The present study describes a series of patients using CBD for treatment of anxiety or sleep disturbances in a clinical practice setting. Additionally, given the highly comorbid nature of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders, placebo-controlled trials investigating the use of cannabis for the management of insomnia in these populations are encouraged. The present study was conducted to investigate cannabis use profiles and self-perceived symptom improvement for insomnia in individuals with depression, anxiety, and comorbid anxiety and depression through crowdsourced health data. The current study analyzed the data of participants who used cannabis to manage insomnia symptoms under conditions of depression and anxiety. A retrospective cohort study was conducted to examine use of cannabis products for insomnia symptoms in individuals with depression and/or anxiety. Acute doses of CBD were found to reduce anxiety both in animals and humans, without having an anxiogenic effect at higher doses. Understanding that interaction could unlock new ways to harness cannabis’s potential for improving mental health—and explain why it doesn’t work the same for everyone. This increases the ecological validity of the findings and mirrors how most people actually use cannabis. In terms of sleep, cannabis use clearly outperformed non-use, particularly among participants with higher inflammation at baseline—a group known to be at greater risk of insomnia. Also, analysis of Strainprint responses reveals that inhalation methods like smoking, vaping, concentrates, dabs (79.4% of headache data and 82.8% of migraine data) were primary methods used by the patients .Besides excluding the option of pooling data for a meta-analysis to evaluate efficacy, the consequence of non-consensus of CBD dose is important when evaluating safety issues.Other research late last year found “accumulating” evidence that the marijuana component CBD “has antidepressant properties in humans and animals with few side effects” and may also aid in the reduction of inflammation and formation of new brain cells.The fearful faces task activates the amygdala, and other medial temporal areas involved in emotion processing, and heightened amygdala response activation has been reported in anxiety disorders, including GAD and PTSD 113, 114.You can find a wide range of CBD products to eat, drink, inhale, or apply to your skin.To dig deeper into whether or not CBD actually curbs anxiety and what else you should know before trying it, we spoke to psychiatrist David Streem, MD.In the case of multiple publications deriving from the same study population, we selected the articles reporting the largest or the most recent data. Data obtained from the Therapeutic Goods Administration dashboard tool(/medicinal-cannabis-special-access-scheme-category-b-data) showing total Special Access Scheme Category B (SAS-B) approvals for the month of May 2022 for Schedule 4 (S4) and Schedule 8 (S8) medicinal cannabis products by conditions treated. Strikingly, the TGA dashboard tool shows that approximately 50% of TGA approvals for anxiety in May 2022 were for Schedule 8 THC-containing herbal cannabis products intended for vaporisation.6 The number of approvals specifically for PTSD is less than 10% of that for anxiety, and approvals are dominated by THC-containing products, particularly herbal cannabis (Figure 1). (Later in this page, we’ll dive into how cannabis affects each condition separately — anxiety first, then depression — so you can see where the plant may fit in your own life.) It is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to peppermint or menthol . The outcomes were significantly better than in the control group, however, this study was not blind. Maypop is used mainly in combination products with hops and valerian; however, it can also be found without other plant extracts even as over-the-counter drugs. No adverse effects such as memory loss or changes in psychometric functions were observed. The duration of the studies included in the analysis varied widely, from one day to 30 days. In a recent double-blind, randomized controlled trial conducted with Japanese teenagers who had a DSM-IV diagnosis of social anxiety disorder, 300 mg of CBD oil was administered orally each day for 4 weeks (30). In this study, those who received placebo experienced a 37-point worsening of the anxiety factor on the VAMS, compared with a 21-point worsening with CBD administration. A significant decrease in anxiety was observed in the CBD-pretreated group upon exposure to an anxiety-provoking stimulus, without appreciable adverse effects. Eight symptomatic individuals with a diagnosis of either anxiety neurosis or generalized anxiety disorder received a single dose of 2 mg of nabilone or placebo and then once-a-week dosing of nabilone of various strengths, ranging from 0.5 mg to 5 mg, over 5 weeks. Which conditions medical marijuana can treat varies by state. Studies report that medical cannabis might help some conditions. Because of this, people may be arrested and charged with having