Anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects around 40 million people in the US and 10 million people in the UK. It can be debilitating, and those who suffer from it are often left feeling desperate for a way to get relief. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments available that can help manage anxiety symptoms, such as guided self-help, cognitive behavioural therapy, and medication. But if you’re tired of relying on prescription drugs, CBD is a natural remedy that’s been shown to have promising results.
CBD stands for cannabidiol, and is one of more than 80 different compounds found in the cannabis or hemp plant. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for controlling certain bodily functions, such as sleep and pain. It does so by binding to the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are located in the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system respectively. By doing so, it can alter the signals sent from those receptors, which may ease anxiety and other conditions.
As opposed to its psychoactive cousin, THC, CBD doesn’t have any known side effects and is legal in many countries. It has been hailed as an effective treatment for a number of different disorders, including chronic pain and depression. There are even two cannabis-based medicines that have been approved for use on the NHS, including Epidiolex, which reduces seizures in children with severe epilepsy, and Sativex, which is used to relieve muscle spasticity in people with MS.
In addition to these pharmaceutical options, there are also a number of different CBD products available to purchase online and in stores. These include oils, capsules, creams and sprays. Some, like Brown Girl Jane’s orange-flavored tincture drops, are designed specifically for anxiety, with a formula that contains broad-spectrum CBD and supporting cannabinoids such as CBC and CBG.
The ideal CBD dosage for anxiety will vary from person to person, but general recommendations are to start low and work your way up gradually. It is also recommended to speak with a doctor before trying CBD for anxiety, particularly if you’re taking any other medications.
CBD isn’t just an anxiety treatment, however; it can also be used to treat other mental health conditions, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies have shown that CBD can help improve sleep, which can also be a cause of anxiety.
The popularity of CBD has increased in recent years, with more and more products being stocked on the high street. However, the choice can be overwhelming, and it’s important to do your research before buying any product. Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process, and only recommends CBD products that have been independently verified as safe and effective. For more information, please visit our FAQ page. CBD For Anxiety UK