Is CBD For Anxiety UK Safe?
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in the UK. Around 19 million adults in the country say they suffer from anxiety. Many people try to manage it through lifestyle changes, such as reducing their stress levels by taking time out and trying relaxation techniques. Others may turn to medication, but these can have side effects such as drowsiness and depression. This is why CBD oil for anxiety is becoming increasingly popular – it is a natural plant extract that has been shown to help with the symptoms of the condition.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical found in the cannabis sativa or hemp plant. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body, triggering a reaction that can ease symptoms of anxiety. Studies have also shown that it helps to regulate serotonin, which is linked to our moods. However, unlike its psychoactive cousin THC, CBD does not cause any euphoria or 'high' feeling.
Increasingly, you will see CBD products on the high street, and it is already an ingredient in beauty products such as skincare creams, lip balms and vape juice. The products are marketed as a natural alternative to conventional medicines, and there are claims that they can treat everything from chronic pain to acne and even the symptoms of mental health problems, such as anxiety.
But is it safe? It is a question that is asked by people across the country, who are worried about the potential risks of using this new fad. The good news is that most of the products sold are legal. This is because they do not contain THC, which is a controlled drug under the 1971 Misuse of Drugs Act. This means that the products can be sold legally as long as they meet certain criteria, such as being labelled as a food supplement rather than a medicine.
The oils available in Holland & Barrett and other high street stores usually have a concentration of up to 5% CBD, which is enough to be effective when used as a health supplement. However, it is possible to buy CBD products with a much higher concentration, such as the Charlotte's Web oil, which has been shown to have powerful anti-anxiety effects. This type of CBD has been backed by a medical trial, but it is more expensive.
If you are considering trying CBD for anxiety, it is recommended that you speak to a doctor first. They will be able to recommend an appropriate starting dosage, which will depend on your symptoms and how you respond to CBD. For example, some people start with 10 mg twice daily, while others might need to use 50 mg.
It is also important to check whether CBD might interfere with any other medications or supplements you are taking. For example, there is a chance that it could interact with drugs which are taken to control blood pressure or those that come with a grapefruit warning on the label, as it can affect how these are metabolised in the body.CBD For Anxiety UK