marijuana, called possession, even in states where marijuana use is legal. It's used to ease symptoms caused by certain medical conditions. Feel free to contact us with any questions or to share your story of how medical marijuana has helped you. Lindsey is also interested in alternative treatment methods, particularly for individuals experiencing post-traumatic symptoms, in conjunction with the use of cognitive behavioral therapies.CL and JSH participated in data acquisition, extraction, analysis and drafted the final work.In a recent meta-analysis, Black et al concluded that THC produces marginally greater reductions in anxiety than placebo but noted that none of the seven studies included in their meta-analysis involved patients with a primary anxiety disorder.20 Rather, anxiety was a secondary outcome in studies in which the primary outcome was pain reduction.Medicinal cannabis products do not currently attract subsidy under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), and with CBD currently costing approximately 10 cents/mg, it is easily seen that 800 mg/day doses may be unaffordable for many patients.A lot of people with depression see marijuana as a safe drug.Chronic low-grade inflammation has been implicated in mood disorders, including anxiety and depression, as well as in sleep disturbances. Your daily habits and environment can significantly impact the quality of your sleep. Whether you need expert sleep advice for your insomnia or you’re searching for the perfect mattress, we’ve got you covered. Some users report vivid or strange dreams when experiencing cannabis withdrawal. In this review, we highlighted findings from human laboratory studies and clinical trials supporting or refuting CBD as a potential therapeutic for various indications. Participants received placebo or oral CBD (10 mg, twice daily) for eight weeks); CBD treatment did not alter Chron’s disease symptoms compared with placebo, as assessed via the Chron’s disease activity index (CDAI) . The efficacy of CBD as a treatment for Chron’s disease was evaluated in patients with this condition. Participants received oral placebo or CBD capsules (40, 80, or 160 mg); those receiving 160 mg CBD had a longer duration of sleep while all CBD doses decreased remembrance of dreams relative to placebo . No clinically significant improvements were observed on Huntington’s disease-related symptoms (e.g., chorea sensitivity, sustained tongue protrusion, functional ability, or information recall and storage) compared with placebo . However, a bidirectional relationship has also been described with depression being a risk factor for cannabis consumption as well as the reverse. Indeed, meta-analyses on the subject seem to show that cannabis use may be a risk factor for the development of depression. This review was not systematic and did not restrict the definition of depression to a clinical diagnosis of MDD. Such interventions have been shown to be efficacious for the treatment of CUD in individuals with no major psychiatric disorder. Low doses of cannabis or its derivatives should be tested, as there is a clear signal that there is a different pharmacological effect of high and low dose. When tested over a wide range of doses in further studies, the anxiolytic effects of CBD presented a bell-shaped dose–response curve, with anxiolytic effects observed at moderate but not higher doses 61, 90. Activation of CB1Rs produces anxiolytic effects in various models of unconditioned fear, relevant to multiple anxiety disorder symptom domains (reviewed in 30–33). Notably, PTSD and OCD are no longer classified as anxiety disorders in the recent revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5; however, excessive anxiety is central to the symptomatology of both disorders. A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 61 patients of both sexes, aged 30 to 70 years, who are candidates for coronary artery bypass graft surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass . The degree of anxiety of the patient was assessed using questionnaires and physical parameters (heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure). Pinheiro et al. evaluated the effectiveness of valerian root (single oral dose of 100 mg 1 h before a surgical procedure) for the control of anxiety during third molar surgery in 20 volunteers (12 women and 8 men, age range between 17 and 31 years). Sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and sleepiness using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. MMJ.com facilitates telehealth evaluations with licensed physicians. Not all patients with qualifying conditions are approved. The certifying physician has sole authority to approve or deny your application based on their professional medical judgment. Safety and side effects It’s important to seek medical help if you have cannabis use disorder or any type of substance use disorder. But it’s one of the signs of cannabis (marijuana) use disorder, which can significantly impair your life. But withdrawal is a sign of cannabis (marijuana) use disorder, which does require professional care. Common symptoms include aggression, anxiety and sleep issues (like insomnia). THC can exacerbate anxiety in vulnerable individuals,45,46 particularly in inexperienced users given relatively high doses. The side effects of THC are well described and include nausea, dizziness, increased appetite, euphoria and the potential for dependence (Table 1).44 At higher doses, THC can have sedative effects and may cause heightened or altered sensory perception and depersonalisation. Taken together, these results suggest some promise for CBD in the treatment of anxiety, but larger RCTs are clearly required. An observational study surveyed the first 400 New Zealand patients to receive CBD on prescription (most were prescribed 100 mg CBD/mL in oil administered by dropper).43 Dosing varied from 40 mg to 300 mg/CBD/day. That’s why it’s important to consider alternative treatments backed by more robust research before solely relying on CBD-infused drinks for specific health concerns. But are these cannabis products really a dose of stress relief? This active ingredient from cannabis plants is extracted and used for its possible health benefits. Owing to the lack of research in female animals and humans, and the knowledge gap on sex and gender differences in the effectiveness of CBD as a potential treatment for anxiety, future research should focus on this area. Of the clinical studies that did include females,14,15,46 no sex-specific analyses were performed. JS and JS guided the initial conceptualisation of the study, supervised the process throughout, screened articles for inclusion, and along with MdM assisted in the revision process. Further to this, such an approach may be assisted via the co-administration of CBD, other cannabinoids or terpenes found in the cannabis plant which have yet to be studied substantially. In contrast, for isolated THC, acute human studies consistently show an anxiogenic effect. D-limonene and linalool, whilst not exclusively found in cannabis, have demonstrated anxiolytic activity; the former via the 5HT1A receptor 4, 94, 95. Anxiolytic effects of CBD in the EPM and VCT occurred upon microinjection into the BNST, where they depended on 5-HT1AR activation , and also upon microinjection into the central nucleus of the amygdala . The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) serves as a principal output structure of the amygdaloid complex to coordinate sustained fear responses, relevant to anxiety . Microinjection of CBD into the DPAG produced anxiolytic effects in the EPM, VGC, and ETM that were partially mediated by activation of 5-HT1ARs but not by CB1Rs 65, 68. Medicinal cannabis products may also alleviate anxiety, but it is unclear if this effect is gated by duration of use. People with mild symptoms, with more responsibilities in daily life, or who did not see a substantial improvement from medicinal cannabis treatment may have been less likely to complete the survey. This is unsurprising given the interrelated nature of these constructs with depression (87–89), and both pain and quality of life have been shown to be improved with traditional antidepressant treatment (90, 91). With a wide selection of products that span all CBD spectrums, including THC products, we have the perfect fit to meet your needs. I’ve tried 5 different brands and decided these are the best sleep gummies I’m fast asleep within a half hour. These are the best sleep gummies. Love your products as we age it's nice to sit back and enjoy the little things. Now I sleep through the night and wake up refreshed and rejuvenated! Various anxiety assessment scales were used in the studies to assess efficacy, with CBD demonstrating improved clinical outcomes among the instruments. The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the current evidence on the safety and efficacy of CBD in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. “Our study suggests that CBD products may be able to relieve anxiety in the moment for adults who use them, and possibly longer-term, in a way that is meaningful and doesn’t necessarily produce the same risks or harms of THC or prescription medications,” said Bidwell. But the cannabis groups saw greater reductions in perceived anxiety than the non-cannabis group, and those using CBD-dominant products showed the most improvement of all. Mounting numbers of US states have legalized marijuana for medical or recreational use in recent years. Hot flashes and sleep or mood changes are well-known, troublesome symptoms that may occur during perimenopause and menopause. Cannabis nurses and holistic health practitioners are critical in guiding patients through its safe and effective use, offering personalized care tailored to their unique needs. Leweke et al (2012) included a small group of acute schizophrenia patients who were administered 200 up to 800 mg/day for 4 weeks or amisulpride, a potent antipsychotic. No significant difference was observed between placebo and CBD group on cognitive function and psychotic symptoms . One study was judged as being at high risk of