“I have struggled with anxiety and broken sleep for the last couple of years and have been very determined to not revert back to anti-depressants. This oil has helped me cope, taking the edge off, whilst also supporting a great nights sleep.”
- Mari H, Happy Me Customer
“It's totally transformed how I feel every day.
I'm so much calmer and more relaxed, I feel in control of my anxiety levels, I don't feel exhausted anymore and I can think more clearly.”
- Ellen, Happy Me Customer
From Experience to Science: How CBD Can Offer Support for Anxiety
Many have found relief from anxiety symptoms through CBD, sharing their experiences of feeling calmer, more balanced, and in control. But what does the science say? While personal stories offer valuable insights, research is uncovering how CBD interacts with the body to support mental well-being.
Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to stress or perceived threats, manifesting as feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease. While occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, persistent or excessive anxiety can interfere with daily activities and overall well-being. Common symptoms include restlessness, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty concentrating.
Managing anxiety often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, therapeutic interventions, and, in some cases, medication. Among various natural remedies, Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant, has gained attention for its potential anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties.
CBD and Anxiety
Recent research suggests that CBD may offer benefits for those dealing with anxiety disorders. A comprehensive review published in the Journal of Neurotherapeutics highlighted that preclinical evidence strongly supports CBD as a treatment for generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder when administered acutely. The review also noted that more research is needed to evaluate the effects of chronic CBD dosing.
In a clinical trial involving patients with anxiety, a four-week treatment with CBD resulted in significant reductions in anxiety symptoms. The study concluded that CBD has a promising role as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders, with large-scale studies much welcomed.
How Does CBD Work For Anxiety?
The exact mechanisms through which CBD exerts its anti-anxiety effects are still under research. However, what we do know is that CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which itself plays a role in regulating mood, stress responses, and other physiological functions. Neuroimaging studies have shown that CBD can alter blood flow in regions of the brain associated with anxiety, such as the amygdala and hippocampus, suggesting a potential impact on neural pathways linked to anxiety regulation.
Additionally, CBD is thought to inhibit the production of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), an enzyme that breaks down the endocannabinoid anandamide. Anandamide, often referred to as the "bliss molecule", plays a key role in mood regulation. By preventing its breakdown, CBD may help sustain higher levels of anandamide, potentially reducing anxiety symptoms. Furthermore, CBD is known to activate the serotonin receptor 5-HT1A, which is linked to mood stabilisation and anxiety reduction (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).
So Is CBD Effective for Reducing Anxiety?
CBD presents a highly promising option for those seeking to manage their anxiety and stress, particularly for those who prefer a more natural approach rather than pharmacological, and the preclinical evidence adds support to the extensive anecdotal evidence shared by experienced consumers. Nonetheless, more extensive clinical trials are necessary to fully understand the mechanics of CBD’s efficacy.
Despite the growing body of research and mounting anecdotal evidence, there remains a lack of conclusive large-scale clinical trials on CBD. This is partly due to the nascency of CBD's legality in many regions, historical study funding biases, and the reliance on non-human studies. As a result, responsible CBD providers cannot make definitive medical claims, but instead they can support consumers with carefully researched guidance and high-quality, lab-tested products that adhere to industry best practices.
“For me sleep and anxiety have been a problem throughout my adulthood and finally I seem to have found a natural remedy that actually helps! For the first time in years I am sleeping soundlessly and my anxiety has substantially reduced enabling me to tackle everyday life head-on without feeling overwhelmed by the smallest things.” - Ali, Happy Me Customer
Choosing a CBD Product For Anxiety Relief
Not all CBD products are created equal, and choosing a high-quality, independently tested product is essential to ensure effectiveness and safety. At Happy Me, we take pride in offering organic, seed-to-shelf CBD oils that are fully traceable and independently lab-tested to guarantee purity and potency.
Our oils are:
- Organically grown – Free from pesticides, herbicides, and harmful additives.
- Independently lab-tested – Every batch is tested to ensure precise cannabinoid content and purity. See our lab reports here.
- Cold-pressed to preserve integrity – Containing beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes to support the entourage effect.
By choosing a reliable product like Happy Me, you can feel confident that you're using a responsibly sourced and high-quality CBD product designed to support your well-being.
“This is the best cold pressed CBD oil I have tried, you really feel the benefits for sleep and anxiety.” - Liam (Happy Me customer)
Using CBD to Manage Anxiety
For those considering CBD as part of their anxiety management plan, it is advisable to:
- Consult Healthcare Professionals: Discuss with a doctor or mental health professional to ensure CBD is a suitable option based on individual health conditions and current medications.
- Start with Low Doses: Begin with a low dose and monitor the body's response, gradually adjusting as needed under professional guidance. That is why we have created our proprietary dosage calculator, offering tailored dosing and step-by-step advice.
- Choose Reputable Products: Select high-quality CBD products from reputable sources that provide third-party lab testing results to ensure safety, purity and potency.
CBD affects each individual differently based on factors such as body weight, brain chemistry, and tolerance levels. Some find that keeping track of their experiences with a CBD journal is helpful, but the team at Happy Me is here to offer direct guidance. Sian and Georgie are always available to answer your CBD questions and help you start your CBD journey effectively.