CBD Oil To Treat Anxiety: Is It Effective?

Cannabidiol or more commonly known as CBD is a kind of cannabinoid – a chemical naturally found in cannabis plants. In recent times, CBD oil has been used more and more for treating anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. While it can be taken to treat day-to-day stress, it is useful in treating disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Unlike other cannabinoids, CBD does not cause any kind of intoxication that cannabis normally does.

How Does CBD Work?

CBD interacts with receptors that are found in the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. The use of CBD increases serotonin, which plays a role in the betterment of our mental health. If the level of serotonin is low in your body, it may lead you to feel depressed and anxious.

Some other ways to increase serotonin is through SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). Although SSRIs should be taken only when prescribed by a professional mental healthcare provider.

Note: Always consult a physician before taking any medications.

Benefits Of CBD Oil

Uses Of CBD Oil:

More than 280 million people worldwide suffer anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. Anxiety is one of the most common disorders to affect people. While many anxiety-related disorders can be treated with the help of psychotherapy and medication, it is common for people to use other self-help strategies including using CBD products to treat anxiety.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized anxiety disorder is when a person feels persistent and unnecessary worry and stress with day-to-day functions. People with GAD can agonize over finance, health, family, job, or any other issues. For this disorder, CBD oil can help reduce stress and improve heart rate.

This research was initially conducted on animals. More research is needed to draw circumstantial evidence on the effects of CBD oil and anxiety.

Anxiety-Related Disorders

CBD can also help people with panic disorders, social anxiety, PTSD, and anxiety-induced insomnia. According to research, CBD (when given orally) was effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety. It is also seen that with the help of CBD, symptoms of PTSD such as frequent nightmares and ruminating negative thoughts were treated.

Side Effects Of CBD Oil

CBD can also interact badly if you’re on certain medications or other dietary supplements. Medications such as blood thinners can harm you if you mix them with CBD.

If you’re on other medication, talk to your doctor first before taking CBD oil or related products. If you experience any kind of withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, dizziness, and nausea – consult your doctor immediately.

Is CBD Effective?

There are several research and studies that show that cannabidiol oil can help treat anxiety, panic, and other mental health-related disorders. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, depression, and anxiety can be effectively treated with the help of CBD oil and other CBD products.

CBD can be administered through tinctures or patches. This product provides a more holistic approach to treating anxiety and other related disorders. More research on the other benefits of CBD oil is still needed.

While it does have benefits, it is not guaranteed that it will work with everyone. This treatment depends on the metabolism of your body, hence it will have a different effect on you than what it does on others.

Final Words

Cannabidiol oil has many potential benefits in reducing symptoms of anxiety depression, panic, and trauma. Not only that, but CBD is also useful in treating conditions related to heart and blood pressure. It provides relief from pain and can ease symptoms of cancer and chemotherapy.

Even though it’s effective in treating anxiety, CBD has some side-effects as well that you need to keep in mind before starting with the treatment. If you experience symptoms such as irritability, muscle pain, fatigue, changes in appetite, or trouble sleeping, consult your doctor, immediately.

Untreated anxiety can cause you to withdraw from social situations and impact your ability to perform your daily activities. If you’re thinking of using CBD oil for treating your anxiety, reach out to a professional mental healthcare provider to understand its effect on you and your well-being.

Self-care is important but so is knowing what treatment is right for you.

Stay well, stay healthy!