Cannabis is increasingly being explored as a treatment for anxiety. For many people, traditional antianxiety medications come with side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and the risk of dependence. As a result, more people are turning to natural alternatives like cannabis.
But is cannabis an effective remedy for anxiety? In this article, we will explore how medical marijuana, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), is being used to manage anxiety symptoms and whether it’s a suitable treatment option for everyone.
Cannabis is increasingly used as a natural remedy for anxiety, but its effectiveness is complex and can vary based on the specific strain and the balance between its two primary compounds: THC and CBD. Most recently, CBG was considered a “minor” cannabinoid in hemp (legal, low THC cannabis) that can now be selectively bred for up to a 100% profile.
While these compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), their effects on anxiety are markedly different, and choosing the right balance is crucial for achieving relief without unwanted side effects.
THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis responsible for the “high” sensation. It can have both calming and anxiety-inducing effects, depending on dosage, route, and individual factors. Studies have shown that low doses of THC (7.5 mg or less) may help reduce anxiety by activating the brain’s CB1 receptors, promoting relaxation and a sense of euphoria.
However, higher doses of THC (>10 mg) are often linked to increased anxiety, paranoia, and even panic attacks, particularly in beginners or individuals who are predisposed to anxiety disorders. This phenomenon is known as a biphasic effect, where THC’s impact shifts from beneficial to harmful as the dosage increases.
A study by Childs, Lutz, and de Wit (2017) found that low doses of THC reduced stress in subjects during a public speaking task, while higher doses heightened anxiety and discomfort. This indicates that finding the right dose is crucial for using THC as an anxiety remedy.
CBD, on the other hand, is non-impairing and has gained widespread attention for its potential to alleviate anxiety without causing intoxication. Research suggests that CBD works by interacting with endocannabinoid system enzymes (i.e. FAAH) and serotonin receptors (specifically the 5-HT1A receptor) in the brain, which are closely linked to mood regulation. By enhancing endocannabinoid and serotonin signaling, CBD may help alleviate anxiety, reduce stress, and improve overall emotional well-being.
Shannon, Lewis, Lee, and Hughes (2019) conducted a study that showed patients with anxiety disorders experienced a notable reduction in anxiety levels after using CBD, with minimal side effects. On a larger scale, a 2024 meta-analysis looking at over a dozen clinical trials of CBD like these finds consistent support for CBD as an effective antianxiety and panic relief agent, even when other medications didn’t work.
In contrast to THC, CBD consistently reduces anxiety across various doses, suggesting it may be a safer alternative for long-term anxiety management. However, the CBD doses studied are usually in the range of hundreds of milligrams, which may be impractical, too costly, and unnecessarily large for daily wellness. Whereas, CBG presents promising clinical evidence at much lower doses.
Most recently, CBG-dominant cannabis has emerged as the newest promising solution for anxiety. The first clinical trial using CBG done in 2024 shows its capacity to relieve anxiety and stress, even at doses as small as just 20 mg of CBG. It does so by acting on serotonin receptors (5HT1A), boosting endocannabinoid tone, and alleviating pain and inflammation-sensitive receptors.
20 mg of CBG is a much smaller dose compared to the hundreds of milligrams of CBD used in clinical anxiety studies. Previously, a 2022 survey of patients using CBG noted that most use it for anxiety (51.2%). Of those, most patients reported a significant improvement over conventional medicine (78.3%) for anxiety relief. Because CBG is also non-intoxicating, it presents as a great alternative to THC and is potentially more cost-effective than CBD.
The relationship between cannabis and anxiety is complex because cannabis can serve as both a remedy and a trigger for anxiety, depending on several factors, such as dosage, strain, and individual sensitivity to THC.
Strains with high THC content and low CBD and CBG may exacerbate anxiety, while those with higher CBD and CBG levels and lower THC are generally considered more calming and therapeutic for anxiety relief.
Terpenes also synergize with cannabinoids and may significantly contribute to relieving anxiety, depression, pain, and more. This is why strains labeled as Indica are often preferred for anxiety, due to their higher myrcene and relaxing linalool content. In contrast, Sativa strains, which tend to have higher dopamine- and serotonin-boosting limonene, may be more stimulating and anxiety-inducing.
Moreover, personal tolerance and biological differences play a significant role in how an individual responds to cannabis. Some people metabolize THC more slowly, leading to prolonged effects and an increased likelihood of anxiety or paranoia. This is more likely with products like edibles, where the dose is harder to control. Others may have a naturally higher tolerance and experience fewer negative side effects, even with higher THC doses.
