This article was written by Yigal Kotin
Anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are mental health conditions that affect millions worldwide.
These conditions, characterized by persistent fear, worry and intrusive memories, can significantly impair quality of life, and make even the simplest daily tasks feel difficult and burdensome.
Traditional treatments can be effective, but they don’t work for everyone, leading many to explore alternative options. One such option is cannabidiol, or CBD.
CBD, a natural compound extracted from the cannabis plant, has become popular due to its potential therapeutic effects on a variety of health conditions, from chronic pain to epilepsy. Recently, it is gaining attention for its potential role in the management of anxiety and PTSD. But what does science say? How does CBD work and how might it be used as a treatment for these conditions? In this article, we’ll delve into CBD’s potential for treating anxiety and PTSD, and provide an overview of current research and practical considerations for those interested in giving it a try.
Understanding anxiety and PTSD
Anxiety disorders are a group of mental conditions marked by overwhelming feelings of worry and fear that persist beyond normal stress responses. These disorders can manifest in different ways, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder and specific phobias. Symptoms can be extensive and varied, affecting every aspect of a person’s life, from work performance to personal relationships.
They may include restlessness, fast heart rate, difficulty concentrating and sleep disturbances. PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a specific type of anxiety disorder that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event.
This may include situations such as combat, a serious accident, natural disaster or personal assault. People with PTSD often relive the traumatic event through flashbacks and nightmares, leading to severe emotional distress and various physical reactions.
They may also exhibit changes in thoughts and mood, and show a marked increase in reactive behaviors such as being easily startled or having angry outbursts. While conventional treatments for these disorders, such as psychotherapy (including cognitive-behavioral therapy and exposure therapy) and medications (such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs and benzodiazepines), can be effective, they are not a perfect solution. Not everyone responds well to these treatments, and sometimes they may cause side effects such as sleep problems, weight gain or feelings of emotional numbness. For these reasons, many people living with anxiety disorders and PTSD turn to alternative therapies, including the use of CBD, in search of relief.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant, which includes species such as marijuana and hemp. CBD is one of more than a hundred such compounds, known as cannabinoids, that exist in the plant. However, unlike the most well-known cannabinoid, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not cause a “sotol” or any form of intoxication. This is because CBD and THC interact differently with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is believed to play a role in many biological functions, including pain sensation, mood and memory.
Interest in CBD has increased in recent years, especially following its legalization in many parts of the world. CBD is available in a variety of forms , providing flexibility in how it can be used. The most common form is CBD oil , which can be used orally or topically. Other forms include edible products, such as CBD honey ,gummies or chocolates, capsules, sprays and even creams. These different forms allow users to choose the method that best suits their needs and preferences, whether it’s quick relief with a spray, a tasty treat with an edible or a targeted application with a cream.
But what does science say? Can cannabidiol CBD really help reduce anxiety?
This is a question that many scientific papers have grappled with over the past two decades. Research reviews in 2015 and 2020 concluded that the evidence is promising, if incomplete, and that a variety of molecular mechanisms are likely at work, including CBD activation of the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, antagonism of the TRPV1 receptor, augmentation of GABA-A signaling, and indirect enhancement of activation CB1 receptor by the endocannabinoid anandamide, also known as the “happiness molecule”.
The potential use of CBD for anxiety and PTSD has piqued the interest of researchers around the world. Although research is still in its early stages, preliminary findings indicate promising potential for CBD as an alternative treatment option.
At the heart of this research is the endocannabinoid system (ECS) of the human body. This complex cell signaling system plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological homeostasis, regulating a variety of functions such as sleep, mood, appetite and response to stress. There is a tendency to believe that CBD interacts with the ECS, specifically with its CB1 and CB2 receptors. This interaction is thought to affect the serotonin system, which plays a significant role in mental health. Low levels of serotonin are common in depression and may also play a role in anxiety.
