CBD for Anxiety and OCD: What the Research Really Says

In recent years, CBD for anxiety and OCD has garnered attention as a natural solution, especially among parents looking for gentle, non-pharmaceutical options to support their children. As more people explore CBD, the amount of information online has been popping up everywhere, making it tough to separate fact from fiction about its actual effectiveness. Is CBD truly beneficial for anxiety and OCD, or is it just a passing trend?

CBD(cannabidiol) is derived from the cannabis plant. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a complex network influencing various physiological processes. Unlike THC with psychoactive effects, CBD doesn’t induce a “high,” which is why its possible use to support treatment is being widely considered.

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which includes cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. This means it can help regulate mood, OCD, and anxiety by affecting brain functions and reduce inflammation and pain by influencing the immune system. It also has been shown to lower inflammation, a common issue that I see with almost all of our clinic patients.

Research Studies on CBD for Treating Anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

While the existing research on CBD for anxiety and OCD is promising, it’s important to note that the field is still evolving, and more comprehensive studies are needed. CBD's potential benefits extend to various affective disorders.

Here’s a closer look into the current state of research:

CBD to Reduce Anxiety

CBD Shows Promise for Reducing Physical Anxiety Symptoms

• Studies suggest that a high daily dose of CBD dosage of 300mg taken over two weeks may help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety but does not seem to affect worry or other cognitive symptoms of anxiety. 

A study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology used a simulated public speaking test to measure the effects of CBD on anxiety levels, finding that CBD may reduce anxiety during this high-pressure situation. (García-Gutiérrez, et al. 2020)

Clinical trials show that taking a single dose or a lower daily dose (50mg) showed no significant impact, indicating that consistent, higher doses might be necessary to see any physical relief from anxiety symptoms. (Gournay, et al. 2023)

CBD for Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety and Phobias

• A 2024 clinical study emphasized that CBD significantly reduced anxiety symptoms in people with generalized anxiety disorder and specific phobias, particularly social anxiety. The participants reported reduced social avoidance and fear response, suggesting CBD’s effectiveness in calming anxiety-driven brain pathways, especially involving serotonin receptors. (Bidwell, et al. 2024)

CBD and Neurobiological Pathways

• Further research on CBD’s impact on anxiety disorders at a molecular level identified that CBD affects brain receptors (CB1 and CB2) and serotonin (5-HT1A) pathways, which are key to anxiety regulation. This study provided a clearer understanding of CBD’s specific neurochemical actions, supporting its role as a non-addictive alternative for anxiety and other mental health conditions. (García-Gutiérrez, et al. 2020)

CBD for OCD Treatment

How CBD May Help in Lowering OCD Symptoms

• Current treatments, mainly cognitive-behavioral therapy, only work for about 40% of patients, highlighting the need for new options. Recent research suggests that the acute effects of cannabidiol (CBD) may help treat OCD by influencing certain biological pathways related to oxidative stress, inflammation, and brain signaling. CBD is thought to affect a key enzyme, potentially improving compulsions and obsessions by regulating these pathways. (Vallée, et al. 2022)

CBD Shows Promise for OCD in Tourette Syndrome Patients

• A study on patients with Tourette syndrome (TS), many of whom also have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), found that medical cannabis helped improve OCD. About 15-42% of participants reported feeling less OCD-related behaviors when using products like dronabinol and nabiximols. These results indicate that CBD could be a beneficial treatment option for people with both TS and OCD. (Szejko, et al. 2020)

CBD and Its Interaction with Body Systems

• CBD's impact on the endocannabinoid system, a complex network influencing physiological processes, appears to play a role in modulating brain regions linked to OCD. The entourage effect, observed especially with full spectrum CBD, further adds complexity to how CBD interacts with the body's systems ​​(Ferber et al., 2020).

Important Considerations of Using CBD for Mental Health

Despite these positive findings, the journey isn’t without complexities. Understanding the potential benefits of CBD is crucial for making informed decisions about its use. Dosage considerations or varying concentrations remain a crucial aspect. Individual factors such as body weight, the specific mental health condition being addressed, and desired outcomes play a role in determining the appropriate dosage.

Current research underscores the importance of a meticulous approach to CBD use. Taking higher doses of CBD for obsessive-compulsive disorder or any medical conditions can be detrimental. Understanding the potential risks and side effects is crucial before starting. Only the right amount of CBD can be an effective treatment for mental disorders.

Quality matters significantly in the realm of CBD, as not all CBD products are created equal. The market is flooded with options, and discerning the quality of CBD products and other cannabinoids is of prime importance. Check for FDA approved products. Factors like the source of CBD, particularly the quality of the hemp plant, extraction methods, and third-party testing contribute to the overall grade of the product.

7 Tips for Using CBD for Anxiety and OCD

Here are more practical tips for those considering CBD as a potential ally in managing OCD symptoms and anxiety.

1. Start with Lower Doses

When it comes to CBD, less is often more. Starting with CBD isolate, which contains no THC, can help in understanding how your body responds to CBD. Begin with low doses, never with high doses, and gradually titrate upwards. This approach allows for a better understanding of how your body responds to CBD and mitigates the risk of potential side effects. Finding the optimal dose is a personalized process, considering factors like body weight, the severity of OCD, and individual responsiveness.

2. Choose High-Quality CBD Products

Quality matters in the world of CBD. You can’t just buy something off Amazon without doing your due diligence. Opt for products sourced from reputable hemp plants and utilize reliable extraction methods. Third-party testing adds an extra layer of assurance and ensures that you receive a product that’s free from contaminants and has consistent CBD concentration. Making informed choices on product quality enhances the likelihood of a positive CBD experience.

3. Consider Form and Delivery Method

CBD comes in various forms, including oils, capsules, edibles, and topical creams. The choice of form depends on personal preferences and the specific nature of OCD symptoms. The sublingual CBD oil may be preferable for a more immediate impact, while capsules offer a convenient option for daily supplementation. The form and delivery method should align with your lifestyle and treatment goals.

4. Monitor Symptoms and Possible Side Effects

Ongoing observation is key to refining your CBD routine. CBD is also known for its role in relieving pain, which can be an added benefit for those using it for OCD symptoms. Regularly monitor how CBD influences your OCD symptoms and overall well-being. Keep a journal documenting the dosage, form, and any observed symptom changes. This proactive approach enables you to make informed adjustments and optimizes the therapeutic potential of CBD for your unique needs.

5. Consult with Experts and Healthcare Providers

Communication with healthcare providers is important. Before incorporating CBD into your OCD management plan, consult with qualified healthcare professionals. They can provide valuable insights and consider potential interactions with existing therapies, medications, or even genetic variants. Ensure that CBD aligns with your overall treatment strategy. An informed and collaborative approach contributes to a comprehensive and well-rounded care plan.

6. Integrate with Other Therapies

CBD is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider integrating CBD into a holistic approach that may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), support groups, or other evidence-based treatment for OCD. A holistic approach or the use of multiple therapeutic modalities can enhance the overall effectiveness of your OCD management plan.

As we look at OCD success stories, we need to consider complementary therapies that work synergistically with proven therapies, such as exposure and response prevention (ERP). 

7. Be Patient and Consistent

Rome wasn't built in a day, and the same applies to CBD's potential impact on OCD symptoms. Be patient and consistent in your approach. Changes may take time, and the effects can vary from person to person. 

Consistent use, coupled with ongoing self-monitoring, allows for a more accurate assessment of CBD's role in managing symptoms of OCD, such as intrusive thoughts and compulsive behavior. And these tools, coupled with strategies and therapies, can have an impact.

CBD can be a powerful support in calming the brain and fostering healing, especially for conditions like OCD. Remember, though, that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment—each child is unique and deserves a solution tailored to their needs. To discover personalized options, click here to take our OCD quiz. It’s a resource designed to guide you toward the most effective path for managing OCD and empowering your child’s well-being.

Parent Action Steps

☐ Learn the basics of CBD, its nature, and how it works for OCD and anxiety symptoms.

☐ Recognize the importance of dosage in the use of CBD as an alternative treatment.

☐ Strive to find a balance between effectiveness and potential side effects.

☐ Integrate CBD into a holistic approach to reduce anxiety and OCD symptoms.

☐ Take the OCD Quiz to get solutions for your child. 

☐ Work 1 on 1 with Dr. Roseann through the BrainBehaviorResetTM Program.