One of the things that can deeply affect your daily life is living with anxiety. For many people, the impact of anxiety symptoms is far reaching, and it's deep. Anxiety doesn't just cause mental distress, there are physical and emotional consequences that have to be considered that can be debilitating if not properly managed.
There are traditional treatments such as medication and therapies that are commonly used to treat anxiety, but there has been growing interest in using non pharmaceutical alternative methods to manage the condition. One option that has been gaining attention in recent years is cannabidiol, or CBD. This is a compound derived from the cannabis plant, but unlike other compounds, it doesn't create that high that people often seek from cannabis.
The research surrounding CBD for anxiety is still in its early stages and is still ongoing, but the results so far have shown promising potential for people seeking natural methods to alleviate these symptoms. Understanding the potential benefits of CBD for anxiety, including how it works and the types of anxiety it can help, is how you can step forward into choosing which CBD products to use. Let's take a look at our latest article.
Understanding Anxiety: What Are the Symptoms?
Before we go into how CBD can help you with your anxiety, it's important to understand what it is and how it manifests. Anxiety is a very broad term and it encompasses a range of disorders, but at its core, anxiety involves feelings of worry, fear and nervousness that can occur in response to certain life circumstances or stressful situations.
For some people, anxiety is persistent and it is their natural default. The symptoms can interfere with everyday activities, relationships, and their overall health and well-being. Anxiety affects every person differently, and the symptoms may vary depending on the individual. Common signs that people with anxiety often experience include:
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A constant feeling of irritability, restlessness, or nervousness.
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Difficulty concentrating or falling asleep and staying asleep at night.
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Panic attacks with shortness of breath.
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Withdrawing from social interactions or emotional changes.
In addition to these mental and emotional symptoms, anxiety has the ability to manifest physically. Some of those physical symptoms can include:
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Shortness of breath or rapid breathing.
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Nausea or dizziness.
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Trembling or shaking
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Numbness.
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Difficulties with regulating temperature.
If you or somebody that you know is experiencing these symptoms, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider. You'll need accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan, including whether CBD could be a viable part of those treatment options.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol is the non psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, which is the most well known compound in cannabis that we mentioned earlier, CBD does not produce that high that is typically associated with marijuana. Because of the fact that it's not psychoactive, CBD has become popular as a natural remedy for various health issues.which includes sleep disorders and chronic pain
CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which is a complex network of receptors found throughout the body. The endocannabinoid system plays a role in regulating many of our physiological functions, such as sleep, pain, appetite and mood.
CBD interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain and the immune system, and while the exact mechanisms are still being studied, it's thought to influence the endocannabinoid system in a way that promotes balance within the body.
Can CBD Help Alleviate Anxiety Symptoms?
There is so much research that is needed to draw definitive conclusions here, but there are still ongoing studies to explore the potential of CBD as a treatment for anxiety. We cannot say that CBD is going to cure anxiety, but studies have shown promising results in its ability to manage and alleviate some of the symptoms of it. Here are some of the studies that highlight CBD's potential benefits in treating anxiety:
CBD and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about everyday life. People may worry about work, health or social interactions even if there's no immediate reason for concern, and that constant stress can be very exhausting.
There was a 2011 study published in Neuropsychopharmacology and researchers investigated the effects of CBD on individuals with social anxiety disorder. This involved participants who were asked to give a public speech, which is a task that typically induces anxiety in many people. Those who chose to take CBD before the speech experience significantly less anxiety, cognitive impairment, and discomfort in their speech performance. The study concluded that CBD was effective in reducing anxiety in individuals with SAD. While this study is focused particularly on social anxiety, it suggests that CBD could potentially help with generalized anxiety as well.
CBD and Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is characterized by recurring panic attacks that lead to sudden, intense feelings of fear and discomfort. Panic attacks often include symptoms like heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness and chest pain, which are more physical than they are psychological.
A 2017 review of studies published in Current Neuropharmacology found that CBD could have anxiolytic effects of the studies involved participants who were given CBD before a public speaking test, and these individuals reported experiencing fewer anxiety symptoms and physiological symptoms compared to those who do not take CBD. This suggests that CBD could help reduce the severity and frequency of panic attacks for some individuals.
CBD and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a severe anxiety disorder and it can develop after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. It can lead to intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, and feeling emotionally numb.
While treatment for PTSD typically involves therapies and medications, there are some individuals that seek natural alternatives like CBD.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine investigated the effects of CBD in samples of individuals of PTSD. Those who used CBD reported significant improvements in their anxiety reduction, sleep quality, and their overall mood. More studies are needed, but the early research here suggests that CBD could play a vital role in alleviating the symptoms of PTSD.
Different Forms of CBD for Anxiety Relief
CBD for anxiety is available in different forms, which allows people to select the option that fits their preferences and their lifestyles.
CBD Oil/Tinctures
One of the most popular methods of taking CBD is sublingually with CBD oils and tinctures. This is where it goes under the tongue for faster absorption into the bloodstream and many people find this effective because it can produce quicker results. If you're looking for immediate relief from anxiety symptoms, CBD oils and tinctures are available for this.
CBD Capsules and Edibles
CBD capsules and edibles such as gummies are easy to take and discreet too. They offer a controlled dosage which is highly beneficial for those who want to know exactly how much CBD they are consuming.
Because they must pass through the digestive system, however, the effects may take longer to set in, and they usually range for 30 minutes to two hours.For those who want long lasting relief, CBD edibles may be a good option.
CBD Vape Pens
Vaping CBD is another popular method for fast, taxing anxiety relief. When inhaled, CBD enters the bloodstream through the lungs and it provides rapid effects. But vaping is not recommended for everybody, especially those with respiratory conditions or those concerned about the potential risks of inhaling vapour.
CBD Topicals and Skincare Products
Topicals like lotions, salves, and bath bombs are often used for localized pain relief, but some people use them for anxiety, too. When applied to the skin, CBD is absorbed and interacts with local receptors. Topicals are less likely to have a direct effect on anxiety, however, because they do not enter the bloodstream. They may, however, help to promote a relaxing environment and really physical tension that anxiety can produce.
CBD-Infused Beverages
CBD infused drinks are another convenient way to consume CBD. These drinks often come in the form of teas, coffees and sparkling waters. The effects may be slower compared to oils or vapes, but CBD beverages provide an enjoyable way to experience the benefits of CBD.
CBD has shown potential in reducing anxiety in a range of studies, especially in those dealing with generalized anxiety disorders, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorders. While more research is needed to understand the long term effects and the optimal dosages available, there are early findings that suggest that CBD may be an effective tool for managing anxiety symptoms. It's vital to remember that everybody's experience with anxiety is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.
It's critical to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any CBD in your regimen, particularly if you're already on other medications. With the right guidance and the right product, CBD could be a valuable addition to your anxiety management routine. But it's important to remember that studies are still ongoing.