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Can CBD Ever Make You More Anxious?
If you’re concerned that CBD may make you feel uneasy, here’s what you should know before incorporating it into your routine.
CBD is commonly used to provide natural wellness support for relaxation, balance, and overall well-being. Many people turn to CBD to unwind and encourage a sense of calm.
A common question is whether CBD can ever make someone feel more anxious. This concern is often rooted in a misunderstanding of what CBD is and how it works. Over 100 unique cannabinoids naturally occur in the hemp plant, and all of them interact differently with the human brain and body.
Let's talk about how CBD interacts with the body, what factors may influence your experience, and why CBD generally supports a sense of ease rather than increasing anxious feelings.
What is the endocannabinoid system?
CBD stimulates natural processes throughout the body and mind by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and compounds called endocannabinoids that help regulate various functions, including mood, sleep, energy balance, and overall well-being.*
The ECS is made up of two primary types of receptors. CB1 receptors are found primarily in the brain and central nervous system. They may play a role in regulating mood, stress responses, and cognitive function. CB2 receptors are found mostly in the body and demonstrate involvement in maintaining balance and recovery processes.*
In addition to the two primary types of receptors, there are dozens of other types of receptors throughout the body that aren't directly involved with the endocannabinoid system but are still able to be influenced by cannabinoids.*
Your body naturally produces endocannabinoids, which interact with these receptors to help maintain stability. External factors like stress, poor sleep, and diet can disrupt this balance. This is where hemp-derived cannabinoids like CBD become valuable.
Unlike THC, which directly binds to CB1 receptors, CBD interacts with the ECS more indirectly, encouraging balance without fundamentally changing how your body works. CBD encourages your body to fulfill its natural functions efficiently. Your body wants to be at ease and get sufficient sleep. CBD provides additional support to the natural processes that support healthy functions.*
What is the difference between CBD and THC?
It's a common misunderstanding that CBD and THC are similar because they share a botanical origin. This can lead to the misconception that CBD can cause feelings of anxiety, particularly among people who have had undesirable experiences when using THC.
CBD and THC interact with the body in very different ways. The biggest difference between the two is how they affect the brain.
THC is a cannabinoid that produces psychoactive effects.* It binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, which can sometimes create an overwhelming sensation. Some people find THC enjoyable, but others may experience anxious feelings, especially at higher amounts. This is because CB1 receptors play a role in processing emotions, and too much THC can overstimulate this part of the brain and create a feeling of uneasiness.
CBD, on the other hand, does not bind directly to CB1 receptors. Instead, it works more indirectly, encouraging balance within the endocannabinoid system. Because of this, CBD is much less likely to create overwhelming feelings. Many people turn to CBD as a way to encourage relaxation and a sense of calm without the altered state of consciousness that THC produces.
When choosing between CBD and THC, consider how you want to feel. If you are looking for a way to encourage balance and relaxation without the risk of anxious sensations, CBD is often the better choice.
Most CBD products come from hemp, which contains very small amounts of naturally occurring THC. Full spectrum CBD products include trace amounts of THC, which are not nearly enough to produce psychoactive effects. Think of it like the alcohol in vanilla extract. Vanilla frosting won't intoxicate you, and neither will full spectrum CBD.
Broad spectrum CBD products contain every part of the hemp plant except for the THC, which has been carefully removed. CBD isolate products contain only CBD and no detectable amounts of any other cannabinoid.
If you're still nervous about using hemp products containing THC, choose a broad spectrum CBD product or a CBD isolate product.
How does CBD interact with other cannabinoids?
CBD interacts with other cannabinoids that naturally occur in hemp, such as THC, CBN, and CBG. Each of these cannabinoids possesses unique characteristics, and when combined, they create a synergistic effect that enhances their individual properties.
CBD with THC
THC is widely recognized for its psychoactive effects. When paired with CBD, THC’s intensity is modulated*. CBD helps balance THC’s effects, leading to a more controlled and manageable experience.
This is the primary reason full spectrum hemp products are valued. They contain trace amounts of THC but provide a more stable and supportive experience due to CBD’s presence. Any potential anxiety-inducing effects of THC are mitigated. You’re able to experience the benefits of cannabinoid synergy without the drawbacks of ingesting THC.
