We all know that CBD reduces stress. But can it treat anxiety disorders?
Many people confuse anxiety and stress. And in many ways, they are alike. But anxiety can become a disorder that involves high levels of stress that interfere with daily life.
Anxiety disorders are often treated with medications that have unwanted side effects. But some studies reveal that CBD can reduce anxiety naturally. Read on to find out if that is the case.
How Does CBD Reduce Anxiety?
CBD is known to produce several beneficial effects on the body. It is best recognized for its ability to relieve stress, anxiety, and pain. But how does it work?
Its effects are due to how it reacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The endocannabinoid system is a biological system located throughout the body and brain. It regulates many important functions including learning, memory, sleep, emotional processing, body temperature, and more.
When CBD enters the body, it interacts with receptors in the ECS enhancing its functioning. Specifically, it affects the 5-HT1AR receptor which boosts serotonin levels. Serotonin is a ‘feel good’ hormone that exists in the body. The increase reduces feelings of stress, anxiety, and pain.
CBD also interacts with the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that signals the pituitary gland to produce a hormone that signals adrenal glands to increase the production of cortisol. CBD inhibits the production of cortisol helping to reduce stress levels.
Can CBD Be Used to Treat Anxiety Disorders?
There are many medications on the market that can be used to treat anxiety disorders. But many cause unwanted side effects. Some have also been linked to addiction. Could CBD serve as a treatment solution without the side effects?
A 2015 study shows that it can be effective in treating anxiety disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), General Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder (PD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). While it may not be a standalone solution, it can be used alongside other medications to decrease reliance on them.
CBD and PTSD: A 2016 study showed that CBD and other drugs that act on the ECS may reduce PTSD symptoms when combined with memory extinction procedures. Some research suggests that the cannabis constituent may make it difficult for the brain to form memories that cause PTSD to develop in the future.
CBD and GAD: The National Institute on Drug Abuse says that CBD has been shown to reduce symptoms of GAD in animal studies. Subjects were shown to have decreased anxiety symptoms such as rapid heart rate.
CBD and PD: A 2017 study revealed that CBD produces anti-panic properties in human and animal studies. This makes it a good alternative to benzodiazepines and antidepressants.
CBD and OCD: More studies are needed to establish whether CBD is effective in treating OCD. However, research so far looks promising. A 2019 review concluded that it could reduce symptoms like anxiety, fear, and certain repetitive behaviors in people with OCD.
CBD and SAD: A 2011 study showed that CBD can reduce anxiety symptoms such as a fear of public speaking in people with SAD.
How to Take CBD for Anxiety Disorders
Most studies recommend that 300-600 mg of CBD is ideal for reducing anxiety symptoms. However, if you have been diagnosed with a disorder, it’s best to talk to a doctor before proceeding. They will advise you in terms of how much to take and how to combine it with your prescribed medications.
How Freely Can Help
There are many CBD products on the market that are designed to treat anxiety. But with CBD being relatively new to the world of healthcare, the market is still highly unregulated. Many manufacturers falsely advertise their products in terms of their purity, potency, and THC content.
In a world of unknowns, Freely stands out as a brand you can trust.
Freely is known for producing high-quality CBD supplements formulated with phytocannabinoids, vitamins, and botanicals. They work together to provide optimal wellness. Each of our products is designed to provide specific wellness effects.
Our line includes products that treat anxiety, improve sleep, relieve pain, and boost immunity. Our anxiety tincture is a broad-spectrum CBD-CBN blend. It promotes a relaxed state and helps people manage stress more effectively.
Anxiety can greatly reduce the quality of life. Freely’s CBD products can help you get a better handle on your stress so you can enjoy a happier existence. Contact us to find out how we can assist you in reaching the wellness level you deserve.