CBD Oil for Anxiety UK - Does it Work?

|Lisa Strange
CBD Oil for Anxiety UK

Anxiety is a natural mental health reaction that we have evolved with for self-preservation (when we were hunter-gatherers, it would help keep us safe from danger).

However, if you are constantly feeling anxious, it can prevent you from leading a comfortable, well-adjusted life.

One of the most common disorders is social anxiety, where you can become uncomfortable in social settings, or even just thinking about being social.

According to research, millions of people in the UK struggle with mental health and anxiety daily.

Previously, people would mainly turn to anxiolytic prescription drugs to manage their anxiety, but drugs typically don’t achieve the most outstanding results, and they can be incredibly addictive.

However, CBD (also known as cannabidiol ) is a product suggested to be effective in managing anxiety disorders.

Scientists have published studies listing numerous health benefits of CBD for physical pain, epilepsy, and mental disorders.

In this post, we will look into using UK CBD for anxiety and answer questions such as how long does CBD oil take to work for anxiety, and how much should you take?

Does CBD Oil Work for Anxiety Disorder?

According to scientific reports and anecdotal experiences, CBD has been shown to help with anxiety relief.

Many people in the UK consume various CBD products to manage their anxiety.

And so, if you’re struggling with anxiety, you might want to try out CBD oil.

Scientific reports and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD may help relieve symptoms of anxiety for some people. 

Many individuals in the UK use CBD products as part of their approach to managing everyday anxiety.

While results vary from person to person, some users report relatively fast effects and generally good tolerability. 

It’s important to remember that CBD is not a guaranteed solution and works differently for everyone, and more research is still needed.

Related: Can UK doctors prescribe CBD oil?

Best Product and Dosage of CBD for Anxiety?

We would suggest two products that may help tackle your anxiety:

  1. Our Full Spectrum CBD oil is administered under the tongue daily.

  2. Our Body Oil is applied to the skin.

How much CBD oil should you take?

Unfortunately, no standard CBD dosage for anxiety is appropriate for everyone.

Instead, various factors are typically considered when determining the optimal dosage for any one individual.

I always suggest starting low and gradually increasing your dose when beginning until you find what works best for you.

Using Full Spectrum oil, take at least 2 drops at least twice a day – ideally in the morning and at night.

Do this for at least 5-6 days.

If you do not notice an improvement, you can increase the dose by 1-2 drops each serving.

Continue to do so until you find what works for you.

The most important part of taking CBD oil is how long you keep it under your tongue.

This needs to be at least 3-4 minutes.

The longer you keep it sitting there, the more bioavailability significantly increases, and more active CBD will enter your system.

Another popular option for anxiety is our Body Oil.

Topical CBD products, such as body oils, are one method some people use to support relaxation. 

Applying CBD body oil to areas such as the chest, temples, or pulse points is a technique some users find helpful for promoting a sense of calm. 

As with all CBD products, individual responses can vary. 

Related: CBD tolerance

A young man struggling with anxiety

How Long Does CBD Take to Work for Anxiety?

The speed of effect and the time to work as a treatment are influenced by factors such as product type, potency, and route of administration.

Always bear in mind that CBD works differently for each individual, and if you’re new to it, it may take slightly longer for your body to respond.

A bit of trial and error is needed when finding your dose and how long it takes to work for your anxiety.

For oils ingested sublingually (under the tongue), the effects typically kick in around 45 minutes.

For some people, this can be more immediate. 

Applying body oil to the chest usually takes 2-10 minutes.

Lisa's Top Tip for Anxiety Sufferers

Until I discovered CBD, I struggled for years with anxiety and anxiety-related IBS.

It got to the point where, on bad days, I struggled to function.

CBD made a huge difference to the quality of my life, which is why - along with my brother - I created CBD Queen.

I use two products to ease my anxiety.

I take our full-spectrum CBD oil sublingually (under the tongue) in the morning and before bed. 

I also rub one of our CBD body oil products onto my chest in the morning, at night, and throughout the day if I am struggling. 

Over the years, through trial and error, I have figured out this is the best method, and it is what I recommend to all my wonderful customers. 

Is It Legal to Take CBD Oil for Anxiety?

Many people have concerns as to whether CBD is legal. The short answer is yes. It is entirely legal in the UK.

The UK government legalised the extraction and sale of pure CBD oil that contains no more than 0.2% THC.

You must consume quality products to ensure THC levels are within the legal limit.

There are some disreputable sellers whose CBD brands and products contain illegal THC amounts.

At CBD Queen, you get top-quality products extracted from GMO-free, organic hemp plants.

Our high ratings and excellent reputation can back up our word.

How Does CBD Help with Symptoms of Anxiety?

Anxiety disorder manifests itself not only as a mental health issue but as a physical one.

Symptoms include nausea, shaking, hyperventilation, diaphragmatic spasms, insomnia, high blood pressure, heart palpitations, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

For many anxiety sufferers, the physical symptoms can cause more anxiety, leading to a full-blown panic attack.

CBD can potentially help manage these symptoms by:

  • Regulating blood pressure

  • Regulating heart rate

  • Reducing nausea

  • Preventing diaphragm spasms

As well as the physical side of anxiety, studies have suggested that CBD can help with mental symptoms, too.

CBD has been shown to increase the serotonin receptor activity.

Serotonin is the compound that is responsible for regulating our mood, as well as anxiety and sleep.

