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CBD FOR ANXIETY: HOW CANNABIDIOL CAN HELP MENTAL HEALTH

CBD FOR ANXIETY: HOW CANNABIDIOL CAN HELP MENTAL HEALTH

Mental health problems are dispiritingly common in the UK. As many as 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health issue every year. Moreover, 1 in 6 will experience a common mental health issue, like depression or anxiety, in any given week in England. For those living with the symptoms of anxiety or depression, it’s essential to consult a doctor for advice. However, several medical studies have revealed the efficacy of using CBD for anxiety.

Prescribed antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs have a range of physical and mental side effects. These may include nausea, insomnia and a reduced sex drive. As a result, many people turn to natural remedies, like CBD, to help treat mental health issues. If you’ve been struggling with your mental health and you’re looking for a natural remedy, using CBD for anxiety may help. Here, we take a look at how.

Can I Use CBD For Anxiety? 

Studies into CBD and its efficacy as a physical and mental health treatment, are still in their infancy. However, several recent studies are beginning to paint a very positive picture. The results of these studies suggest that the proposed benefits of CBD are more than just a fad.

A 2015 review into CBD looked at the mechanics of CBD. It studied how cannabidiol interacts with our endocannabinoid system. This system is an internal network of retrograde neurotransmitters that help regulate caloric energy balance, immune function, emotional behaviour and other functions of the body. As well as investigating how CBD can regulate mental health, which we will discuss later, this study also found evidence that CBD is an effective treatment for a range of anxiety disorders. The study surmised that “Preclinical evidence conclusively demonstrates CBD’s efficacy in reducing anxiety behaviours relevant to multiple disorders”. These disorders include:Two Bottles of Only Green CBD Oil product

  • generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
  • post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • panic disorder (PD)
  • obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • social anxiety disorder (SAD)

A 2020 STUDY ON CBD EFFICACY FOR MENTAL AND PHYSICAL ISSUES

As well as this, research from 2020 evaluated the impact of CBD on 400 patients living in New Zealand. The results of this trial are even more positive than the last! The patients chosen for the trial were living with a mixture of conditions. These included cancer-related chronic pain, non-cancer pain symptoms as well as anxiety-related mental health conditions. In particular, those with mental health issues and non-cancer-related pain symptoms experienced the greatest improvements to their quality of life. 

In total, 70% of the patients reported “satisfaction” with CBD use for their ailments in a spectrum from excellent to good. Less than 10% of patients reported any adverse side effects and less than 1% reported a worsening of any symptoms. For those living with non-cancer-related pain, anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions, the three-week prescription of CBD saw a self-described improvement in their “ability to complete their usual activities”.

It should be reiterated that there is still research to be done in regards to the best way to administer CBD for anxiety. As well as this, extra testing is required for the role of certain cannabinoid receptors. However, further studies are being completed all of the time. What is generally understood by all of the research completed into the efficacy of CBD for anxiety, is that, for many, CBD can reduce anxiety-related symptoms and there is substantial potential for CBD oil as an effective treatment for mental health conditions.

How CBD Works For Anxiety Management

As already mentioned, CBD interacts with what is known as the endocannabinoid system in the body. When ingested through drops, a pill or edibles, CBD transacts with several receptors which regulate fear and anxiety-related behaviours. In particular, CBD interacts with the cannabinoid type 1 receptor, the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, and the transient receptor potential (TRP) vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) receptor.

The combination of CBD’s interaction with these receptors has an impact on how we experience pain. It also impacts how we experience our emotions. Physically, these interactions may reduce symptoms of pain, reduce inflammation, ease arthritis, reduce vomiting and more. Mentally, CBD’s interaction with serotonin receptors can help improve mood. As a result, this positive impact on mood can reduce the symptoms associated with anxiety and depression.

wooden dice spelling out CBD

Which CBD Oil Is Right For Me?

Choosing which CBD oil product is right for you depends largely on your symptoms and the severity of your anxiety. We delve into this subject in more detail in our CBD oil buyers’ guide. However, as a general rule of thumb, it’s always best to start with a lower strength oil, taking a few drops a couple of times a day, and then work up from there. Our Only Green CBD Oil comes in either 10% or 20% strength. When buying oil from us, we suggest starting with a consistent course of 10% oil and assessing any changes in your mood. If this feels unsatisfactory, move up to our 20% oil and increase your dosage.

When diagnosed with a mental health disorder and on medication, it’s important to speak to your doctor about CBD before taking it. As suggested in the research cited throughout this blog, there is plenty of evidence on the efficacy of CBD. However, for diagnosed illnesses, the views of your doctor should always take precedence. If you generally struggle to manage your anxiety and stress, taking CBD and embarking on a journey of wellness could be the solution you’ve been looking for!

CBD As Part of General Wellness Practices

If you struggle with stress and anxiety-management, integrating general wellness practices into your life may help you find the tranquillity you are looking for. Committing to regular exercise, staying connected to the people you love, being kind to others and practising mindfulness can all aid your general sense of wellbeing. Taking CBD oil for anxiety can supplement these practices to take the edge off and help you manage any negativity without actually getting high.

Hemp plants sprouting leaves

At Only Green, We Can Help You Tackle Your Anxiety With Our Range of CBD Products

If you’re struggling with your stress and anxiety, you can buy CBD from our Only Green online shop. Our CBD oil has Novel Food status and is legal to buy in the UK. If you’d like to find out more about our services, please feel free to contact us. Alternatively, you could pop into our physical CBD shop in Bristol. We’d love to meet you!