Did you know more than 32% of adults in the UK experience suicidal thoughts due to stress? Besides stress, anxiety also affects more than 284 million people in the world.
If you suffer from any mental health problem like social anxiety disorder or generalized anxiety disorder, you are not alone.
Every day, people struggle with dissatisfying jobs, dysfunctional marriages, financial strains, and other life stressors. Life challenges slowly drain you into stress and anxiety. While we cannot control stress factors, we need to manage stress and anxiety effects.
Stress and anxiety wreak havoc on the entire human’s well-being. It destabilizes your physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. It does not have to get there. There are ways to prevent stress and anxiety from having this much control over your life.
Keep reading to learn how CBD can help manage your stress and anxiety levels, and self-diagnose early signs of anxiety symptoms.
WHAT IS CBD OIL?
If you are not familiar with the term CBD oil, you must be wondering which ointment this is? To bring you up to speed, Cannabidiol (CBD) is found naturally in the hemp plant. In some countries, it is legal, while in others, it’s pending approval, depending if it is an extract from the cannabis or the hemp plant, or the country’s rules regarding the use of medical marijuana.
The value of CBD in healthcare is attributable to Cannabis compounds’ effects. Cannabis has a wide range of compounds with beneficial treatment effects. Two primary compounds of a cannabis plant are delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD. THC is responsible for the high effect. However, CBD oil by itself is not psychoactive. The World Health Organisation verified that there is no proof that pure CBD holds any abusive, addictive or dependence potential.
Research confirms that CBD may have significant medical benefits and it is a possible treatment for anxiety disorders. CBD can reduce inflammation and pain. It’s also effective in treating seizure disorders, multiple sclerosis, anxiety and stress.
The Buddahealth CBD oil is a hemp-derived CBD oil. It comes in three different strengths; 5%, 10% and 20%, allowing you to chose how much CBD you wish to consume. It is lab-tested at every stage of the process to ensure it is of the highest quality and that it is safe from contaminants, dangerous bacteria, mold, fungus and other cannabinoids. Our oil is cold-pressed and full-spectrum and is extracted without any harmful solvents, Co2, extreme heat, chemicals, or hidden preservatives. This 100% Irish oil is vegan and organic, allowing you to experience the stress relieving effects without having to worry about the ethical stance of the oil.
Note, using CBD oils for anxiety should only be under a physician’s prescription.
STRESS AND ANXIETY
Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental illness in the UK. With the Covid-19 pandemic, anxiety and chronic stress prevalence increased rapidly.
The number of people with high anxiety and stress levels during lockdown increased by 39%. With or without the Covid-19 pandemic, the prevalence rates of anxiety levels are alarming.
Anxiety and stress disorders are treatable. However, only 36.9% of the people suffering from anxiety receive treatment. If you are among the people with anxiety and stress disorders, you don’t have to live in worry and fear.
Don’t wait to have muscle tensions and a racing heart to get treatment. Chronic stress and anxiety levels can affect your ability to work, study, or perform day-to-day activities.
Stress and anxiety are a normal part of existence. They are healthy emotions we feel before taking a test, a job interview, or during a rough day at work. However, prolonged periods of stress or anxiety can be damaging.
If you realize your stress or anxiety levels are out of proportion, seek medical help immediately. A combination of psychotherapy and medication will help manage your condition.
Medication like CBD oil works adequately in reducing stress and anxiety levels.
THE EFFECTS OF CBD OIL ON STRESS AND ANXIETY
For anxiety patients, based on scientific evidence, physicians’ advice against marijuana use. The THC content may trigger anxiousness and paranoia. However, CBD works differently as it reduces anxiety levels.
CBD may be useful for patients with mental conditions like PTSD, social anxiety disorder, general anxiety disorder, and panic disorder, as CBD has been proven an effective treatment in reducing symptoms of anxiety and overall anxiety levels in mice.
The mechanism of action for CBD oil is through different receptors. Humans have many receptors that receive signals from different stimuli. CBD oil interaction is through CB1 and CB2 receptors.
CB1 and CB2 exist in the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.
CBD oil stimulates the receptors triggering the production of cannabinoids (endocannabinoids). This may alter serotonin signals.
CBD oil has at least 65 targets in the human body.
