Can CBD Reduce Anxiety and Depression?

In the United States alone, over 40 million adults suffer from anxiety disorders and over 17 million experience depression each year. These common mental health conditions significantly impair quality of life and ability to function normally.

People with anxiety and depression often struggle with work, relationships, and carrying out everyday tasks. The societal burden is also massive in terms of productivity loss, disability claims, substance abuse, and healthcare costs.

While talk therapy and psychiatric medications can help, they frequently come with unpleasant or dangerous side effects. This has led many people to seek out natural alternative treatments like CBD.

But what does the science say so far about CBD for alleviating anxiety and depression? Can it really provide relief with fewer risks compared to prescription drugs? Keep reading to learn what current research reveals about using CBD for these two prevalent mental health issues.

An In-Depth Look at CBD for Anxiety Relief

Anxiety disorders come in many shapes and forms, including:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Excessive and difficult to control worry about everyday situations characterizes generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). People with GAD persistently anticipate disaster and overthink minor concerns. Physical anxiety symptoms like restlessness, fatigue, muscle tension and sleep disruption often occur. GAD makes normal life difficult.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Also known as social phobia, social anxiety disorder causes extreme fear of social situations like attending events, starting conversations, dating, speaking in public, eating around others, using public restrooms and more. It often leads to isolation and loss of relationships.

Panic Disorder

Recurring unexpected panic attacks strike people with panic disorder. Panic attacks induce sudden overwhelming terror, a feeling of detachment from reality, pounding heart, dizziness, nausea, chest pain, shaking, and fear of dying or going crazy. Sufferers dread future attacks.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive thoughts and compulsive repetitive rituals characterize OCD. Common obsessions include excessive fear of contamination, aggressive thoughts, need for order/symmetry, and taboo thoughts about sex, religion or harm. Compulsions are behaviors performed to ease anxiety caused by the obsessions.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD causes intense anxiety and emotional disruption after experiencing or witnessing extremely traumatic events like combat, sexual assault, natural disasters, terrorism, serious accidents and other violence. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance of reminders, numbness, and feeling on edge.

Phobias

A phobia is an irrational overpowering fear of something specific like flying, heights, spiders, needles, blood, vomiting, germs, etc. Just thinking about the object of fear causes extreme anxiety. Phobias lead to avoidance behavior and severely restrict normal activities.

In many cases, a combination of psychotherapy like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications like SSRIs, SNRIs, benzodiazepines or beta blockers are used to treat anxiety disorders.

However, these psychiatric drugs come with many problematic side effects:

• Loss of sexual desire and function

• Insomnia, drowsiness, fatigue

• Headache, dizziness, tremors

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

• Dry mouth, excessive sweating

• Heart palpitations, numbness, tingling

• Dependence, withdrawal symptoms

• Personality changes, suicidal thoughts

Such undesirable effects cause many people to abandon the medications. There is an urgent need for anxiety treatments that are effective yet safer with less risks. Could CBD be the answer?

Here's a summary of the evidence on using CBD oil for anxiety based on published research:

• Animal studies show CBD exerts anti-anxiety effects in various models of induced anxiety in rats and mice. It regulates neurotransmitter receptors and hormones linked to anxiety response.

• Brain scans of humans reveal CBD alters blood flow to regions of the brain connected to anxiety. CBD and THC were compared.

• Small clinical trials demonstrate CBD minimizes anxiety behaviors associated with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, OCD, and PTSD.

• Clinical data indicates CBD reduces anxiety as effectively as pharmaceutical medications including clonazepam (Klonopin) and paroxetine (Paxil), but with fewer risks.

For example, a 2019 clinical trial published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology examined CBD versus placebo in 57 men with social anxiety disorder (SAD). The participants received either 600 mg CBD or placebo and underwent a simulated public speaking test designed to provoke anxiety.

The men treated with CBD before speaking exhibited significantly less anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort compared to those given placebo. CBD improved their ability to deliver the speech.

In another 2019 randomized trial of 37 Japanese teenagers with social anxiety, half received 300 mg daily doses of CBD-rich cannabis oil and the other half received a placebo. After just one month, the CBD group experienced significant improvements in anxiety levels compared to placebo.

The teens that took the CBD oil were better able to successfully give speeches and interact during class presentations. CBD reduced anxiety symptoms and increased their comfort and confidence.

Furthermore, CBD may be beneficial for anxiety sufferers who want to avoid the "high" of THC-rich medical marijuana. THC can amplify anxiety at high doses, while CBD has the opposite effect.

One critical review published in 2015 in the journal Current Neuropharmacology summarized that "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."

While larger scale human studies are still in progress, early clinical trials and small experiments demonstrate CBD holds promise as a therapeutic anti-anxiety supplement. More research is needed, but the initial evidence is encouraging.

Diving Deeper into CBD for Depression Relief

Along with anxiety, clinical depression is another prevalent mental health disorder, affecting over 17 million Americans annually. Major depression leads to persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in normally pleasurable activities, physical and cognitive changes that severely impair life.

