Best CBD Oil for Anxiety
By Space Coast Daily // June 12, 2021
The past year has seen more people than ever before dealing with anxiety and depression brought on by a global pandemic and uncertain economy. Stressful situations beyond their control have led to an increase of individuals seeking treatment for mental health issues.
Many of them are looking for natural options and a holistic approach to providing self-care. In some cases, CBD oil may be an excellent alternative to pharmaceuticals while trying to navigate these unprecedented times. This article will discuss using CBD oil to help treat anxiety and depression and our top pick for the best CBD oil for anxiety.
According to the Anxiety Disorders and Depression Association of America (AADA), 40 million adults, 18 and older, suffer from anxiety. It is the most common mental illness in the United States. People who have struggled or are currently struggling with anxiety and depression know the toll it can take physically, mentally, and emotionally. They often feel overwhelmed and unable to cope day-to-day.
While many people find relief in prescription medications, there are others who are looking to treat their symptoms in a more natural way. Both scientific research and anecdotal stories show that CBD oil is effective in reducing anxiety and depression.
Keep reading to find out more.
Top 5 CBD Oil Brands for Anxiety
FAB CBD – Best Overall
NuLeaf Naturals – Best Full Spectrum
CBDistillery – Most Variety
cbdMD – Best Broad Spectrum
CBDPure – Best Value
How We Choose The Brands of CBD Oil Listed Here
CBD oil sales have seen steady growth in recent years, but not all CBD oils are equal in quality. Hemp Industry Daily states that there are over 1,500 CBD brands currently on the market. With that many choices, it might be challenging to know which one is the best. We have taken the time and have gone through the different brands to compile a list of reputable companies. When making our choices for the best CBD oil, we considered many factors, such as the following:
Source of hemp
The 2018 Farm Bill has made it legal to cultivate and sell hemp and its by-products, as long as the hemp contains less than 0.3% Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is the chemical compound that gives cannabis its psychoactive properties. The Department of Agriculture strictly regulates hemp that is grown in the United States.
Hemp growers know that hemp is a bioaccumulator and will pull heavy metals and toxins out of the soil. Therefore, hemp needs to be grown in organic conditions to ensure that the CBD oil is free of contaminants. Some companies source their hemp from foreign countries that don’t have the same guidelines as growers in the United States, so the CBD may be contaminated or contain high THC levels.
Manufacturing process
Many CBD manufacturers use chemical solvents to remove the CBD from hemp. But, these methods contaminate the CBD oil and destroy the plant. Even though CO2 extraction is more labor-intensive and expensive, it provides a pure, uncontaminated product with no chemicals and without destroying the plant.
Other ingredients
While natural botanicals may be added to some CBD oils to enhance their therapeutic effects, some companies will add additional or synthetic ingredients as fillers. Research any added ingredients to see if it helps or hinders the final product.
Third-party Testing
Reputable CBD brands have their products tested by independent labs to ensure purity and potency. The laboratory will provide the company with a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Manufacturers then provide the COAs for both customers and regulatory agencies. Third-party testing lets customers know they are getting a high-quality CBD oil that is free from contaminants.
Relief of symptoms
Does the CBD oil relieve feelings of anxiety and depression? The companies’ websites and independent sources, ratings, and reviews from customers helped us determine if the product lives up to the manufacturer’s claims.
5 Best CBD Oils for Anxiety and Depression
After we compiled a list using the criteria, we still had a long list of reputable companies. Therefore, we narrowed it down further by looking at brand reputation, customer service, transparency, and how easy it is for customers to find their way around the company’s website. From there, we kept narrowing down our list until we found five companies that we considered the best CBD brands on the market today for anxiety and depression.
We consider these five brands to be the best options to help reduce anxiety and alleviate depression. They are considered safe and deliver consistent, high-quality CBD products.
FAB CBD offers the best CBD oil on the market. The company sources its CBD from hemp grown organically in Colorado. FAB CBD offers a Full Spectrum product in strengths of 300mg, 600mg, 1200mg, and 2400mg. Customers can choose from flavors that include Citrus, Mint, Berry, Vanilla, and Natural. FAB CBD Oil quickly alleviates feelings of anxiety, leaving users feeling calm and relaxed. The company also receives excellent ratings for excellent customer service.