With many targets, it makes it challenging to pinpoint the source of the therapeutic properties. However, CBD oil’s effects on stress and anxiety reduction are attributable to the stimulating effects on the neurotransmitters system and neural regeneration.
The stimulation is notable in the following areas:Serotonin
A boost or stimulation in serotonin reduces anxiety levels. Low serotonin levels are associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms.
CBD binds to the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor. The receptor has the strongest role in anxiety disorder. Binding CBD oil and the receptor influence the anti-anxiety effect reducing stress and anxiety levels.
Increasing serotonin can treat anxiety. How? High serotonin levels improve your mood, sleep, digestion, and behaviour.Endocannabinoids
The body naturally produces cannabinoids. Your endocannabinoid system needs cannabinoids for full functionality of the brain and body. Under chronic stress or anxiety, the endocannabinoid system is disrupted.
CBD restores the balance in the endocannabinoid system by preventing overstimulation of CB1 receptors. Also, it boosts the production of endocannabinoids.Neural Regeneration
Chronic stress can damage neurons and even shrink your brain. It’s through neural regeneration that you remain sane. Under stress, neural regeneration is slow. CBD oil helps in neural regeneration.
CBD influences the formation of new neurons, connections, and growing the brain.
How CBD oil works in reducing stress and anxiety are evidenced through experiments on rodents. A recent study on 32 different studies highlights that 31 of the rodents tested CBD effects on anxiety.
There are also many testimonials of patients suggesting the positive effects of CBD oil.
Most research studies show the positive effects of CBD oil on stress and anxiety. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. The studies use small sample sizes, which limits their representation of the general population.
HOW TO USE CBD OIL FOR STRESS, ANXIETY AND SOCIAL ANXIETY DISORDER
Researchers and physicians are yet to establish the ideal dosages for the drug. In 2019, the commendable dosage for anxiety was 300 – 600 mg.
The ideal dosage depends on the CBD products. CBD administration methods can be through oil, sublingual spray, capsules, edibles or cannabis flowers.
Orally administered CBD-like oils such as our Buddahealth CBD oil are highly effective, as within 30 minutes to 2 hours, you can realise the effects. If you prefer smoking or vaping CBD oil, the results are immediate.
People respond differently to different dosages of CBD.
You should always talk to your doctor about a proper CBD dosage, as CBD could worsen your symptoms or interact with other medications. Don’t self-prescribe!
For CBD oil, it’s commendable you begin with low dosages. This can be taking 10 to 20 mg per day. Consistently take the dosage in a week while you monitor the effects.
If the dosage has no desired effects, you can up the dosage by 5 mg each week. As you up the dosage, note the results, but always take proper CBD dosages to avoid adverse effects or reactions.
CBD oil products are available as drugs, dietary supplements, food, and cosmetic products. Buy from a trusted vendor. Unapproved products are yet to be evaluated by FDA. Our Buddahealth CBD oil is sourced from the highest HPRA certified farms in Ireland and it is also FSAI (Food Safety Authority of Ireland) approved.
IS CBD OIL SAFE?
The Food and Drug Administration has set no regulations on CBD use for stress and anxiety. Physicians or patients need to use sound judgment during prescription. To avoid the consumption of counterfeit products, you are better off buying from reputable manufacturers and distributors. As previously mentioned, the Buddahealth CBD oil is sourced from the highest HPRA certified farms in Ireland and it is also FSAI (Food Safety Authority of Ireland) approved.
So, are there limitations on CBD dosages? The maximum safe dosage for CBD is around 600mg per day. However, one study suggests that doses of up to 1500 mg are tolerable and safe.
More research on CBD oil’s long-term effects needs to be done. There is limited evidence on how CBD affects the body. Many attributes of CBD oil use in treating anxiety remain unclear.
No study analyzes CBD impacts on developing brain, male fertility, and sustained use. It is also questionable what dosage of CBD triggers known risks of CBD.
There are potential risks attributable to CBD oil, and just like any product, there might be some adverse side effects:
- Liver injury
- Interaction with other drugs can cause adverse effects
- Sedation and drowsiness if taken with alcohol or other drugs
- Decrease in appetite
- Changing alertness
The short-term side effects include nausea, fatigue and irritability. It can also increase your blood thinning.
