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Anxiety is a blanket term used to describe a variety of different symptoms. It’s not uncommon to feel butterflies or jitters before an important oral presentation or when meeting someone new on a first date. But for people who deal with anxiety on a more regular basis, even when facing mundane tasks, it can make life feel a lot harder to deal with.
Sometimes anxiety manifests as a physical sensation that turns your stomach into knots and makes you nauseous, even on an empty stomach. Sometimes it causes repetitive thoughts of worst-case scenarios that limit your mental capacity for more fruitful ideas. Often, restlessness and agitation accompany anxiety, particularly when you feel like no one around you understands this invisible condition. And when all is said and done, at the end of the day you may be so fatigued that you can’t find time to engage in activities you enjoy. Despite the tiredness that results from excessively tensed muscles and a mind that won’t get quiet, you may still have trouble getting to sleep! Anxiety shows no mercy.
A life riddled with anxiety can feel extremely limited and along with practicing breathing exercises and calming stretches, you could also benefit from cannabidiol (CBD) to help combat the seemingly endless list of symptoms associated with anxiety disorders. This chemical naturally occurs in the hemp plant and early research is showing just how promising it is when it comes to relieving anxiety.
While some prescription medications may also be helping to treat anxiety, often people feel dissociated and subdued, which limits their ability to enjoy the fullness of all the gifts life has to offer. If you’re looking to try a natural supplement to gain relief from general anxiety disorders or help with specific conditions like post traumatic stress disorder, CBD may just be the answer you’ve been looking for. Below we share our top 10 favorite brands that offer CBD oil – we took our time vetting them and hope you find a product that catches your eye in the details we share below!
Top 10 List of CBD Oils for Anxiety
- CBDistillery – Best for Anxiety (Includes CBN)
- Absolute Nature – GHP Cannabis Awards Winner
- CBDfx – Best Dose
- Sunday Scaries – Packed with Vitamins D3 and B12
- Five CBD – Full Spectrum CBD Benefits with Unique Flavor Profiles
- Extract Labs – Top-Rated CBD Isolate
- Charlotte’s Web – Ideal for Experienced CBD Users
- CBD American Shaman – Best Water Soluble, Customizable CBD Oil
- Green Roads – Pharmacist-Formulated Full Spectrum CBD Oil
- Receptra Naturals – Best Lavender Tincture for Relaxation
How Did We Decide Our Top CBD Oils to Help Anxiety Disorders?
We established a framework that focuses on four primary elements in order to compile this list of our 10 preferred companies for CBD oil for anxiety. Our objective is to present you with an educational article that covers various brands and CBD oils so that you can make an educated purchasing decision when you’re ready to try a natural product for combating the effects of anxiety disorders. We’ve identified and examined some clear variables and have explained them below for clarity:
- We included the opinions and reviews of CBD industry specialists. Third-party testing confirms the quality, potency, and purity of all CBD flower strains. When brands implement their commitment to responsibility, their customers gain confidence and become loyal.
- We took the opportunity to validate that the brand’s own descriptions correlate with the user experience described directly by verified shoppers, whether they’re discovered on their official site or on social media pages.
- Firsthand accounts from our in-house team. While there is a wealth of information available on the internet, nothing beats checking goods out for ourselves and sharing our results with you.
- We gave ourselves the time to digest all of the information in the product pages. Reputable brands provide data about the potency of their CBD oil and other CBD products, as well as extra information like typical experiences and reactions, and flavor and effectiveness descriptors.
Our Top CBD Oils for Anxiety Reviewed
1. CBDistillery – Best for Anxiety (Includes CBN)
Pros:
- 20% off your orders when you subscribe
- Extra strength formula for better results
- CBD + the benefits of CBN
- 60-day money back guarantee
Cons:
- Natural hemp flavor may taste slightly unpleasant for some users
Product: Extra Strength CBN + CBD Sleep Tincture 1:3 (300MG of CBN + 900MG of CBD)
If ever you’ve struggled with getting enough sleep through the night, you know just how much you need a good night’s rest to function well in your day to day and handle all your responsibilities with focused attention. When you’re tired, your regular responsibilities feel more daunting and more confusing, whereas when you wake from a good night’s sleep, you can tackle whatever comes your way with ease.