Some common symptoms of major depressive disorder include:

• Depressed, hopeless mood most of the day

• Loss of pleasure/interest in hobbies, relationships, work, etc.

• Significant weight loss or gain

• Physical agitation or lethargy

• Fatigue and lack of energy

• Excessive, inappropriate feelings of guilt and worthlessness

• Diminished ability to concentrate, think or make decisions

• Thoughts of death, suicide attempts

Like anxiety, depression is frequently treated using a combination of psychological counseling and psychiatric medications. The most common classes of antidepressants include SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics and MAO inhibitors.

While medications can help manage depression, users often abandon them due to side effects like:

• Sexual dysfunction - loss of libido, lack of arousal

• Drowsiness, fatigue

• Insomnia, agitation

• Headache

• Nausea, diarrhea, constipation

• Dry mouth

• Excessive sweating

• Heart palpitations and arrhythmias

• Weight gain

• Emotional blunting - apathy, lack of motivation

With so many downsides to pharmaceutical antidepressants, interest in natural options like CBD is growing rapidly. Could CBD offer similar mood-boosting benefits but with greater safety and tolerability?

Here's what science says so far about CBD oil for depression:

• Preclinical studies confirm CBD produces clear antidepressant effects comparable to drugs in animal models of depression.

• Neuroimaging shows CBD impacts areas of the brain linked to depression. It alters circuits in the prefrontal cortex.

• Early small pilot studies and clinical trials show CBD may improve mood and reduce depression in humans when taken regularly.

• Larger scale long term human studies are still scarce, so more research is needed. But initial findings are promising.

For example, a small double-blind pilot study published in Journal of Affective Disorders in 2018 administered CBD versus placebo to adults with depression for 8 weeks along with their existing antidepressant medication.

The CBD group experienced significant improvements in depressive symptoms compared to placebo within just 30 days. CBD augmented the mood-boosting effects of their regular antidepressant.

Another 2020 clinical trial gave 82 adults with anxiety and poor sleep daily doses of CBD in capsule form or a placebo. After just 1 month, the CBD group exhibited markedly lower scores on standardized anxiety, depression, and sleep disorder scales.

These preliminary results indicate CBD may hold promise as a fast-acting antidepressant and sleep aid for those struggling with mental health disorders - but expanded trials are critically needed.

Researchers have yet to identify CBD's exact mechanisms for potentially relieving depression. However, it likely involves positive modulation of the endocannabinoid system and increasing serotonin levels like SSRIs.

Human and animal studies show CBD activates 5-HT1A serotonin receptors and amplifies serotonin signaling. This is a key target of newer antidepressants. CBD's influence on endocannabinoid receptors may also contribute to mood improvement and stress resilience.

Scientists are still actively investigating CBD's complex pharmacology to better understand how it may regulate mood and emotions. But early studies affirm its antidepressant potential.

What to Look for in Quality CBD Products

Since the CBD market is still unregulated, product quality can vary widely. Some "CBD" products analyzed were found to contain no actual CBD - just hempseed oil. When purchasing CBD, it's essential to find legitimate high quality products. Here are some key criteria to look for:

Organically Grown Domestic Hemp

Seek out CBD extracts made exclusively from organically grown hemp. Conventionally grown hemp may contain pesticides, toxic metals, or mold. US grown hemp is ideal, as the FDA regulates domestic hemp farms and manufacturing more closely than imports.

CO2 Extraction Method

Supercritical CO2 extraction is the gold standard for hemp-derived CBD. CO2 pulls out and captures the valuable CBD compounds from hemp without any toxic solvents. It produces clean, potent, high-quality CBD.

Third Party Lab Results

Any CBD sold should come with an up-to-date third party certificate of analysis (COA) from an ISO compliant lab. This verifies contents, cannabinoid profiles, purity, and lack of any contaminants. COAs ensure accurate CBD concentrations.

Positive Customer Reviews

Check company websites and third party review sites for customer feedback. Many positive reviews indicate satisfied customers and likely high quality CBD. Be wary of brands with mostly negative complaints.

0% THC Content

Ensure any CBD products contain 0.0 to 0.3% THC or less to avoid any psychoactive effects or legal risks. Brands that print "No THC" on packaging may be misleading - always verify via COA tests.

Gelatin-Free Manufacturing

Since CBD capsules are popular, look for vegetarian/vegan capsules made without any animal byproducts like pork gelatin for dietary restrictions. Call companies to confirm.

Fair Pricing

High prices don't always mean high quality. But very cheap CBD could be low potency and ineffective. Find reasonably priced CBD from reputable brands that invest in organic hemp and clean methods.

Only purchase CBD products from transparent companies that willingly provide detailed information on their farming, extraction methods, testing procedures, hemp strains, etc. High quality CBD from responsible brands is worth the extra cost for anxiety/depression relief.

