Many people still debate about the truth in the medical benefits of CBD. We have been taught that marijuana or cannabis is harmful to human health. But, traces of evidence reveal that it was widely used even in ancient times for medicinal purposes. In the United States, nearly all states are legalizing the use of CBD, leading to more health stores restocking their shelves with CBD oils and edibles to meet customers’ demands. They said it could help treat multiple illnesses, including anxiety.
Before we look further into how CBD helps with anxiety, let’s understand what anxiety disorders are.
First Things First, What Are Anxiety Disorders?
Anxiety is a typical response of our bodies to tension. In fact, it’s beneficial in some instances, signaling and helping us prepare for possible risks ahead. Every one of us experiences occasional anxiety, like when there’s a problem at work or before a job interview or taking an exam. That’s alright. However, anxiety disorders are not.
On the other hand, anxiety disorders are among the most common mental illnesses people experience, involving extreme fear, worry, dread, and nervousness. When it ends up being severe, it causes continuous fear, even preventing you from doing activities you used to enjoy. Sometimes, it can make you feel scared of going into an elevator, crossing the street, or leaving your home.
5 Major Types of Anxiety Disorders
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Social phobia or Social anxiety disorder
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a type of chemical naturally found in marijuana plants, called cannabinoid. It is among the most active ingredients that are extracted from hemp utilized in CBD products, such as oils or edibles. As opposed to another type called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD doesn’t make you “high” or intoxicated.
With CBD’s popularity exploding and trending, manufacturers now include and infuse it in many different applications. In short, it’s getting added to anything and everything.
CBD Products List
1. Edibles ( chocolates, gummies, hard candies, mac and cheese, lollipop, hummus, cakes, honey, jelly beans, cereal, cheese puffs, mustard, olive oil, coconut oil, gum, etc.)
2. Supplements ( inhaler, tincture/drops, patch, green superfood supplements, post-workout recovery drink, shatter/isolates, suppositories, capsules/softgels, etc.)
3. Body Care (massage oil, intimate lube, face oil, bath bombs and soaks, lotion, hand cream, balm, face mask, body scrub, eye serum, face moisturizers, beard balm, deodorant, etc.)
4. Smoking (vaping, flowers/joints, etc.)
5. Drinks (seltzer/sparkling water, coffee, soda, beer, water, k-cups, cocktails, energy drink, tea)
6. Pet Products (pet tincture, pet tropicals, pet treats)
So, How Does CBD Aid in Anxiety?
Though CBD has been medically used to deal with children with seizures, promising preliminary data suggests that it can also aid in treating anxiety disorders, depression, schizophrenia, cancer, pain, inflammatory diseases, substance use disorders, and many others.
Additionally, research found out that increased serotonin levels can help with anxiety. Serotonin, also known as “happy chemical,” is a chemical in the brain regulating mood, digestion, sleep, happiness, etc. Low levels of serotonin can cause stress and anxiety, sleep difficulty, and depression. CBD is thought to work by increasing serotonin levels, similar to how antidepressants do. If you’re looking for products to help anxiety, CBD oils, edibles, and beverages can be one of your best options.
What Do Studies Say About CBD and Anxiety?
A 2019 study used CBD to treat people with anxiety and sleep troubles. They found out that nearly 80% of these individuals’ anxiety improved while almost 70% reported that their sleep troubles got better, both in two months.
In another study in the same year, out of eleven patients with PTSD, 91% experienced reduced symptoms after taking CBD.
On the other hand, a review of 49 studies in 2015 found evidence that CBD could help with panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Remember
Though studies are slowly proving that CBD can help treat a wide array of medical illnesses, keep in mind that it is not a “miracle cure.” Also, we need more research to show its efficacy and whether it’s safe for numerous health conditions.
Since CBD products readily available in the market these days, be aware that it’s not well regulated. Meaning, the contents and amounts on the bottle may not be exactly the same as what’s inside. Moreover, know the CBD laws in your state or nation before purchasing.
For CBD edibles Canada suppliers, try Birch and Fog. They have a wide array of CBD products, including their ever-famous, delightful CBD edibles.