This extra strength formula developed by CBDistillery helps you get to sleep and stay asleep so you can be your best self throughout your waking hours. Whether you’ve been dealing with insomnia for a long time now or you’ve found yourself stuck in a cycle of poor sleep recently, this tincture can help you regulate your sleep cycle.
Learn more at TheCBDistillery.com
2. Absolute Nature – GHP Cannabis Awards Winner
Pros:
- Certified USDA organic
- Three concentrations available
- Made in the USA
- Non-GMO Hemp
Cons:
Product: Absolute Nature CBG & CBD Oil Drops
When stress has become a regular part of your life and tension has built up in your muscles, it’s time for some soothing relief. These organic CBD oil drops are ideal when you’re ready to invest in yourself and revel in fast, natural stress relief. This 1000MG full spectrum tincture stands out among other brands as a pure, nature-intended option.
Learn more at AbsoluteNature.com
3. CBDfx – Best High Dose
Pros:
- Made in the USA
- Solvent free
- 60-day money back guarantee
- CBN infused for stronger effects
Cons:
- Consumers have requested a flavored version
Product: CBD + CBN Oil Calming Tincture (500 – 6000MG of CBD)
When your mind needs a break, this CBD + CBN tincture can give you a floating feeling unlike no other. CBN is known as the “relaxation cannabinoid”, and when combined with CBDfx’s special terpene combination, you’ll feel as though you’ve fallen into a bed full of pillows that envelop you with warmth and unconditional care.
CBN is a minor cannabinoid and a cousin of THC that many hemp consumers are unaware of – to keep it simple, THC transforms into CBN as it matures. CBN is a non-psychoactive chemical component that has been shown to have a relaxing impact on both the body and the mind. One of the key reasons why CBN is swiftly becoming one of the most popular cannabinoids for sleep is because of its ability to promote extreme relaxation.
Choose from five concentrations of CBD oil: 500MH, 1000MG, 2000MG, 4000MG, up to 6000MG to experience unparalleled relaxation. These tinctures are vegan and gluten-free and their potency is verified by third party labs.
4. Sunday Scaries – Packed with Vitamins D3 and B12
Pros:
- Free shipping on orders over $59
- Cancel your subscription anytime without hassle
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Tasty fruit punch flavor
Cons:
- Free shipping applies to US customers only
Product: Unwind CBD Oil
Sunday Scaries is committed to giving you reasons to smile, and their CBD oils help you do just that with 100% gluten and GMO free CBD that’s carefully combined with 400 IU of Vitamin D3 and 11mcg of Vitamin B12 to relax your body and move you into a super chill mindset. If you could do without the earthy, natural flavor of many CBD oil options, you’re in luck because Sunday Scaries offers their product in a palatable fruity format.
Learn more at SundayScaries.com
5. Five CBD – Full Spectrum CBD Benefits with Unique Flavor Profiles
Pros:
- Three flavors available
- Multiple extra strength concentrations to select from
- Save 30% when you subscribe
- 100% natural ingredients
Cons:
- Unflavored option not available
Product: Full Spectrum CBD+THC Oil
Five CBD offers unique tinctures that combine CBD oil extracted from hemp (not hemp seed oil which is a different animal) with organic MCT oil to create a potent combo. Natural extracts are used to bring fun flavors into their specialized formulas, which makes dosing fun and easy. You can take one dropper full at any time of the day to enjoy the benefits of their 5:1 formula. Consume with a meal to increase bioavailability, and if you feel like you could do with a stronger dose for more noticeable effects, you can take up to three servings of this CBD oil in one full day.
You can pick from three CBD concentrations: 1500MG, 3000MG, or 6000MG. And you also have the freedom to choose between three tasty flavors: lavender, mint chocolate, or citrus. They carefully covered a wide variety of flavor profiles so you could have a product that’s easy to administer and easy to love.
