CBD Vs anxiety: Can it help you. Lets answer that question.
CBD is one of the most important active ingredients present in medical marijuana. There are several other components that makeup marijuana, some of which are linked to causing the ill-famed “high” people experience. CBD displays no such properties and is becoming increasingly popular among the younger as well as the older populations.
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The Evidence For CBD Health Benefits
A study published in the journal Neurotherapeutics, in the year 2015, conducted by Esther M. Blessing and her teammates concluded the following, “Preclinical evidence conclusively demonstrates CBD’s efficacy in reducing anxiety behaviours relevant to multiple disorders, including PTSD, GAD, PD, OCD, and SAD, with a notable lack of anxiogenic effects.”
According to a recent Forbes Health survey, conducted by OnePoll, 51% of US citizens who currently use CBD state that it helps them lower their anxiety levels. A total of 2000 adults were tested for this study.
In 2011, a small trial-tested CBD on participants with generalized social anxiety disorder. Compared to a placebo, CBD significantly reduced anxiety and discomfort in the participants with SAD
In 2020, researchers tested the effects of CBD oil at different doses on 397 patients with a number of different health conditions. Participants experienced significant improvement in anxiety and depression. They also showed improved abilities to complete their usual activities. The use of CBD oil suggested considerable improvement in pain in these groups as well.
A clinical trial was conducted in 2011, on a small group of individuals, all of who suffered from social anxiety disorder (SAD). A group of control participants was also set up, and both groups were subjected to a simulated public speaking test (SPST). CBD was found to considerably reduce the symptoms in the test group and the results were good enough to be compared to the individuals in the control group as well.
Another test conducted in 2019 showed improved sleep quality among individuals who suffered from generalised anxiety. The participants in this group consumed varied amounts of CBD, ranging between 25 – 75 milligrams per day. This research also shone a light on the fact that higher quantities of CBD might be too expensive to purchase on a regular basis, and users of CBD need to be educated about the same.
How To Use CBD For Anxiety
The regularisation of CBD dosage is still underway and there are no hard and fast rules as to how much CBD one must consume at a time.
A study in 2019 observed that 300 – 600 mg of CBD helped individuals with generalised anxiety disorder. This study included 57 adult males with similar symptoms.
The ideal dose is a matter of personal preference and depends on several factors, like, the product being administered, the method of administration and the health background of the individual consuming it.
Popular Methods of Consuming CBD
Listed below are some methods of CBD consumption that are popular:
- CBD oils
- Sublingual sprays
- CBD capsules
- Edibles
- Vapourised oils
- Cannabis flowers
Does The Method Of Consumption Matter?
Yes, the method of consumption can determine how long it might take for the CBD dose to take effect.
While smoking or vaping cannabis in any form has an immediate effect, the consumption of CBD in the form of oils and capsules usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours.
You could choose a method suitable to your specific needs. It is usually not a problem to consume CBD on the go as well, since oils, tinctures, capsules and vapes can easily be carried around.
Possible Risks of CBD For Anxiety
Though CBD is known to be pretty well tolerated by maximum people, there are potential risks that one is exposed to when consuming the product. They are as follows:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhoea
- Reduced appetite
- Abnormal fluctuations in weight
Who Should Stay Away From CBD?
CBD has not been cleared for use by pregnant women and lactating mothers. Since it is possible that certain compounds might pass through the blood barrier of the mother and reach the foetus, it is better to stay away from consumption of CBD during these times. Studies are underway to record to side effects of CBD on infants and foetuses, obviously, these studies are not easy to perform and it will be a while before we have any clear answers.
People who are consuming blood thinners and medications for liver disease should also not consume CBD as it is said to be pharmaceutically incompatible with the medicated drugs.
It is always best to get a doctor’s opinion before beginning your journey with CBD as CBD is yet not regulated by the FDA.
Concluding Thoughts
The market is flooded with CBD products. It is best to choose a product that suits your own needs. You certainly must consult a doctor and also keep a personal record of your doses and the symptoms that might be alleviated or increased after consumption.
Though there are many options available, it is best to make a thorough study of the ingredients list on each product.
Do look out for products that have been tested by a third party as this alleviates any doubts that might arise. You should also see if the product comes with a certificate of analysis.
Enhance your knowledge about CBD by reading the following articles:
