From daily worries to chronic disorders, anxiety can be debilitating. According to the World Health Organization, one in thirteen people suffer from anxiety, making it the most prevalent mental disorder in the world. And while prescription medication can help, it comes with numerous side effects and can be habit-forming. Initially used to alleviate physical discomfort and pain, cannabidiol (CBD) is gradually emerging as a natural way of treating anxiety disorders. While both CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can be found in the cannabis plant, it is the THC component that can get you high. The amount of THC in CBD is negligible, which means that you get all the benefits of the plant without its intoxicating effects. If you are considering using CBD to alleviate anxiety, here is some basic information and tips to get you started.
Does it Work
studies about how cbd can treat anxiety
Studies about how CBD can treat anxiety suggest that it may have powerful therapeutic effects. While most studies on CBD have involved animals, increasingly more research is being conducted on human participants. A study of 37 Japanese teenagers with a social anxiety disorder in 2019 found that 300 milligrams of CBD oil a day for four weeks reduced the symptoms of the disorder as much as Paroxetine, which is a drug used to treat the condition. A retrospective review of outpatient data at a mental health clinic in Colorado conducted in 2019 found that 79.2% of 47 patients experienced a reduction in anxiety after taking 25 milligrams of CBD oil per day for a month. After two months of treatment, 78.1% of the patients said that they experienced further improvement.
How to Take CBD for Anxiety
From oils to gummy bears, CBD comes in various forms. In the case of anxiety, not all ingestion methods are created equal, so it is important that you select the one that is best for your particular situation and the severity of your condition.
- Oils and Tinctures
Quick and easy to administer, CBD oils and tinctures are usually measured using a dropper and take around 10 minutes to kick in. The only difference between CBD oils and tinctures is that in the case of oils, the CBD is infused in an oil carrier such as coconut oil, while in the case of tinctures, the CBD is infused in an alcohol base. Both can be easily dropped under the tongue. Oils and tinctures are a good choice, if you have trouble swallowing capsules. On the other hand, they can taste unpleasant.
- Vape Oils
Vape oils are smoked using a vaporizing pen. While this is the fastest way to feel the effects of CBD, which is something that may be appreciated by those with severe anxiety, it may have an adverse effect on your lungs, particularly if used for prolonged periods of time. If you opt for this method, only buy CBD cartridges from regulated state-licensed cannabis stores.
- Edibles
CBD can be placed in all types of food, and even comes in the form of delicious cbd calm gummies. While edible CBD is simple to consume and can be easily taken anywhere and anytime, it may take up to an hour to work. In addition, ingested CBD has to pass through the gastrointestinal tract, which may reduce its effectiveness.
Dosing Tips
As there has been no large-scale clinical research on the dosing of CBD, there is no universally recommended dose for treating anxiety. As such, it is best to approach CBD with caution and start on a low dose before adjusting it if required. Some factors to take into account include the potency of the product, your body weight, metabolism and the severity of your anxiety.
