CBD Oil for Anxiety: Pros & Cons
CBD oil has become a go-to wellness option for people managing stress and anxiety – but how effective is it really? If you’re considering using CBD to support your mental wellbeing, it’s important to understand both the potential benefits of CBD and the limitations. In this guide, we break down what the research says, how it works, and what to watch out for when choosing a CBD product in the UK.
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Does CBD Really Do Anything for Anxiety?
Some evidence suggests that CBD oil may help reduce anxiety symptoms, especially in the short term. In a clinical study involving 72 adults, anxiety scores dropped in 79% of participants after the first month of CBD use [1]. CBD interacts with receptors in the brain that regulate mood and stress, such as serotonin receptors, which may explain these calming effects. This has an impact on sleep.
That said, research is still ongoing. CBD isn’t currently licensed in the UK specifically for treating anxiety [4], and individual responses can vary depending on dose, product type, and personal health factors.
Advantages of Using CBD Oil for Anxiety
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Non-intoxicating: Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t produce a high and won’t impair your thinking.
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May reduce anxiety: Early studies and user reports suggest a calming effect on social anxiety, generalised anxiety, and sleep-related stress [1].
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Fast-acting options available: Sublingual oils tend to work within 15–45 minutes.
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Minimal side effects: When used at typical doses, CBD is well tolerated by most people [3].
Easily accessible in the UK: Legal and available without a prescription when derived from approved hemp strains with less than 0.2% THC.
Disadvantages of Using CBD Oil for Anxiety
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Not a licensed treatment in the UK: CBD is not formally recognised as a medical treatment for anxiety [4].
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Possible side effects: Some people experience tiredness, nausea, or appetite changes – especially with higher doses [2].
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Interactions with medications: CBD can interfere with how your body processes certain prescriptions, especially those broken down by the liver [2].
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Variable quality: Since the CBD industry isn’t tightly regulated, some products may lack proper lab testing or contain inaccurate ingredient labels. It’s important to choose CBD oil from reliable brands, such as Orange County CBD, that provide full transparency and verified testing.
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Effects may be subtle: While some feel immediate relief, others may need consistent use over days or weeks to notice benefits.
More guidance on finding the right CBD dosage.
How Quickly Does CBD Calm Anxiety?
Most people report feeling the effects of CBD oil for anxiety within 15 to 45 minutes, especially when taken sublingually (under the tongue). The onset can depend on factors like metabolism, the severity of anxiety, and whether you’ve eaten recently.
Oils and tinctures tend to act faster than edibles or capsules. For some, it may take several consistent uses to notice a difference, particularly with chronic anxiety.
More info on how CBD oil works.
How to Choose Trusted CBD in the UK
When shopping for CBD to support anxiety, look for:
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Third-party lab testing: This confirms cannabinoid content and checks for contaminants.
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Clear THC levels: Products should contain less than 0.2% THC to be legal in the UK.
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Transparent sourcing: Reputable brands will disclose where their hemp is grown and how it’s extracted.
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Customer reviews and trust signals: Look for consistent feedback and certifications.
Orange County CBD stands out in this space with a range of lab-tested CBD oils and CBD gummies, all compliant with UK regulations. Whether you’re looking for fast-acting oils or longer-lasting edibles, their selection covers a wide range of preferences.
Looking for relaxation, pain relief, or a delightful treat? Give our high quality CBD oil a try today!
Research
[1] - Study: Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series
Source: PMC6326553 – NCBI
Summary: In a clinical case series of 72 adults, CBD was associated with decreased anxiety scores in 79% of patients after the first month. Sleep scores also improved, though results varied over time.
[2] Study: Harvard Health Publishing – Cannabidiol (CBD) – what we know and what we don’t
Source: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476
Summary: Some users may experience side effects, especially at higher doses. These can include tiredness, drowsiness, diarrhoea, nausea, and changes in appetite. In some cases, CBD may affect liver function or interact with other medications by altering how they’re processed in the body. There’s also early evidence suggesting it might impact the immune system, though this isn’t fully understood yet. Most of these effects are rare at typical daily doses but are more common with medical-strength or long-term use.
[3] Study: World Health Organization (WHO) – Cannabidiol (CBD) Critical Review Report
Source: https://www.who.int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/5.2_CBD.pdf
Summary: CBD is generally well tolerated with a good safety profile.
[4] Study: UK NHS – Medical cannabis: what you need to know
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/medical-cannabis
Summary: Explains that CBD is not officially licensed for anxiety in the UK, and discusses risks and regulatory concerns.