Do CBD Gummies Affect Anxiety?

November 9, 2021November 9, 2021 Mary

CBD or Cannabidiol is a particular type of cannabinoid, which naturally occurs in marijuana and hemp – cannabis plants. Ever since historical times, CBD has been promising about the ability of CBD oil in relieving anxiety. CBD isolates generally do not contain THC. Unlike THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, which causes a high or intoxication, CBD is exempt from these after-effects. How does CBD’s potential for reducing anxiety manifest in its various products?

CBD is available in various forms and mediums, from oils and tinctures or edibles and supplements like gummies and smoothies. The various forms interact differently with different people. Amongst the many forms, most users prefer CBD gummies for their comparative ease of use. This convenience sets CBD gummies apart as the effects last for a few hours, and one does not face effects as experienced while smoking it. The best CBD gummies for anxiety work efficiently and without any hassle. Let us explore the anxiety-alleviating benefits of CBD gummies and the nuances involved in consuming them.

How CBD functions

Present in the human body are myriad types of receptors, which are primarily protein-based chemical structures, deeply attached to the cells in the body. These receptors receive signals from various stimuli. Amongst these, CBD, upon consumption, interacts with the particular CB1 and CB2 receptors present in the body. Specifically, these receptors are present in the peripheral and central nervous systems. Although research on CBD has been ongoing for the past few decades, how it interacts with the brain is not fully understood. Studies reflect that it does alter serotonin signals. This neurotransmitter plays a vital role in mediating mental health. With a lower serotonin level, individuals generally tend to feel sad and depressed. Similarly, low serotonin levels also result in experiences of anxiety.

Conventional treatments that exist for managing low serotonin in the body include SSRI or Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor. Some SSRIs are fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft) and are available only upon presenting a prescription. However, some people usually find it convenient to regulate their anxiety with CBD gummies instead of opting for longer treatments such as SSRI. It is also non-negotiable to consult your doctor before you make changes or additions to pre-existing treatment plans.

Scientific Evidence

As anxiety comes in varying forms, there is enough research and evidence that proves CBD’s ability to alleviate or make it feasible to regulate or manage it.

Firstly, CBD gummies can reduce stress caused by generalized anxiety. NIDA or the National Institute on Drug Abuse states that CBD reduces stress in animals such as rats. Study subjects reflected comparatively lower behavioral signs of generalized anxiety. Along with this, there was a significant reduction in the psychological symptoms of anxiety, such as improved heart rate. Since many of these studies are incredibly risky, and research on CBD is only taking form gradually, more research on Generalized Anxiety Disorders in humans and CBD’s anxiety alleviating effects on them is required.

For many with SAD or Social Anxiety Disorder and PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, CBD proves beneficial to treat anxiety-induced insomnia along with other relaxing effects. In the study, 79.2% of participants experienced decreased anxiety-induced insomnia and enhanced sleep; in another study, among eleven patients who have PTSD, up to 91% experienced reducing symptoms upon consuming CBD.

Dosage Recommendations

If you wish to opt for or shift to CBD gummies to alleviate your anxiety, you must begin by consulting your doctor before you make any additions or alterations to your diet. However, below are the recommended dosage instructions that may benefit you to start your CBD gummies journey responsibly and with caution.

Another factor to consider while buying CBD gummies is to evaluate the concentration of the specific product. However, dosage usually depends on many different factors like body weight, reason of use, body chemistry, etc. Keeping these variables in mind, your diet, your other treatments, etc., before you take CBD gummies is vital. You can also consult your doctor, so they can suggest dosage according to the condition for which you seek CBD gummies and warn you of potential risks related to the same.

According to general dosage recommendations, it is always essential to start small. Gradually increasing dosage after your body is used to it is equally crucial. You can begin with twenty to forty milligrams every day. After a week, you may increase the amount by five more milligrams. Then, you may continue this until you experience relief from your specific symptoms. In experimentation with your dosage, tracking or journaling your CBD intake might also be hugely beneficial.

Side Effects

Exercising some amount of caution while taking it when on medication is necessary. Although generally CBD is considered safe, some users experience side effects like fatigue, diarrhea, changes in weight, or appetite. Since CBD may interact with your other medications or dietary supplements, it is essential to check these factors beforehand. But this does not mean that you stop your medications if you are using CBD. In this matter, it is advisable to talk to your doctor regarding these changes before you administer CBD. This word of caution is because you could experience withdrawal symptoms upon stopping prescription medicines. The many withdrawal symptoms include dizziness, fogginess, nausea, and irritability.

In many states, CBD is legal, with less than 0.3% of THC. These CBD products may be illegal in some states. So, it is wise to check your state laws before making a decision or purchase. This process will save you any unanticipated trouble, and in case you are traveling, you may check the laws of the state or country you are traveling to beforehand.

Conclusion

CBD gummies are immensely advantageous in alleviating anxiety. They have proven to aid insomnia and help those with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In many states, CBD gummies are legal, and they can be an effective way to reduce or regulate anxiety. You may need a license from the doctor to purchase CBD oil. You may then require a license to be able to purchase CBD gummies.