Pros
■ FAB CBD gets its CBD oil from non-GMO hemp grown organically in Colorado
■ ProVerde, an independent lab, tests FAB CBD oil for purity and potency.
■ Works quickly to calm anxiety
■ Excellent customer service
■ 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
■ CBD Oil has a long shelf life
Cons
■ FAB CBD doesn’t offer an auto-ship program.
■ No free shipping unless customers spend $99
■ The company doesn’t have any brick-and-mortar stores. Customers must place their orders on the website or from an affiliate.
■ The company doesn’t offer a Broad Spectrum or CBD Isolate oil.
Because of their various flavor and strength options, product effectiveness, and great customer service, FAB CBD gets not only our vote for the best overall CBD oil for anxiety and depression, they are also listed as #1 on Laweekly.com, Thecbdbreak.com, The360mag.com and on many other top rated sites. Their website is easy to navigate and works to educate people about the benefits of CBD. The company delivers a consistent, high-quality product tested by a third-party lab. They receive high marks for safety, potency, and transparency.
#2 NuLeaf Naturals – Best Full Spectrum
NuLeaf Naturals CBD oil is a pure hemp product with no additives or flavorings. The company is involved in the whole process, from planting the hemp seeds all the way through the manufacturing process. They were one of the first CBD companies to be GMP compliant. NuLeaf Naturals comes in strengths of 300mg, 1800mg, 3000mg, and 6000mg of full-spectrum CBD oil. It only comes in Natural flavor, so customers get only pure CBD with all its terpenes and flavinoids. NuLeaf Naturals CBD oil is extremely effective in relieving anxiety and helping users feel calm and relaxed.
Pros
■ NuLeaf Naturals extracts its CBD from organic hemp grown in Colorado.
■ Their CBD oil contains no additives, preservatives, pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers.
■ The company offers free shipping on all orders
■ Customers can subscribe and save with the company’s auto-ship program.
■ Subcritical and supercritical CO2 method is used for extraction
Cons
■ There are no other flavor options for people who don’t like the earthy taste of hemp
■ NuLeaf Naturals doesn’t have any CBD isolate or broad-spectrum products for people who don’t want any levels of THC in their CBD oil.
■ The company has a product line limited to CBD oil and capsules.
NuLeaf Naturals has some of the most potent CBD oil products on the market. Its CBD oil is very effective in reducing anxiety and giving the user a pleasant feeling of calmness. The company has several assistance programs for past and current military, first responders, nurses and medical providers, teachers and students, low-income households, disabled individuals, social workers, caretakers, and non-profit groups and organizations. NuLeaf Naturals has an excellent customer service team that is available seven days a week and is happy to answer any questions.
#3 CBDistillery – Most Variety
CBDistillery has a large, varied product line so that everyone can find a CBD product for their particular need. The company has a huge social media presence with over 71,000 followers on Instagram. They have been featured in several media outlets such as The New York Times, Forbes, CNN, and USA Today. CBDistillery sells Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, and CBD Isolate oils. The oils come in strengths of 500mg, 1000mg, 2500mg, and 5000mg (full spectrum only). They do offer a Mango flavored tincture, but all others are a natural flavor.
Pros
■ CBDistillery CBD oil is extracted from hemp grown in the United States under natural farming practices
■ The manufacturing facility is ISO 9001:2015 Certified
■ Brick-and-mortar stores across the country sell CBDistillery CBD oil
■ The company has discounts for veterans, military personnel, and others in service-based businesses.
■ They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee
■ CBDistillery has an auto-ship program
Cons
■ Free shipping is only for orders over $75 unless you subscribe to their auto-ship program.
■ Flavors are limited to Mango and Natural
CBDistillery has the Ultimate CBD User Guide that is free to download from its website. Their original guide had over 37,000 downloads. Customers can also take a quiz to help them find the CBD product that is right for them. Even though they have a wide variety of oils, it’s easy to find the product you’re looking for.