Often, depression and anxiety are caused by a lack of serotonin.

Traditional antidepressants work by inhibiting the absorption of serotonin, which can lead to an imbalance.

CBD oils strengthen the serotonin receptors, a far more natural solution.

Not only is this great news for those who suffer from anxiety, but also for those with conditions such as:

  • SAD (social anxiety disorder).

  • PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).

  • OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder).

  • GAD (generalised anxiety disorder) and panic disorder.

Potential CBD Side Effects Relating to Anxiousness

Commonly reported side effects include fatigue, dry mouth, dizziness, and low blood pressure.

Some people might also have changes in appetite or mood.

It’s essential to note that CBD can interact with certain medications, so it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before using CBD products.

While many find CBD beneficial, it’s vital to approach its use as a treatment with awareness of potential adverse reactions.

Individual responses can vary, so monitoring one’s reactions is critical.

Research Into CBD for Anxiety

CBD, or cannabidiol, has garnered attention for its potential to alleviate anxiety symptoms. Preliminary human studies suggest positive effects.

For example, a 2011 study indicated that CBD reduced anxiety induced by public speaking.

Some studies also support these findings, showing CBD’s anxiolytic effects.

However, comprehensive clinical trials are needed to establish dosage, efficacy, and safety.

Notably, while early results are promising, you should always talk with a healthcare professional before using CBD as a treatment for anxiety, especially considering potential drug interactions and individual variations in response.

A Deeper Introduction to CBD

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the most extensive trending products in wellness. It’s a highly versatile product that can be consumed in various forms.

CBD is derived from cannabis and, more specifically, the hemp plant. It’s legal in the UK if products contain less than 0.2% THC.

CBD is derived from the hemp plant, a cousin of the marijuana plant. But, unlike marijuana, it doesn’t have any psychoactive effects.

The chemical compound THC is the only cannabinoid that is psychoactive and causes the feeling of being’ high.’

There are three primary forms of hemp extracts:

  • Full Spectrum CBD

  • Broad Spectrum CBD

  • CBD isolate

Full Spectrum CBD consists of all the naturally occurring compounds and cannabinoids of the hemp plant, including terpenes, flavonoids, and small traces of THC.

CBD consumers typically favour Full Spectrum CBD products, as they exert a more significant therapeutic effect through a synergistic interaction known as the entourage effect.

Broad-spectrum CBD comprises all the organic compounds and cannabinoids of the hemp plant, except THC.

CBD isolate is the purest form, as most other compounds and cannabinoids of the hemp plant have been eliminated.

People who do not want to ingest THC usually buy products based on Broad Spectrum or CBD isolate.

What are Cannabinoids? What is the Endocannabinoid System?

Within the cannabis plant, there are active compounds known as cannabinoids.

There are hundreds of cannabinoids, but the most famous cannabinoids are CBD and THC.

THC is the only psychoactive compound that induces euphoric feelings and mental highs following marijuana intake.

Cannabidiol is responsible for up to 40% of the hemp plant, and unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive.

CBD oil is entirely safe to consume and will not cause feelings of being “high” or “stoned.”

Cannabinoids achieve various physical and mental effects through their activity on the endocannabinoid system.

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a complex biological system comprising cell receptors and corresponding molecules throughout the body – in the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells.

Though it performs different tasks in each tissue, its goal is always to maintain homeostasis, or optimal balance, within the body.

By consuming cannabidiol, CBD interacts with your ECS and may help restore balance to your body.

How to Take UK CBD for Anxiety: Final Notes

Although there isn’t concrete scientific proof of the effectiveness of CBD for managing anxiety, preliminary research and anecdotal experience suggest that it is potentially an effective treatment option.

NOTE – There is also evidence to suggest that some types of psychotherapy can effectively treat anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.

So, as well as taking CBD oil for anxiety, it might be that talking to a professional therapist could help you to feel better.

If you want to see what some of our customers say regarding the effectiveness of our CBD products. 

Please review our Trustpilot reviews and see how many people have incorporated CBD oil into their lives and are now managing their anxiety in the most natural way possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About CBD and Anxiety

Can CBD oil help with physical symptoms of anxiety, like a fast heart rate or nausea?

Some people report that CBD may help manage certain physical symptoms associated with anxiety, such as a racing heart, nausea, or muscle tension.

 

 

This is thought to be linked to CBD’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system and its potential effect on serotonin receptors. However, results are individual and more research is needed.

What are the side effects of using CBD oil for anxiety?

CBD is generally well-tolerated, but some people experience side effects such as dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, or changes in appetite.

 

CBD can also interact with certain medications. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before using CBD, especially if you are taking other treatments for anxiety.

What type of CBD is best for anxiety – full spectrum, broad spectrum or isolate?

Many people prefer full-spectrum CBD for anxiety because it contains a range of cannabinoids and terpenes that work together (known as the entourage effect).

 

Broad-spectrum CBD offers similar benefits without any THC. CBD isolate is the purest form, but it may be less effective for some people due to the lack of other plant compounds.

 

The best type depends on personal preference and whether you want to avoid THC.

Should I speak to a doctor before using CBD oil for anxiety?

Although CBD is generally considered safe, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using it for anxiety, especially if you are currently taking medication, have a medical condition, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

 

A doctor can help you decide if CBD is suitable for you.