Anxiety is one of the most common reasons people take CBD oil and related products. As it happens, out of CBD’s many uses, anxiety relief has some of the strongest medical research evidence.

Most notably, a 2011 study by Brazilian researchers found that CBD reduced anxiety caused by public speaking in people with social anxiety disorder (SAD). Similarly, a 2019 study by Colorado researchers reported that people with sleep and anxiety issues experienced significant improvement by taking CBD. Furthermore, a 2017 British study found that CBD can reduce blood pressure, which is beneficial because anxiety can cause spikes in blood pressure.

All in all, although more evidence is needed, researchers are excited about CBD’s anti-anxiety benefits. As concluded by a 2015 review paper, “existing preclinical evidence strongly supports CBD as a treatment for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.”

CBD oil is usually the go-to form of CBD for anxiety because it’s well-absorbed by the body, cost-effective, easy to use, and can be purchased in multiple potencies to match the severity of your symptoms. However, other forms of CBD, including gummies and vape juice, can work just as well, especially if you want to use CBD on the go.

But which CBD products are the best for anxiety relief? With thousands of products available, many of which are not of the greatest quality, it can be difficult to choose. This is why we researched dozens of brands, comparing prices, third-party testing, potency, hemp quality, and other criteria.

Compare top CBD tinctures for anxiety:

Here are our recommendations for the best CBD products to deal with anxiety, depression and stress:

Best CBD Tinctures:

• Editor’s Pick — Green Roads Broad and Full Spectrum Tinctures
• Editor’s Pick — cbdMD CBD Oil Tincture Drops
• Best Value – CBDistillery CBD Oil Tincture
• Best Value – Lazarus Naturals CBD Oil
• Best Potency — Receptra Naturals Plus CBD Oil
• Best Non THC – Green Roads Isolate and Broad Spectrum Tinctures

Best Non-Tincture CBD Products:

• Best CBD Softgels Capsules – PlusCBD oil
• Best for Flight Anxiety — JustCBD Gummies
• CBD Vape Juice and Pens — CBDfx
• CBD Gummies — Charlotte’s Web
• CBD Drink — CBDfx CBD Chill Shot
• CBD Lollipops — Hemp Bombs Jolly Bombs
• CBD Tea — Green Roads CBD Tea

CBD for Anxiety Guide: Can Cannabidiol Help Relieve Your Anxiety and Other Mental Disorders?

Editor’s Pick – Green Roads (Broad and Full Spectrum Tinctures)

Green Roads is a brand with a stellar reputation that offers high-quality CBD oil.

This company was founded back in 2012 by a licensed pharmacist and a business executive who saw the potential of CBD first-hand and decided to bring it to the world. Green Roads offers CBD oils, gummies, capsules, syrups, pet formulations, and CBD-infused tea and coffee.

Green Roads values transparency and quality above all else, working hard to establish trust with its customers. To that end, the company provides clear information about hemp source, extraction method, and third-party testing.

Green Roads’ organic, non-GMO hemp comes from Colorado and undergoes supercritical CO2 extraction, a leading CBD extraction method. Furthermore, the company posts comprehensive third-party test reports for all products.

It also lists clear information about all of its products, including dosage instructions, ingredients, and FAQs. And while many CBD companies feel like anonymous entities, Green Roads is proud to share the story of its co-founders.

For people looking for CBD tinctures, Green Roads offers three types of products:

• CBD oil: potency of 7 to 58 mg CBD per ml. Available in 15, 30, and 60 ml sizes. Contains broad-spectrum hemp extract, vegetable glycerin, sunflower lecithin, and hemp seed oil.
• CBD terpenes oil: Broad-spectrum oil with a potency of 6.7 mg CBD/ml mixed with a specific blend of cannabis terpenes and vegetable glycerin. Available in a 15 ml bottle. Comes in multiple flavors.
• CBD daily dose: a single-dose, 1 ml syringe version of the CBD oil and CBD terpenes oil.

The price range of these oils is between $5 and $342.5. This translates to about $0.16 per mg of CBD.

Watch our video review of Green Roads

• Green Roads Review

• Green Roads Official Site

Editor’s Pick — cbdMD CBD Oil Tincture Drops

CbdMD is a top-tier choice. The company’s CBD tinctures come in seven different potencies, ensuring that you will find a CBD strength that suits your particular dosage needs.

Established in 2015, cbdMD is a popular CBD brand offering THC-free products at competitive prices. Its product lineup includes CBD oils, capsules, edibles, topicals, and pet products. These products are made with broad-spectrum hemp extract and available in many different potencies and flavors.

CbdMD uses organic, non-GMO hemp cultivated on American farms to make its CBD products. It also provides third-party test results on its website.