#4 cbdMD – Best Broad Spectrum
cbdMD offers a superior broad spectrum of CBD oil for those who prefer their product to have absolutely no traces of THC. Their proprietary formula blends include CBD, along with cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and terpenes. Users get all the beneficial parts of the hemp plant without the THC. cbdMD offers their oil in flavors of natural, mint, berry, and orange. Customers can choose from strengths of 300mg, 750mg, 1500mg, 3000mg, 5000mg, and 7500mg.
Pros
■ cbdMD offers free 2-3 day shipping on all orders.
■ CBD oil is extracted from non-GMO hemp grown in the United States.
■ They offer a variety of flavors for people who don’t like the earthy taste of hemp.
■ The company has an auto-ship program.
■ They offer a discount for both past and present military personnel and to legally disabled individuals.
■ cbdmMD has a 60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
■ The company doesn’t offer any full spectrum or isolate products
■ cbdMD doesn’t specify its extraction method.
■ Their products are more expensive than several of their competitors.
cbdMD has the best Broad Spectrum CBD oil on the market. Customers can choose from a wide variety of CBD strengths and flavors. cbdMD produces its products under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), which sets high-quality standards for manufacturing. cbdMD’s website is informational and easily allows the customer to find what they’re looking for.
CBDPure produces a high-quality, full-spectrum CBD oil at a reasonable price. Customers give it high ratings for its purity and transparency. The CBD is extracted from certified non-GMO hemp grown organically in Colorado and Washington. CBDPure comes only in a natural hemp flavor, and customers can choose from strengths of 300mg, 600mg, and 1000mg.
Pros
■ CBDPure offers a 90-day money-back guarantee
■ The company uses only non-GMO hemp grown in organic conditions
■ There are no additives or preservatives in CBDPure’s CBD oil
■ High rate of customer satisfaction
Cons
■ The company doesn’t offer free shipping
■ Some customers don’t like the taste of CBDPure’s CBD oil
■ There aren’t any strengths greater than 600mg
■ The company has a very limited product line
The company makes a lot of claims about the purity of its product. The golden yellow color of the CBD oil can attest to that fact. It’s a color that comes from using CO2 extraction, and no greenish tint means that all the plant matter has been filtered out. Their product only contains CBD oil and a base of unprocessed hemp oil. This family-owned business is committed to providing wholesome and all-natural products. New customers will like that the website is easy to navigate, and CBDPure’s customer service team is responsive and helpful.
Things To Consider When Buying CBD Oil
Many terminologies may be confusing for people just beginning to learn about CBD oil. Here are things to consider when deciding which type of CBD oil is right for you.
Type of extraction
When CBD companies state whether their oil is Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, or CBD Isolate, they are referring to the type of extraction.
Full Spectrum CBD oil consists of the least processing. It contains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, including trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%). All the chemical compounds are working together as they should to provide the “entourage effect.”
Broad Spectrum CBD oil goes a little further in the extraction process. All traces of THC are removed, leaving all the other beneficial components of the hemp plant in place. Broad-spectrum is an excellent choice for those who want to experience the “entourage effect” but worry about THC.
CBD Isolate is the most processed of the three types. All the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids are removed, leaving only CBD in its purest form. It has no flavor, so it can easily mix into beverages and recipes.
Potency
When purchasing CBD oil, the labels will state how many milligrams of CBD the bottle contains, such as 100mg, 300mg, 1500mg, etc. However, higher amounts of CBD usually mean that you’re purchasing a bigger bottle. The best way to measure potency is to see much CBD oil you’re getting per milliliter. For example, a bottle of 1000mg might contain 5mg/mL. Many companies have markers on their droppers to take the guesswork out of dosing.
Ways to Consume CBD oil
Placing a few drops of CBD oil under the tongue for a few seconds is a popular way to ingest CBD oil. The CBD is absorbed through the mucus membranes to quickly enter the body’s bloodstream.
In addition to taking CBD oil sublingually, there are several other ways to add CBD to a wellness routine.
Capsules and softgels are an excellent method for people that are used to taking a daily multivitamin and other supplements. It’s easy to add another capsule to a daily regimen.
