CBD Oil for Anxiety & Depression

Anxiety is a widespread mental health disorder which affects around 40 million adults in the US and around 10 million in the UK. As awareness of mental health problems becomes more mainstream, we are finding that more people are suffering, and the age range of sufferers is getting bigger. One in three teens will suffer from some form of anxiety disorder before they reach the age of 18.

Anxiety is a widespread problem which leads people to miss school and work while also having a negative impact on their daily lives. Therapy, pharmaceuticals and meditation are all used as potential treatments for anxiety. There is no quick fix, and often it is a combination of these treatments that sufferers will find more effective.

While not a new concept by any stretch, there is evidence to suggest that CBD could be a viable treatment for anxiety. As the latest health food craze to hit the shelves, CBD is growing in popularity as a treatment for anything from pain to inflammation. Overall, users report that it can help to increase your feeling of wellbeing. Studies are also ongoing in the effectiveness of CBD for anxiety treatment.

What is CBD?

CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is one of around 80 known compounds derived from the cannabis plant known as cannabinoids. These interact with the human endocannabinoid system by binding to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. These are found in the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. They are linked to the uptake of serotonin, which is linked to our mood. People with low serotonin often suffer from anxiety and depression, so it is thought that CBD could help to remedy this.

How do you take CBD?

CBD is most commonly taken as oil drops under the tongue. This is the most accessible way to use CBD products and it is also very easy to manage the dosing. You can also find CBD capsules and gummies which can be taken like a daily vitamin. Other methods for ingesting CBD include as a vape liquid, in a topical cream, or as a water-soluble drop. 

When choosing to try CBD for the first time, many people will start with a low-quality, low-potency CBD oil that has little to no effect. This could turn them off CBD and prevent them from enjoying the full benefits. This is why it is important to try a high-quality CBD oil from the start.

What does the research say?

Studies are still ongoing into the benefits of CBD oil for anxiety, but early results look promising.

According to one study, 38% of people who use CBD oil in the UK use it for anxiety. One study found that CBD was effective in reducing anxiety in children with posttraumatic stress disorder. It was also found to be effective in improving sleep. Research is still ongoing, but the medical community as a whole is excited about the benefits of CBD for anxiety. While you might not find your doctor prescribing it just yet, it might not be long before more ailments are treated with this versatile plant compound.

What are the risks?

Existing treatments for anxiety include strong medications which can be habit-forming. Things like benzodiazepines can also come with a whole list of unwanted side effects, including drowsiness, agitation and sexual dysfunction. These can also be highly addictive, so doctors will typically use them as a last resort. 

CBD is different. It isn’t habit-forming, which means you won’t become addicted to it. And if you run out or stop using it, you won’t experience any unpleasant side effects. It’s also very difficult to take too much CBD oil. In general, CBD in high doses is very well managed by the body. Any unpleasant side effects will be mild and short-lived. These might include dry mouth or lightheadedness. If you were to take too much, these effects would wear off within hours.

If you’re looking for a mild and effective treatment for anxiety, CBD could offer some relief. If you are looking for ways to improve your health and outlook, it’s worth trying to add CBD to your daily routine to see if you experience any relief. A few drops in the morning and before bed could be all you need to get your anxiety under control.

For more information about CBD. See 60 of the most asked question asked about CBD for further help.

If you are looking for answers to your health questions, drop Nick, a registered Osteopath, a message.