CbdMD’s CBD oil tincture drops are one of the best products on the market because they come in seven different potencies ranging from low (10 mg/ml) to very high (250 mg/ml). This way, everyone will be able to find a CBD strength that works for them, whether your issues are minor, moderate, or serious.

The fact that these drops are completely free from THC, the cannabinoid responsible for the intoxicating effects of cannabis, is helpful too. People with anxiety issues tend to be more sensitive to THC and some may even experience a small increase in anxiety from using a full-spectrum product with only 0.3% or less of the intoxicating cannabinoid.

CbdMD’s CBD oil is made with broad-spectrum CBD and contains MCT oil as a carrier oil. It’s available in 30 and 60 ml bottles containing a total of 300 to 7500 mg CBD and comes in natural, berry, orange, and mint flavors.

CbdMD’s tinctures are priced anywhere from $29.99 to $339.99. This translates to about $0.07 per mg of CBD, a cost that’s lower than average.

• cbdMD Review

• cbdMD Official Site

Best Value – CBDistillery CBD Oil Tincture

CBDistillery is another top CBD brand known for exceptional value and quality. The company offers low prices ($0.06 per mg of CBD) for full-spectrum and THC-free CBD oil with multiple potencies.

CBDistillery was created in Colorado in 2016, quickly establishing itself as one of the leading American CBD brands. It offers full-spectrum and THC-free CBD oils, capsules, gummies, isolates, topicals, and even disposable vape pens in a variety of strengths.

CBDistillery is known for its low prices, exceptional products, and transparent practices. Its manufacturing process starts with organic, non-GMO, Colorado hemp which is extracted with CO2 and ethanol, the leading hemp extraction methods.

The resulting CBD products are tested by a third-party laboratory and the results are directly available on each product page. The company also strives to provide clear, detailed information for every product and has some of the most helpful and easy-to-understand labels in the CBD industry.

It’s also one of the only companies certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority, which highlights compliance with stringent quality standards.

CBDistillery offers exceptionally low prices (about $0.06 per mg CBD) for full-spectrum and THC-free (CBD isolate) tinctures. This way, individuals susceptible to increased anxiety even when ingesting small amounts of THC found in full-spectrum tinctures can opt for the THC-free option instead.

Both of these CBD oil formulations are available in five potencies ranging from low (8 mg/ml to very high (167 mg/ml), allowing you to match the severity of your symptoms to the right concentration of CBD.

All of CBDistillery’s tinctures contain MCT oil as a carrier oil in a 30 ml bottle. They’re priced from $20 to $240 or about $0.06 per mg of CBD on average. This provides excellent value when we consider the company’s high standard of quality.

Watch our video review of CBDistillery:

• CBDistillery Review

• CBDistillery Official Site

Best Value – Lazarus Naturals CBD Oil

As far as value is concerned, few brands can compete with Lazarus Naturals. Customers will find high-quality CBD oil tinctures at some of the lowest prices in the industry: only about 4 cents per mg of CBD.

Oregon-based Lazarus Naturals was created in 2014. It offers a wide range of full-spectrum and isolate CBD oils, capsules, topicals, edibles, vape juice, and other products with multiple potencies and flavors.

Lazarus has a simple yet commendable mission: make high-quality CBD products accessible to everyone. This is why the company’s prices are among the lowest in the industry without sacrificing quality.

Lazarus is unique for sourcing most (70%) of its hemp from its own farm in central Oregon. This hemp is extracted with ethanol, a CBD extraction method that’s considered to be just as safe and effective as the more popular CO2 method.

The company’s final products undergo comprehensive third-party testing, and the results are directly available on every product page.

Better yet, Lazarus is one of the only employee-owned CBD businesses in the world, which goes a long way towards explaining its focus on affordability and quality over profits. The company even offers a massive 60% discount to veterans, people with disabilities, and low-income families.

Lazarus Naturals’ CBD oils are one of the most cost-effective options out there. These tinctures are priced between $12 and $200, which translates to an average of $0.04 per mg of CBD — an exceptionally low cost. In fact, you can even get prices as low as $0.03 if you opt for higher CBD strength oils.

The company’s CBD oil comes in three varieties:

• Full-spectrum CBD tincture: potency of 15 or 50 mg/ml. Available in 15, 60, and 120 ml bottles with a total of 225 to 6000 mg of CBD. Contains full-spectrum hemp extract and MCT carrier oil. Comes in unflavored, chocolate mint, and French vanilla mocha flavors.
• THC-free CBD tincture: a THC-free version of the company’s regular oil. Potency of 50 mg/ml. Available in 15 ml and 60 ml bottles with a total of 750 or 3000 mg of CBD isolate. Comes in flavorless, tropical breeze, blood orange, and wintermint flavors. This is the ideal option for people with anxiety who are extremely sensitive to THC.
• RSO CBD oil: a full-spectrum CBD version of Rick Simpson Oil (RSO). Potency of 100 mg/ml in a 10 or 50 ml syringe. This is the best option for people with severe issues.

