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CBD Offers Anxiety Relief Without THC’s Drawbacks,
New Study Finds

Recent research by CU Boulder points towards CBD-rich cannabis products as a safer alternative for managing anxiety compared to their THC-heavy counterparts.

Engaging 300 participants, this groundbreaking study published in the Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research journal marks the first controlled trial investigating the effects of commercially available cannabis on anxiety symptoms. This investigation gains significance as anxiety disorders reign as the most prevalent mental health condition in the U.S., with a rising trend in prescription medication usage for treatment.

“The initial findings are stark – CBD significantly aids in reducing tension and anxiety without major adverse effects,” shared Cinnamon Bidwell, primary researcher and associate professor at the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience as well as the Institute of Cognitive Science. “While we’re still gathering data for long-term impacts, the immediate benefits of CBD for anxiety relief are evident.”

A comprehensive trial
Anxiety ranks among the top concerns driving adults towards cannabis use, though its efficacy remains debated. Previous studies highlighted potential exacerbation of anxiety with frequent or high THC cannabis use, while others noted CBD’s potential to mitigate THC’s negative effects, including paranoia and cognitive impairment.

The study categorized 300 anxiety-afflicted individuals – 42 non-users and 258 past users – into three groups for a unique trial. Participants were assigned THC-dominant (24% THC, 1% CBD), CBD-dominant (1% THC, 24% CBD), or equal ratio (12% THC, 12% CBD) cannabis products, purchased from specified dispensaries for personal use off-campus, owing to federal restrictions.

Over a month, with an average thrice-weekly use, participants’ anxiety levels were evaluated through a mobile lab visiting their homes before and after cannabis consumption.

Unveiling unexpected outcomes
Contrary to assumptions, all participants, including non-cannabis users, reported anxiety reduction, with the CBD-dominant product users experiencing the most significant improvement. Notably, individuals in the CBD group reported minimal impairment, alleviated tension post-use, and reduced paranoia compared to other groups.

“Our study indicates that neither CBD nor THC exacerbated anxiety levels over time. Specifically, CBD-dominant cannabis shows promise for immediate and potentially sustained anxiety relief without the side effects linked to THC or prescription drugs,” explained Gregory Giordano, a key study member and professional research assistant at the CU Center for Health and Neuroscience, Genes, and Environment (CUChange).

Reflecting on CBD’s superior anti-inflammatory properties over THC, Bidwell suggested that anxiety reduction could stem from inflammation decrease in the brain and nervous system. Even minimal THC content (1%) appeared to positively influence mood swiftly.

With a plethora of prescription options available for anxiety, many bearing side effects and dependency risks, and considering the potential for increased harm with early and regular THC use, this study underscores CBD’s value as a safer, effective anxiety management option. “Though further research is required for definitive guidance, the current findings are highly encouraging,” Bidwell concluded.