As a hypnotherapist, I have helped numerous people overcome anxiety and live a more fulfilling life using hypnotherapy. This is not the only holistic solution to address anxiety. CBD oil has gained a lot of publicity in recent years as a potential holistic solution for anxiety, depression and pain management. Before you jump on the CBD bandwagon, let's explore the pros and cons of CBD oil for anxiety. Caveat: I do not sell CBD oil, this article is designed to help you make an informed choice about what is right for you.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids present in the plant and is known for its therapeutic benefits. CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and then diluting it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or hemp seed oil. Like all medications or supplements, there are pros and cons of CBD oil for anxiety.
How is CBD Oil Different from Cannabis?
CBD oil is often confused with cannabis or marijuana, but it is not the same. Cannabis contains both CBD and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound that produces a high. CBD oil, on the other hand, has very low levels of THC and does not produce any psychoactive effects.
How Does CBD Oil Help Anxiety?
CBD oil has been shown to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects, which is why it is often used as a natural alternative to medication. It interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which regulates various physiological and cognitive processes, including anxiety. CBD oil helps to regulate the endocannabinoid system, which in turn can help to reduce anxiety symptoms.
The Pros and Cons of CBD Oil for Anxiety
Pros of CBD Oil for Anxiety
Natural Alternative to Medication:
CBD oil is a natural alternative to medication and is generally considered to have fewer side effects than prescription drugs.
Anxiolytic Effects:
CBD oil has been shown to have anxiolytic effects, which can help to reduce anxiety symptoms.
Easy to Use:
CBD oil can be taken orally or applied topically, making it easy to use and incorporate into your daily routine. It comes various forms, from liquid with a dropper and to chewable gummies.
Non-Psychoactive:
CBD oil contains very low levels of THC and does not produce any psychoactive effects.
Cons of CBD Oil for Anxiety
Limited Research:
While there have been some studies on the effectiveness of CBD oil for anxiety, this field is in it's infancy and more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD oil for anxiety.
Quality:
CBD oil is not regulated in the same way that prescribed or over-the-counter medication is, and in the UK it's regulated as a food supplement. This means that dosages and quality can vary widely between products. For more information check out this article about CBD regulation in the UK.
Dosage:
The body can develop a tolerance to CBD over time. Which means that you may need to take higher doses to achieve the same level of relief. This can increase costs and potential side effects from increasing the dosage. It's essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Cost:
High-quality CBD oil can be expensive, especially if you use it regularly. Cheaper brands may not be as effective as higher-quality brands, as they may contain lower concentrations of CBD or other additives that can dilute the oil's effectiveness. It's essential to choose a reputable brand that uses high-quality, organic hemp and uses third-party testing to ensure the purity and potency of the product. While cheaper options may seem appealing, it's worth investing in a higher-quality product to ensure you get the full benefits of CBD oil for anxiety and don't waste your money on ineffective products.
Interaction with Other Medications:
CBD oil can interact with other medications, and therefore it is essential to talk to your doctor before using it. CBD oil can affect the metabolism of certain medications, including blood thinners and seizure medications, which can cause them to be processed more slowly or more quickly. This can lead to a build-up of the medication in the body, potentially cause side effects, or reduce the effectiveness. In some cases, CBD oil can also increase the sedative effects of medications, which can impact your ability to function normally.
Speak to your doctor about the pros and cons of CBD for anxiety
It's important to talk to your doctor before using CBD oil if you take any prescription medications. Your doctor can advise you on any potential interactions and adjust your medication regimen accordingly. You may need to adjust the dosage or timing of your medications to avoid any negative interactions with CBD oil. CBD oil can also interact with over-the-counter medications and supplements, therefore it's important to discuss any supplements or medications you take with your healthcare provider before using CBD oil for anxiety.
Other holistic supplements for anxiety include Bach's Rescue Remedy, ginger or turmeric extracts, lavender or camomile tea.
If you are curious what hypnotherapy might feel like, you can download my free guided 10-minute relaxation recording here.
Conclusion
Like all supplements or medications, there are pros and cons of taking CBD oil for anxiety. More research is needed to fully understand its effects. Talking to your doctor before using CBD oil is essential. There are a wide range of other holistic approaches with little to no side effects including hypnotherapy which are highly effective in reducing anxiety.
If you enjoyed this blog you might also want to check out my previous blog:
About the author: Helen is a clinical hypnotherapist who helps people go from anxious to awesome in as little as just six weeks. For more information about Helen or how to beat anxiety without medication click here.