bias and three at uncertain risk of bias. A cluster randomized cross-over trial assessed the effect of small doses (16 mg) administered through inhalation on fear extinction and consolidation and found that it was effective when compared to placebo . The sublingual administration of CBD also improved the quality of life in girls presenting with ADR following HPV vaccine when added to standard treatment. CBD had no effect on disease activity at the end of treatment and at 2 weeks follow-up . The effect of oral administration of CBD (20 mg/day for 8 weeks) on disease activity assessed by the Crohn’s disease activity index was evaluated in a small group of patients with long-standing Crohn’s disease taking concomitant medications. Careful questioning and discussing with the patients about the use of marijuana, its risks, and benefits should be documented and researched. The use of cannabis with other recreational drugs was not excluded from the studies. Also, more research should aim in doing controlled studies about the route and dose of THC/CBD for migraine and headache patients. Although there is a lack of firm evidence for the use of lavender flowers and lavender oil for anxiety and related sleep disorders, positive effects have been reported. While lavender, hops, maypop, lemon balm, and valerian have consistently been shown in clinical trials to relieve mild forms of neurological disorders, particularly depression, anxiety, and stress, currently available data do not fully support the use of peppermint for anxiety disorders and depression. Past research has shown that cannabis can be indicated for symptom management disorders, including cancer, chronic pain, headaches, migraines, and psychological disorders (anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder). It was found that 48.8% of the patients responded to treatment compared to 33.3% in the control group. Lavender oil preparation decreased the Hamilton anxiety scale score by more than 50% in 60% of the treated patients, while the incidence of adverse events was comparable to the placebo group. Overall, clinical trials on the effectiveness of kava-kava in generalized anxiety or anxiety in (peri)menopause, which were reviewed by the European Medicines Agency in 2016, were found to have major shortcomings . Another study analyzed a pool sample of three randomized double-blind controlled trials and observed no improvement in the kava-kava treatment group . Pyne JM, Patterson TL, Kaplan RM, Gillin JC, Koch WL, Grant I. Assessment of the quality of life of patients with major depression. Antidepressant-like effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and rimonabant in the olfactory bulbectomised rat model of depression. The hospital anxiety and depression scale. Oral cannabidiol does not alter the subjective, reinforcing or cardiovascular effects of smoked cannabis. Action of cannabidiol on the anxiety and other effects produced by δ9-THC in normal subjects. The ESAS-r is a self-administered scale, rating the severity of symptoms from 0 (absence of symptom) to 10 (worst possible severity) at the time of assessment (Hui and Bruera 2017). Treatment adjustments occur at follow-up visits as a result of lack of effectiveness, presentation of adverse effects, or social or economic barriers. The clinic procedure dictates that all products with a ratio of CBD (mg) to THC (mg) higher than 10 are considered CBD-rich products. “If someone comes to me for another reason such as depression or alcohol use disorder, I might be the first person who has asked them about their cannabis use.” Although rates of cannabis use disorder are lower than those for alcohol use disorder, health care providers may not always be asking the right questions to uncover problems. In fact, Das said, studies are finding that around 30% of regular cannabis users have what is known as cannabis use disorder. When used on a short-term basis, cannabis may help you fall asleep faster. Short-term cannabis use appears to increase the time you spend in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, the stages that help you wake up feeling refreshed. In addition to helping you fall asleep faster, cannabis may alter your time spent in the different sleep stages. They showed a significant reduction in migraine frequency with medical marijuana . This study focused on the associations between phytocannabinoid treatment and migraine frequency . A prospective clinical trial done in 2020 by Aviram et al. focused on 68 patients who smoked or vaped MC inflorescences evaluated the differences in total MC monthly dose between responders and non‐responders . We included the studies published between 1987 and 2020, human studies in the English language, including adults 18 years and older, whereas articles involving children less than 17 years and pregnant females were excluded from this study. The datasets presented in this article are not readily available because the corresponding author does not own this data. The study extends prior research by including a control group, and through a study design that includes both cross-sectional and within-subject, longitudinal comparisons. This study has several limitations. These combined cross-sectional and longitudinal findings show a consistent antidepressant effect of medicinal cannabis. (A flow diagram describing the study selection is presented in an online supplement to this article.) No disagreements arose about whether a report was eligible for the present study. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, CINAHL, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane, and Academic One-File for English-language medical literature published between January 1, 1970, and February 5, 2020, by using the following search strategies and terms. Thus, exogenous cannabinoids can differentially affect mood and anxiety, presumably via the endocannabinoid system. Insomnia is recognized as a common sleep disorder and may present itself as a comorbidity on both symptom and/or condition levels 1, 2. Inferential analyses used linear mixed effects modeling to examine self-perceived improvement across demographic variables and cannabis product variables. To develop a better understanding of distinct profiles of cannabis use for insomnia management, a retrospective cohort study was conducted on a large naturalistic sample. Within the limited results from randomized controlled trials, and lack of trust in product quality and known clinical guidelines and dosages, real-world evidence (RWE) from countries with robust regulatory frameworks may fill a critical need for patients and healthcare professionals. Nonetheless, the preclinical studies, together with the few clinical studies reported, support further detailed investigation into the use of cannabinoids in the treatment of PTSD. Given that eCB processes are affected by stressors and can affect anxiety and fear,21 it was hypothesized that eCB functioning is tied to the development of PTSD, possibly through a corticotropin-releasing hormone–mediated reduction of anandamide in several brain regions.17 Paralleling this view, it was maintained that pharmacological manipulations of endogenous cannabinoids could be used in the treatment of PTSD.22 As in the case of many other purported benefits of cannabis, much of the supportive evidence in humans has come from anecdotal or case reports as well as observational studies that provide little evidence of a causal connection. Anxiety can manifest in many ways, including restlessness, excessive worrying, paranoia, panic attacks, sweating, rapid heartbeat, trouble sleeping, and muscle tension. Whether you’re considering trying CBD or need guidance on how to get started, Veriheal can provide helpful resources and support to ensure you make informed choices about your health and wellness journey. This variety allows users to easily incorporate CBD into their daily wellness routine, making it a convenient option for those seeking consistent anxiety relief. It can be consumed in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, gummies, and topical products. While CBD is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience mild side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or appetite changes. Research is urgently required due to the large variety of cannabis preparations that are available on both the licit and illicit drug markets (depending on jurisdictions) . Cannabis remains the most commonly consumed illicit drug around the world , whilst clinical research is nascent, yet rapidly emerging. However, further research is needed to explore other cannabinoids and phytochemical constituents present in cannabis (e.g. terpenes) as anxiolytic interventions. The articles selected for this review were identified up to January 2020 through searches in the electronic databases OVID MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, and PsycINFO. However, certain research has also shown that it can produce feelings of anxiety, panic, paranoia and psychosis. By supporting this natural process, cannabis helps restore harmony where it’s needed most. Cannabis is not a universal cure, but for millions, it provides relief when conventional treatments fail. Do not disregard or avoid professional medical advice due to content published within Cureus. Additionally, articles published within Cureus should not be deemed a suitable substitute for the advice of a qualified health care professional. Cureus is not responsible for the scientific accuracy or reliability of data or conclusions published herein. First off, while research is still in its early stages, we can’t deny how popular marijuana is for the treatment of depression. By taking a closer look at the scientific research we can gain better understanding of how cannabis treatments might actually impact those with depression — both in the short term and the long term. In terms of choosing the right type of cannabis to treat depression, preliminary research indicates that products with a chemical profile that includes and CBD, and terpenes beta-caryophyllene, linalool and limonene are a good starting point. Marijuana is widely used for its