CBD oil has grown in public interest as we learn more about the various potential health benefits for both the body and mind. From food supplements, cosmetics products, and skin creams there are many applications for CBD oil extracts, but one use in particular is the for the relief of anxiety.
In this article, we’ll explore how to use CBD oil for anxiety in terms of dosage, frequency of use and how CBD works in the human body. Let’s begin by exploring the science behind cannabinoids and other areas surrounding the world of CBD oil you should know.
What Is Anxiety?
As characterised by the American Psychological Association, anxiety is an emotion consisting of excessive worrying, tension, and physical symptoms, including increased blood pressure, sweating, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat. Anxiousness can present itself on different levels from person to person with some people experiencing it much more regularly than others.
Anxiety disorders affect people in different ways too. Restlessness, intrusive thoughts, avoidance of situations, appetite changes, and panic attacks are known behaviours and symptoms associated with anxiety. Now that we know what anxiety is let’s take a look at what CBD is.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol or CBD is one of many cannabinoids or compounds derived from the cannabis plant. The other well known cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant group is tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. While THC produces a ‘high’ due to its high psychoactive and potential toxic effect on the user, CBD is a non-toxic cannabinoid which is highly regarded for its safety in supplement use.
CBD oils and other CBD products are always derived from the hemp plant which is part of the cannabis plant group. Hemp contains a large amount of CBD cannabinoids and only small or trace amounts of THC which makes it a safe option for supplement use. These trace amounts are not near enough to cause a ‘high’ effect to the user. In this way CBD oils and CBD products are safe to use and have no toxic effects on people.
Researchers are interested in CBD for its potential health benefits and many studies and trials have been completed on a small scale in various countries. However laws regarding CBD food supplement vary from place to place as a difference in cannabis law still exists.
The Status of CBD Around the World
For example in the US the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved only one CBD product so far, but that doesn’t mean the FDA is stopping there. Because of hemp and marijuana’s legal status, scientific research progresses slowly. CBD oil is obtainable in all 50 states, but there are restrictions. For example, the product must contain less than 0.3% THC, ensuring no toxic effect.
Both marijuana and hemp can produce CBD. However, hemp naturally creates less THC, which is why the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (aka the Farm Bill) federally legalised hemp-made CBD. The majority of states consider possession of hemp CBD oil legal. But many states have banned the inclusion of CBD oil in food or beverages. However, Idaho, Iowa, and South Dakota only allow CBD oil products with 0% THC.
In European countries market laws vary too from one country to another. The percentage number of THC trace levels permitted can be anywhere from 0 – 0.3%. The recognition of CBD oil use for relief from conditions like anxiety and sleep disorders like insomnia differs too. In Ireland, a company selling CBD oils must only market them as food supplements and claim not medicinal benefits. All information on store websites should maintain this regulation also.
What Is a CBD Oil Supplement?
Like multivitamins, you can take CPD oil supplements for a wide range of benefits. For example, CBD oil supplements can aid in regulating the immune system, improve bone health, and add nutrients to your diet, including vitamins and minerals.
Some states allow CBD oil food supplements. However, many CBD oil supplements can be added to food or mixed into another consumable for easier ingestion.
How to Use CBD Oil Supplements for Anxiety
CBD oil supplements are available in a variety of methods and doses. First, confirm whether it’s CBD isolate (CBD only), broad-spectrum (CBD and other plant elements), or full-spectrum (CBC, THC, and other plant elements). Then, it might take some research and advice from an expert in your area before you settle on what will work best for you.
Methods
There are a handful of methods to use CBD oil for anxiety:
- Bottled oil
- Capsules
- Gummies
- Sublingual sprays
The concentration will vary depending on the manufacturer. Typical concentrations range from 250mg per 10ml to 3000mg per 10ml bottle. For anxiety there is no need to go higher than 1000mg CBD per 10ml, or you could even start lower at 500mg per 10ml tincture if you prefer.
Dosages for capsules and Gummies are more straightforward, which is why they cost more. However if you read the label instructions and follow the information provided by the CBD retailer you choose it is very easy to get your daily CBD dose in drops every morning.
Drops and sprays are directed under the tongue and should be left to absorb for 90 seconds at least. Alternatively, you swallow capsules and Gummies. All potential options of CBD for anxiety relief remain subject to further clinical trials but some research studies have been published with promising results.
Dosage
The good thing is you do not need high strength oil. Low doses of CBD are by far better for anxiety than high doses. High doses actually seem to exasperate anxiety for some (this is rare). For this reason low doses are better for anxiety. What the CBD is actually doing is rebalancing your Endocannabinoid system which controls sleep and mood.
For best results, users should consume CBD oil consistently. Follow the brand’s recommended dosage instructions. Start by taking the CBD oil in the morning, unless otherwise instructed. You may not see results immediately, as it often takes up to three weeks to build up in your system.
Quality & Strength
CBD oil products have varying quality and strengths. It’s essential to research brands and individual products to find the most compatible CBD oil. The more potent a concentration, the more efficient. 10% (1000 mg) CBD oil in a tincture is the most suitable for anxiety.
However, as CBD has a biphasic effect, it’s best to start with lower-strength CBD oils.
A biphasic effect means it has two phases. High and low doses can have the opposite effect and affect individuals differently. One potential outcome is that too high a dose will cause feelings of uneasiness, whereas a lower amount relieves anxiety.
Side Effects
While CBD is non-toxic with few side effects, but there is a significant link to liver function. So if you have a liver condition, get a medical opinion first. It’s best to seek advice from a family doctor or a regular medical practitioner familiar with your medical history. It’s also critical to consider your medications and health conditions.
Potential Side Effects:
- Fatigue
- Weight changes
- Appetite changes
Testing
Before you settle on a product, it’s best to check product testing. Check reports available either on the brand website or reliable third-party sites. Also, consider customer reviews and the testimonies of medical professionals.
Research Studies Study of CBD Oil Use for Anxiety
Current evidence supports that CBD oil can help in treating multiple anxiety disorders. The most promising are generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder (PD), and social anxiety disorder (SAD). Additionally, CBD oil has positively impacted post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatments.
The use of CBD as an anxiety treatment has broad effects relevant to multiple symptoms. Some notable responses are a decrease in autonomic arousal, decreased fear expression, anti-compulsive actions, and prevention of the long-term effects of stress.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) tested CBD oil for generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) and found it reduced stress in animal testing.
The Journal of Pharmacology published a 2011 study where participants with a social anxiety disorder (SAD) were either given a CBD oil supplement or a placebo. The subjects using the CBD experienced an overall improvement in anxiety symptoms.
Multiple studies have compared animal and human trials using CBD for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The results were favourable when using CBD as an aid in treatments.
Final Note
After covering methods, dosages, and more, we hope we’ve clarified how to use CBD oil for anxiety. While research supports CBD treatment for anxiety, it’s crucial to research individual brands and consult with a licensed medical practitioner.
CBD oil can help relieve anxiety symptoms, including excessive worrying, restlessness, and panic responses. From mild to severe symptoms, CBD oil supplements can improve lives when used responsibly.