What is anxiety?
Anxiety is extremely prevalent worldwide. Australia is no different. In fact, studies claim that at least 17% of Australians suffer from some form of a related disorder. The condition itself is somewhat difficult to describe. It’s a mental condition characterised by varying states of panic and nervousness.
It could be a minor issue or completely crippling, both personally and socially. Most treatment plans are based on a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy and clinical medications.
Anxiety is generally thought to be more of an inner experience, but can also manifest physically. The usual signs are shaking, increased heart rate or sweating. If it sounds familiar, that’s because most of us experience some form of anxiety.
A chronic disorder, however, is far more severe.
It’s usually divided into various categories. These include:
- generalised anxiety disorder
- phobias and panic disorder
- separation anxiety.
Most would be familiar with generalised anxiety disorder or GAD. This is a general sense of tension that may not be based on any particular thing. Panic disorder manifests in panic attacks that can come without warning. Separation anxiety is most common in children.
Anxiety disorders can:
- cause overly emotional and panicked responses to stimuli
- result from genetics, trauma or various physical health problems
- generally prevent sufferers from getting through their day.
What does CBD oil do for anxiety?
The potential link between cannabidiol and anxiety relief is one of the most widely studied lanes of CBD research. Numerous studies have identified potential benefits of CBD usage for anxiety sufferers. Some have declared as high as a 46% reduction in the intensity of anxious feelings.
Be aware that, while studies such as the above are positive, many more similar results are required before the claim of CBD as a treatment for anxiety can be seen as conclusive.
Importantly, we don’t know for certain how CBD might relieve anxiety.
It’s a popular hypothesis that CBD engages the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our nervous systems. The understanding is that these receptors may play a part in releasing or regulating the serotonin receptors.
Serotonin is:
- a chemical that communicates between the brain and body
- essential to overall mental health
- a contributor to digestion, sleep, bodily repair and more.
Regular levels of serotonin are associated with balanced mood and bodily functions.
Naturally, this means that serotonin plays a significant part in relieving anxiety. Though we need more evidence to support the claim that CBD products such as oils can increase serotonin levels.
Start by consulting your doctor about anxiety and the possible role of cannabidiol.
How to take CBD for anxiety
How to use CBD for anxiety is just a matter of personal preference.
The most popular methods are CBD oil tinctures, gummies, vapes and topical creams. Each comes with similar levels of general efficacy, though anything passing through the digestive system or absorbed by the skin will take a little longer to take effect.
It may require a process of trial and error to find the method or dosage that suits you best. This is a matter to discuss with your doctor. For those suffering from anxiety, know that we don’t understand how CBD interacts with many medications.
It’s always safest to start with a low dose. CBD gummies or drops of oil likely contain anywhere between 5 and 10 mg of CBD.
Work with your doctor to pace the treatment based on how it makes you feel.
Know that some possible physical side effects have been identified in CBD users. These range from drowsiness and nausea to fatigue and weight gain. In terms of mental health, increased anxiety is sometimes listed as a potential side effect of CBD usage.
However, studies suggest that is specifically a THC-related issue. In fact, some research suggests that the presence of CBD can actually lessen this unfortunate side effect.
Kinds of CBD products and where to get them
If that last past scared you, remember that not all CBD products contain THC.
Isolates are a form of cannabidiol extract made of pure CBD. On the other hand, full-spectrum CBD contains THC at up to 0.3%, while broad-spectrum products only contain trace amounts of THC.
Regardless of content, any low-dose CBD product should not induce THC’s negative effects. The levels contained are so minute that one would need to be taking rather excessive doses to feel them. This is another area where it’s safest to discuss the available options with your doctor. They can help you to determine if the inclusion of CBD is best avoided or not.
In any case, CBD is only available via prescription.
Cannabidiol products are regulated to ensure the consistency of their ingredients and to protect the consumer. With such a large portion of Australian society suffering from the likes of anxiety, it’s best not to take risks with negative side effects.
Despite these precautions, a large number of unregulated cannabidiol products have appeared online. These products may not be conforming to the regulations instituted by the TGA.
If you’re considering a CBD product, do as much research on it as possible and make sure you know exactly what’s it in first.
Summary: In summary on CBD oil for Anxiety
The various qualities and forms of anxiety mirror the number of people suffering from it. Anxiety can have a massive adverse effect on your life, relationships, career and more.
If you’re a sufferer, you owe it to yourself to discuss possible treatment options with your doctor. Should the two of you land on cannabidiol, you must be aware that the science is still not entirely clear on its general usage, let alone its effect on anxiety.
For now, it appears that CBD may contribute to serotonin regulation. This may in turn contribute to improved mood and a reduced sense of anxiety.
Just keep in mind that you’ll need to secure a doctor’s prescription first. If you do, work carefully to determine an effective dosage. Start slowly and increase it should you not feel the effects.
Finally, avoid unregulated products as you can never tell how their ingredients may affect your system or the efficacy of other medications.