficult to manage and cause stress and anxiety.
- Fear of the future: Uncertainty about the future can create feelings of fear, dread, or panic.
- Traumatic events, like car accidents or natural disasters: Experiencing traumatic events can cause long-term stress and anxiety.
Symptoms
The symptoms of anxiety and stress can vary from person to person but generally include the following:
- Feelings of worry or fear that are disproportionate to the situation
- Restlessness and fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating and sleeping
- Irritability and/or difficulty controlling emotions
- Physical symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, and a fast heart rate
- Difficulty breathing or feeling like one's chest is tight
The Science Behind CBD And Anxiety
In this section, we'll discuss the science behind CBD and anxiety. While research into this area is still in its early stages, there are some promising findings related to the potential of using CBD for managing or reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety.
CBD And The Endocannabinoid System
CBD affects the body through the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors found throughout your body. This system plays an important role in regulating mood and emotions, which could explain why it may be beneficial for reducing symptoms of anxiety. Specifically, CBD binds to two types of receptors: CB1 and CB2.
The CB1 receptor is primarily found in the brain and is responsible for controlling many cognitive functions like memory and emotion. The CB2 receptor is mostly located outside the brain but interacts with the immune system, which can influence both physical and mental well-being. Studies suggest that CBD interacts with these receptors differently than THC does, resulting in fewer psychoactive effects or none at all.
How CBD Can Ease Anxiety
You might be asking how CBD helps reduce anxiety. Well, there are several potential benefits of using CBD to ease anxiety. Research suggests that CBD may reduce feelings of worry, fear, and stress as well as physical symptoms like racing heart rate and shallow breathing. Additionally, CBD could help improve sleep quality by reducing the amount of time it takes to fall asleep and increasing total sleep time.
In general, it appears that the use of both full and broad-spectrum CBD can be beneficial for easing anxiety symptoms. However, more research is needed in order to gain a better understanding of how exactly this works.
Studies Behind CBD
Numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the potential of using CBD for anxiety.
In 2020, a group of researchers from New Zealand conducted a study on 397 adults to assess the efficacy of CBD. These individuals were prescribed medical CBD doses for different conditions, such as non-cancer pain, mental health symptoms, and cancer-related issues. The results showed that the participants greatly benefited from taking CBD regularly, which improved their quality of life significantly.
After 3 weeks of CBD treatment, all groups saw a remarkable increase in their quality of life. Those who had been using it to manage anxiety or depression experienced greater ability over daily functions and alleviation of symptoms related to pain, stress, and other conditions.
Seventy percent of those in the study reported a positive experience with CBD treatment, between good and excellent. A little over nine percent experienced side effects, including drowsiness and strange dreams; only 0.8% revealed that their condition had become worse due to taking CBD products.
Moving on to another extensive study conducted in 2015, researchers observed that CBD interacts with CB1R, 5-HT1A, and other neurological receptors to reduce fear and anxiety. The researchers also found numerous preclinical and clinical studies that demonstrated the effectiveness of CBD for various types of anxiety disorders.
As part of a separate study from a trusted source, scientists conducted an experiment involving 72 adults who exhibited signs of either anxiety or sleeping issues. The majority of the participants were prescribed one 25-milligram capsule per day (mg/d), whereas some received dosages between 50 and 75 mg/d. For especially extreme cases, such as those with a history of trauma and schizoaffective disorder, CBD doses were increased to up to 175 mg/d. After 2 months of CBD treatment, nearly 80% of individuals experienced decreased anxiety symptoms; however, almost 20% reported an increase in their symptomatic distress.
Benefits Of Using CBD for Anxiety
There are many potential benefits of using CBD to reduce anxiety. These include:
Natural Remedy
CBD is a natural, plant-based remedy that can be used to manage both physical and mental symptoms of anxiety. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for a more holistic approach to anxiety relief.
Reduced Side Effects
Unlike many prescription medications for anxiety, CBD does not have significant or long-lasting side effects. It is generally well tolerated and does not cause serious adverse reactions. Additionally, it does not interact with other medications or affect the way other medications work.
Easy To Use
There's nothing complicated about using CBD for anxiety. It can be taken orally in the form of drops, capsules, or gummies and can even be added to foods or beverages. Additionally, there are a variety of topical products that can be applied directly to the skin.
Fast-Acting Effects
When taken orally, CBD has relatively fast-acting effects. It is quickly absorbed by the body and can start to work within minutes, providing immediate relief from symptoms of anxiety.
Long-Lasting Relief
Oral CBD may take some time to kick in, but its effects are long-lasting. Studies suggest that its effects can last for up to 8 hours, providing relief throughout the day or night.