The company also offers several bundles with reduced prices. Lazarus Naturals’ products cost $6 to $450 and cost an unheard of $0.04 per mg of CBD. You simply won’t find this kind of value and quality elsewhere.

• Lazarus Naturals Review

• Lazarus Naturals Official Site

Best Potency — Receptra Naturals Plus CBD Oil

With up to 50 mg of CBD per ml, Receptra Naturals’ Pro CBD oil is an excellent option if you need a high-strength tincture.

Receptra Naturals was founded in 2016 in Colorado, the unofficial capital of the U.S. CBD industry. The company sells mostly full-spectrum products, including CBD oils, topicals, and pet formulas.

These formulations are largely targeted towards athletes and other active individuals, as highlighted by the company’s use of additional anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as turmeric.

Receptra uses local Colorado hemp cultivated on organic, non-GMO farms. Its products undergo comprehensive third-party testing, the results of which can be viewed by entering your product code online.

Receptra Naturals’ Plus CBD oil is one of the company’s most potent tinctures. At 50 mg/ml, it’s strong enough to address significant issues. This oil is formulated with full-spectrum hemp extract dissolved in coconut MCT oil and comes in natural or mint berry flavor. It’s sold in 15, 30, and 60 ml bottles.

This CBD oil costs $74.95–$199.95, which is about $0.08 per mg of CBD — a price that’s cheaper than the market average.

Watch our video review of Receptra Naturals:

• Receptra Naturals Review

• Receptra Naturals Official Site

Best Non THC – Green Roads (Isolate and Broad Spectrum Tinctures)

If you need to completely avoid THC because you’re extremely sensitive to its effects, need to pass drug tests for work, or some other reason, Green Roads is a great choice. The company’s CBD oils contain zero THC but maintain all of the other beneficial hemp compounds, making them more effective than formulas made with pure CBD.

Florida’s Green Roads was established in 2012 by the duo of a licensed pharmacist and a business executive who was dealing with addiction to prescription opiates. Today, it’s one of the biggest CBD businesses in the U.S.

Green Roads’ lineup includes CBD oils, gummies, capsules, syrups, pet products, and CBD-infused tea and coffee.

The company is exceptionally open about its practices and strives to maintain a high standard of quality. To that end, it sources hemp from organic, non-GMO Colorado farms, uses the industry-preferred CO2 extraction method for isolating CBD and other beneficial phytochemicals, and provides extensive third-party test results.

All of Green Roads’ products are made with broad-spectrum CBD extract, which means they contain all of the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial hemp compounds minus the THC. These compounds work together in synergy, a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect.”

By comparison, many other companies THC-free options are made with CBD isolate, a >99% pure CBD extract that’s lacking these other beneficial compounds. As a result, Green Roads’ CBD oil a top choice for people with anxiety who want to avoid THC.

The company’s CBD oil comes in three formulations:

• Regular CBD oil: potency ranging from low (7 mg/ml) to high (58 mg/ml). Available in 15, 30, and 60 ml sizes. Contains broad-spectrum CBD, vegetable glycerin, sunflower lecithin, and hemp seed oil.
• CBD terpenes oil: Broad-spectrum oil with a potency of 6.7 mg/ml mixed with a specific blend of cannabis terpenes and vegetable glycerin. Available in a 15 ml bottle. Comes in multiple flavors.
• CBD daily dose: a single-dose, 1 ml syringe version of the CBD oil and CBD terpenes oil.

These CBD oils cost anywhere from $5 to $342.5. This translates to about $0.16 per mg of CBD, which is a bit more pricey than most brands.

• Green Roads Review

• Green Roads Official Site

Best Non-Tincture CBD Products

Generally speaking, CBD oil tinctures are the most effective way to deal with anxiety because they’re well-absorbed, easy to use, cost-effective, and come in multiple potencies. However, other types of CBD products can be helpful as well. Below you’ll find some non-tincture product recommendations for anxiety relief.

Best Softgels Capsules – PlusCBD Oil

PlusCBD Oil’s full-spectrum capsules are formulated with the best science has to offer. One of the pioneers of the American CBD industry, PlusCBD was established in 2012 and continues to stand out for its exceptional quality.

What makes PlusCBD’s capsules unique is that they come in three distinct full-spectrum hemp formulas: raw, total plant complex, and gold. They’re also available in both capsule and softgel forms.

The raw formula provides unprocessed, unheated hemp extract with high levels of CBDA, the natural form of CBD produced by the plant. Meanwhile, the total plant complex is a standard formula where the CBDA has been heated to convert it into CBD. Lastly, the gold formula removes chlorophyll and other plant material to concentrate hemp’s main active ingredients: cannabinoids, terpenes, and fatty acids.

