Many Americans are using cannabidiol oil as an option for anxiousness. CBD oil may be taken by people for their daily anxiety. Some use it to treat more serious conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder.
Cannabidiol is found in cannabis plants. Its availability is rising as more states legalize cannabis.Cannabidiol differs from Tetrahydrocannabinol. This cannabis compound is also known to produce a “high”. CBD oil doesn’t typically contain THC and doesn’t produce this effect.
Many companies are selling CBD oil products such as salves and supplements. These items can be touted as natural treatments for conditions like pain and anxiety.
This article will describe CBD oil’s benefits and potential side effects. This article provides an update regarding some of the amazing research on the topic.
Uses
Anxiety disorders can affect more than 18% American adults ages 18-64, according the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA). Only 37% of adults seek professional care.
Treatment options could include psychotherapy, medication, and/or a combination. Many people decide to self-treat their anxiety with CBD oil, instead of using traditional therapies.
Their goal is clear according to a survey published by Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. Almost 62% claim they use cannabidiol for pain relief, anxiety, and depression. 2They have taken a leap and are now taking a leap. Scientists are still trying to figure out how CBD oil might be used in anxiety treatment.
Research Studies
The majority of research linking CBD’s effects to anxiety has been done in animals and lab experiments. It does, however, show promise.For example, scientists reported in Neurotherapeutics that CBD oil might ease some disorders, including generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, and post-traumatic stress disorders.3Study on Social Anxiety
A small study published in Neuropsychopharmacology determined that CBD may help reduce social anxiety.4 The ADAA defines this disorder as “intense anxiety or fear of being judged, negatively evaluated, or rejected in a social or performance situation. “5Social anxiety affects around 7%. It is as common in men and women as it is among adults. 524 people suffering from social anxiety disorder were treated with either 600mg of CBD (mg), or a placebo. This was done 90 minutes before the participants had to perform a mock public speaking test.
Twelve other people with social anxieties also completed the same test but received no CBD treatment.
Results showed that CBD pre-treatment significantly reduced anxiety, cognitive impairments and discomfort while participants gave speech. 4
Dose-Response Study
CBD can be used to reduce anxiety. It may work by following what scientists call a dose-response curvature. Simply stated, the curve indicates the relationship between the dose taken and the response. The curve looks like a bell.
A study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology 6 found that CBD is more effective in reducing anxiety than CBD.
Participants received different CBD doses before taking part in a public speaking exam. Subjective anxiety was reduced when CBD dosages were increased to 300 mg. This was not the case with CBD dosages higher than 900 mg.
If you were able to plot the result on graph paper it would form a bell. Thus, the name for this pharmacology concept is literally formed.
Paranoid Trait Study
However, CBD does NOT appear to decrease paranoia. A study that was published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology examined the effects of CBD for people with paranoid traits.
The CBD had no effect whatsoever on anxiety, heartbeat, or cortisol levels. Cortisolis commonly known as a ‘fight or flight’ hormone.
CBD showed no effect either on systolic or persecutory thoughts. This is a fear about someone hurting you or the future. 7
Study of anxiety among healthy participants
A study published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research has shown that Cannabidiol doesn’t reduce anxiety in healthy adults. 8
This was determined by testing participants’ responses after taking oral CBD.
Summary
CBD oil is becoming a popular treatment for anxiety. The research shows that CBD oil can be used to treat anxiety disorders. Side effects could be severe.
You should consult your doctor before using CBD oil. If your doctor cannot recommend a particular brand, they may be willing to warn you of an unsafe brand.