CBD Dosing Guide for Anxiety

General Guidelines:

1. Start low and go slow: Begin with a low dose and gradually increase until you find relief.
2. Consistency is key: Use CBD regularly for best results.
3. Consult your doctor, especially if you’re on other medications.

CBD has gained significant popularity as a natural remedy for anxiety conditions. While research is ongoing, many users report positive effects in managing anxiety symptoms. This guide provides detailed information on various CBD products and their dosing recommendations for anxiety relief.

CBD Oil/Tinctures

CBD oils and tinctures are versatile and fast-acting. They offer precise dosing and are absorbed quickly when taken sublingually (under the tongue). There are several types of CBD and cannabis-derived oil/tincture products:

CBD Isolate Oil: Contains pure CBD extract, with no other cannabinoids or plant compounds. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid any trace of THC or other cannabinoids.

Full-Spectrum CBD Oil: Contains CBD along with all other cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (usually <0.3%). This may provide enhanced benefits due to the “entourage effect”.

Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil: Like full-spectrum but with THC removed. It contains CBD and other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, but no THC.

CBD:CBG Oil: Combines CBD with CBG (cannabigerol), another non-psychoactive cannabinoid that may have additional calming properties.

CBD:CBN Oil: Blends CBD with CBN (cannabinol), which is believed to have sedative properties and may be beneficial for anxiety-related sleep issues.

Delta-8 THC Tincture: Contains Delta-8 THC, offering mild psychoactive effects and potential anxiety relief. Effects are generally less intense than Delta-9 THC.

Delta-9 THC Oil: Contains Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It can provide anxiety relief for some but may increase anxiety in others. Only legal in certain regions.

Balanced CBD:THC Oil: Contains specific ratios of CBD to THC, aiming to balance the therapeutic effects of both compounds. Common ratios include 1:1, 2:1, or 5:1 (CBD:THC).

Dosing Guidelines for CBD Oil/Tinctures:

Starting Dose: 10-15 mg per day

Maintenance Dose: 20-60 mg, split into 2-3 doses throughout the day

Adjustment: Increase by 5-10 mg every week until desired effects are achieved

Maximum Dose: Up to 100-150 mg per day for severe anxiety, under medical supervision

CBD Gummies

CBD gummies offer a tasty, pre-measured dose of CBD, making them convenient for daily use. They come in various formulations:

CBD Gummies

CBD gummies offer a tasty, pre-measured dose of CBD, making them convenient for daily use. They come in various formulations, each with unique properties:

CBD Isolate Gummies: Contain only pure CBD, with no other cannabinoids or plant compounds. Ideal for those who want to avoid any trace of THC or are sensitive to other cannabinoids. They offer precise dosing but may lack the potential benefits of the entourage effect.

Full-Spectrum CBD Gummies: Include all cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (usually <0.3%). These may provide enhanced benefits due to the “entourage effect,” where multiple cannabis compounds work synergistically.

Broad-Spectrum CBD Gummies: Contain multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but have THC removed. These offer some of the benefits of full-spectrum products without the THC, making them suitable for those who want to avoid THC entirely.

Delta-8 THC Gummies: Contain Delta-8 THC, a less potent cousin of Delta-9 THC. These gummies offer mild psychoactive effects and potential anxiety relief. Effects are generally less intense than Delta-9 THC, which may be beneficial for those sensitive to THC’s effects.

Delta-9 THC Gummies: Contain Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. These can provide anxiety relief for some but may increase anxiety in others. They produce a significant “high” and are only legal in certain regions.

CBD:CBG Gummies: Combine CBD with CBG (cannabigerol), another non-psychoactive cannabinoid. CBG may have additional calming properties and could enhance the anxiety-relieving effects of CBD.

CBD:CBN Gummies: Blend CBD with CBN (cannabinol), which is believed to have sedative properties. These may be particularly beneficial for anxiety-related sleep issues.

Balanced CBD:THC Gummies: Contain specific ratios of CBD to THC, aiming to balance the therapeutic effects of both compounds. Common ratios include 1:1, 2:1, or 5:1 (CBD:THC). These may offer enhanced anxiety relief but also come with mild psychoactive effects.

