Introduction: The study published in “Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research” explores how commercially available cannabis affects anxiety symptoms. With anxiety disorders being the most common mental illness in the U.S. and prescriptions for anti-anxiety medications on the rise, this study aims to provide new insights.
Methodology:
- Participants: 300 individuals with anxiety (42 non-cannabis users and 258 who had tried cannabis).
- Products: Participants were divided to use one of three cannabis products: THC-dominant, CBD-dominant, and balanced THC/CBD.
- Procedure: Participants used the products over four weeks, averaging three uses per week. Testing was conducted via a mobile laboratory at participants’ homes, before and after use.
Findings:
- Anxiety Reduction: All groups reported decreased anxiety, but the cannabis groups, particularly those using CBD-dominant products, saw greater reductions.
- Immediate Effects: The CBD-dominant group felt less tense immediately after use without feeling impaired, and they experienced less paranoia than the other groups.
- Long-term Effects: THC did not increase anxiety long-term. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties might play a role in reducing anxiety by quelling brain and nerve inflammation.
Conclusion: The study suggests that CBD-dominant cannabis products could be an effective alternative for anxiety relief, offering meaningful reductions in anxiety symptoms without the risks associated with THC or prescription medications. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings and understand long-term effects. This promising news highlights the potential of CBD in managing anxiety, offering a safer option with fewer side effects.
Implications for Future Research:
- Long-term Studies: Future studies should focus on the long-term effects of CBD and THC on anxiety to provide conclusive recommendations.
- Diverse Populations: Research should include a more diverse demographic to understand how different populations respond to cannabis-based treatments.
- Mechanisms of Action: Investigating how CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties affect anxiety can offer deeper insights into its therapeutic potential.
This study marks a significant step towards understanding cannabis’s role in anxiety treatment, suggesting CBD as a promising alternative to traditional medications.
References :
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/can.2022.0185
