Can CBD Treat Anxiety?

In recent years, many studies have shown that Cannabidiol (CBD) can help treat anxiety disorders and other mental disorders. Until recently, anxiety disorders were only ever treated through the use of antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), such as fluoxetine and sertraline. However, things are beginning to change. Evidence now tells us that CBD can help not only anxiety disorders but can help treat panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders and post-traumatic stress disorders.

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a chemical compound that is found in the Cannabis sativa plant. The Cannabis plant contains over eighty chemical compounds with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) being the two that are most notable. Whilst THC produces the ‘high’ effect, CBD is known to provide many health benefits without any psychoactive effects.

In a study by Jessica Skelley [1], it was found that CBD consistently reduced anxiety-related symptoms in patients, specifically those with generalised anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder. What’s more, CBD has been found to produce fewer adverse effects when compared with current methods of treating anxiety. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has also carried out a study in which animals such as rats exhibited lower behavioural signs of anxiety after having taken CBD products. [2]

However, as research in this area is fairly recent, medical professionals advise using CBD sensibly by being mindful of healthy dosing habits.

With current options for treating anxiety being limited, as well as causing unwanted side effects, CBD has put itself up as an alternative form of therapy. Those looking to explore other options to help treat their anxiety should explore the various options available. Of all the CBD products on the market, the two most common ones are oral CBD and CBD topicals.

Oral CBD usually consists of products such as oil tinctures, capsules and edibles. With oil tinctures, you’ll get a coloured glass bottle with a dropper. You can put a preferred serving under your tongue and simply swallow after holding it there for around 60 seconds. CBD edibles come in different shapes and sizes. Offered as brownies, cookies, gummy bears and chocolate bars, you’ll easily be spoilt for choice. CBD topicals are slightly different. These come in the form of lotions, creams and balms and are easily absorbed through your skin.

[1] Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders | Jessica W. Skelley

[2] The Biology and Potential Therapeutic Effects of Cannabidiol | Nora D. Volkow

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