CBD with CBN
CBN is another cannabinoid that plays a significant role in relaxation and recovery.* When combined with CBD, it helps support a calm state, making it a practical option for those looking to transition into a more restful state at the end of the day. This combination is often used in evening wellness routines to promote relaxation.
Since CBN boasts soothing potential, it’s unlikely to cause anxious feelings. Most people report feeling slightly sleepy, but not necessarily groggy or drowsy when they use CBD products with CBN. These effects may be inconvenient during the day, but they’re often ideal for nighttime use.
CBD with CBG
CBG is associated with promoting focus and mental clarity.* When paired with CBD, it provides a balanced effect that supports both relaxation and alertness. Many individuals integrate CBD and CBG into their morning routines to maintain productivity while ensuring a sense of calm throughout the day.
The alertness provided by CBG isn’t the same type of alertness you’d experience from using a stimulant like caffeine. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, there’s no reason to believe that CBG would create a similar experience. It won’t raise your heart rate or make you feel jittery. CBG provides a gentle, energized alertness — similar to how you may feel after a morning run.
All cannabinoids used together
The entourage effect refers to the interplay among cannabinoids, flavonoids, and other compounds. This concept suggests that cannabinoids function more effectively when used together rather than in isolation. The combined interaction enhances the overall benefits, making cannabinoid-based wellness approaches more comprehensive and impactful.
Determining the appropriate combination of CBD, THC, CBN, and CBG is a personalized process. Some individuals prefer a broad-spectrum approach, while others focus on specific pairings. Understanding how these cannabinoids work together allows for a more informed approach to integrating them into your daily wellness routine.
How can CBD encourage a sense of calm?
Your mind and body function better when you’re calm and experiencing as little tension as possible. Your body is always seeking an efficient balance to support its own natural processes. CBD influences these natural processes within your body and encourages your system to do what it’s already capable of doing.
CBD won’t overtake or change your natural ability to relax. It doesn’t act as a sedative or alter your mind. CBD’s effects stem from its ability to restore internal balance to your body’s systems simply by encouraging them to work to the best of their abilities.
CBD supports the ECS by influencing various neurotransmitters and pathways in the brain. CBD influences serotonin receptors, which play a major role in mood regulation. Healthy serotonin levels may promote a sense of calm and well-being.*
GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps quiet overactive thoughts. CBD has been shown to support GABA function, which may contribute to a more relaxed state by enhancing the body's natural relaxation processes.*
Why might some people feel different effects from CBD?
While CBD generally encourages a sense of balance, everyone’s body responds differently. Many factors can influence how you experience CBD. Serving size, consistency of use, and product quality are highly important in determining the beneficial potential of CBD.
If you’ve had an unpleasant experience with a CBD product, the CBD itself is unlikely to be the culprit. Consider the circumstances and the type of product you used. You may need to reevaluate which type of CBD is best for you.
Serving size
Taking too much or too little CBD can affect how you feel. While a moderate amount may encourage relaxation, an unusually high serving might make some people feel overstimulated or uneasy. This is why starting with a lower serving and gradually increasing it is a good approach.
Unwanted side effects usually become apparent when people ingest 600mg of CBD or more per day, which can be more than a month's supply at the suggested serving size. It's important to remember that too much of a good thing can be a bad thing.
You might feel happy and full after you eat a small slice of chocolate cake, but eating the entire cake in one sitting is bound to be a negative experience.
Moderation is necessary for all things in life. Most people use a serving size of 30mg to 90mg of CBD per day. If you're new to incorporating CBD into your wellness routine, try a 30mg daily serving for the first month. You can incrementally increase your daily serving size if you feel like you would benefit from more CBD.
Quality of the CBD product
The source of the hemp, extraction method, and additional ingredients can all impact the CBD experience. High-quality, third-party tested CBD from reputable brands is more likely to provide a consistent, reliable effect.
Reputable CBD providers always use an independent lab to test their hemp extract for purity, cannabinoid content, and quality. Lab results prove that each batch of a hemp product accurately reports its cannabinoid content and is free from contaminants.
