Can Broad Spectrum CBD Cause Anxiety? Unveiling the Potential Effects

Ever heard of broad spectrum CBD? Well, it’s creating quite a stir these days! It’s chock-full of CBD and other great cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, minus the THC, so you won’t feel any “high.”

Recently, more people are welcoming CBD products into their lives thanks to their potential therapeutic benefits, including some help with anxiety disorders and those pesky anxiety symptoms.

If you are wondering if broad spectrum CBD can cause anxiety, it doesn’t. The reason is that it does not contain THC which has been known to cause anxiety in some people.

However, some low quality products may contain high levels of THC, so people can mistake that for a quality broad spectrum CBD product.

In this post, we’re going to dig deeper into how CBD and other cannabinoids might be that natural substitute you’ve been looking for to ease your anxiety, and how to find the best product for you.

Let’s get into it, shall we?

Article Highlight

• Broad Spectrum CBD products are often used by people dealing with intense anxiety that may trigger conditions like unexpected panic attacks and other anxiety disorders. They come in all sorts of handy forms like tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, vape pens, and of course, the classic oil.
• When it comes to CBD causing anxiety or even making panic attacks worse, it is highly unlikely. Sometimes a hemp company with poor processes do not properly test and let out a batch which high levels of THC.
• That THC business can be a bit tricky, with higher levels possibly triggering some not-so-fun side effects. But hey, legally available CBD products usually have super low (less than 0.3%) amounts of THC, so we’re mostly in the clear!
• Many people are now finding relief with CBDA, the precursor to CBD. With its enhanced absorption and serotonin receptor activation properties, it is becoming the go to cannabinoid for anxiety relief.

Jump to

• Common types of broad-spectrum CBD products
• Can CBD cause anxiety attacks?
• Can CBD oil cause panic attacks?
• THC levels in CBD products and their link to panic attacks
• The role of CBDA in anxiety management
• Conclusion

Common Types of Broad-Spectrum CBD Products

Let’s talk about some of the most popular types of broad-spectrum CBD products. You know, these amazing products that offer all the benefits of various cannabinoids from the cannabis plant without any detectable levels of THC.

The idea here is to achieve the entourage effect – the harmonious cooperation of multiple compounds working together to boost their therapeutic benefits. Let’s check out some of these common types of broad-spectrum CBD products:

CBD Tinctures: These tasty oral solutions are made with a mix of CBD extract, carrier oils, and sometimes added flavors. Just a few drops under your tongue, and you’re good to go!

CBD Capsules: If you’re looking for something discreet and easy to measure, then capsules are your go-to option. Just pop one in and enjoy the CBD goodness.

CBD Edibles: Who doesn’t love a treat? With CBD-infused goodies like gummies, chocolates, and beverages, you can satisfy your sweet tooth while reaping the benefits of CBD.

CBD Topicals: Got some localized discomfort, inflammation, or skin issues? These creams, balms, and lotions infused with broad-spectrum CBD can be applied directly to your skin for targeted relief.

CBD Vape Pens: If you’re into vaping, try a broad-spectrum CBD e-liquid with your electronic device. You’ll heat and inhale the CBD goodness for a quick and convenient experience.

CBD Oil: Last but not least, you can try the classic CBD oil. This golden liquid is made by combining CBD extract (usually broad-spectrum or isolate) with carrier oils like hemp seed, coconut, or olive oil.

 

Can CBD Cause Anxiety Attacks?

You might be too familiar with anxiety attacks – those often sudden episodes of fear or unease and feeling of constant stress. Symptoms can include things like sweating, a rapid heart rate, and shortness of breath. Anxiety attack is often triggered by various factors and certain situations. Although anxiety attacks typically subside pretty quickly, they can be super distressing for the person experiencing them.

Enter CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. It doesn’t produce the intoxicating high associated with THC, but it’s got a myriad of potential therapeutic effects, including anti-anxiety properties.

But, this brings us to a tricky question: Can CBD actually cause anxiety attacks?

There is not any good evidence that it does.

Because our bodies are so complex and individual experiences with CBD can vary so much, there’s not a definitive answer. Most of the reports from CBD causing anxiety are from bad products that have high levels of THC:

• The hemp was not properly tested before extraction, and THC was higher than 0.3%
• The final product was not tested for THC levels, or the testing was poorly performed.
• Quality broad spectrum CBD products have non-detectible levels of THC.