CBD:Melatonin Gummies: Combine CBD with melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep cycles. These are designed to address anxiety-related sleep issues and may be particularly helpful for nighttime anxiety.

Dosing Guidelines for CBD Gummies:
Starting Dose: One 10-25 mg gummy per day
Maintenance Dose: 25-50 mg per day, split into 1-2 doses
Adjustment: Increase by one gummy every 3-4 days until desired effects are achieved
Maximum Dose: Generally not recommended to exceed 100 mg per day

Specific Considerations:
– For Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC gummies, start with a lower dose (5-10 mg) due to their psychoactive effects. There is no need to rush the amplification of the dosage.
– CBD:CBN gummies are best taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime due to their potential sedative effects.
– For balanced CBD:THC gummies, start with the lowest available dose and increase slowly, as THC can exacerbate anxiety in some individuals.

Timing Notes to Remember:

The effects of edibles, including gummies, can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to fully manifest. Wait at least 2 hours before considering an additional dose to avoid overconsumption.

CBD Vape Products

Vaping offers quick absorption but shorter duration of effects, making it popular for those seeking acute anxiety (angst) relief.  Vapes are available in various forms with a ton of crazy flavors – some good and some interesting to say the least, but they exist for those with adventurous palates!  Aside from the flavors, take note that the effects are typically shorter-lasting compared to other methods. CBD vape products come in various formulations:

• CBD Isolate Vape Oil: Contains pure CBD extract in a vapable form. Ideal for those who want to avoid any trace of THC or other cannabinoids. Offers precise dosing but may lack the potential benefits of the entourage effect.
• Full-Spectrum CBD Vape Oil: Contains CBD along with all other cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (usually <0.3%). May provide enhanced benefits due to the “entourage effect,” where multiple cannabis compounds work synergistically.
• Broad-Spectrum CBD Vape Oil: Similar to full-spectrum but with THC removed. Contains CBD and other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, offering some entourage effect benefits without THC.
• Terpene-Infused CBD Vape Oil: CBD isolate or broad-spectrum CBD enhanced with specific terpenes. Terpenes like limonene or linalool may have additional anxiety-reducing properties.
• CBD:CBG Vape Oil: Combines CBD with CBG (cannabigerol), another non-psychoactive cannabinoid that may have additional calming properties.
• CBD:CBN Vape Oil: Blends CBD with CBN (cannabinol), which is believed to have sedative properties. May be beneficial for anxiety-related sleep issues.
• Delta-8 THC Vape Oil: Contains Delta-8 THC, offering mild psychoactive effects and potential anxiety relief. Effects are generally less intense than Delta-9 THC.
• Balanced CBD:THC Vape Oil: Contains specific ratios of CBD to THC, aiming to balance the therapeutic effects of both compounds. Common ratios include 1:1, 2:1, or 5:1 (CBD:THC). May offer enhanced anxiety relief but also comes with mild psychoactive effects.

Dosing Guidelines for CBD Vape Products:

• Starting Dose: 1-2 puffs, wait 10 minutes to assess effects
• Maintenance Dose: 3-5 puffs, 3-4 times per day as needed
• Adjustment: Increase number of puffs or frequency gradually
• Maximum Dose: Varies widely based on product concentration; generally not recommended to exceed 20-30 puffs per day

Specific Considerations:

• CBD concentration in vape oils can vary greatly (typically 100-1000mg per 10ml bottle). Always check product potency to determine appropriate dosing.
• For Delta-8 THC vape oils, start with 1 puff and wait 15-20 minutes before considering more, due to its psychoactive effects.
• CBD:CBN vape oils may cause drowsiness and are best used in the evening or before sleep.
• When using balanced CBD:THC vape oils, start with the lowest dose possible and increase slowly, as THC can exacerbate anxiety in some individuals.