The raw softgels contain 5 mg of CBD, while the plant complex formula is available in both softgels (10 mg) and capsules (15 mg). Meanwhile, the gold formula softgels contain 15 mg each.

Both the capsules and softgels are made with a vegan-friendly vegetable cellulose shell, with 10, 30, or 60 capsules per bottle.

Unlike most American companies, PlusCBD uses Dutch hemp to make its softgels and other products due to the maturity of the European hemp industry. This hemp is processed using CO2 extraction, the most advanced method of CBD extraction.

PlusCBD tests its capsules in-house for cannabinoid content, pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants and these tests are then repeated by a third-party lab. All test reports are available via QR code and the company’s website.

PlusCBD also has the distinction of being the first company to attain the FDA’s self-affirmed Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status, which requires its hemp extract to undergo rigorous studies done by an expert panel to confirm its safety.

In addition, it’s one of the few brands to pass the U.S. Hemp Authority’s certification program, which highlights high production standards. PlusCBD’s capsules cost $69.95 or $0.08 per mg of CBD, which is cheaper than the average cost for CBD capsules.

Watch Our PlusCBD Interview and Tour at Their HQ offices in San Diego

• PlusCBD Oil Review

• PlusCBD Oil Official Site

Best for Flight Anxiety — JustCBD

JustCBD says its Jet Setter gummies are formulated specifically to help with the stress of flying. The company claims these tasty edibles are designed to strengthen immunity, reduce stress and anxiety, and support overall health for people who frequently travel by plane. The gummies contain full-spectrum CBD alongside multiple vitamins.

Established in 2017 in Florida, JustCBD has a diverse product lineup that includes full-spectrum and THC-free CBD oils, edibles, vape products, and even bath bombs.

Although not as well-known as some other brands, JustCBD has all the signs of a quality company. It sources its hemp from Oregon, a state with one of the most developed hemp industries in the U.S. and provides third-party test results for all products.

JustCBD partnered with rapper Flo Rida to create their Jet Setter gummies, which are meant to help busy individuals who frequently travel by air support their immunity and reduce stress and anxiety. This product not only provides CBD but also vitamins, insufficient levels of which can contribute to anxiety.

These tasty, orange berry flavored gummies contain 5 mg of full-spectrum CBD alongside vitamins such as vitamins A, B, C, and D. There are a total of 60 gummies per bottle, which cost $0.17 per mg of CBD.

Watch our interview with JustCBD at the Miami CBD Expo:

• JustCBD Review

• JustCBD Official Site

CBD Vape Juice and Pens — CBDfx

If you want to get the benefits of CBD in vape form, CBDfx is arguably the best choice on the market. The company offers not only CBD juice in a wide variety of flavors and potencies but also disposable vape pens that make it incredibly easy to start vaping.

CBDfx is one of the most popular American CBD brands. Established in 2012, the company offers a wide variety of CBD products such as CBD oils, edibles, vape products, topicals, drinks, and pet products. CBDfx is known for its appealing style, feel, and flavor.

The company gets its hemp from Holland, one of the highest-quality hemp sources in the world, and uses the industry-leading supercritical CO2 method to extract CBD. CBDfx is also diligent to provide third-party test reports for all its products.

Although all of CBDfx’s products are popular, its vape offerings are particularly sought after. The company sells both CBD vape juice and disposable CBD pens in multiple formulations, potencies, and flavors.

These vaping products provide an easy, portable, fast-acting, and fun way to enjoy CBD, whether you’re at home or out and about.

The vape juice comes in three varieties:

• CBD vape juice: potency of 8, 17, or 33 mg/ml in a 30 ml bottle. Contains 250, 500, or 1000 mg of CBD isolate mixed with a standard 50%/50% base of vegetable glycerin (VG) and propylene glycol (PG). Comes in nine delicious flavors: blue raspberry, wild watermelon, fruity cereal, rainbow candy, strawberry kiwi, strawberry milk, fruit smoothie, strawberry taffy, and strawberry jelly.
• CBD terpenes oil: potency of 8 or 17 mg/ml in a 30 ml bottle. Contains 250 or 500 mg of CBD isolate mixed with 50/50 VG/PG and a specific blend of cannabis terpenes, beneficial cannabis compounds with unique aromas. Available in Gelato, OG Kush, Pineapple Express, and Platinum Rose terpene flavors.
• CBD vape oil additive: potencies of 6, 12, 30, or 50 mg/ml in a 10 ml bottle. Unlike most vape juices, this product uses full-spectrum CBD extract, which means it’s slightly more effective. Contains a total of 60, 120, 300, or 500 mg of full-spectrum CBD mixed with a 50/50 base of VG/PG. This product is meant to be added to an existing vape juice rather than vaped on its own.