CBD can interact with medications like Warfarin, antidepressants, Benzodiazepines, opioids, calcium channel blockers, and antipsychotics.
Some people fear CBD oil due to its association with cannabis. It’s logical if you are concerned if CBD oil can make you feel high. The answer is no! Pure CBD oil shouldn’t make you feel high, as the psychoactive effects are generally generated by THC, a substance found in the cannabis plant. It also does not influence habit-forming behaviour or influence addiction.
However, CBD products that contain THC can cause a buzz.
DOES CBD SHOW UP ON A DRUG TEST?
Some workplaces have strong policies on drug use, particularly cannabis. It’s okay to worry if CBD oil might cost your job. Standard drug tests check for THC and not CBD.
Whether the test is positive or negative depends on the THC quantity in the CBD product. If the amount exceeds the threshold, chances are you will test positive.
If the product you are using is pure, you should be fine. If there is a trace of THC, it’s not strong enough to test positive.
THE BEST CBD OIL FOR ANXIETY AND STRESS: A STUDY
There are three main types of CBD: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Depending on each product’s attribute, you can determine which one suits you the best.Full Spectrum CBD
The Full Spectrum CBD Oil option contains naturally occurring extracts from cannabis. The maximum levels of THC are around 0.3%. Full-spectrum CBD contains all cannabinoids and other plant compounds.
The Buddahealth CBD oil is full spectrum and cold-pressed.
Some people prefer full-spectrum due to the other chemical products and cannabinoids, which have healing properties.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
The broad-spectrum CBD contains naturally occurring extracts from the cannabis plant. However, it is free of THC. If you don’t want THC trace in your body, this is an ideal option.
This CBD oil option is rare to find in the market.
Broad-spectrum CBD oil goes through the normal extraction process. However, in the final stages, THC is extracted.CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD. It is free of THC, cannabinoids, or other plant compounds. It is odorless and tasteless.
The majority of brands sell isolate in crystal or powder form. However, some sell it as an oil.
What sets apart Isolate from broad and full-spectrum is the extraction process. Once cannabinoids are extracted, CBD is filtered out. Through winterization, all other chemical compounds are removed.
CBD isolate administration method is through vaping. When in crystal form, it is consumable by putting it under the tongue.
WHAT OTHER CONDITIONS DOES CBD OIL TREAT?
CBD oil’s effects in treatment go beyond reducing stress and anxiety levels. People report using CBD oil for diverse medical conditions. Commonly people experience minimal serious side effects.
Cannabidiol has become an alternative therapy for a range of conditions. The medicinal benefits of CBD oil are evident in the following conditions:
- Epilepsy
- Pain and Inflammation
- Depression
- Addiction Treatment and Management
- Management of Chemotherapy Side Effects
The first CBD medication to get approval by FDA is Epidiolex. The drug controls seizures through stimulation of a receptor; transient receptor potential vanilloid.
The product is also associable with anti-inflammatory properties. In depression, CBD works similarly as it does with anxiety. In addiction treatment, some experts suggest that it reduces activation of the amygdala.
Further research is vital to determine the effectiveness of CBD oil for various medical conditions. Comparisons to determine whether CBD products are more effective than other medications should also be done.
MANAGE YOUR STRESS AND ANXIETY LEVELS
Stress and anxiety are health liabilities that can cripple your functionality. Though it’s normal to have daily stress, extremes of it are a health hazard.
CBD oil could be your solution to your escalating anxiety levels. If you are considering using CBD products, consult with your doctor. A medical analysis will help analyze your condition, current treatment, and compatibility with CBD oil.
People react differently to CBD oil. You are better off if you are under an expert’s supervision to avoid adverse health effects. Nonetheless, you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce vulnerability to chronic stress and anxiety disorders.
Eat healthy diets, exercise and sleep sufficiently to avoid health complications.
Talking is also an incredibly important aspect when fighting anxiety and stress. Talking to someone you trust about how you feel can help take a lot of weight off of your shoulders. A problem shared is a problem halved, and your feelings are valid. You should never suffer in silence.
There are a number of helplines you can reach out if you feel as though you need a helping hand or someone to talk to. A full list of helplines can be found here.