Important Notes on Vaping Safety:

1. Only use vape products from reputable manufacturers who provide third-party lab testing results.
2. Avoid vape oils containing vitamin E acetate or other harmful additives.
3. Be aware that long-term effects of vaping are not yet fully understood.
4. If you experience any respiratory issues, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Remember: The effects of vaping are typically felt within minutes but may only last 1-3 hours. This makes vaping suitable for acute anxiety relief but may require more frequent dosing compared to other methods.

CBD Capsules

CBD capsules offer a convenient, pre-measured dose of CBD in an easy-to-swallow form. They provide consistent dosing and are ideal for those who prefer a tasteless option or want to avoid the process of measuring oils. CBD capsules come in various formulations:

• CBD Isolate Capsules: Contain only pure CBD extract. Ideal for those who want to avoid any trace of THC or other cannabinoids. They offer precise dosing but may lack the potential benefits of the entourage effect.
• Full-Spectrum CBD Capsules: Include CBD along with all other cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (usually <0.3%). These may provide enhanced benefits due to the “entourage effect,” where multiple cannabis compounds work synergistically.
• Broad-Spectrum CBD Capsules: Contain multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but have THC removed. These offer some of the benefits of full-spectrum products without the THC, making them suitable for those who want to avoid THC entirely.
• CBD:CBG Capsules: Combine CBD with CBG (cannabigerol), another non-psychoactive cannabinoid. CBG may have additional calming properties and could enhance the anxiety-relieving effects of CBD.
• CBD:CBN Capsules: Blend CBD with CBN (cannabinol), which is believed to have sedative properties. These may be particularly beneficial for anxiety-related sleep issues.
• Balanced CBD:THC Capsules: Contain specific ratios of CBD to THC, aiming to balance the therapeutic effects of both compounds. Common ratios include 1:1, 2:1, or 5:1 (CBD:THC). These may offer enhanced anxiety relief but also come with mild psychoactive effects.
• CBD:L-Theanine Capsules: Combine CBD with L-Theanine, an amino acid found in tea leaves known for its calming effects. This combination may provide synergistic anxiety relief.
• Timed-Release CBD Capsules: Specially formulated to release CBD slowly over time, potentially providing longer-lasting effects throughout the day.

Dosing Guidelines for CBD Capsules:

• Starting Dose: One 10-25 mg capsule per day
• Maintenance Dose: 25-50 mg per day, split into 1-2 doses
• Adjustment: Increase by one capsule every 5-7 days until desired effects are achieved
• Maximum Dose: Generally not recommended to exceed 100 mg per day

Specific Considerations:

• Effects typically take 30 minutes to 2 hours to manifest and can last 6-8 hours.
• For CBD:CBN capsules, take 30-60 minutes before bedtime due to potential sedative effects.
• When using balanced CBD:THC capsules, start with the lowest available dose and increase slowly, as THC can exacerbate anxiety in some individuals.
• Timed-release capsules may be particularly beneficial if you need all-day anxiety relief.
• Taking capsules with a meal containing healthy fats may increase CBD absorption.

Important Notes:

1. CBD capsules may interact with certain medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting CBD, especially if you’re on other medications.
2. The bioavailability of CBD in capsule form is generally lower than other methods like sublingual oils or vaping. You may need a higher dose to achieve the same effects.
3. Consistency is key with CBD capsules. It may take 2-3 weeks of regular use to experience the full effects.
4. If you have trouble swallowing pills, some capsules can be opened and the contents mixed with food or drinks.

Remember: Everyone’s endocannabinoid system is different, so optimal dosing can vary from person to person. Start low and increase slowly to find your ideal dose.

General Dosing Principles:

1. Start low and go slow: Begin with the lowest recommended dose and gradually increase.
2. Consistency is key: Take CBD regularly for at least 2-3 weeks to evaluate its full effects.
3. Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you feel and adjust dosage accordingly.
4. Consider your weight: Heavier individuals may require higher doses.
5. Severity of anxiety: More severe symptoms may require higher doses.
6. Consult a healthcare professional: Especially if you’re on other medications or have underlying health conditions.