Meanwhile, the vape pens are even easier to use. You don’t need CBD vape juice, a vape device, or any other equipment — simply inhale and enjoy the relaxing effects.

These vape pens contain broad-spectrum CBD and come in two varieties:

• CBD vape pen: contains 30 mg of CBD with a 50%/50% blend of vegetable glycerin (VG) and propylene glycol (PG).
• CBD terpenes vape pen: contains 50 mg of CBD with a 50/50 VG/PG mix and a blend of terpenes based on specific cannabis strains. Available in OG Kush, Pineapple Express, Gelato, Blue Dream, Sour Diesel, and Platinum Rose terpene flavors.

CBDfx’s vape products cost anywhere from $19.99 to $611.89, with multi-pack options available to save money.

In terms of price per mg of CBD, CBDfx’s products are quite reasonable: an average of $0.11 for the standard CBD juice, $0.17 for the terpenes oil, $0.24 for the vape additive, and $0.45 for the disposable vape pens.

Watch our video review od CBDfx:

• CBDfx Review

• CBDfx Official Site

CBD Gummies – Charlotte’s Web

Charlotte’s Web claims its Calm gummies are specifically designed to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. They contain not only CBD but many other natural compounds with research-backed calming properties, including lemon balm and L-theanine.

Charlotte’s Web is one of the oldest and most trusted CBD companies. Founded in 2013 by the seven Stanley Brothers, it offers CBD oils, capsules, edibles, and pet products.

Charlotte’s Web is known for its high quality standards. The company uses non-GMO, organic hemp grown in Colorado, Oregon, and Kentucky and makes sure that the soil and water used for hemp cultivation are free of contaminants.

It also provides extensive third-party test reports for all products. Charlotte’s Web even tests the plants while they’re growing to maintain an ideal composition of cannabinoids and terpenes, the most important active compounds in hemp.

It’s not surprising that Charlotte’s Web is one of the only American CBD companies with a U.S. Hemp Authority Certification: a sign of high product quality.

Charlotte’s Web calm CBD gummies are claimed to be designed for anxiety and stress relief. Each delicious gummy contains 5 mg of full-spectrum CBD plus two other ingredients with research-backed calming, anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties: the herb lemon balm, and the tea leaf compound L-theanine. Thanks to this, they may be more effective at relieving anxiety than regular CBD gummies.

Charlotte’s Web calm gummies come in natural fruit and vegetable flavors with 60 pieces per bottle. They cost $54.99 or $0.18 per mg of CBD, which is higher than average. They can also be bought in a pack of 3 for a reduced price ($131.97).

• Charlotte’s Web Review

• Charlotte’s Web Official Site

CBD Drink – CBDfx CBD Chill Shot

CBD-infused beverages like CBDfx’s chill shot are one of the most convenient, refreshing, and enjoyable ways to reap the benefits of hemp.

This particular drink is especially great for promoting calm and relaxation because it’s infused with 200 mg of L-theanine. Abundant in tea leaves, this amino acid is widely recognized for its reliable anxiety-reducing effects.

CBDfx’s chill shot contains 20 mg of full-spectrum CBD and comes in a 2 oz (~60 ml) container. It’s available in lemonade and berry flavor and costs $6.99 or $0.35 per mg of CBD: a price that’s close to average for CBD drinks. You can also buy it in packs of 3, 6, or 12 bottles for the price of $18–$54.

• CBDfx Review

• CBDfx Official Site

CBD Lollipops – Hemp Bombs Jolly Bombs

Lollipops are one of the most delicious ways to use CBD. More importantly, they have better absorption than other edibles because the CBD can be absorbed directly into the blood vessels in your mouth. Hemp Bombs’ jolly bombs are one of the only CBD lollipops currently available.

Established in 2016, Hemp Bombs is a popular Florida-based CBD company. It has one of the widest product lineups we’ve come across, which includes CBD oils, capsules, gummies, e-liquids, topicals, shots, syrup, pet products, and unique products such as lollipops and beard oil.

These offerings are free of THC and come in a wide variety of flavors and potencies. The company uses only non-GMO, organic hemp cultivated in America and uses CO2 extraction, the most advanced method of CBD extraction. It also provides third-party potency test results on every product page.

Hemp Bombs’ CBD lollipops contain 40 mg of pure CBD. They come in watermelon, green apple, cherry, and pink lemonade flavors. These lollipops are sold in packs of 2 for $14.99 or 4 for $24.99, which is about $0.17 per mg of CBD: an affordable cost for such a unique product.

