Cannabidiol (CBD) oil can be effective in the treatment of anxiety disorders, recent studies suggest. CBD is one of the active ingredients derived from the cannabis plant. While it isn’t the ingredient that causes the high people experience from another active ingredient, CBD does promote calming effects in some people. You should consult with your doctor before starting any new supplements.1
How Does CBD Work?
Once ingested, CBD is thought to activate receptors in the brain and nervous system related to pain, inflammation, mood, stress, and other physical and mental functions. These receptors can affect a variety of things including metabolism, immune function, and emotional regulation.3 Researchers believe this is how CBD provides its therapeutic benefits.
CBD is one of over a hundred cannabinoids found in the cannabis, or marijuana, plant. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive cannabinoid that is responsible for the high that people experience from marijuana. CBD does not cause these same euphoric effects, but has gained more interest from researchers and scientists for its other therapeutic properties.
CBD is often extracted and isolated from the cannabis plant to create oils, edibles, and supplements. Because CBD products do not contain THC, these products are legal to sell, buy, and consume in all states in the US. These products are sold as nutritional supplements, meaning they are not FDA-approved and do not require a prescription to obtain.2
Is CBD Oil Addictive?
CBD is not believed to be addictive. While it is possible to develop a problematic dependence on marijuana, this is not thought to occur in people who use CBD. One of the primary signs of an addiction is continuing to use the substance despite experiencing problems.
Because CBD does not impair a person’s ability to think clearly, function, and is not illegal, most people who use CBD do not experience these kinds of problems or consequences as a result.
Is CBD Legal?
CBD is legal in all 50 states in the US, although there are different kinds of CBD products that may be regulated in certain states. States that have fully legalized recreational use of marijuana have no restrictions on CBD products. States where marijuana is not legal for recreational or medical purposes usually have restrictions on CBD products that involve limiting the allowed level of THC.2
While the extraction process eliminates most THC from CBD products, trace amounts can remain. Many states have laws that state that CBD products cannot contain more than 0.3% to 0.5% of THC in them.2,5,6 There are a few medications derived from cannabis that are FDA-approved. These medications had clinical trials in which they were found to have a medical use and benefit.
Research on CBD for Anxiety Disorders
Early research shows promising results in the use of CBD for anxiety disorders, with many people reporting an improvement in their symptoms after taking CBD oil or other CBD supplements.3,7 Major organizations like the World Health Organization have issued statements in support of using CBD for anxiety, while others like the FDA and APA have been more hesitant to support its use.
Some of the anxiety disorders that CBD has shown promise in treating include:3
There is limited evidence that taking CBD before an anxiety-provoking situation (like flying on a plane or public speaking) could also help reduce anxiety.8
CBD has also shown promising results in disorders where anxiety is a key symptom, including OCD and PTSD.2 Many people who suffer from anxiety disorders also struggle with insomnia, which CBD may also be effective in reducing.3,7
Potential Drawbacks & Risks of Using CBD for Anxiety
All medications, including natural supplements like CBD, have potential risks and drawbacks. One of the biggest drawbacks to using CBD is that it is a largely unregulated product. Because most CBD products aren’t FDA-approved, there is no way for the average consumer to verify how much CBD a product has or what other fillers or ingredients are included.6
In a 2017 survey of 84 online CBD and hemp oil products, only 26 were accurately labeled for their CBD and THC content. These inaccurate doses increase the risk of accidentally becoming intoxicated when taking CBD.9
Potential Side Effects of CBD
All medications and supplements carry a risk of adverse effects. Some of the most commonly reported adverse effects in people who take CBD include drowsiness and changes in appetite.
Potential side effects of CBD may include:3,6,7,8
- Feeling drowsy or sleepy
- Trouble focusing and staying alert
- Having an upset stomach or other GI problems
- Potential liver damage (especially for long-term or heavy users)
- Possible fertility problems (observed in some animal studies)
- Muscle tics and spasms
- Changes in appetite
Drug Interactions With CBD
CBD also has the potential to interact with several other prescribed medications, increasing the risk for adverse reactions, side effects, or reducing the effectiveness of a medication. There is a list of medications that CBD may negatively interact with published here. If you take any other medications, it is especially important to consult with your primary care doctor or prescriber before starting CBD or any other natural supplement.