ability to elevate the mood, increase pleasurable sensations, both of which are effects that can help alleviate the symptoms of depression. Research and anecdotal evidence provide hope that cannabis can be effective in helping patients cope with depression, especially less intoxicating varieties. A large prospective cohort study showed an association of cannabis use with more depressive symptoms at a 3-year follow-up. Since apathy and anhedonia are also seen in depression, one can theorize that the effects of CU may overlap with the symptoms of depression, leading to their exacerbation or potentially confounding the diagnosis of MDD. Several studies have reported apathy and anhedonia in cannabis users (81–83), while others failed to detect this phenomenon (84–86). In order to include as many relevant sources as possible, there were no exclusions based on types of animals or models (testing anxiety or mood paradigms) used in the studies. Rey et al. (2012) found that the anxiolytic effects of low doses occur when they interact with the CB1 receptor on cortical glutamatergic terminals. This being said, cannabis terpenoids as potential synergistic contributors to the effects of phytocannabinoids has not yet been explored in sufficient detail . Self-perceived stress Any current psychiatric patient with a diagnosis by a mental health professional (psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse practitioner, or physician assistant) of a sleep or anxiety disorder was considered. A retrospective chart review was conducted of adult psychiatric patients treated with CBD for anxiety or sleep as an adjunct to treatment as usual at a large psychiatric outpatient clinic. This study aimed to determine whether CBD is helpful for improving sleep and/or anxiety in a clinical population. A large retrospective case series at a psychiatric clinic involving clinical application of CBD for anxiety and sleep complaints as an adjunct to usual treatment. It does not appear to alter consciousness or trigger a “high.” A recent surge in scientific publications has found preclinical and clinical evidence documenting value for CBD in some neuropsychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Many patients report that cannabis helps them “turn down the volume” in their minds, allowing sleep to come more naturally. When pain is better controlled at night, patients are more likely to stay asleep and reach deeper, restorative sleep stages. For patients with chronic pain, sleep is often interrupted by discomfort, muscle tension, or nerve pain. In short, without adequate sleep, the brain struggles to regulate pain, mood, and stress—regardless of other treatments used. Medical Cannabis, Headaches, and Migraines: A Review of the Current Literature The findings reviewed in this study demonstrate the potential of CBD to produce anxiolytic-like effects in pre-clinical models and the potential of CBD to induce acute anxiolytic effects when administered as a single dose in healthy volunteers and individuals with SAD. The Simulation Public Speaking Test has been used to examine the effects of CBD on anxiety in clinical studies. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a constituent of the Cannabis plant, which has potential therapeutic properties across many neuropsychiatric disorders.8 Indeed, Epidiolex® (99% CBD; 0.1% Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol THC) has been approved in some places for the treatment of epilepsy9 and clinical trials have established that CBD can be an effective treatment for pediatric epilepsy,10,11 or epilepsy with a pediatric onset.12,13 Interest in the broader therapeutic potential of CBD is exemplified by the burgeoning number of systematic reviews and meta-analyses published within the past few years that champion its use in a number of potential therapeutic indications. Among individuals with anxiety disorders, the prevalence rates, symptomology, and treatment response differ between males and females. Although these findings are promising, future research is warranted to determine the efficacy of CBD in other anxiety disorders, establish appropriate doses, and determine its long-term efficacy. An investigation of cannabis use for insomnia in depression and anxiety in a naturalistic sample For patients living with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders, poor sleep is often one of the most disabling and overlooked symptoms. After the recent decriminalization and legalization of medical and recreational cannabis in certain countries and jurisdictions, cannabis use continues to increase.31–33 CBD has drawn increased attention as a potential treatment, as the majority of existing data suggest that it is safe, well tolerated, and has few adverse effects.34 The World Health Organization stated that across a number of controlled open-label trials, CBD is generally well tolerated with a good safety profile.35–37 Several studies propose that CBD is nontoxic, does not induce changes in food intake or catalepsy, does not affect physiological measures, and does not alter psychomotor