6. Extract Labs – Top-Rated CBD Isolate
Pros:
- THC-free
- American grown hemp
- Lab tested by a third party to confirm quality
- High concentration of CBD (66 MG per mL)
- 60-day money back guarantee
Cons:
- Their pure CBD isolate product does not come in other flavors
Product: Pure CBD Isolate Tincture (2000 MG of CBD per 20 mL bottle)
This powerful CBD isolate contains only pure CBD, without any THC traces and is mixed with organic coconut oil to make absorption easy. Extract Labs has a simple goal: to make high-quality tinctures affordable and available for anyone seeking the therapeutic effects of CBD oil. Each one of their formulas is carefully put together, and you can rest assured this CBD Isolate Tincture is free of preservatives, fillers, and artificial colors.
7. Charlotte’s Web – Ideal for Experienced CBD Users
Pros:
- Supports a calm mood
- Assists with sleep cycles
- Reduces exercise-induced inflammation
- USA grown hemp
Cons:
- Unflavored option is not available
Product: CBD Oil: 60MG of CBD per 1 ML
Charlotte’s Web offers several CBD oil tinctures, but nothing quite like this high serving size option. This formula contains the most CBD per serving they offer, and they’ve made it available in three flavors for your choosing. You can either indulge with a mint chocolate flavor, a lemon twist flavor, or an orange blossom flavor. Not only do you get to choose how your high CBD serving product should taste, but you’re also able to decide if you’d prefer a standard amount of 30 mL or if you’d like to commit to a full 100 mL right off the bat.
These high CBD servings aren’t exactly recommended for beginners – you should probably have some previous experience with CBD products before you venture further into these high CBD products. But when you’re ready, Charlotte’s Web can deliver. For best results, take this supplement regularly and be sure you store it at room temperature in a dark place. Plus, enjoy the freedom of use – some may be able to drop the CBD oil right into their mouths while others prefer to mix the oil with their morning drink or breakfast item.
Learn more at CharlottesWeb.com
8. CBD American Shaman – Best Water Soluble, Customizable CBD Oil
Pros:
- Easily choose THC content
- Extra strength and water soluble
- Batch tested for potency and purity
- Fast acting delivery system
Cons:
- Special promotions and discounts not currently available
Product: CBD Extra Strength Water Soluble
CBD American Shaman has created a water soluble CBD hemp oil supplement that’s not only extra strength, but that can also be easily added to any beverage and is extremely fast acting – all thanks to their ultra-performance convergence chromatography. You can pick between two sizes – a 15 mL bottle or a 40 mL bottle and can also designate your preferred THC content. Most brands either make their tinctures with a full spectrum CBD or isolate CBD for zero THC content. CBD American Shaman gives you the power to decide what you’d prefer within this water soluble formula – this customization process sets them apart from other brands and makes them even more competitive within the CBD oil market.
Learn more at CBDAmericanShaman.com
9. Green Roads – Pharmacist-Formulated Full Spectrum CBD Oil
Pros:
- American grown hemp
- Gluten free and vegan friendly
- Full spectrum CBD oil (up to 0.3% THC)
- Independent lab certified
Cons:
- Flavored options not available; expect product to have a natural taste
Product: Full Spectrum CBD oil (750MG or 1500MG of CBD)
This full-spectrum CBD oil promotes overall health and wellness. It contains up to 0.3% THC as permitted by federal law and is synthesized from a variety of therapeutic compounds found in hemp plants. You can either take 1 mL increments, which contain roughly 50mg of CBD or you can manage the amount of CBD you consume by lowering or increasing the recommended dose using the provided dropper. This blend contains MCT oil, hemp seed oil, and other beneficial ingredients. Their full-spectrum CBD oil is tested for quality by an outside lab, and you can view the test results easily by locating the QR code on the packaging and scanning it for access.
Green Roads has made their mark within the CBD industry because their products are made with premium CBD that’s carefully formulated using the knowledge and input of a pharmacist. The two full spectrum options they offer are both hot sellers and can be described as either moderate or mighty in terms of strength. Consumers report the taste is significantly more pleasant than other CBD oils on the market today.
10. Receptra Naturals – Best Lavender Tincture for Relaxation
Pros:
- Three sizes available
- 30-day satisfaction guarantee
- Third party lab tested
- Easy COA lookup
Cons:
- Limited flavor selection
Product: Seriously Relax + Lavender Tincture (25MG of CBD per dose)
Receptra Naturals’ Seriously Relax + Lavender CBD tincture is made with a combination of naturally derived components that support good physical and mental health that set you up with a solid foundation on a daily basis.
