Table of Contents
- Introduction to CBD
- Research Findings: Benefits and Risks of Using CBD
- Selecting CBD Products: Factors to Consider
- CBD Product Selection Checklist
- How to know if CBD is working for anxiety? CBD dose for sleep and anxiety.
- Risks of CBD Use. Special Considerations for Children, Pregnant Women, and the Elderly
- Conclusion
- Sources
Introduction to CBD
Undoubtedly, many people have experienced anxiety in their lives. Anxiety is a feeling of excitement, restlessness, apprehension, or suspicion of something negative. This type of anxiety is a relatively natural and normal body reaction, helping to mobilise forces and focus attention to a particular situation. Though, when anxiety becomes constant and interferes with one's mood and thoughts, people seek ways of alleviating those symptoms. However, to properly explore the effects of CBD use on anxiety, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the compound and the various ways in which it is incorporated into wellness routines.
Understanding Cannabidiol and its Variants
To facilitate understanding of CBD and its related compounds, we have compiled a comprehensive table of the most important terminology and abbreviations. This resource is a valuable starting point for individuals navigating the complexities of CBD and its variables.
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Hemp |
Hemp belongs to the cannabis plant family, and it is the source of Reakiro premium quality CBD extract. The hemp plant contains over a hundred different types of cannabinoids, with the most common being CBD and THC. |
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CBD (Cannabidiol) |
CBD is a compound that occurs naturally and is extracted from the hemp plant. It is one of over a hundred cannabinoids in the hemp plant, but it is the most well-known and widely used in the wellness industry. CBD interacts with a system of receptors in the body known as the endocannabinoid system. |
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THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) |
THC is known for its mind-altering and psychoactive effects, which are generally associated with marijuana as a recreational drug. |
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ECS (Endocannabinoid system) |
ECS is a complex cell-signalling system that regulates various bodily functions like sleep, mood and balance. |
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Full Spectrum |
This extract contains all the natural substances found in the hemp plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Keeping these components together allows them to work synergistically and enhance the overall effect, known as the entourage effect. The chemical structure of the extract represents the natural structure of the plant. |
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Broad Spectrum |
Broad-spectrum extract contains all the other natural cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes, with an undetectable (or trace) amount of THC. |
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Isolate |
Initially, it was believed that extracting only the CBD molecules to create an isolate would be the most effective method. However, this type of extract is now less common as it has been discovered that other naturally occurring compounds (terpenes, flavonoids, etc.) enhance CBD's effectiveness. |
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Terpenes |
Terpenes (components of essential oils) are responsible for the aroma of cannabis. Although they occur naturally in hemp, when combined with CBD extracts, they produce what is known as the entourage effect. |
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CoA (Certificate of Analysis) |
A CoA is an official report from an accredited third-party laboratory that provides a detailed chemical analysis of a substance. Each batch of CBD product is typically tested individually, and a COA is generated for each run. |
Research Findings: Benefits and Risks of Using CBD
Incorporating CBD into your life should be a decision based on a thorough examination of available research. Evaluating both the advantages and disadvantages outlined in scientific studies provides a holistic perspective on CBD's potential effects. This evidence-based approach ensures that decisions align with personal health goals and considerations.
Human studies provide strong evidence supporting CBD's potential as an anxiety treatment. According to the research CBD reduces experimentally induced anxiety in healthy controls at oral doses ranging from 300 to 600 mg, without affecting baseline anxiety levels. Additionally, it proved to reduce anxiety in participants with Seasonal affective disorder. Limited results in healthy subjects also suggest the potential efficacy of CBD in acutely enhancing fear extinction, which could be considered for the treatment of PTSD or for enhancing cognitive-behavioural therapy.
Formal studies are required to establish efficacy and dosage. The recent surge of public interest in this topic and the rush to market these products make this research even more crucial.
A 2019 clinical report supports the existing scientific evidence that CBD compounds may be helpful for anxiety symptoms. This evaluation suggests that CBD may be better tolerated than routine psychiatric medications and no safety issues that would limit future studies have been found. However, it is essential to note that the results of this large case series are open-label and nonrandomised, so they must be interpreted with caution. Randomised and controlled trials are necessary to provide definitive clinical guidance.
Selecting CBD Products: Factors to Consider
When considering how to use CBD drops for anxiety, it is important to understand that the choice of administration method is influenced by various factors such as personal preference and lifestyle. Nowadays, CBD products are customised to meet individual needs and are available in various forms, providing the flexibility people need.
How to take CBD oil for anxiety?
- Oral Ingestion: CBD Capsules, CBD Gummies
- Sublingual Administration: CBD Oil, CBD Sprays
- Inhalation: CBD Vape Pens
- Topical Application: CBD Creams and Lotions
Each method has different onset times and durations of effects, catering to various preferences and lifestyles. CBD capsules, oils or CBD gummies for anxiety may be preferable for those seeking convenience and precise dosing. Individuals looking for rapid relief might opt for inhalation methods like vaping. The most suitable method ultimately depends on personal preferences, desired effects, and lifestyle considerations.
CBD Product Selection Checklist
There are several factors to consider when choosing the best CBD oil for anxiety:
- ➤ CBD Concentration: This concentration is measured in milligrams (mg). It means the higher concentration may be more suitable for people with severe symptoms and for those requiring higher doses.
- ➤ Product Type: The form of CBD product that best fits your preferences and lifestyle should be considered. Options include oils, capsules, edibles, topicals, and more. Each type offers unique benefits regarding convenience, ease of use, and onset/duration of effects.
- ➤ Understanding the Differences Between Full Spectrum, Isolate, and Broad Spectrum CBD: It is essential to understand the differences between full-spectrum CBD, CBD isolate, and broad-spectrum CBD (See table at the beginning of the article for a detailed comparison). If you wish to avoid THC or are subject to drug testing, choose CBD products that are labelled as THC-free or have THC levels below the legal limit.
- ➤ CBD products should be purchased from trusted sources like licensed dispensaries, reputable online shops, health and wellness stores, pharmacies, or at CBD events and expos. It is important to prioritise quality, transparency, and safety by choosing products that have positive reviews and had undergone third-party testing and have positive reviews.
- ➤ Third-Party Testing: When looking for best CBD gummies for anxiety or other products, choose those that have undergone third-party testing by independent laboratories and can provide CoA certificates. These tests verify the CBD product's potency, purity, and safety, assuring quality and transparency. Purchasing CBD products without the necessary certifications poses a significant risk of exposure to harmful contaminants or inaccurate CBD concentrations.
- ➤ Source: When examining the ingredients list, avoid those with artificial additives, preservatives, or potentially harmful substances and ensure that the product contains only high-quality, natural ingredients. Also, consider the source of the hemp used to extract CBD to ensure its origin and quality.
- ➤ Researching the brand's reputation, customer reviews, and transparency regarding its manufacturing processes, sourcing practices, and adherence to regulatory standards is important.
How to know if CBD is working for anxiety? CBD dose for sleep and anxiety.
When beginning to use CBD for anxiety, it is always advisable to start with a low and slowly increase the dosage as needed while monitoring your body's response. It is important to mention that CBD affects individuals differently, meaning that what works for one person may not work the same for another. Therefore, it is necessary to experiment and exercise patience in finding the proper CBD regimen to manage anxiety effectively. However, before incorporating CBD into your routine be sure to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you are taking any medication or have underlying health conditions.
Risks of CBD Use. Special Considerations for Children, Pregnant Women, and the Elderly
Although CBD is generally considered safe, there are specific risks and special considerations for certain groups, such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
- Children: Limited research exists on the effects of CBD in children, particularly on their developing brains and bodies. Some studies suggest that CBD may interact with certain medications commonly prescribed to children, potentially leading to adverse effects. Therefore, parents need to consult with a healthcare professional before administering CBD to children.
- Pregnant women should avoid CBD products due to insufficient evidence regarding their safety during pregnancy. CBD may cross the placenta and affect fetal development, posing potential risks to the unborn child.
- Elderly individuals: Due to age-related changes in metabolism and medication interactions, the elderly may be more sensitive to CBD's effects. Furthermore, elderly individuals may have underlying health conditions or take multiple medications, which increases the risk of adverse reactions or drug interactions. Learn more about CBD and Older Adults.
While CBD shows therapeutic potential, it is important for individuals in vulnerable groups to exercise caution and seek guidance from healthcare professionals before using CBD products.
Conclusion
In this article, we examined the latest research findings regarding the potential benefits and considerations of using CBD for anxiety management. Remember that CBD's efficacy may vary from person to person. Ultimately, whether to take CBD for anxiety is a decision best made through a thoughtful evaluation of the available evidence, individual circumstances, and personal wellness goals.
