How to use CBD for Anxiety

What is CBD?

One of over a hundred cannabinoids found in cannabis plants and second in abundance to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD can be used to treat a multitude of ailments from pain, insomnia, hangovers, and even anxiety. CBD is non-psychoactive…so it won’t get you high. CBD can be smoked in its natural flower form, consumed as an oil, or infused into gummies, coffees, and other edibles or drinks. 

CBD oil for anxiety

So, how does CBD oil work to manage anxiety specifically? Although studies are still underway to uncover this, anecdotal evidence and preliminary trials are promising. 

CBD as a serotonin stimulator

One way CBD works for anxiety is by stimulating the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor. A quick science lesson: anxiety and depression are treated by targeting the serotonin system, which produces serotonin—the chemical that boosts mood and feelings of well-being. That’s why many medications such as Prozac and Zoloft are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which basically block the brain from reabsorbing serotonin, increasing the availability of the chemical. This, in turn, reduces anxious feelings and and has an antidepressant effect. In mice, CBD has been proven to stimulate 5-HT1A, producing more serotonin without the need of SSRIs.

CBD as a neurogenesis stimulator

The hippocampus in the brain is critical for a variety of functions, and brain scans of those suffering from anxiety usually show a smaller hippocampus area. This means, neurons are formed slowly, which leads to feelings of anxiousness or even suicidal thoughts. According to one study, CBD has been shown to stimulate neuron regeneration in the hippocampus in the same way SSRIs do, potentially eliminating the need for medication. 

How to use CBD for anxiety

If you’re ready to give CBD oil a try to help manage your anxiety, here’s what to do.

Best CBD oil for anxiety

Look for a reputable seller of CBD products, and be sure that you are purchasing full-spectrum, hemp-derived CBD oil. As mentioned earlier, hemp-derived CBD oil does not have intoxicating effects due to the low levels of THC. Full-spectrum CBD oil has not been further processed, and contains all the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, including CBD and THC (<0.3%). Other types of CBD oil include broad-spectrum (contains all cannabinoids except THC), and CBD isolate (no other cannabinoids except CBD). Full-spectrum CBD is considered to be the most beneficial, as all the cannabinoids work together to amplify the benefits and effects of CBD (known as the entourage effect). 

How much CBD oil for anxiety

CBD oil is available in tincture form, containing 3 ingredients: CBD oil, MCT oil, and food-grade peppermint oil for flavour. You can also purchase CBD capsules or gummies, however, oil form is often considered the best way to consume CBD as it is fast acting and can be accurately dosed. 

Next, you need to find the right dosage that works for you. Since CBD oil does not have any intoxicating effects, it is not possible to overdose on the product, however, if you do take too large of a dose, you may experience some side effects, such as nausea or fatigue. resolveCBD tinctures have droppers that are clearly marked so you can measure out your exact dose, every time.

Start off by applying ½ ml to 1 mL of CBD oil sublingually (under the tongue) and letting it dissolve for a minute, then swallow any remaining oil. Continue this for a few weeks, monitoring how you feel—keep in mind that it can take several days for you to feel the effects of CBD, so don’t feel discouraged if you do not notice a difference right away. After two to three weeks, gradually adjust your dosage if necessary. 

Alternatively, take our 3-step quiz for a personalized dosing recommendation, or view our dosing guideline chart below.