Watch our video review of Hemp Bombs:

• Hemp Bombs Review

• Hemp Bombs Official Site

CBD Tea – Green Roads CBD Tea

CBD works well with tea — arguably the most popular beverage for promoting calmness. The CBD-infused tea from Green Roads is an especially great option if you want to relax because it contains chamomile: an herb with research-backed anxiety-reducing properties. It also has peppermint and vanilla to add a pleasant, refreshing flavor.

Green Roads sell its tea in individuals bags containing 7 mg of broad-spectrum hemp CBD. They cost $5.99 per bag or $0.85 per mg of CBD, which is somewhat pricey.

In terms of coffee, we recommend that people with anxiety avoid caffeine due to a high likelihood of worsening symptoms. However, if you already drink coffee and would like an option that’s less likely to produce jittery side effects, you can try Green Roads’ CBD-infused coffee.

• Green Roads Review

• Green Roads Official Site

CBD for Anxiety Guide: Can Cannabidiol Help Relieve Your Anxiety and Other Mental Disorders?

Table of Contents

• Using CBD Oil for Anxiety
• What is CBD and How is it Used
• Side Effects of Using CBD Oil
• The Health Benefits of CBD
• How CBD Oil Can Help Anxiety
• What Form of CBD is Best
• Tips for Choosing CBD Products

Men and women who struggle with anxiety disorders, or anxiety in general, need safe, effective relief for their debilitating symptoms. For a long time, anecdotal reports have affirmed the utility of CBD as a remedy for anxiety, and the science is only now beginning to catch up.

While there are plenty of CBD oils on the market today, it’s important to find a quality product from a brand you trust.

Everyone responds to CBD oil differently, so it’s also important to try out the oil for yourself and note any positive or negative reactions.

This guide will explain how CBD oil is used for anxiety stress and depression, its benefits and risks. It is designed to help narrow down your search for the right CBD oil for you.

Using CBD Oil for Anxiety: Does it Work?

CBD oil is a commercially prepared product available in the United States without a prescription. It is classified as a supplement and not as a medicine by the FDA. But millions of people around the world swear by its capacity to bring them relief for a variety of medical problems.

Much more research needs to be performed to determine its healing characteristics conclusively. But CBD does appear to have a positive effect on the symptoms and incidence of anxiety, and it may be able to help you overcome your ongoing anxiety issues.

What is CBD and How is it Used?

If you’ve been struggling with anxiety, you may be willing to try just about anything to find relief. Many people turn to pharmaceutical medications to help them overcome their anxiety symptoms, but they are not satisfied with the results or are too overwhelmed by the side effects to continue taking a medication.

The National Institute of Health has been doing research on CBD for anxiety. The results indicate CBD reduces anxiety in those with generalized anxiety disorder, also commonly referred to as a panic disorder. CBD works naturally to reduce serotonin levels which are partially responsible for anxiety and depression.

The cannabis plant contains at least 113 active ingredients called cannabinoids. These chemicals all have a range of effects on the brain and body, but two in particular are known to be most influential: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These are the two primary ingredients in cannabis plants, and each is associated with many desirable and positive outcomes.

Both THC and CBD are known to possess healing and therapeutic properties. But THC has psychoactive effects, while CBD does not. CBD is attractive to many people because while it may help you reduce the effects of anxiety or other conditions, psychoactive effects are not part of the experience.
CBD is chemically distinct from both THC and marijuana. In fact, it doesn’t even come from the same plant. Cannabidiol oil is extracted from industrial hemp, which contains high levels of CBD but low levels of THC. By law, hemp plants cannot contain more than 0.3 percent THC, and as a result, products made from CBD oil will cause no changes in your state of consciousness or sense of reality.

Technically, CBD oil is still not legal at the federal level in the United States. But it is legal for use in every state, as is industrial hemp now that it’s cultivation has been decriminalized. CBD products can be purchased legally online, and you won’t be visited by the authorities if you purchase them.

Side Effects of Using CBD Oil

One of the best things about CBD is its non-addictive nature. A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) confirms that in human beings, “CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential … there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”

The WHO report also tells us that CBD has been used in fairly heavy doses in some clinical trials, without producing significant or highly disturbing side effects.

This does not mean there are no unexpected symptoms, however. Depending on the dosage, mild to moderate sedation is the most frequently experienced side effect. Other symptoms of CBD use occasionally reported by users include dry mouth, diarrhea, nausea and reduced appetite.

In many instances, these effects will decrease after the user has been taking CBD oil for a while. If you are taking any prescription medications, it is important that you discuss your interest in CBD with your doctor before you actually begin taking it. CBD could have negative interactions with some medications, and if you are taking blood thinners that could be a particular concern. It is not possible to overdose on CBD, although recommended doses are still limited based on our understanding of its natural potency in the body.