However, CBD (and especially CBD oil) has shown promise in managing a range of symptoms and various mental health conditions, from anxiety, panic attack, and depression to improving mood and overall well-being – all without the “high” that comes with THC.

Can CBD Oil Cause Panic Attacks?

Panic attacks,  those sudden, super intense bouts of fear that trigger severe physical reactions. It can be really frightening and life threatening plus it can significantly disrupt your life. Current research and clinical trials suggest that CBD oil has an overall calming effect and may help in reducing anxiety and panic attack.

But here’s some potentially good news. Current research and clinical trials are showing that CBD oil may have a calming effect that could help reduce anxiety. For many people, this natural solution is offering some much-needed relief.

However, it needs to be mentioned that, in a few rare instances, some folks have reported increased anxiety or even panic attacks after using CBD oil. This is most likely from bad CBD products with high levels of THC than the CBD cannabinoid itself.

However, don’t let those few instances cloud your judgment. You see, most people are able to tolerate CBD oil remarkably well. In fact, CBD oil is often praised for its smooth interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system, promoting a sense of balance and calm.

So, does CBD oil cause panic attacks? Can CBD oil cause a person to develop panic disorder? As of now, the overarching research suggests not.

However, everybody’s body reacts differently, and it’s important to start with small doses and work your way up as needed, keeping in tune with how your body reacts. Always remember, when in doubt or dealing with a severe condition, consult a mental health professional.

 

THC Levels in CBD Products and Their Link to Panic Attacks

THC (or Tetrahydrocannabinol, if you want to get technical) is the psychoactive compound responsible for that euphoric sensation, or “high,” often associated with cannabis. But here’s the catch: Higher levels of THC in CBD products can potentially trigger unintended side effects for some users, including exacerbating conditions like panic attacks.

CBD products, which are legally available in many places, often contain trace amounts of THC. The specific concentration can vary depending on factors like the source of the hemp and the extraction process. For CBD products to be considered legal in some regions, they need to contain less than 0.3% THC.

Quality CBD products with less than 0.3% will not cause anxiety, but much higher amounts may.

Often, people with a history of mental health disorders will be particularly susceptible to THC induced anxiety disorder. Prevent panic attacks early and make sure to follow our guide below on how to identify a quality CBD product.

Aside from CBD, there’s also a lesser-known but possibly more potent cannabinoid for addressing anxiety – CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid). This compound, also found in the cannabis plant, may offer even greater therapeutic benefits for easing anxiety symptoms than its more well-known cousin, CBD.

The Role of CBDA in Anxiety Management

Alright, let’s talk about CBDA, or cannabidiolic acid for the science buffs. It’s one of many compounds present in the Cannabis Sativa plant, and the most abundant. CBDA is the precursor to CBD, and is not typically found in many products due to the difficulty in purifying it.

What sets CBDA apart from the others is its enhanced absorption.

CBDA has over 450% to 1000% better absorption than CBD!

Potential Benefits of CBDA for Anxiety

Now, you might be wondering what CBDA can do for you, especially when it comes to managing anxiety. Well, the interest around CBDA keeps growing. Here are a few potential wins for you:

• Helps bring down those feelings of tension and discomfort that like to hang around with anxiety.
• May alleviate physical symptoms often associated with anxiety and stress.
• And if you’re looking for that mood lift or that feel-good frequency, well, CBDA might be the right one for you.

How to identify quality CBDA and CBD products

You dont want to get too much THC and bring on more panic attacks, so how do you look for the best CBDA or CBD product?

1. Does the company have a CoA from a third party testing lab for potency? Every product should have been tested and the reports should be available. Look for these with every product and make sure they show the right amount of THC present.
2. Did they perform other testing for purity? All CBDA and CBD products should be tested for solvents, pesticides, heavy metals, and microbials. A quality company that cares about their product will have all these tests for final products.
3. Do they have good reviews for their product?

If you are not familiar with how to read a CoA (certificate of analysis), see our CBD CoA guide for help!

 

Conclusion

In a nutshell, there are personal stories and scientific evidence suggesting that CBD products, like CBD oil, might help those struggling with anxiety.

The excitement around CBD and CBDA for anxiety relief is thrilling, but navigating the world of these products can be overwhelming. Keeping track of THC levels and legalities isn’t always simple, but high-quality, broad-spectrum CBD products could be the natural solution for not just anxiety, but other wellness concerns too.

 

–Team Dos