This CBD tincture incorporates MCT oil, lavender, limonene, passionflower, lime, and ginger to help you stay positive and peaceful while also offering real protection against life’s pressures. Adulting isn’t easy and with the many critical decisions you’re constantly having to make, your brain could use a break from the overdrive state. Invite a cool, calm, and collected state into your life so you can handle whatever you’re facing with better poise and ease.
Learn more at ReceptraNaturals.com
How Can CBD Oil Help with Anxiety?
First, a little background. Your body has a lot of different receptors – these receptors are attached to your cells and their job is to receive signals from different sources of stimulation. CBD is believed to communicate within both your CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are primarily located within your central nervous system – this is the system that sounds all the alarms that trigger your anxiety.
Although the exact communication between CBD and your CB1 and CB2 receptors isn’t fully understood just yet, researchers believe this communication may adjust serotonin signals. If you’re not familiar with serotonin, here’s the scoop: it’s a neurotransmitter that basically keeps you happy. When your serotonin levels are low, that’s when depression comes crashing in like an uninvited house guest. Some people swear by the best CBD oils and other CBD products, while others choose prescription medications like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) to help them manage their mental health.
Though you should always consult with your medical provider before trying CBD to assist or treat anxiety, below we present some clinical studies that show extremely promising results for the future of some mental health treatments.
Generalized anxiety disorders are often accompanied by a rapid heartbeat, feelings of restlessness, and irritability, to name a few of the associated symptoms. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, CBD has been studied in animals and has been confirmed to reduce their stress levels. Though more research is required, these results give hope for many.
CBD has been demonstrated in several recent studies to help with PTSD symptoms such as nightmares and repeating painful experiences via intrusive memories. CBD has been studied as a single PTSD treatment as well as an addition to established PTSD treatments, like standard medicine and cognitive behavioral therapy in these studies (CBT).
Research on CBD Oil for Anxiety
The effects of CBD on human volunteers with generalized social anxiety disorder were investigated in a 2011 study published in Neuropsychopharmacology (SAD). A simulated public speaking examination was administered to 24 participants in a double-blind study. Volunteers struggling with social anxiety disorder noted a positive effect right around the 300MG dose.
Another study conducted in 2015 sought to understand CBD’s potential as a treatment for anxiety disorders through the careful evaluation of preclinical, human experimental, and clinical studies. Researchers discovered that preclinical evidence for CBD is overwhelmingly promising and can be a helpful medicinal supplement for a variety of anxiety-related disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.
Lastly, the encouraging outcomes of a case study examining CBD as a remedy for sleep and anxiety issues was presented in a 2019 article published in The Permanente Journal. The case study comprised 47 people who went to a mental health clinic with a confirmed anxiety disorder that presented active symptoms. The bulk of the subjects were given 25MG of CBD oil in capsule form every day. Participants with more acute anxiety were given 50 or 75MG doses.
Researchers continue working with participants to discover the anxiety-relieving and neuroprotective properties of CBD – these studies are just the beginning and they have paved a solid path for the future of CBD oil as a beneficial supplement for anxiety-related symptoms.
How to Use CBD Oil for Anxiety
Currently, there are no standardized dosing recommendations available for CBD oil products. However, product manufacturers provide you with their own recommendations, depending on how potent the CBD oil is they’ve formulated. Plus, the way you administer the CBD oil also affects how quickly the effects come through.
Within 30 minutes to 2 hours, the benefits of orally taken CBD, such as oils under the tongue or mixed in with drinks or food begin to work. Oral CBD oils can be used to alleviate anxiety at different times throughout the day, so long as you don’t exceed the recommended maximum dose. If you do, you’ll probably experience a bit of stomach upset and maybe some drowsiness – these side effects serve as signs for you to be more mindful with your next dose.
How Much Shall I Take?
Your best bet is to follow the instructions on the packaging. You may look at a recommended dose and think it’s not enough and you can handle more, but don’t deceive yourself. Start slow and easy and let your body adjust to a new CBD supplement. Until you allow yourself a trial period, you won’t know what dose is best for you.