The Health Benefits of CBD

Slowly but surely, CBD is gaining recognition both inside and outside the medical profession as a legitimate choice for reducing anxiety. But CBD is versatile, and research has uncovered a number of other uses for CBD oil and the products that contain it.

Probably the most impressive research results arise from the study of CBD oil as a treatment for epileptic seizures in children. In one large, controlled study that focused on pediatric epilepsy disorders, CBD oil was found to reduce the frequency of seizures by 50 percent. If administered on time it can also dampen the intensity of seizures once they’re underway. Epidiolex is the only CBD-based pharmaceutical-grade medicine approved by the FDA, and it is used specifically to treat select types of epileptic disorders.

CBD can have a soothing effect on the central nervous system. This makes it useful as a treatment for anxiety, but it can also function as a natural remedy for insomnia. In a meta-analysis of the existing medical literature that appeared in the April 2017 edition of Current Psychiatry Reports, researchers reported that early research into cannabis and insomnia suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) may be helpful for the treatment of insomnia.

It makes sense, since CBD reacts with cannabinoid receptors throughout the body, some of which also regulate circadian rhythms.

In a more recent study, which involved patients with insomnia who sought treatment at a psychiatric clinic in Colorado, two-thirds of participants experienced notable improvements in their sleeping patterns after just one month of regular CBD consumption.

CBD may also bring relief to those who suffer from autoimmune diseases or conditions that cause inflammation. In one small study of people with Crohn’s disease, a form of inflammatory bowel disease, participants reported improvements in their symptoms after taking CBD oil.

Research has been sponsored that examined the effects of cannabidiol on a variety of medical conditions, including chronic pain, Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, diabetes and multiple sclerosis. The results of these studies are generally promising, but as of now much more research is needed to establish the viability of CBD oil as a long-term treatment for such conditions.

How CBD Oil Can Help Anxiety

The human body contains a network of special receptors, designated CB1 and CB2, that are specifically designed to bind with cannabinoids. Each human being has their own inborn endocannabinoid system, which is comprised of these receptors plus naturally produced cannabinoid neurochemicals that link with them. Some cannabinoids from cannabis plants can bind with these receptors, too, most specifically THC. This cannabinoid produces euphoric effects when it binds to the CB1 receptor.

Endocannabinoid receptors are found throughout the central nervous system and body, in the brain, glands, organs, tissues and immune cells. In coordination with associated cannabinoids, they are vital elements in the body’s self-healing and recovery process, helping in the management of pain, movement, emotions, thinking, appetite and immune system responses.

Like natural cannabinoids, THC assists the body’s healing process by binding with CB receptors. With CBD, however, the latest research suggests something different. Rather than binding with these cells, CBD acts as an endocannabinoid system enhancer. It increases the potency and activity of naturally produced cannabinoids, which explains why CBD can contribute to healing in a broad variety of ways.
When you take CBD oil for anxiety, or for any other condition, you’re helping unleash your body’s and brain’s inherent capacity to induce calm, relaxed, tranquil states, and to restore lost emotional equilibrium.

Much of the evidence in favor of CBD as a treatment for anxiety is anecdotal. The science, however, is quickly evolving, providing the mechanisms that mediate people’s experiences.

Mental health researchers recently sponsored a comprehensive study of anxiety patients at a psychiatric clinic called the Wholeness Center in Fort Collins, Colorado. In total, 72 patients struggling with chronic anxiety were given daily doses of CBD oil. Within the first month 79 percent of the patients reported notable improvements in their anxiety symptoms. In the second month, further improvement was reported by 78 percent, showing how CBD oil can have a continuous, potentially long-term positive effect on unwanted anxiety.

To verify the truth about CBD and anxiety, in 2015 a team of scientists performed an in-depth review of the existing research. After evaluating the available clinical and experimental evidence, the researchers reported that acute doses of CBD were highly effective at reducing the incidence and intensity of anxiety. It worked for patients diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder and PTSD.

These findings complement the new research from Colorado, which delves more deeply into the effects of CBD when administered at lower doses for an extended period of time.

What Form of CBD is Best and How Much Should I Take?

There are four ways to take CBD oil or concentrates:

• Inhaling by smoking or vaping
• Through topical applications that can be rubbed into the skin
• Orally under the tongue (sublingual)
• Ingesting edibles

Smoking and Vaping

Inhaling CBD concentrates will give you the quickest, most powerful dosage. This might be your choice if you want relief from your anxiety symptoms fast, and have a private setting where you can vape or smoke without being disturbed. However, no long-term studies have yet been performed to determine whether vaping CBD and other components could promote lung harm. It’s also important to know exactly what’s in your CBD vape juice. Pure CBD extract is best.