Several studies have investigated the potential of CBD in the management of anxiety disorders. For example, a 2019 study published in The Permanente Journal reported that 79.2% of patients experienced an improvement in anxiety scores within the first month of CBD treatment, with the remaining scores decreasing over the course of the study.
Regarding PTSD, reports show that CBD aids in the extinction of traumatic memories and reduces the anxiety associated with these memories. A 2018 review in Frontiers in Neuroscience suggested that CBD may offer therapeutic benefits for disorders associated with inappropriate retention of difficult memories, such as PTSD.
However, it is important to emphasize that while these preliminary findings are promising, more comprehensive studies on a large scale are needed. There are still many unanswered questions, such as the optimal dosage for different people, the long-term effects of CBD use, and its potential interactions with other medications.
How to use Cibid for anxiety and PTSD
Navigating the world of CBD can be challenging, given the variety of products available and the changing guidelines for correct dosages.
The most common method of consumption is through CBD oil.
This method is preferred by many due to its quick effect, usually within 15 to 45 minutes. Oils and tinctures also allow precise dosage control, as users can easily adjust the number of drops consumed.
Edibles, such as honey, gummies or chocolates, and capsules are other popular forms of CBD. These products offer a controlled dose as well and are easy and convenient to consume. However, because they have to pass through the digestive system, the onset of effects is slower, usually within one to two hours. This method may be preferred by those who want long-lasting relief, as the effects of foods and capsules can last for several hours.
There are also creams that contain CBD and can be applied directly to the skin. While these products are primarily used for local pain relief, some people find them helpful for anxiety-related symptoms such as headaches.
When starting CBD, it is generally recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the right dose. This approach helps minimize possible side effects and allows you to monitor the body’s response to CBD.
Importantly, CBD is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different people may respond differently to CBD, and what works for one person may not work for another. Furthermore, while CBD is generally well-tolerated, it can interact with certain medications, so it’s essential to consult with doctors and specialists before starting a new supplement regimen, especially for people with existing health conditions or those currently being treated with other medications. The journey with CBD is personal and requires patience, but with careful use, it may offer a promising alternative way to relieve anxiety and PTSD.
Summary
Navigating the challenges of anxiety disorders and PTSD can be challenging, and finding effective treatment strategies that fit one’s individual needs and lifestyle can often be a journey of trial and error. In the search for relief, CBD is emerging as a promising alternative that deserves consideration.
Our investigation into the science behind CBD, its potential benefits for anxiety and PTSD, and the various ways it can be used, paints an optimistic picture. Although research is still ongoing, preliminary findings suggest that CBD can play a significant role in helping to manage these conditions.
The different types of anxiety may mean that different methods of CBD work better than others. If someone is experiencing a panic attack, they may prefer a faster way to absorb CBD such as oils. If a person is using CBD for PTSD, they may prefer to take CBD at night to help fall asleep. Anxiety experienced throughout the day such as GAD may respond to continuous doses throughout the day.
You should do your own research when it comes to choosing the CBD you want to take.
Once you start using CBD oil for anxiety, you may notice increased effects over time. This is where the saying ‘start low, go slow’ comes from. If you start with a lower percentage, it is possible and correct to increase the dose slowly over time. While some effects can be seen more quickly than others, CBD works best when taken consistently over longer periods of time.
One of the best ways to notice a difference in anxiety is to document the CBD journey. This means noting any decrease in panic attacks, changes in sleep patterns or even increased feelings of calmness or relaxation.
It can help identify when it’s time to change the brand, method or even increase the dose, but most of all, it can be reassuring to see the differences and know it’s working.
Bottom line from our clinical experience:
In anxiety situations it is better to take pure CBD oil (and not full spectrum).
Always start with a relatively low percentage (20%) and increase later to 30% as needed.
It is correct to start with a low dose of drops (mg) 2-3 drops (about 20-30 mg) and increase gradually.
It is also possible to reach 300 and 400 mg per day.
It is right to think carefully about the times of taking. There will be those who apply CBD oil throughout the day (every 3-4 hours),
There will be those who add a higher dose before bed.