If you're using a CBD product that doesn't come with a batch number and a lab report, you don't really know what you're using. It may not contain any CBD at all. It's never safe to purchase anything that claims to be CBD but doesn't have a certificate of analysis to prove it.
Other ingredients in CBD products
Some CBD products include added ingredients such as caffeine or energizing terpenes. If a product is formulated for daytime focus and energy, it might feel more stimulating than a product designed for relaxation.
In these cases, it's usually the caffeine that makes people feel anxious. Even if you aren't particularly sensitive to caffeine and you enjoy caffeinated coffee or tea every day, using more caffeine than you're accustomed to using may still cause anxiety. It's possible that your caffeine-infused CBD daytime product is pushing your body past its comfortable caffeine limit.
It's important to read the full list of ingredients on a CBD product. If you don't want to use a product that incorporates other energizing compounds like caffeine, green tea extract, or guarana, it's best to stick with CBD products that only contain hemp derivatives.
Can CBD really make you anxious?
The short answer is that CBD itself should not increase feelings of anxiousness. However, in rare cases, people may misinterpret certain sensations or experience a reaction based on the factors mentioned above.
There is no evidence that suggests that low to moderate amounts of CBD alone should inspire feelings of anxiety in anyone. If you don't like the way CBD makes you feel, you should stop using it immediately.
If you believe that the type of product you chose and its added ingredients (like caffeine) are impacting you negatively, you can switch to a type of CBD without those ingredients.
If you don't have a lab report or an ingredient list for the CBD product you're currently using, it's safe to assume it isn't safe to use. Without a lab report, you have no way of knowing what you're actually ingesting.
Counterfeit CBD products can contain anything, including harmful ingredients and contaminants. You should safely dispose of counterfeit or unlabeled CBD products immediately.
How to choose the right CBD for you
If you’re considering CBD and you want to ensure a positive experience, there are a few things you should consider when selecting a type of CBD and a serving size.
Choose lab-tested CBD
Look for CBD that is third party tested and free from contaminants. CBD made from hemp shouldn't contain excessive amounts of THC because hemp plants are 0.3% THC or less by weight. Most CBD products contain a low to moderate amount of CBD per serving.
Use a small serving size
Not knowing what to expect can make you anxious. If you've never used CBD before, you may be apprehensive about its benefits. The effects of CBD are very subtle and gentle, not unlike the effects of a long, warm bubble bath or a massage. The effects become more pronounced with consistent use, and CBD is unlikely to make you feel radically different after the first few times you use it.
Most people start with 20-30mg of CBD daily, depending on their goals. You may feel a little more at ease, but you won't feel hazy or sedated. In fact, most people report feeling a greater sense of mental clarity and an ease of tension. CBD's supportive benefits are essentially equivalent to feeling like the best version of yourself.
Timing matters
There are plenty of general-use CBD products that you can use whenever you need them. Daytime and nighttime blends may be formulated differently. You may not appreciate energizing effects when trying to sleep or relaxing effects when trying to start your day.
If you choose to use CBD blends formulated for a specific purpose, be sure to use them at the right time. Energizing formulas are best for early mornings, and relaxing formulas are best about an hour or two before you plan to call it a night.
Final thoughts on CBD and anxious feelings
CBD is widely recognized for its ability to encourage a sense of balance and calm. While individual responses may vary, research suggests that CBD should not increase anxious feelings. Instead, it supports the body’s natural ability to maintain stability through the endocannabinoid system.
By choosing high-quality CBD, starting with a lower serving, and being mindful of how your body responds, you can find the best approach for incorporating CBD into your wellness routine.
If you ever feel uncertain about how CBD is affecting you, take a moment to assess your dosage, product type, and overall routine. With a little patience and self-awareness, CBD can be a powerful tool in your journey toward a more relaxed and centered state of mind.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources:
Diverse TRPV1 responses to cannabinoids | National Library of Medicine
An introduction to the endogenous cannabinoid system | National Library of Medicine
THC and CBD: Similarities and differences between siblings | National Library of Medicine