Anxiety and Cannabis

Anxiety is a feeling of unease, worry, or fear. It can be mild or severe and can affect anyone at any age. While some people experience anxiety only occasionally, others feel it daily. Those who struggle with anxiety daily may have an anxiety disorder. If you struggle with anxiety, it’s essential to seek help and explore different treatment options. 

Many people want more natural treatment options to manage their anxiety. Although many prescription medications are available, many find that cannabis may reduce stress without the potentially severe side effects associated with certain drugs.

Cannabinoids like CBD and CBG may help reduce anxiety by helping you feel more relaxed and calm. In honor of National Stress Relief Day on November 2^nd, we’re going to chat about how taking cannabis for anxiety may help. We’ll also share a few of our favorite cannabis products!

How Covid-19 Caused More Anxiety

Before we dive into the science behind anxiety and cannabis, let’s chat about why so many people are struggling with anxiety currently. 

The World Health Organization has discussed how Covid-19 triggered a 25% increase in anxiety and depression. 

To put it simply, covid-19 has caused a great deal of anxiety for people worldwide. The virus has been linked to several anxiety-related disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. For many people, the anxiety caused by Covid-19 was compounded by everyone living in isolation and having limited contact with other people. This made it difficult to cope with the stress and led to other mental health problems like depression.

If you noticed an increase in anxiety during the pandemic, you’re not alone. Make sure you share how you’re feeling with loved ones and/or a therapist or doctor.  

The Science Behind Cannabis and Anxiety

Cannabis is effective in treating anxiety in several studies. However, we need more studies before we know precisely how effective it is. 

The science behind taking cannabis for anxiety is that cannabis contains compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is responsible for regulating mood and anxiety, among other things. 

In one study, CBD helped patients with social anxiety disorder. Those who took a single dose of CBD before giving a public speech reported feeling less anxious and more relaxed than those who took a placebo.

Another study found that CBD reduced anxiety and improved sleep in patients with generalized anxiety disorder.

A review of studies found that CBD may effectively treat various types of anxiety, including panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

The science behind cannabis and anxiety is still being researched. Still, the evidence suggests that cannabis may be an effective treatment for some people with anxiety disorders.

What is anxiety?

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America states that anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S. They affect about 40 million adults (19.1% of the population).

Anxiety is characterized by feelings of unease, worry, or fear. Although, it can be mild or severe and is often described as a sense of “impending doom.” 

Fortunately, anxiety is treatable. However, only a small percentage of people receive treatment. As one example, therapy is a popular and effective treatment option for many.

Also, many choose to take prescription medication for anxiety relief as well. Although medication can benefit some, others avoid medications and opt for more natural treatments like cannabis.

Cannabis is potentially effective in treating anxiety in many people.

Cannabis has been used to treat anxiety for centuries. The first recorded use of cannabis for anxiety was in 2900 BC by the Chinese emperor Fu Hsi. Cannabis was also used by the ancient Greeks to treat anxiety and other mental health conditions. Several recent studies have shown that cannabis may effectively treat anxiety disorders.

For example, a 2013 study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology found that CBD reduced social anxiety in people with social anxiety disorder (SAD). The study found that CBD reduced SAD symptoms before and after participants gave a public speech.

Which cannabinoids reduce stress?

Cannabis plants produce dozens of different cannabinoids, each with its own unique effects. Some cannabinoids are known to reduce stress and anxiety, while others may potentially increase it. (For example, THC is known to cause increased paranoia and anxiety in some people.)

The most well-known cannabinoid for reducing stress is CBD. CBD is thought to work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood and stress levels. CBD is also known to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which could help reduce stress levels. Plus, CBD is also known for promoting relaxation and allowing you to fall asleep more easily. This improved sleep can reduce anxiety overall.

Other cannabinoids that have been shown to reduce stress include CBG and CBN. Both have potentially uplifting effects, which can help to counteract the fatigue and low energy that often accompany stress. CBG is known for its calming and relaxing effects, which can help to ease the anxious thoughts and racing heart often associated with stress.

Best Cannabis Products for Stress Relief

When it comes to anxiety, there are a lot of different cannabis products out there that can help. Here are some of our favorite cannabis products for stress relief:

1. CBD oil: CBD oil is one of the most popular and effective ways to use cannabis for anxiety relief. You can take CBD oil orally by drops under the tongue or add it to food or drinks. This 15% Full Spectrum CBD CBG Oil is a great option if you want to experience the benefits of both CBD and CBG.

2. Topical CBD: Topical CBD products are another great option for anxiety relief. You can find topical CBD creams, salves, and oils that can be applied directly to the skin. Topical CBD products are absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, where they can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to provide relief from anxiety and other symptoms. 

This CBD CBG Massage Oil with Argan Oil, Camphor and Mint provides instant soothing and relaxing relief to your massage. For more CBD cosmetics products, you check here.

3. Edibles: Edible forms of cannabis include gummies, candies, capsules, and more. Cannabis edibles are popular for those who want anxiety relief without having to smoke or vape. Plus, they make taking CBD much more enjoyable with their delicious flavor. 

At Canna Health Amsterdam, one of our most popular CBD edibles are these yummy banana-flavored CBD Gummies as well as the watermelon-flavoured ones. 

Final thoughts

Lots of people struggle with anxiety. Whether you have the occasional anxious thoughts or deal with an anxiety disorder, it’s important to seek help. Talk to someone you trust about your anxiety and explore the various treatment options. Cannabinoids like CBD may help you get better sleep and feel more relaxed. It may help reduce the stress you experience.