CBD Oil for Anxiety Management

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a product derived from the cannabis plant. It contains CBD, a non-psychoactive compound, which has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits, especially in anxiety management. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of CBD oil, its possible effects on various types of anxiety, and how it may help with other mental health disorders. Keep in mind, however, that more research is needed to fully understand the extent of CBD’s effectiveness.

CBD Oil and Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are common mental health issues, affecting around 1 in 4 New Zealanders at some point in their lives. While anxiety is a normal human response to stress, chronic anxiety can significantly impact daily functioning and overall well-being. Traditional anxiety medications often come with undesirable side effects, leading many to seek alternative options, like CBD oil.

CBD oil may help alleviate anxiety symptoms by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system and serotonin receptors. The endocannabinoid system is a complex network of receptors that regulate a variety of bodily functions, including mood, appetite, and sleep. CBD oil contains cannabinoids that may bind to these receptors, increasing the levels of naturally produced cannabinoids in the body, which may help promote a “calming effect.”

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in regulating mood, and low serotonin levels have been linked to anxiety and depression. CBD oil may influence the way serotonin receptors respond to the serotonin already present in the brain, leading to an increase in mood levels and a decrease in anxiety symptoms.

It’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand how CBD oil affects anxiety and its related symptoms. While initial studies have shown promising results, individual responses to CBD may vary, and the ideal dosage and frequency may depend on various factors, such as body composition and anxiety severity. Always consult with an experienced doctor before incorporating CBD oil into your anxiety management routine.

Various Types of Anxiety and CBD 

1. Generalised Anxiety Disorder – GAD is characterised by excessive, ongoing worry that interferes with daily life. Typical treatments include counselling and prescription medications, which can cause unwanted side effects. CBD oil has been proposed as a potential alternative for those seeking to avoid these issues. Preliminary animal studies have shown promising results in reducing anxiety-like behaviours, lowered heart rate, and other stress indicators.
2. Other Forms of Anxiety – Besides GAD, anxiety can manifest in other forms such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and social anxiety disorder (SAD). Common symptoms across these disorders include insomnia. CBD oil may potentially help by addressing various anxiety-related symptoms. Recent studies have suggested that CBD can improve sleep quality and duration in individuals with insomnia.
3. Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders – Anxiety often coexists with other mental health conditions like depression. CBD’s potential effects on serotonin receptors may help improve mood, focus, and overall mental health. Although still a developing field, studies have suggested that CBD possesses anti-stress properties and may even have antipsychotic effects in individuals with schizophrenia, without causing significant side effects.

How to Use CBD Oil for Anxiety

Using CBD oil for anxiety can be a safe and effective way to manage symptoms, but it’s essential to follow the right steps to ensure optimal results. Firstly, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if CBD oil is suitable for you. Once you have been prescribed, there are several ways to use CBD oil for anxiety.

One option is to take it sublingually, meaning placing a few drops under your tongue and holding it there for about 60 seconds before swallowing. This method allows the oil to absorb into your bloodstream quickly and effectively. Another option is to add CBD oil to food or drinks. You can mix it into smoothies, salad dressings, or even coffee or tea. However, keep in mind that adding it to hot beverages may decrease its effectiveness.

Like with any new medication into your regime, starting slow is important. While high-quality CBD products generally do not have side effects, everybody will react differently. Taking small amounts of CBD oil first is a good way of allowing your body to adjust, especially if you haven’t taken CBD products before.Talking to your doctor about dosage is recommended since the effects of CBD will depend on your body composition and anxiety needs. Additionally, be consistent with your usage and give it time to work, as it may take a few days or weeks to see noticeable results.

Conclusion

CBD oil’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system and serotonin receptors may potentially help reduce anxiety and alleviate related symptoms, such as depression and insomnia. Consult your doctor before using CBD oil as a potential anxiety management tool to determine appropriate dosages and ensure the best possible outcomes. If you would like to speak to a professional about using CBD oil and medicinal cannabis, you can book in with us.

Disclaimer – medicinal cannabis and CBD oil are unapproved medicines in NZ which means that there is no conclusive evidence for their effect, apart from Sativex. Many doctors do not routinely prescribe cannabis medicines. The above article was written for general educational purposes and does not intend to suggest that medicinal cannabis can be used to treat any health condition. Please consult with your healthcare provider. 

Dr. Waseem Alzaher

MBChB (Otago), BSc (Auckland) - As our tele-medicine doctor and author, Dr. Waseem keeps busy educating both patients and doctors about medicinal cannabis. He also consults with people from all over New Zealand, offering a listening ear and giving the most relevant advice.