The CBD Health Forum: What Do Studies Say About CBD for Anxiety Treatment?

CBD And Covid: A Compass for Anxiety

A pounding heart, sweaty palms, racing thoughts: for those living with anxiety, these unwelcome symptoms can make everyday life feel debilitating. And, good news, existing preclinical evidence strongly supports the potential use of CBD (cannabidiol) as a relief for anxiety.

A Non-Intoxicating Derivative of Cannabis

Early stage clinical studies suggest that CBD may be helpful in "stress-inducing" situations and in individuals with anxiety disorders. As reported in the Journal of Neurological Science, CBD, which is a nonintoxicating cannabinoid compound found in cannabis, demonstrates several beneficial effects. It has been found to have antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects.

Currently, as many clinical trials are underway, CBD demonstrates remarkable potential to become a supplemental therapy in various neurological conditions. It has shown promise in the treatment of neurological disorders such as anxiety, chronic pain, trigeminal neuralgia, epilepsy, and essential tremors as well as psychiatric disorders.

Navigating the Pandemic

As the novel COVID-19 virus pandemic moves into its umpteenth month (I have lost track!), it is more important than ever for people to recognize when they feel anxious, sad or depressed.

The adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are becoming frighteningly evident across the globe. Former First Lady Michelle Obama revealed recently that she is one of those people battling “low-grade depression,” and she is not alone. One in three Americans is dealing with symptoms of stress or anxiety, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Center for Health Statistics.

The psychological toll of this pandemic. may be worsening as the death rate, mass unemployment and financial insecurity, and quarantine measures continue at alarming rates. Many Americans are using prescription drugs to cope with their stress and anxiety, as demand for anti-anxiety medications has increased 34% during the Corona virus pandemic.

How you respond to stress during the COVID-19 pandemic can depend on your background, your social support from family or friends, your financial situation, your health and emotional background, the community you live in, and many other factors. The changes that can happen because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ways we try to contain the spread of the virus can affect anyone.

Existing research suggests that CBD appears to be a well-tolerated treatment. CBD has been shown to be safe even when taken in high doses (300-600 mg); nonetheless, it is advisable to start with a low dose and increase it incrementally, observing how you feel as you go. Aim for an informed, cautious approach to dosing. Start low and increase slowly. Everyone’s optimal dosage and tolerance is unique, and this process allows you to get acquainted with yours.

CBD has drawn increased attention as a potential treatment for anxiety, as the majority of existing data suggest it is safe, well tolerated, has few adverse effects, and demonstrates no potential for abuse or dependence in humans.

To learn more, click here.