In conclusion, while cannabis can be an effective remedy for anxiety, its success depends on careful consideration of the type of strain, the THC/CBD/CBG dominance and ratio, and individual sensitivity. As more research continues to uncover the nuances of cannabis and anxiety, it’s essential to approach its use with mindfulness and caution, particularly for those who are prone to anxiety disorders. Always consult a healthcare professional before using cannabis for anxiety to ensure it’s the right choice for your individual needs.
Cannabis comes in different strains, each providing different effects. For anxiety, many people opt for strains that are high in CBD or CBG, while low in THC to avoid the psychoactive effects and paradoxical, anxiety-inducing effects at higher doses (>10mg THC).
Choosing full-spectrum, whole-plant hemp strains that are rich in CBD, CBG, and terpenes is the best choice. However, these are rare and may be hard to find in dispensaries. If choosing THC-dominant strains, here are some common choices:
Edibles have become a favored method for consuming cannabis, particularly for those looking to avoid smoking. However, the body metabolizes cannabis differently when consumed this way, resulting in distinct effects compared to smoking or vaping.
When cannabis is orally ingested, it takes longer to process, typically requiring 30 minutes to 2 hours before users feel its effects. This delayed onset leads to a more sustained experience, with effects that can last several hours.
For individuals seeking extended relief from anxiety, this prolonged effect can be advantageous, offering more consistent management throughout the day. Just be careful with dosing, because it is easy for beginners to overdo it.
A critical aspect of using edibles is their delayed onset, which can make it easy to consume too much unintentionally. Unlike smoking or vaping, where the effects are almost immediate and easier to gauge, edibles take time to kick in, leading some users to increase their dose prematurely.
Overconsumption can result in intensified anxiety or even panic attacks but is nonfatal. To avoid this, it’s essential to begin with a low dose (5 mg THC or less) and increase gradually, giving the body ample time to process the edible before taking more.
In summary, edibles offer a viable option for managing anxiety, especially for those needing long-lasting effects. However, careful attention to dosing is necessary to prevent unwanted side effects, ensuring that edibles remain a safe and effective tool for anxiety relief.
Not everyone will experience anxiety relief from cannabis. In fact, for some individuals, particularly those sensitive to THC, cannabis can exacerbate anxiety rather than alleviate it. For these reasons, choosing hemp over marijuana is the best move.
CBD is frequently promoted as a safer option compared to traditional anxiety medications, largely because it does not produce a psychoactive high. Research increasingly supports its potential for alleviating anxiety and depression without the risk of addiction or the severe side effects commonly associated with pharmaceutical treatments.
Research indicates that CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating mood and stress responses. Another way CBD may help reduce anxiety is by affecting serotonin receptors in the brain, contributing to feelings of calmness and well-being. Early studies show that CBD has the potential to ease symptoms of both anxiety and depression, making it a promising alternative to conventional treatments.
While CBD is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience mild side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or appetite changes. However, these side effects are usually temporary and significantly less severe than those associated with traditional anxiety medications.
Importantly, CBD does not carry the risk of addiction, further enhancing its appeal as a long-term solution for anxiety and depression management. In fact, CBD is a potential candidate for alleviating withdrawal, cravings, and several types of substance use disorders.
One of CBD’s benefits is its versatility. It can be consumed in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, gummies, and topical products. This variety allows users to easily incorporate CBD into their daily wellness routine, making it a convenient option for those seeking consistent anxiety relief.
In summary, CBD appears to be a safe and flexible alternative for those looking to manage anxiety and depression without the drawbacks of traditional medications. Whether you’re considering trying CBD or need guidance on how to get started, Veriheal can provide helpful resources and support to ensure you make informed choices about your health and wellness journey.
Anxiety can manifest in many ways, including restlessness, excessive worrying, paranoia, panic attacks, sweating, rapid heartbeat, trouble sleeping, and muscle tension. Recognizing these signs early can help in seeking appropriate treatment.
If cannabis triggers anxiety, the effects are generally short-lived and should wear off within 1 to 3 hours. Drinking water, focusing on breathing, or taking CBD or CBG may help mitigate the anxious feelings.
Common symptoms include feeling nervous or tense, having a sense of impending doom, rapid breathing, sweating, trembling, and feeling weak or tired. If left unmanaged, anxiety can affect daily life.
Yes, anxiety is one of the qualifying conditions for medical marijuana in Florida. To apply, you must visit a licensed doctor who can provide a medical marijuana recommendation based on your condition.
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that has been shown to reduce anxiety and may also alleviate symptoms of depression. Many people find that CBD offers relief without the side effects associated with traditional anxiety medications.
Meanwhile, CBG may be an even more effective antianxiety agent. It may relieve anxiety symptoms at just 20 mg oral CBG, according to the first, small published clinical trial.
Cannabis can help alleviate anxiety for many people, particularly when using strains with a higher ratio of CBD or CBG to THC. However, high doses of THC may exacerbate anxiety, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to find the right strain and dosage.
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