The FDA has also issued a warning that CBD can negatively interact with other illicit substances, including alcohol, in ways that increase intoxication.6,9
Using Supplements or Medication Alone for Anxiety
Taking a pill or supplement alone is not a sufficient cure for anxiety. Without therapy, people do not learn the skills and techniques needed to master better ways of coping and symptom management. This means that even if they do experience benefits from CBD, they likely will not feel in control of their symptoms, and may even come to depend on CBD to cope.
While early research on the effectiveness of CBD is promising, there are many other treatments for anxiety disorders that have a lot more evidence to prove they are safe and effective, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy.1 Therapy is always recommended in conjunction with any prescribed medication or natural supplement for the treatment of anxiety disorders.1
Potential Benefits of Using CBD for Anxiety
Some people who use CBD for anxiety report experiencing significant benefits, including feeling less stressed, anxious, and better able to cope.
Potential benefits of using CBD as opposed to other medications to treat anxiety may include:3,4,8
- Lower risk of intoxication, abuse, or addiction
- Less side effects than other anti-anxiety medications
- Less drowsiness or cognitive impairment than other medications
- More accessible than other controlled prescription medications
- Ability to increase or decrease dosage according to individual needs
- Ability to stop taking it, skip doses, or only take it as-needed
- Other benefits to physical and mental health
- Improved sleep quality
- Improvements in chronic stress (which can trigger/worsen anxiety symptoms)
How to Use CBD for Anxiety
CBD is readily available for purchase on many websites as well as in smoke shops, vitamin shops, and other retail stores. People are able to purchase CBD oil for anxiety that can be taken orally, or can choose to buy candies, gummies, edibles, and even vape liquids that can be smoked using an electronic cigarette.
If you are interested in trying CBD for anxiety, consult with your doctor first, especially if you are on any prescribed medications. If you live in a state where medical or recreational use of marijuana is legal, it’s especially important to pay attention to the package labeling when purchasing CBD products to ensure they do not contain THC. Ingesting THC can actually increase anxiety and paranoia, which can counteract any of the potential benefits of taking a CBD supplement.
The therapeutic dose of CBD for anxiety is typically between 300 milligrams (mg) and 600 mg, and the maximum recommended dose is 1500 mg per day.7 Still, it is recommended to take a lower dose if it is your first time taking CBD, or if it’s your first time trying a particular CBD product or brand. In some studies, taking too high of a dose could actually lead some people to become more anxious, while other studies have found high doses lead people to become drowsy and sedated.3,7
Until you know how it will affect you, it’s recommended to only take CBD during times when you are not working, driving, or doing other tasks that require focus or coordination. Some people may want to try CBD in the evening, as studies have shown that it can cause drowsiness in some people.8
CBD for Specific Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety disorders are the most common form of mental health condition in the US, with one in three Americans reporting anxiety at some point in their lives.10 Symptoms of an anxiety disorder can get in the way of their ability to function, complete daily tasks, and have a happy and fulfilling life.
Scientists don’t agree on how CBD works to reduce symptoms of anxiety, but several studies note reports of symptom improvement.3,4,7,8
Improvements are noted on the following symptoms of anxiety:
- Feeling nervous, jittery, restless or on-edge
- Being unable to fall asleep or stay asleep
- General ability to focus and concentrate
- Worried or racing thoughts
- General feelings of fear and anxiety
- Irritability and mood swings
- Nightmares
Final Thoughts on Using CBD For Anxiety
Some studies show that CBD can be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety, with fewer risks than other anti-anxiety medications. Still, research on CBD is in its early phases, while other treatments like CBT and exposure therapy have an abundance of research to prove they are safe and effective.1 Always consult with your doctor before taking any supplement or seeking help from a professional counselor.
Additional Resources
- Mental Health America
- National Alliance on Mental Health
- MentalHealth.gov
- Online Therapist Directory: Sort therapists by specialty, cost, availability and more. Watch intro videos and see articles written by the therapists you’re considering working with. When you’ve found a good match, book an online therapy appointment with them directly.
Are you ready to connect with a therapist but feel a little overwhelmed by all your options? Speak with one of Choosing Therapy’s Client Navigators. Client Navigators are mental health professionals who will listen to what you’re looking for in a therapist and help pair you with the best possible fit. Getting started is free, easy, and confidential.
