Cannabidiol, also called CBD, is one of many cannabinoids seen in the cannabis plant. CBD is one of the most known cannabinoids. The other is THC, a psychoactive compound that produces a high feeling.
Anxiety disorders are one of the most notable mental health issues. In the United States, it has affected approximately 31.1% and rising. CBD products such as CBD north’s cbd cream have been found to have potent pharmacological effects on the brain and body. From having anti-inflammatory properties to anxiolytic effects.
How Does CBD work
CBD communicates with cannabinoids type 1 receptors and the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor. These receptors in the brain and many others help control fear and anxiety-induced behaviours. Thus, CBD has been established as a treatment for different anxiety disorders, such as:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Panic disorder (PD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
A recent study done in 2020 accessed CBD’s effects on 397 participants in New Zealand. The people who took CBD treatment for anxiety, depression, or pain improved their quality of life and reduced pain, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. The results also showed that 70% of the participants were satisfied with the treatment.
Nevertheless, researchers have not yet found standardized dosing for CBD treatment of anxiety. A person’s dosage to relieve pressure depends on the CBD product and route of administration.
Administration routes include:
- Sublingual
- Topical
- Oral
- Nasal
The administration route controls the effect of CBD. The effects of orally administered CBD, such as oils, edibles, or capsules, begin working within 30 minutes to 2 hours. Smoking or vaping CBD oil or cannabis buds results in more immediate effects.
The oral route, e.g., capsules, takes 30 minutes to 2 hours. Smoking, however, has more immediate effects. Thus, smoking or vaping CBD oil can give immediate relaxation for stressful events. However, they have a shorter duration.
CBD oil and tinctures can be consumed through the mouth. They have a longer duration but a more prolonged onset. If you want a more localized effect, e.g., muscle relaxation, use creams and gels. You may have to explore different forms to know what works for you.
For example, vaping is faster absorption into the bloodstream than edibles.
CBD Dosage
- 600 mg for people with SAD
- 25 – 75 mg for generalized anxiety or sleep problems
- 33 to 49 mg/day for PTSD,
Note that CBD is not an alternative to routine psychotherapy. Works best simultaneously
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Side effects of CBD are mild but range from dry mouth to fatigue and diarrhea. Also, people should buy from trusted brands and consult physicians before taking CBD. People with liver issues should apply caution too.
Also, CBD can have interactions with other drugs, such as:
- Anticoagulant, e.g. warfarin
- Antidepressants
- Antihistamines
- Opioid
- Benzodiazepines
- Antipsychotics
- Calcium channel blockers
Note that Pure CBD should not get you high. If it does, you should stop immediately. It may mean that it was cut with something else or there is the presence of THC. THC can induce anxiety.