Topical applications

These are ideal if you are attempting to treat muscle aches, joint pain, a skin condition, headaches, sinus congestion or neck or back pain, all of which can be side effects of chronic anxiety. The impact of the CBD will be felt relatively quickly, but topical balms offer the lowest level of dosage and are not the best choice if your need for anxiety relief is acute.

Sublingual

Under-the-tongue consumption of CBD in tincture form is the fastest and most unobtrusive way to take CBD oil. Just a few drops under the tongue from a dropper, and within a couple of hours you should feel the CBD’s full effects. Just be aware that the dose you’ll receive isn’t as concentrated when compared to vaping or smoking. The effects won’t be noticeable right away.

Edibles

Edibles that contain CBD oil are available in various forms, often as candies or small treats. Alternatively, you can add CBD oil to your home recipes, enlisting your regular dietary choices in the fight against anxiety. The downside of ingesting CBD is that it can take up to four hours for it to be completely absorbed. That is why ingesting CBD is most appropriate for long-term anxiety reduction and control, and not as effective when used to alleviate acute anxiety attacks.

Dosage

As for the dosage, 10-20 milligrams of CBD oil taken once or twice daily is often enough to provide noticeable anxiety relief for many people. However, CBD dosing requirements vary for each individual. You might want to adjust dosages by weight, taking somewhere between 0.05 mg and 0.30 mg for each kilogram you weigh. The best way to find your correct dosage is to start with a low dose, and slowly increase it if you think you need more.

It is important to remember that products containing CBD are not regulated by the FDA. Research into the use of CBD oil for medical conditions is ongoing, but is still classified as a natural supplement. You should proceed cautiously before using it for anxiety or any other condition.

To ensure optimum safety, you should consult with a physician before you begin taking CBD oil in any form. You may be able to take CBD along with some anti-anxiety medications, but if your doctor says no, you shouldn’t replace your regular medications with CBD oil, particularly if the former are working.

Tips for Choosing CBD Products

Companies that sell CBD products are a dime a dozen these days, and unfortunately many aren’t worth even that price. Quality control and quality assurance are what you seek and what you should demand from CBD retailers. You shouldn’t compromise just to save a few dollars upfront.

To make sure you spend wisely and safely, here’s what you should look for before purchasing CBD products from anyone:

Purity

CBD products are generally sold in one of three forms: isolate, which means they contain 100 percent pure CBD, full-spectrum, which means CBD predominates but all of the other cannabinoids are present, and broad-spectrum, which means all traces of THC have been removed but other cannabinoids remain in addition to CBD.

For some conditions, broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD might be the superior choice, since the presence of other cannabinoids in the mixture may enhance CBD’s healing effects.

Pure isolate CBD is an excellent choice for most conditions. However, you may read studies that suggest certain ailments are better treated by broad-spectrum CBD. The other cannabinoids act in synergy with CBD.

You might want to do further research into the benefits of each type of CBD product before you make your final selection. Ultimately, your own experiences will tell you which product works best against your anxiety.

Cleanliness

Regardless of which product you choose, you should search for companies that sell organic CBD with no GMOs added to their hemp plants. This will ensure you’re purchasing something that is clean and healthy to consume, with no hidden ingredients or contaminants that detract from the product’s quality and safety.

Another factor worth investigating is the method of extraction. When CBD is extracted by heat, this can cause it to become contaminated or degraded. Cleaner methods involving the use of carbon dioxide or food-grade ethanol are preferable and will deliver a purer product.

Third-Party Testing

Since the FDA doesn’t regulate CBD production and manufacturing, the only way you can know for sure you’re buying a good-quality product is if the retailer provides proof of third-party testing. This means their products are tested by an outside testing agency. CBD sellers should show results of this testing, which detects microbes, heavy metals, pesticides and other contaminants. They should also show CBD, THC and other cannabinoid concentrations.

If the products have been verified for safety and quality, sellers should be pleased to share that information. If test results aren’t shared, it probably means they’ve failed to obtain third-party certification.

A Good Reputation and Reliable Business Practices

Companies worth doing business with should have good online reviews. They should offer money-back guarantees and have customer service departments that are easy to reach and always available to answer questions. They should have no history of being reported to the Better Business Bureau. You can check at the BBB website to verify this. In addition, your source for CBD oil should employ third-party testing affiliates to ensure proper quality control.

Your Own Good Feelings

This parameter is more intangible but you shouldn’t ignore your own instincts. If something seems off about a specific company, its representatives or its website, you should probably trust your intuition and go elsewhere.

The good news is that there are plenty of honest and reliable CBD companies that sell good products at reasonable prices with rock-solid guarantees. Leafreport is here, providing CBD reviews and product comparisons, to help you choose quality products every time. If you’re diligent in your search, you’ll eventually find a company you can trust. Since your health is at stake, you can’t afford to do any less.