How to Take CBD: Finding the Best Method for You

If you're new to the world of CBD, you may feel overwhelmed by the tremendous variety of product types, flavors, strengths and methods of taking it. Here's an overview of the pros and cons of the most popular CBD options:

CBD Oils and Tinctures

CBD tinctures (oils) taken by dropper or spray are the most common CBD method. Oils offer high absorption when held under the tongue before swallowing. Dosing is convenient and easy. CBD effects last several hours. Oils come in many delicious flavors.

CBD Capsules

Capsules and pills allow for precise CBD doses in a simple format. No CBD taste. Capsules deliver sustained CBD release but take longer to activate as they must pass through digestion first. Convenient for daily CBD supplementation.

CBD Edibles/Gummies

Gummies and candies appeal to those with a sweet tooth and make CBD palatable. Dosage is split into smaller servings. CBD kicks in slower but effects can last longer. Fun flavors and colors. Easy to carry.

CBD Vape Products

Inhaling CBD vape oils/juices provides ultra-fast effects. CBD absorbs rapidly through the lungs reaching the bloodstream quickly. However, vaping is highest risk for lung damage over time. Use cautiously.

CBD Topicals

Lotions, balms, and creams allow for direct skin application and pain relief. CBD minimally penetrates skin but activates local cannabinoid receptors for targeted effect. Useful for arthritis, muscle soreness, neuropathy, skin disorders.

CBD Beverages

CBD waters, juices, teas and coffees are gaining popularity. They offer taste, hydration and CBD! However, oral ingestion reduces absorption. CBD drinks offer convenience but lower potency effects compared to oils.

There's no universally ideal CBD form. Needs and preferences differ. Those new to CBD should start with lower dosage oils, capsules or edibles and increase gradually to find the method you like best. Consistency is key - take CBD daily as a supplement.

Possible Side Effects and Safety Concerns

While generally well tolerated, CBD does come with some potential side effects to keep in mind:

• Diarrhea or upset stomach - usually mild at appropriate doses

• Appetite changes - CBD may suppress or increase appetite unpredictably

• Fatigue - CBD may cause drowsiness, especially at higher doses

• Dry mouth - CBD can reduce saliva like certain medications

• Dizziness - lightheadedness may occur initially but improves over time with continued use

• Mood changes - CBD may amplify feelings of anxiety or depression

Adverse reactions are unusual when CBD is taken as directed. To minimize side effects:

• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated

• Start with the lowest dosage and increase slowly over weeks

• Take CBD with food to avoid digestive discomfort

• Avoid operating vehicles or machinery if CBD makes you excessively tired

Some important precautions regarding CBD to keep in mind:

• CBD may interact with certain medications including blood thinners, antidepressants, antihistamines, some types of antibiotics and others. Talk to your doctor about potential CBD interactions with any pharmaceutical drugs you take. Your medication dosage may need adjustment.

• Avoid taking CBD if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as there is insufficient research on effects in developing infants.

• Don't give CBD to children or teenagers except under medical supervision, as effects in still-developing youth are unknown.

• Don't take CBD before surgeries or medical procedures due to bleeding risk. Stop CBD use 2-3 weeks prior to any scheduled operation.

While more long-term human studies are still needed, most evidence indicates CBD is quite safe with little risk of addiction or abuse. But research is still ongoing regarding its mechanisms, efficacy, and side effects after sustained use.

Conclusion: Should You Try CBD for Anxiety and Depression?

With growing interest in CBD's therapeutic potential, what's the bottom line based on current scientific research? Can CBD legitimately help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and related mental health disorders?

• Preclinical animal studies strongly support CBD's anti-anxiety and antidepressant-like effects. Human neuroimaging confirms CBD impacts mood-regulating areas of the brain.

• Early small pilot studies and clinical trials show promising results for CBD benefiting both anxiety and depression. Larger scale, longer term human trials are still lacking.

• For anxiety, clinical evidence is strongest for CBD alleviating social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety. More research is needed on other anxiety types.

• Mechanisms of how CBD improves anxiety and depression still remain unclear. It likely involves serotonin receptor modulation and endocannabinoid system activation.

• For optimal results, consistency and patience is key when using CBD. Therapeutic effects accumulate over weeks of sustained supplementation.

• High quality CBD products from reputable transparent brands are essential for desired benefits. Don't just buy the cheapest option.

In summary, CBD does appear capable of improving mood, easing anxiety, and mitigating symptoms of some mental health disorders based on available science to date. However, CBD is not a cure-all. It will not work equally well for every individual. CBD is best used as part of an overall healthy lifestyle alongside talk therapy, social support, stress management, exercise, balanced nutrition and restful sleep.

Always discuss using CBD with your doctor first, especially if you already take prescription medications or have underlying health conditions. Starting with lower doses and slowly ramping up over several weeks helps minimize side effects. Carefully monitor your response.

While not definitive, research indicates CBD holds promise for helping manage anxiety, depression, and related conditions - often with gentler side effects compared to pharmaceuticals. With smart and informed use, CBD may offer a natural supplemental way to potentially find calm and enhance mental wellbeing.