CBD and Anxiety

If you struggle with anxiety, you may feel like you’ve “tried everything.” But, have you tried CBD?

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one type of cannabinoid found in the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD has increased in popularity over the last few years due to its powerful medicinal benefits. CBD is often confused with products that contain THC, as both come from the Cannabis sativa plant. It is important to understand the difference! THC is another type of cannabinoid, though it produces different effects. THC creates a psychoactive effect, while CBD does not produce this effect.

CBD and Anxiety

According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA), anxiety disorders may affect more than 18% of American adults. Though anxiety disorders are highly treatable, many adults continue to live with symptoms without seeking treatment. CBD has become a self-treatment option which is great for people seeking natural approaches to manage their anxiety symptoms. A study which was published in the Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research journal reported 62% of cannabidiol (CBD) users say it helps treat their pain, anxiety, or depression.

Various research studies support and suggest that CBD may have properties to help aid in symptoms associated with anxiety disorders. Though the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any CBD-based medications for anxiety, many studies suggest it can be effective as working as an anxiolytic.

The mechanism by which CBD is thought to help anxiety may be through CB1 and CB2 receptors. These are receptors that are found in our body’s central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. This mechanism is still being researched, as it is quite complex. It is thought that low levels of a neurotransmitter, known as Serotonin, may be linked to anxiety. As such, CBD may work by helping to alter serotonin signals to help people experiencing anxiety.

This comprehensive overview takes a close look at CBD’s ability to interact with a receptor in our bodies, known as a Type 1 Receptor (CB1R), as well as other receptors in our bodies that regulate fear and anxiety. The evidence compiled from various research studies indicates that CBD may be helpful in treating various disorders which relate to anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder (PD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and social anxiety disorder (SAD).

For generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), studies conducted in rats have observed that CBD may help with psychical symptoms of anxiety, such as increased heart rate and feelings of agitation.

A more recent study, conducted in New Zealand, gave 397 adults CBD and examined their reported improvements in quality of life after treatment. These individuals had a variety of medical conditions, including pain not related to cancer, neurological symptoms, and mental health disorders. The study showed promising results, as 70% of study participants reported that they experienced some level of satisfaction with the CBD products.

How to use CBD for Anxiety

Which type of CBD you use for your anxiety will vary depending on your needs. Each person, depending on their genetics and level of anxiety, will have varying results with using CBD to help with their anxiety. You may need to experiment with various forms of consumption to find a regimen that best works to manage your anxiety. A few of the common methods of consumption of CBD include:

• Gummies or Food Products, which can be a fun way to consume CBD
• Oils or tinctures, which are in small dropper bottles to be consumed by mouth
• Capsules, soft gels, or tablets that you swallow
• Creams or gels for topical absorption of CBD
• Sprays for the back of the mouth
• Flower that is smoked

As previously mentioned, each person’s optimal dose of CBD will vary. However, most studies suggest that a dose between 300 and 600 mg of CBD is adequate for improving anxiety-related symptoms. The amount of time you’ll experience relief in after taking CBD will also vary. This is dependent on what method of consumption you’re using. For example, oral CBD will generally work within 30 minutes to 2 hours after taking.

Is CBD safe? Are there side effects of using CBD for Anxiety?

According to the World Health Organization, CBD is safe with few adverse side effects.

When starting any new product, it is recommended to start in small doses and slowly work up to your optimal dose. If you are on any prescription medications, be sure to check with a medical professional to ensure there are no negative interactions. For people with preexisting liver injuries, exercise caution when using CBD supplements.

Reviews that have analyzed several CBD studies have ultimately determined that most people are able to tolerate doses as high as 1,500 mg/day of CBD. Though side effects are uncommon, reported side effects to include diarrhea, decreases in appetite, or drowsiness.

One excellent form of consumption of CBD for anxiety is through honey infused with hemp. Honeybeez Honey is raw, organic honey that is infused with CBD. Our honey contains other beneficial components, including beneficial amino acids, enzymes, and pollens too! Each jar of our CBD-infused honey contains between 1000mg to 1500mg of CBD, depending on what size jar you order. Give our unique CBD-infused honey a try today!