Affordable
CBD is an affordable alternative to prescription medications and other forms of treatment for anxiety. It is widely available and can be purchased at most health food stores or online retailers.
Overall, CBD may be a safe and effective option for managing symptoms of anxiety. However, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider before using CBD to ensure that it is the right fit for you. Additionally, keep in mind that more research is needed to understand its full potential.
How To Use Cbd For Anxiety And Stress Reduction
Before taking CBD for anxiety, there are several factors to consider. Below, we will discuss the recommended dosage, potential side effects, and other important guidelines for using CBD.
Types Of CBD Products
CBD comes in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, and topical products. Your choice of product will depend on your preferred mode of delivery and the severity of your symptoms. Some popular products include:
CBD Salves
These are topical products that are applied directly to the skin. They are a great option for targeting localized areas of discomfort or tension.
CBD Capsules
Oil-filled capsules provide a simple and discreet way to take CBD. Most capsules contain a designated amount of CBD, making it easy to track your dosage and ensure that you are taking the right amount.
CBD Oil
CBD oil is one of the most popular forms of CBD. This form can be taken orally or applied topically to the skin, depending on your needs. Additionally, it has a relatively fast onset time and can provide long-lasting relief from symptoms of anxiety.
CBD Roll-ons
Stress has been known to cause some physical symptoms, such as inflammation and muscle pains. CBD roll-ons are specially formulated to provide relief from these symptoms. They can be applied topically to the skin and have a cooling effect that can help reduce tension and discomfort.
CBD Gummies
Using CBD gummies for anxiety is a great way to relax and unwind. These treats are infused with CBD and come in a variety of flavors, making them fun to take.
CBD Vapes
Vaping CBD oil is a fast and efficient way to get relief from anxiety symptoms. The effects are felt almost immediately, providing quick and long-lasting relief.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for CBD depends on your individual needs and any underlying health conditions. It's important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting to take CBD.
Dosage Recommendations
When it comes to CBD doses, everyone is different. As such, the right dosage will vary from person to person depending on their size, tolerance, and the severity of their symptoms. It's important to start with a low dose and gradually increase your intake as needed.
If you are using CBD for anxiety, it is recommended to take between 10-25mg per day. Start with a lower dose and slowly increase until you find the amount that works best for you. Some people may find that they need to take a higher dose of up to 50mg per day.
Tips For Using CBD Products
When taking CBD oil for anxiety, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Here are some important guidelines to follow:
- Be consistent: Take CBD at the same time each day to ensure that your body has a steady supply of the compound.
- Start slow: Begin with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the amount that works best for you.
- Monitor your progress: Keep track of your dosage and how you feel before, during, and after taking CBD.
Precautions And Risks
Many CBD products on the market today do not have standard regulations and labeling guidelines. As such, it is important to be aware of potential risks when choosing a product.
Possible Side Effects
CBD Products may have some mild side effects that are generally temporary and go away within a few hours. They include:
Dry Eyes: Dry eyes are a common side effect of CBD use. To reduce symptoms, try using lubricating eye drops or an artificial tear solution.
Dizziness: Although rare, some people may experience mild dizziness after taking CBD. This is usually temporary and should go away within a few hours.
Change in appetite: CBD can cause changes in appetite. If you experience this side effect, try eating small meals throughout the day or drinking a glass of water to help curb your appetite.
It's important to note that these side effects are rare and usually occur when taking high doses of CBD. To reduce the risk of experiencing any of these side effects, always start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed.
Interactions With Other Medications
It is important to note that some key ingredients in CBD may interact with other medications. Some of these medications include:
- antibiotics and antimicrobials
- anticancer medications
- antihistamines
- antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)
- blood pressure medications
- blood thinners
- cholesterol medications
- corticosteroids
- erectile dysfunction medications
- GI medications, such as to treat GERD or nausea
- heart rhythm medications
If you are taking any of these, be sure to speak with your doctor before using CBD products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does CBD Calm Down Anxiety Immediately?
A: It takes some time for the body to process and utilize CBD, so it may take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours before you start experiencing its effects.
Q: Is CBD Safe?
A: Absolutely. CBD is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people.
Ease Your Anxiety With Serene Sensei CBD Products
CBD is becoming increasingly popular for its potential to reduce symptoms of anxiety. Before taking CBD for anxiety, it's important to consult with your doctor to determine the right dosage for you. When used correctly, CBD can be a safe and effective option for managing symptoms of anxiety. Be sure to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed until you find what works best for your body. The best CBD for anxiety will vary from person to person, so always monitor your progress and be mindful of potential side effects.
Get more premium CBD products online on Serene Sensei. From CBD tinctures and CBD roll-ons to CBD for pets, all our products are third-party tested and made in the USA. Check out our products on our menu or contact our support team for any questions you may have.