Some people are extremely sensitive to CBD, which means they require a much lower dose and may be prone to experiencing the side effects most people don’t notice. On the other hand, some may not feel even a tinge of difference after a recommended dose and may need to increase the dose to almost double what they thought they needed.
FAQ
Does CBD Help with Depression?
CBD may assist with depression, according to some studies. However, there haven’t been many human investigations. To be certain of CBDs possibilities when it comes to depression, more investigation is required. CBD may relieve depression and anxiety by modifying serotonin levels, which makes it a promising alternative to existing treatments. Although CBD may be safe to combine with some antidepressants, you should consult your doctor first to be sure.
Are There Side Effects to CBD?
CBD oils and other CBD products do have some reported side effects but they’re rare and when experienced are relatively minor. You may experience some drowsiness, depending on the dose you’re taking. Double check labels because if you’re taking a CBD product meant to promote better sleep, then you’re likely going to feel your eyes closing while your bed tries to call you closer.
Some users may also experience changes to their appetite and for those with sensitive stomachs, CBD oil may cause diarrhea or digestive discomfort. If this sounds like you, just eat a small meal with healthy fats and complex carbs before you dose. That should prevent any uncomfortable side effects.
Also, if you’re taking any kind of psychiatric medication to help with treating anxiety symptoms, you should first consult your doctor, as drug interactions may occur with some antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and antipsychotics.
Can You Take CBD If You’re Pregnant or Breastfeeding?
The effects of CBD on pregnant and breastfeeding women are currently unclear, and studies are needed to evaluate whether using CBD products is safe for women who may be pregnant or are breastfeeding.
Does CBD Produce a High or Inebriated Feeling?
So long as you’re consuming CBD products with 0.3% or less of THC, you should not experience any kind of high or feelings of impairment. Sensitive users may notice some drowsiness and unless that’s an intended outcome, the dose should be reduced to avoid this feeling.
Why is CBD Oil the Most Optimal Solution for Alleviating Anxiety Symptoms?
Since it is so unobtrusive, taking CBD oil is one of the most ideal ways to get a daily dose of CBD. You can put a dropper full directly into your mouth for maximum absorption. Or if you want to get creative, you can easily mix the CBD oil with your favorite drink or snack.
The best part is how discreet CBD is. This makes it ideal for those who want to seek healing without alerting others to the fact that they are trying a new, medicinal supplement.
Does CBD Show Up on a Drug Test?
This is highly dependent on the amount of THC in the CBD you’re taking. THC is detected in the majority of drug tests and you will get a positive result if the concentration in your system exceeds the test’s cutoff. However, these tests do not look for CBD. You should be alright if the stuff you’re using is of good quality and pure. Even if the product contains trace levels of THC, as many of them do, they are very unlikely to cause you to fail a drug test.
Can You Become Addicted to CBD?
CBD oil is not addictive in any way. This is because CBD oil, unlike THC, does not activate the cannabinoid receptors in your brain. It’s these cannabinoid receptors that produce the high that keeps people chasing the original high or sensation. CBD oil isn’t addictive because it doesn’t have any psychoactive effects.
Conclusion
The symptoms of anxiety, when left untreated, can manifest into more physical symptoms like digestive issues and can impact your relationships with friends and loved ones, may cause you to isolate and avoid triggers altogether, and slowly rob you of a fulfilled, connected life you’re meant to and deserve to experience.
CBD supplements should not replace the plans with your medical provider for treating anxiety, and you should consult with your doctor if you’re interested in trying CBD to ease the symptoms related to anxiety. Though CBD is easy to find and also easy to purchase, you should always do your research to be sure you’re purchasing the best CBD oils possible. Follow the guidelines we outlined above to secure your chance of finding a reputable brand and a product you’ll love.
Dealing with anxiety is difficult. When you need support, stop at nothing to find it. If you’ve never tried CBD, you may find its effects life changing. If you’re already enjoying the benefits of CBD, you know what makes a good CBD oil for anxiety. Stick with your favorites or try new brands – and don’t forget to leave an honest review! People like you are looking to active users to help them make a decision – guide them by detailing your experience.
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9 Best CBD Oils for Anxiety: Support for Stress & Restlessness