Cannabis Against Anxiety & OCD

Medical cannabis may help with anxiety and OCD due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body. The ECS plays a critical role in regulating many physiological processes, including mood, stress, and anxiety.

The cannabinoids found in cannabis, such as cannabidiol (CBD), interact with the ECS to help regulate these processes. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis that has been found to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and anti-compulsive effects, which may be helpful for people with anxiety disorders and OCD.

Studies have suggested that CBD may help reduce anxiety by interacting with receptors in the brain that are involved in the regulation of fear and anxiety. It has also been shown to increase levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is known to have mood-regulating effects.

Additionally, some studies suggest that THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, may also have anxiolytic effects. However, THC can also have psychoactive side effects that may exacerbate anxiety symptoms in some individuals.

What Studies Exist to Support the Use of CBD Against Anxiety & COD?

A 2023 survey of 2,000 U.S. adults conducted by OnePoll and reported by Forbes Health found that 51% of CBD users in the U.S. use it to help alleviate anxiety.

A 2019 study titled ‘Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series’ investigated the effects of lower doses of CBD on anxiety compared to other clinical studies. Participants consumed 25, 50, or 75 milligrams of CBD per day, as higher doses may have been too expensive for regular use. The study found that most participants experienced reduced anxiety within the first month of taking CBD, and the improvement remained consistent. While sleep quality also improved, it was less consistent than anxiety reduction. Only a few participants reported side effects.

Does cannabis for anxiety & COD have side effects?

The side effects of using medical cannabis for pain, palliative, and cancer care can vary depending on the individual, the method of use, the dosage, and the type of cannabis used. 

It can range from Psychotropic effects like euphoria, drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion to cognitive ones including issues related to memory, attention, and reaction time. Besides, smoking or inhaling cannabis can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and bronchitis. This can be a concern for patients with preexisting lung conditions.

Cannabis can also cause changes in heart rate and blood pressure, which can be problematic for patients with cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Key takeaways

• Medical cannabis, specifically the cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD), may help alleviate anxiety and OCD by interacting with the endocannabinoid system in the body.

• CBD has anxiolytic and anti-compulsive effects that may be helpful for people with anxiety disorders and OCD, without producing the psychoactive effects of THC.

• CBD may reduce anxiety by interacting with receptors in the brain involved in the regulation of fear and anxiety, as well as increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin.

• Studies have found that lower doses of CBD can be effective in reducing anxiety, with few reported side effects. A survey reported by Forbes Health found that over half of U.S. adults who use CBD do so to alleviate anxiety.

Please note: It's worth noting that while some studies have shown promising results for the use of medical cannabis in treating anxiety and OCD, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and determine the most effective dosages and strains. It's important to talk to a healthcare professional before using medical cannabis for anxiety or any other condition.