CBD gummies are becoming increasingly popular. They’re sweet and convenient, making them easy to take along wherever you go. Each gummy is infused with an exact amount of CBD, taking out any guesswork when it comes to the correct dosage.
One drawback to capsules and gummies is that they have to go through the digestive system before being released to the blood stream. This isn’t a good option for people who are looking for fast relief.
Vape cartridges are another way that people can consume CBD oil. Vaping allows the CBD to make it into the bloodstream via the lungs quickly. One major drawback to vape cartridges is that shipping them by the United States Postal Service has effectively been banned as part of the Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking (PACT) Act. The December 27, 2020, Appropriations Act expanded the PACT Act to include e-cigarettes and all vape products. UPS and FedEx quickly followed suit and stated they would no longer ship them either.
Is CBD Oil Safe and Legal to Use?
CBD oil is legal in all 50 states as long as THC levels are less than 0.3%. However, it is important to know state and local laws, especially when traveling. Some states consider any levels of THC to be illegal. Full-spectrum CBD oil, with its minute amounts of THC, may show up on a drug test and lead to legal ramifications. Furthermore, CBD products that come from marijuana are illegal under federal law but may be legal at the state level.
CBD is very safe for use and is not addictive. Some people may experience side effects, including:
■ Drowsiness
■ Nausea
■ Vomiting
■ Diarrhea
■ Appetite changes
It’s important to remember that the FDA does not regulate CBD products. If you are taking any prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements or have any health conditions, it’s best to consult with your primary care provider before trying CBD.
Research and Studies Done on CBD for Anxiety and Depression
Research on CBD for anxiety and depression is still in its early stages, and ongoing but early studies are promising.
A 2014 study found that CBD worked as an anti-anxiety and antidepressant.
Another study of 57 healthy male subjects found 300mg of CBD taken orally reduced anxiety during a simulated public speaking situation.
A 2015 review found 49 articles that looked at CBD as a potential treatment for anxiety. The review found that CBD could possibly help with anxiety with the following:
■ Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
■ Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
■ Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
■ Social Anxiety
■ Panic Disorder
In 2019 a large-scale study on anxiety and sleep stated that CBD shows promise in reducing anxiety and seems to be better tolerated than psychiatric medications.
Overall, researchers found that CBD oil can help improve conditions for people that suffer from panic attacks, anxiety, and depression without any adverse side effects.
Low serotonin levels lead to depression and in some cases, anxiety. Scientists believe that CBD improves serotonin levels in the brain.
What Do Doctors Say About Using CBD Oil for Anxiety
Medical professionals are cautiously optimistic about CBD oil’s potential in treating patients suffering from anxiety and depression. They’ve reviewed the scientific research; however, they have concerns about the lack of FDA oversight.
Unfortunately, there are also many psychiatrists that are tied to the pharmaceutical industry and find it easier to prescribe medications instead of looking for alternative treatments.
Psychiatrists are also concerned that CBD may be contraindicated in patients who are already taking anti-anxiety medications. People with anxiety should do their research and find a doctor who takes a holistic approach to treat mental health issues or is knowledgeable about cannabis.
Other Health Benefits of CBD Oil
In the early 1990’s it was discovered that all mammals, including humans, have an Endocannabinoid System (ECS). Since the discovery of the ECS is relatively recent and the system is complicated, there is still much to learn. The job of the ECS is to regulate all bodily functions and keep them in homeostasis.
Some examples of ECS regulation include:
■ Pain response
■ Sleep
■ Immune response
■ Metabolism
■ Appetite
■ Mood
■ Memory
■ Cardiovascular system
■ Digestive system
The ECS consists of three parts:
Endocannabinoids are molecules produced naturally by the body when they are needed to keep the body functioning normally.
CB1 and CB2 receptors sit on the surface of the cells and monitor conditions. They send a signal when they perceive that conditions have changed. The Endocannabinoids come and bind to the receptors to bring the body’s functions back into balance.
After the endocannabinoids have completed their job, enzymes come along and break them down.
