Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural chemical that is extracted from marijuana and hemp plants. Research shows that CBD can aid in treating many conditions. This post aims to explore on whether CBD can help relieve anxiety. Many studies show that CBD point to the potential benefits of CBD oil for anxiety, and this post looks at some of the studies.
CBD for generalized anxiety
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has conducted studies to test whether CBD could help treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The study subjects were animals such as rats. The institute reported that CBD could reduce stress in the subjects.
According to NIDA; after taking the CBD, the animals showed lower anxiety behavioral signs. Also, the institute reported that the physiological anxiety symptoms such as an increased heart rate improved. The study points out that CBD might help relieve GAD. However, please note that the research is not conclusive and more needs to be done specifically on GAD and humans.
CBD for other forms of anxiety
The other forms of anxiety CBD can help treat are; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and anxiety-induced insomnia. Research has shown positive results in regards to these forms of anxiety.
A 2011 study was done on people with SAD whereby some of them were given a dose of 400 milligrams of CBD and others were given an equivalent amount of placebo. The people who took CBD experienced lower anxiety levels.
With regards to PTSD, many recent studies have shown that CBD either as a standalone PSD treatment or as a supplement to other methods (cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication) can help with PTSD symptoms. It can help reduce symptoms such as; nightmares and negative memories replays.
CBD for other neurological disorders
There have been studies reviewing whether CBD can help with neurological disorders for example depression. A 2017 literature review concluded that there wasn’t enough evidence to conclude that CBD could effectively treat depression.
However, the literature review found evidence suggesting that CBD can help with anxiety disorders. The review also pointed out that the research was not conclusive and that more research was needed to; understand how CBD works, what are the CBD’s ideal dosages and what are CBD’s potential side effects.
Also, a 2016 study came to the conclusion that CBD can have antipsychotic effects in people with schizophrenia. The study also found that CBD doesn’t cause harmful side effects like other antipsychotic drugs.
What is the right dosage for CBD Oil for anxiety?
More research is needed to find the right dosage for CBD oil for anxiety. However, a 2018 study found out that an oral dose of 300mg could help reduce anxiety. The research also concludes that subjects receiving 150 mg or 600mg of CBD oil recorded little benefit. If you want to know the right dosage for your anxiety, you should consult your doctor.
How can you buy CBD?
Different states have different laws in regards to CBD. It is up to you to check on your state laws and follow them. For some states you may need a doctor’s license to access CBD. If your state allows cannabis use for medical purposes, you can access it online or purchase CBD in special cannabis dispensaries.
All CBD Products Sold Contain .3% or less of THC