If you suffer with anxiety and panic attacks then you know just how debilitating it can be. Mental disorders are sometimes referred to as ‘invisible diseases’ because they are hard to recognize with the physical eye. But they can really be some of the most crippling disorders to deal with. 

Anxiety can disrupt one’s entire life, and drive them into fear and panic. This is why when CBD was found to be helpful for anxiety and panic disorders, many people ran to test the theory, and many haven’t looked back since. Let’s get deeper into why cannabidiol (CBD) is helpful for anxiety and panic attacks. 

What is CBD? 

CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the many different cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Studies have shown that it has many uses, including preventing seizures, treating pain and inflammation, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and panic disorder. 

One of the best things about CBD is that, unlike THC, its use has no intoxicating or psychoactive effects. 

How does CBD help with anxiety? 

It is not fully understood exactly how CBD helps with these mood disorders, but scientists believe that it is connected to the serotonin signals in the brain. CBD reacts with the CB1 And CB2 receptors that are found in the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. 

Serotonin plays a major role in your mental health, and low serotonin levels have been linked to people who suffer from mental disorders like depression and anxiety. Consuming cannabis has been shown to reduce stress in animals, and decrease physiological symptoms of anxiety, such as increased heart rate. 

These studies show that CBD shows promising results for people suffering with anxiety and panic disorders. 

Does CBD have side effects? 

As with any medication, CBD is not without side effects. However, some people believe that when measured, the pros outweigh the cons. Some side effects that have been reported with CBD usage include: 

• Drowsiness - This side effect has also been considered a pro for people who take CBD for insomnia. 

• Nausea - This side effect may depend on your sensitivity to CBD, the way that you ingest it, and your dosage. CBD comes in many forms including oils, gummies, tinctures, and vapes. Hence, the form in which it is consumed will determine how quickly it is absorbed. 

• Gastrointestinal issues - Diarrhoea, loss of appetite, and liver problems have occurred in people who have a history of these conditions or related conditions and are generally a rare side effect of CBD consumption. 

• Dry mouth - CBD can potentially result in dry mouth or “cotton mouth”, as well as dry eyes. This side effect is more common with THC, so less likely with CBD extracted from hemp. 

How much CBD should you take for anxiety?

It is always best to check with your doctor first before beginning any supplements or new medications. It is also important that you report any serious side effects you may encounter. 

The dosage that is best for you may depend on a few factors. This includes your body weight, your individual composition, whether or not you are on any medications, and the method of administration. 

If you want to learn more about the CBD products available for anxiety, click here!