Scientists don’t have a clear understanding of how CBD works with the ECS. It’s believed that CBD helps the body produce more endocannabinoids. Researchers also think that CBD prevents the enzymes from breaking down the Endocannabinoid molecules, allowing them to work longer in the body.
In addition to helping improve conditions of anxiety and depression, CBD may also help with the following:
■ Relief of joint pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis
■ Provide better sleep to people with insomnia
■ Help to diminish nausea and vomiting in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy
■ Reduce seizures in severe forms of epilepsy, such as Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome and Dravet Syndrome
■ Reduce cravings caused by quitting smoking
■ Reduce symptoms associated with drug withdrawal
■ Relief from chronic pain
CBD Oil Dosage Guide for Anxiety and Depression
There are several factors to consider when considering the potency and dosage of CBD in alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression. Each person is unique, and a dosage that works for one person may not work for another.
Factors that may play a part in dosage effectiveness include:
■ Gender
■ Weight
■ Type and severity of anxiety
■ Whether you choose Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, or CBD Isolate
■ Form of CBD (tincture, gummies, vape cartridge)
It’s always best to start with the lowest dosage. Stay with that dosage for about one week. If you aren’t feeling the desired effects, increase your dosage slightly for another week. Keep doing this until you achieve the desired results.
Some CBD brands give dosing suggestions. The one study with 57 healthy men found that out of dosages of 100mg, 300mg, and 600mg the 300mg dosage seemed to have the most benefit.
Can You Get High With CBD Oil?
Many people are confused when discussing cannabis, CBD, and THC. We will describe them in simpler terms.
Cannabis
Cannabis is a plant that that has been used for years to make products such as paper, clothing, rope, medicine, and food. Hemp and marijuana are two types of Cannabis Sativa.
Hemp
Hemp can’t have THC levels above 0.3%, so it doesn’t have psychoactive properties. However, hemp does have high levels of CBD. The 2018 Farm Bill made it legal to cultivate industrial hemp and sell products derived from hemp.
Marijuana
Marijuana has high levels of THC and is illegal on a federal level. Additionally, it has very low levels of CBD.
CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the phytocannabinoids that come from hemp. It has no psychoactive properties but several therapeutic uses.
THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has psychoactive properties and is associated with the euphoric feeling of being “high.”
So, using CBD won’t make you high. Even full spectrum CBD has such a low level of THC that users can use it without worries.
Where Can You Purchase CBD Oil?
It may be tempting to stop by a local convenience store that’s advertising the lowest CBD oil prices; however, there’s a reason for those low prices. That CBD oil is usually of lower quality with very little CBD and lots of inferior filler ingredients.
Some CBD brands can be found at brick-and-mortar stores across the United States, but there are several drawbacks to purchasing at a retail location. While health stores or specialty boutiques may carry some CBD products, their product line is usually limited.
All of our top picks can be purchased directly online from the CBD company from the comfort of your own home. Many people find the online experience to be more relaxing. Many CBD brands offer loyalty programs, subscription programs, and discounts that customers can’t get in a store. Furthermore, our top picks have excellent customer service teams who are knowledgeable about CBD and can answer any questions.
Conclusion
Anxiety and depression affect millions of people every year. Struggling with mental health issues is exhausting. Many people don’t want to face a lifetime of prescription medications or worry about addiction and side effects. That’s why more and more individuals are looking for a more natural, holistic approach to alleviating and reducing the suffering caused by mental health disorders.
CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System to effectively improve symptoms of anxiety. CBD can work with serotonin levels in the brain to help alleviate depression. Research has also found CBD helps elevate mood and enables people to handle stress better.
CBD oil is non-addictive. It doesn’t have any serious side effects and can be considered a safe alternative to pharmaceuticals.
It’s important to note that while this article references several reputable scientific resources, it is meant to be educational and informational. It should not take the place of consulting with a medical professional. Anyone who has signs and symptoms of any mental health issue should talk with their primary care provider.
When meeting with your doctor, be sure to discuss CBD as a viable treatment option. Refer to the scientific research that is cited in this article.
Furthermore, it’s essential to consult with your physician if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any other medical conditions.
