Anxiety can be crippling, but CBD can help. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders affect approximately 40 million Americans 18 years and older. Anxiety disorders can include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Stress
- Depression
- …and more
Anxiety is very treatable, but many Americans do not seek help for their anxiety. Others have gotten help but may take prescription medications that cause undesirable side effects such as weight gain, decreased libido, and insomnia.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound that naturally exists in hemp and marijuana, and research has shown it can be an effective tool in easing anxiety and depression symptoms.
What is CBD?
CBD is a naturally-occurring chemical in hemp and marijuana, and it doesn’t get you ‘high’ like the psychoactive compound THC, which is found in marijuana. The body has what’s known as the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in sleep, mood, appetite, and other functions.
Endocannabinoids naturally exist in your body and have receptors that interact with the nervous system. CBD and THC are two of the approximately 100 cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa plant. When these cannabinoids are consumed, they bind to the endocannabinoid receptors to produce effects that can relieve:
- Pain
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Sleep issues
CBD Oil for Anxiety and Depression
A 2020 study in New Zealand evaluated nearly 400 adults, who received CBD products to treat a variety of ailments, including mental health conditions. All participants noted marked improvement in their symptoms after 3 weeks of continual use.
Most studies noted that less than 1 percent of participants experienced side effects, and across multiple studies, approximately 70% of participants noted anxiety and depression symptom relief.
In terms of dosing, a 2019 study indicated that 300–600 mg reduced anxiety symptoms in males, but dosing guidelines are not standardized. What works for one person may not work for others, and there haven’t been as many studies on dosing for women.
Depending on your symptoms, CBD oil can be taken daily to treat long-term anxiety and depression, or it can also be taken before a situation that causes anxiety, like public speaking or a social gathering. CBD oil, when taken orally, can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect.
Oil can be placed underneath the tongue with a dropper for faster absorption (sublingual), but it may also be available in capsule form.
FAQs
Can I take CBD oil with antidepressants?
There are different types of antidepressants, and there isn’t always sufficient research to tell if cannabis will interact with certain drugs. However, tricyclic antidepressants (like amitriptyline and doxepin) can result in a faster heartbeat and raised blood pressure. When combined with cannabis, this effect may be even more likely.
There has not been sufficient research on the relationship between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (another major class of antidepressants) and cannabis. When starting any new medication, pay close attention to how you feel, and if you notice any undesirable changes, discontinue the CBD and speak to your doctor.
That all being said, every person reacts to CBD differently, and experts recommend ‘low and slow’ approach—gradually increase your dose.
What is an effective dose for anxiety?
Dosing will vary person-to-person, but several studies have indicated some starting points. For example, one study involved males taking 300 mg orally before public speaking, and the study indicated reduced feelings of anxiety. A dose of 150 mg showed less effect.
Your doctor can also help determine a starting dose.
Also note that potency varies by brand. Check the product volume (in mL) compared to the amount of CBD (in mg). Approximately 20 drops equals 1 mL.
Are there side effects when taking CBD oil?
One of the benefits to taking CBD oil is that there are fewer side effects than one experiences when taking traditional pharmaceuticals for anxiety and depression. Taking too much may result in drowsiness. If you’re already taking medications, it’s possible the CBD could interact, but research is ongoing in this area.
Is CBD oil safe?
Research is ongoing, but CBD is considered a safe alternative to treat many different ailments, including insomnia, anxiety, and depression. There are few side effects (and some people don’t experience any), and an overdose may result in extreme drowsiness. Some research indicates that CBD may interact with liver enzymes, and certain drugs may interact, so it may be advisable to speak to a doctor.
Is CBD oil legal?
Hemp and hemp products are legal, provided the plant contains less than 0.3% THC by weight. THC is the psychoactive compound in marijuana, which is still federally illegal. In some states, marijuana and CBD products containing THC are legal.
CBD oil labeled as ‘full-spectrum’ contains a range of cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, so it is only legal to purchase in states where marijuana is legal. Some experts believe that full-spectrum oil provides greater benefit than isolated CBD, also known as the ‘entourage effect’.
Are you ready to try CBD oil? Check out some of our high-quality products.
CBD oil isn’t a cure-all, but it may be able to aid in issues of anxiety, depression, and related sleep issues. Check out EcoKino’s shop to find high-quality CBD products.
