Stress and cannabis

CBD can help instill a sense of calm in those who take it, which can reduce stress levels.

While CBD research is still emerging, research from 2015 and 2020Trusted Source suggest that CBD can help with symptoms of :

• anxiety
• depression
• panic disorder
• obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

By attenuating the stress response and protecting against chronic stress, CBD can help prevent or treat certain stress-related mental disorders.

However, CBD is not currently approved as a treatment for psychiatric disorders, and further research is needed to fully assess its potential as a therapeutic option.

What does the research say about using CBD for stress?

Research into the effects of CBD is still ongoing. But several studies suggest that CBD, by interacting with our body's endocannabinoid system, can have positive results for people suffering from stress.

A 2020 research analyzed 76 studies published in 2019 and 2020 on the effects of CBD for specific conditions, such as stress, anxiety, dementia and depression.

The study concluded that while CBD is a promising treatment for stress and anxiety, further research is needed.

A other study from 2020 examined the effects of CBD on a small sample of 15 participants. It found that the «results identify potential mechanisms of CBD for a range of conditions associated with impaired memory processing, including Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder.»

In a study conducted in 2020 on 33 high clinical risk (CHR) individuals suffering from psychosis, half of whom received 600 mg of CBD per day, «the results provide preliminary evidence that CBD may affect [...] psychological responses to acute stress in everyday life in CHR patients.»

Although research into the effects of CBD is ongoing, early studies are showing promising results. However, it's important to remember that CBD doesn't work for everyone, So try it out, and keep an eye on the results for yourself.

How much CBD should I take for stress?

There is no official recommended dosage for CBD. If you're trying CBD for the first time, it may be wise to experiment and see what works best for you.

Start with a small dose of 5 to 20 mg of CBD. If this initial dose doesn't bring relief, try increasing the dosage gradually and observe how your body reacts.

How much CBD is too much? 2011 study found that taking 1,500 mg a day is safe for humans. However, a 2019 study on mice has suggested that CBD may be linked to liver damage and may interact negatively with certain drugs. The recommended daily dose varies between 70 and 200 milligrams.

If you're worried about trying CBD for the first time, talk to a doctor first.

Safety and side effects

Many people find CBD generally safe to use.

However, some side effects of CBD have been reported, including fatigue, diarrhea, appetite changes and weight changes. If you experience any unwanted side effects after taking CBD, talk to a doctor.

People should exercise caution if they consume oral CBD products at the same time as high-fat meals. High-fat meals effectively increase CBD absorption capacity and side effects.

In addition, the CBD may interact with certain medications prescribed. It's important to speak with a doctor before trying CBD, in case there are any contraindications to be aware of.

Frequently asked questions

Is it possible to take too much CBD oil?

CBD oil is not regulated, so there is no official »safe» dose. Research from 2017 suggests that people can tolerate up to 1,500 mg per day. However, more than 200 mg per day is not recommended.

To start with, try 5 to 20 mg a day, increasing your dose slowly. Lethargy, stomach ache, nausea and disorientation are all side effects of taking too much, and an indication to reduce dosage.

Does CBD oil really help fight stress?

The research to date on CBD for anxiety and stress is promising, but keep in mind that not everyone experiences the same effects when taking CBD. Consider combining CBD with other stress management techniques, such as mediation, journaling and exercise.

Will CBD oil calm you down and how?

It may depend on the dose. CBD can reduce anxiety levels at higher doses, but at some point, increasing the dose further - in this case, beyond 300 mg - doesn't do much.

How does it work? Experts believe it has to do with CBD's effect on the body's CB1 and CB2 receptors and the signals from serotonin, which are neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation.