Does CBD have any benefits for those with anxiety? We take a quick look at what evidence has to say and how to use CBD.
Can You Use CBD for Anxiety? Benefits of CBD
Dealing with anxiety in the modern world for 2023.
Anxiety is more of a widespread problem than you think, and in some respects, it’s completely normal. Generally, anxiety is a feeling of unease such as worry or fear, that can range from mild to severe according to the NHS. You might typically feel this when you have an upcoming exam, job interview or are doing something new.
This is completely normal, it’s actually part of our in-built fight or flight system designed to keep us safe. The problem therein lies when the worry and anxiety are constant and uncontrollable, affecting your daily life.
And now more than ever, people around the world are experiencing, or at least understanding, anxiety. While obvious solutions include therapy and for those struggling with anxiety, therapy and speaking to a medical expert is highly advised, some people have turned to alternative methods.
What is CBD
Also referred to as cannabidiol, CBD is one of the known compounds extracted from cannabis and hemp plants. CBD is the non-psychoactive compound that is widely available in many forms such as supplements, cosmetics and vapes. It binds with our endocannabinoid systems that run throughout our bodies to potentially create a variety of benefits and effects.
Some research and anecdotal evidence has suggested that there could possibly be benefits to CBD for those with anxiety, but more research is needed. Currently, CBD available in the UK is not licensed for medical use and should not be used to treat any condition. If you are thinking of trying CBD then you should first speak with your GP or a medical practitioner, especially if you are taking any existing medication.
What are the benefits of using CBD
Thought to offer a whole host of benefits, some have taken to using CBD in hopes of it alleviating some of the symptoms of anxiety. Research has suggested that CBD could be used to treat conditions such as PTSD, OCD and bipolar, but currently, CBD is not available for medicinal use.
As CBD works with our endocannabinoid system, a regulatory system that runs through the entire body, it is suggested that there could be a wide range of benefits included such as helping with pain, mood, sleep and more. It’s important to remember though that this is mostly speculative, with more research necessary to confirm these suggestions.
Typically, CBD is well-tolerated by most but some may experience side effects such as fatigue, diarrhoea and changes in appetite, although these are mild and often temporary.
Can you use CBD for anxiety?
Studies have begun to look at the use of CBD for those with anxiety and has found favourable results. Likewise, there is much anecdotal evidence from CBD users who claim to have had anxiety symptoms diminish with regular use of CBD. In America, the second most popular reason for using CBD was for anxiety, beaten only by pain relief as a reason. The study also showed that 32% of those who used CBD did not find it effective.
There are many reasons why CBD may or may not work for you. One of the reasons why can be due to using the wrong method of CBD, some work better for certain things such as creams & lotions typically are more likely to be used for skin-deep/muscle benefits. There are also variations in strength and dosage which is one of the reasons why it has been difficult to accurately research the benefits of CBD. For some, a small amount and lower strengths work better, while others may need higher strength or more CBD doses.
Dosage and time taken for CBD to work for anxiety
When using CBD for the first time, the key is to take it slow and steady. CBD works best once you’ve built up an amount in your system, so effects can take a while to be felt. First, try a lower strength of CBD oil (750mg to 1500mg) and CBD vape (150mg) and take a couple of drops/puffs a day to see how you feel. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidance available with the product for the recommended dosage.
Try keeping notes on how much you use and how your day feels, as you may not even realise you’ve seen any benefits! Gradually increase until you get to the desired effects. As mentioned before this could take a couple of weeks to even a couple of months but there are some who claim quicker results, it really does vary between users. However, if even after trying different methods, strengths and doses, you still see no benefits, then it is possible that CBD unfortunately may not work for you.
It’s important to remember that the FSA (Food Safety Association) does not yet approve CBD products for medicinal use in the UK, and likewise for those in the US, the FDA. Make sure to research the effects of CBD and the CBD product you wish to use, before purchasing.
When buying CBD products from Cali Greens you can rest assured that our products are high quality, UK manufactured with premium CBD isolate, free of THC. All of our products are lab tested to ensure they contain no THC or harmful ingredients. With a range of CBD oils, CBD vape and CBD topicals, we cater for every step of your wellness routine. When you shop with Cali Greens you can feel the difference.
