CBD Oil and Anxiety: What You Need to Know

Anxiety is more than just nervousness. People living with anxiety can face attacks at any time, and they are nerve-shattering at the least. It is a critical mental health condition that needs proper treatment. Not treating it can lead to a low quality of life. 

Though there are medications available to treat this condition, more often than not, long-term use of them can be habit-forming or have serious side effects. Natural alternatives, like THC free CBD oil, show tremendous potential in acting as a substance that has natural anti-anxiety properties. 

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found naturally and in abundance in the cannabis sativa plant. This compound is under heavy research because of its various properties and effects on the human body and mind. 

Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce the intoxicated or high state, and though CBD is a chemical from the cannabis plant, it is found to be safe for use in most cases. 

Early studies suggest that CBD can be beneficial in treating anxiety in many adults. Here’s how. 

How Does CBD Work?

CBD works because of the endocannabinoid system present in the human body. This system is responsible for regulating various biological functions, including eating, learning and memory, metabolism, anxiety, etc. 

CBD, when consumed, interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors present in the brain. The exact way CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system is unknown, but it is thought to make alterations to the serotonin signals.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a pivotal role in your mental health. Low serotonin levels are closely associated with people with depression. In some cases, not having enough serotonin levels can also cause anxiety. 

Conventionally, low serotonin levels are treated by using SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). In some cases, it may also be treated by using CBD instead of an SSRI. 

How Effective is CBD Oil for Anxiety?

Several researches have shown the effectiveness of THC free CBD oil in treating conditions such as anxiety. For generalized anxiety disorders, CBD has been shown to be useful in lowering the behavioural signs of anxiety. The psychological signs of anxiety, such as increased heart rate, also have shown improvement with the consumption of CBD. 

Research has also been done on the effect of CBD on several other forms of anxiety, including social anxiety disorder (SAD) or PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). 

In 2011, a study with participants with SAD were administered 400mg of CBD or a placebo. Results showed that people who received CBD experienced an overall reduction in anxiety levels. 

Multiple studies have also shown that CBD, particularly CBD oil, can be beneficial in reducing PTSD symptoms, such as having nightmares or replaying negative memories.

However, if you want to replace your standard medication with CBD, you should consult with your medical practitioner. It is best to use CBD as a supplement along with standard medications to see a lasting effect and freedom from the negatives of various forms of anxiety. 

Side Effects of CBD Oil

CBD is generally safe, but some people may face some undesired symptoms, including:

• Diarrhoea
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in weight

CBD may also interact with other medications and dietary supplements you are taking. They can be particularly harmful to people using blood thinners or pregnant and lactating mothers. So, exercise caution or talk to your doctor if you are among these people. 

Also, you must not stop using any medicine for your condition and start using CBD as an alternative treatment right away. Using CBD oil may help reduce your anxiety symptoms, but it can also have some withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Irritability
• Fogginess

How to Buy CBD Oil in India?

To buy CBD oil containing less than 0.3% THC, you don’t need a prescription. You can buy THC free CBD oil at the best prices from online stores like Hempiverse, which showcases a diverse range of brands and products for every need. 

CBD oil, as many studies suggest, is effective in reducing anxiety in adults and is a safe, natural treatment. Though more research is needed, and doctors rarely advise CBD oil as a standalone medication, you can always try it as a supplement. But it’s best to start at a low to moderate dosage and talk to your medical practitioner before beginning to incorporate CBD oil into your anxiety relief journey.