CBD has emerged as a buzzworthy remedy for people who suffer from anxiety. Proponents say it offers relief for a myriad of ailments, including anxiety. As the popularity of CBD continues to soar, it begs the question: Does CBD really work to alleviate anxiety?

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike its counterpart, THC, CBD doesn’t induce a “high,” making it an attractive option for those seeking therapeutic benefits without the associated euphoria.

Anxiety, on the other hand, is a complex mental health condition that manifests in various forms, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety and panic disorders. Traditional treatments often involve therapy and medication. In recent years, CBD has emerged as a potential complementary or alternative approach to managing anxiety symptoms.

One Woman Reports Benefits of CBD for Anxiety

Writing recently for Shape magazine, one woman talked about her experience using CBD for anxiety rather than medication. She said medication had led to a variety of issues, including an inability to sleep well. To try CBD, she decided to stop using her other medications and take only a CBD tincture in the morning.

“At about the seven- to 10-day mark, I realized that it was actually helping. It wasn’t a huge “aha!” moment, because I was used to prescription drugs that hit me instantly with a really harsh effect,” she wrote. “This was more subtle: I realized that I felt much calmer, relaxed, and just good all around. I could sleep better with CBD. All the tension that I’d had in my neck and shoulders felt like it had melted away. People were actually commenting on how relaxed I seemed.”

She continued to use CBD and, after 18 months, reported that she is more relaxed and less anxious than ever.

The Science Behind CBD and Anxiety

Studies have already found that CBD has a positive impact in a variety of health and wellness areas. And while the scientific understanding of CBD’s impact on anxiety is still evolving, some studies suggest promising results. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors that play a role in regulating various physiological processes, including mood and stress response.

Forbes reported on one study in which participants with social anxiety disorder took either CBD or a placebo before having to publicly speak. Those who received CBD reported significantly less anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort compared to those who took the placebo.

Forbes also reported on another study that found that CBD can help reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including nightmares and flashbacks.

Beyond the laboratory setting, the anecdotal evidence supporting CBD’s role in anxiety relief is compelling. Many individuals claim to have experienced a sense of calm and relaxation after incorporating CBD into their wellness routines.

Users often share their stories of finding relief from symptoms such as racing thoughts, excessive worry, and social anxiety. Some report that CBD helps them manage situational stressors more effectively, providing a sense of balance without the sedative effects associated with certain anti-anxiety medications.