Cannabidiol is a form of cannabinoid that occurs naturally in cannabis plants like hemp and marijuana. Research into the chemical has led to positive results on CBD oil’s ability to relieve anxiety in patients.

In contrast to Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, which is another form of cannabinoid, CBD does not lead to feelings of intoxication or euphoria that is generally associated with cannabis consumption.

How Does CBD Work?

The human body has several different receptors or protein-based, chemical formations that are attached to cells. The primary function of these receptors is to receive signals from various stimuli.

CBD is understood to interact specifically with CB1 and CB2 receptors which are usually located in the human body’s central and peripheral nervous system respectively.

Though researches have not yet fully identified how CBD affects CB1 receptors in the brain, it is thought to alter serotonin signals. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a critical role in mental well-being. Low levels of serotonin are usually linked to depression. In some cases, a lack of serotonin may also lead to anxiety.

Traditionally, low levels of serotonin is treated by a ‘Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor’ or SSRI. These can include prescription drugs like Fluoxetine (Prozac) and Sertraline (Zoloft).

Alternatively, individuals may also be able to manage anxiety problems by replacing an SSRI with CBD. That said, it is always advisable to speak to a medical professional before altering medical treatment.

Research-based Evidence

There have been many studies probing the use of CBD in treating anxiety –

General Anxiety

When it comes to Generalized Anxiety Disorder or GAD, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has confirmed that CBD has been able to decrease stress levels in animal subjects and lower signs of behavioral anxiety were observed. An improvement in other physiological signs of anxiety, like increased heart rate, were also observed.

Further research on the effect of CBD on GAD in humans is underway.

Other Categories of Anxiety

CBD may also prove effective in treating other variations of anxiety including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), and insomnia caused by anxiety.

A study was conducted in 2011 on the ‘Neural Basis of Anxiolytic Effects of Cannabidiol
(CBD) in Generalized Social Anxiety Disorder’ in patients suffering from SAD. As part of the study, subjects were treated orally to 400mg of CBD or a placebo. Subjects that received CBD displayed a decrease in anxiety levels overall.

Several studies conducted recently have shown how CBD can help patients suffering from the effects of PTSD like replaying negative thoughts, nightmares, etc. The focus of these studies has been the use of CBD as an independent treatment option for PTSD as well as an add-on to traditional treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and medicines.

Other Neurological Problems

CBD has also been the subject of study in several other neurological problems. A research paper published in 2017 explored the roles of cannabidiol in psychiatry. The study concluded that “the evidence regarding efficacy and safety of CBD in psychiatry is still scarce.”

That said, the researchers were still able to identify certain markers to point to the possibility of CBD treating anxiety-induced disorders. However, since the studies were conducted in an uncontrolled environment, there was no comparison done with a control group and there was the possibility of the subjects having received an alternate treatment.

Side Effects of CBD

CBD oil is generally considered a safe remedy. A Cannabis and Cannabinoid research focusing specifically on the ‘Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol’ in 2017 found that “In comparison with other drugs, used for the treatment of these medical conditions, CBD has a better side effect profile.”

However, certain individuals may experience some discomfort including changes in appetite and weight, tiredness, and diarrhea.

CBD may also interact with other dietary supplements or medications currently prescribed. While CBD may help decrease feelings of anxiety in a patient, there is a possibility of the patient also experiencing withdrawal symptoms in case prescribed medications are suddenly discontinued.

Withdrawal symptoms include dizziness, nausea, irritability, fogginess, etc.

Disclaimer

CBD products that are derived from Hemp and contain less than the prescribed .3 percent of THC are legal per federal law. However, certain state laws may still deem it illegal.

CBD products that are derived from Marijuana are illegal per federal law but remain legal under laws of certain states.

It is advisable to check the appropriate state laws in case of travel. It is important to note that over-the-counter CBD products are not approved by the FDA.