CBD oil dropper held over bottle

How CBD Effectively Treats Anxiety: What You Need to Know

With the passing of the 2024 Farm Bill, the U.S. legalized the use of cannabidiol (CBD) made from hemp. While there are still a few states that don’t allow the sale or use of CBD, products containing the chemical are gaining in popularity because of their potential for treating a host of medical issues, according to Healthline. One of CBD oil’s most promising uses may be to treat conditions related to anxiety.

Hemp and marijuana both come from the same species of cannabis plant. Unlike marijuana, hemp must legally contain less than 0.3% THC. Because of this, CBD that comes from hemp does not give the “high” that marijuana-derived CBD delivers. CBD works by binding with certain receptors on cells in the body and activating them (via NIH). When CB1 receptors in the brain are activated, it creates a feeling of euphoria. CBD does not bind to as many CB1 receptors as THC, and even when it does, it won’t produce the same intoxicated effect.

The future of CBD

Person dropping CBD oil onto their tongue

Scientists are studying the effects of CBD to see if it might help to boost levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a part in both anxiety and depression. A person with anxiety often has lower levels of serotonin, the “feel-good” chemical that helps regulate your mood (via Verywellmind). Prescription drugs can be used to treat anxiety, but CBD may offer an alternative therapy. In a study done on lab rats, CBD helped to reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety, such as decreasing the participant’s heart rate. A small study was done on humans that showed that CBD helped alleviate anxiety for people who had to complete a public speaking task, via Healthline.

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Currently there just isn’t enough evidence to prove that CBD is an effective treatment for anxiety. However, there are plenty of smaller studies, studies done on animals, and anecdotal evidence that show promise for CBD as a treatment for the family of anxiety disorders. For now, always consult with a doctor before trying CBD for medicinal use.

Lesa O'Leary
Lesa O'Leary

Lesa is a dynamic member of OzHelp’s Service Delivery Team as the Service Delivery Team Leader and Nurse. She has been with OzHelp for five years and believes in leading by example. Lesa has experience in the not-for-profit sector, as well as many roles throughout different industries and sectors, including as a contractor to the Department of Defence. She has expertise in delivering OzHelp’s health and wellbeing programs and engaging with clients in a relaxed and comfortable manner that aligns with the organisation’s vision and objectives.

Lesa has a Certificate 4 in Nursing from Wodonga Tafe, Certificate 4 in Mental Health from Open Colleges, and is currently undertaking a Certificate 4 in Training and Assessment from Tafe NSW. For the past few months Lesa has been an Education and Memberships committee member of the ACT Branch of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC).