May 93 min read

CBD and Anxiety

Updated: Jun 20

One in 13 people around the world lives with an anxiety disorder, making anxiety the most common mental health disorder worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

For those living with anxiety, finding a safe method for managing symptoms is a critical concern. Quick-acting anti-anxiety medication, such as Xanax and Valium, may offer instant relief but can become addictive. Long-range anxiety medications, such as Prozac, may help reduce symptoms over time, but don’t work for everyone and come with a range of known side effects. Cannabidiol (CBD) and its supporting chemical constituents have recently captured the spotlight as an alternative or complementary treatment for anxiety.

With the growing interest in CBD as a potential remedy for anxiety, we will explain what anxiety is and how CBD is showing to be a promising treatment to ease some of its symptoms.

Understanding CBD and Anxiety:

Cannabidiol, or CBD, which is derived from the cannabis plant, is becoming increasingly popular for its potential to alleviate anxiety. Over 8 million people in the UK alone suffer from anxiety disorders, which has led individuals to explore more natural alternatives like CBD.

How CBD alleviates anxiety symptoms:

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for regulating key bodily functions. The ECS is a complex network that supports neuronal activity, as well as the cardiovascular and central nervous system. It regulates a wide range of functions, including memory, appetite, sleep, fertility and mood. The last is especially significant, with studies suggesting CBD interacts with the 5-HT1a receptor, a serotonin-subtype.

Neurotransmitter Regulation: Known as the “feel-good” hormone, serotonin stabilises the mood, increases feelings of happiness and promotes a sense of wellbeing. Serotonin and other neurotransmitter abnormalities are frequently associated with anxiety. CBD may have an impact on serotonin receptors, which could improve mood management and calmness.

Cortisol Reduction: Elevated cortisol levels during stressful times can make anxiety symptoms worse. CBD may help reduce cortisol levels, mitigating the physiological effects of stress and promoting relaxation.

CBD has the potential to modify the body's response to anxiety signals via interacting with the ECS. You can find out more about the ECS here!

Research and Evidence

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to approve any CBD-based medications for anxiety. However, many studies indicate the substance can be an effective anxiolytic.

A study in 2010 found that CBD could reduce symptoms of social anxiety in people with a social anxiety disorder (SAD). Brain scans of participants revealed changes in blood flow to the regions of the brain linked to feelings of anxiety. In this study, cannabidiol not only made participants feel better but also changed the way their brains responded to anxiety.

A 2011 study also found that CBD could reduce social anxiety. For that study, researchers looked specifically at cannabidiol to treat anxiety associated with public speaking.

Research published in 2014 found that CBD oil had anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects in an animal model (In Vivo).

A 2015 analysis of previous studies concluded that CBD oil is a promising treatment for numerous forms of anxiety, including social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

A 2016 case study explored whether cannabidiol could reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety-provoked sleep disorder in a child with a history of trauma. Researchers found that cannabidiol reduced the child’s anxiety and helped her sleep.

Can we help you?

An ever-growing body of research suggests that CBD may help relieve anxiety, the most common mental health disorder.

Various products are available for people who want to use CBD to treat anxiety, including tinctures, gummies, lotions, and patches.

It is important to remember that everyone is unique too their individual CBD journey! Our friendly team is always on hand to answer your questions so please get in touch with us if you would like any more information on CBD and our products!