CBD oil is becoming more widely regarded as having significant medical benefits. One area, in particular, is the reduction of anxiety, or the symptoms of anxiety. There have been several studies conducted over the years, and while more research is still needed, the signs so far are extremely promising.
How does CBD oil work?
CBD oil works by interacting with certain receptors in the human body. Receptors are protein-based chemical structures attached to our cells, and the human body has a lot of different ones. Cannabidiol (CBD) particularly interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors, which form part of the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system.
While research isn’t totally clear, it appears that CBD can help to alter serotonin signals. Serotonin is sometimes called the body’s ‘happy chemical’. People with low serotonin levels often suffer from depression or anxiety, meaning CBD is a great organic, natural way to treat symptoms.
The benefits for anxiety sufferers
CBD oil has been shown to have a positive effect on those suffering from anxiety. While much of the testing around CBD oil’s efficiency in reducing general anxiety systems has been limited to animals, there are still obvious human benefits. For example, organic CBD oil can boost your immune system, help improve your sleep, and even offer pain relief. These factors can all play a part in general anxiety.
When it comes to more complex anxiety disorders such as PTSD and social anxiety disorder, tests have been encouraging. Back in 2011 there was a study involving sufferers of social anxiety disorder, with those who were given 400mg of CBD experiencing reduced anxiety levels. Participants who received the placebo overall did not report an improvement in symptoms.
Studies continue all over the world, with many showing that CBD has a positive effect on PTSD sufferers, particularly in reducing nightmares and instances of replaying traumatic memories. These studies have considered CBD as both a standalone treatment, as well as an additional treatment alongside other medication and cognitive behavioural therapy.
Getting the dosage right
It’s important to get the dosage right, especially when trying CBD oil for the first time. Back in 2018, a Brazilian study of 57 male subjects saw participants given different doses of CBD oil prior to a simulated public speaking test. An oral dose was administered 90 minutes before the test, and the results were quite clear.
Those who received a 300mg dose experienced significantly reduced anxiety. However, participants who received 150mg saw only very minor benefits. Curiously, the same was true for those who received 600mg doses. While only a small test, it does highlight the importance of getting the dosage right, which is why you should always consult a doctor before trying it for the first time.
Always consult a doctor first
Like all treatments, the use of CBD oil does present a minor risk of side effects. Most importantly, CBD oil may react with certain other medications, so if you’re taking anything else regularly, be sure to talk to your doctor first.