or psychological functions.37 In addition, chronic use and high doses of up to 1500 mg/day are reportedly well tolerated in humans.37 Insomnia patients taking cannabis-based medical products reported better quality sleep after up to 18 months of treatment, according to a study published August 27 in the open-access journal PLOS Mental Health by Arushika Aggarwal from Imperial College London, U.K., and colleagues. Emerging research continues to underscore the potential of medical cannabis and hemp-derived CBD as alternative treatments for conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, sleep disorders, nausea, and neurological disorders. This was replicated in a subsequent study, in which 24 treatment-naïve undergraduates with a diagnosis of social anxiety disorder were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of 600 mg of oral CBD or placebo 90 minutes before a simulated public speaking test (29). As for CBD trials, a blinded crossover functional MRI scanning study compared a single dose of 400 mg of oral CBD to placebo in 10 treatment-naïve men with a diagnosis of generalized social anxiety disorder (28). In contrast, a 1-month trial of daily nabilone for anxiety disorders reported statistically significant findings (27). We conducted a systematic review of prospective, controlled studies testing the impact of cannabinoids on individuals with anxiety disorders, affective disorders, and PTSD. Others are prescribed medications that sedate the brain without restoring healthy sleep. Unfortunately, many patients are told to “just get more sleep” without meaningful guidance or support. In clinical practice, sleep problems are rarely isolated. On the other hand, taking too much THC may actually deplete serotonin and may exacerbate symptoms of depression. The study found that low doses of THC were effective in increasing serotonin levels in mice. Their results confirmed that aqueous ethanol extracts have a clinical effect on sleep disorders, especially in elderly patients. However, based on the doses used in the clinical trials conducted so far, saffron could help alleviate depression and does not cause significantly more adverse effects in nonpregnant individuals than without treatment. Another recent study (2020) reported the beneficial effects of 7-day peppermint oil aromatherapy on sleep quality scores in cancer patients . Because there are no significant concerns with the use of lemon balm and some data support its antianxiety effects, lemon balm could be used to relieve mild anxiety symptoms and support sleep. Significant reductions in anxiety, stress, depression, and improvement in sleep disturbances were reported in the treatment group compared to the placebo group. Taking some drugs can be particularly risky, especially if you take high doses or combine them with other drugs or alcohol. Drug use can have significant and damaging short-term and long-term effects. During the intervention, these people gather together to have a direct, heart-to-heart conversation with the person about the consequences of addiction. People struggling with addiction usually deny they have a problem and hesitate to seek treatment. These products can be used in different ways. CBD oils are products made from CBD extract (a concentrated form of CBD) and an oil, such as coconut oil. One study found vaping CBD more damaging to the lungs and immune system than vaping nicotine. Why Sleep Matters for Pain, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders Heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate were significantly lower when patients had taken midazolam compared to valerian, and no statistically significant differences in oxygen saturation were observed. The valerian root sample and the placebo groups both showed significant post-intervention improvements on all clinical scales. Roh et al. conducted a four-week, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial with 64 volunteers suffering from psychological stress. This resulted in reduced odds of cognitive dysfunction in the valerian group compared to the placebo group, which could be related to improvement in sleep quality. As epidemiological research largely relies on anonymous surveys, the composition of the cannabis being used is unable to be confirmed. When CBD was administered with THC, the anxiogenic effects of the latter were reduced. Further, four of the five subjects gave this feeling as the maximum grade possible in this study. Another similar study, used a differing assessment, the Subjective Drug Effects Questionnaire (SDEQ) . For those interested in exploring the therapeutic potential of cannabis, it is also advisable to start with cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating component of cannabis that has shown promise in anxiety management. Seeking the advice of both a medical provider and a mental health professional is essential. While conventional wisdom might suggest that cannabis can effectively reduce anxiety, the reality is more nuanced. However, more studies with standardized approaches to dosing and clinical outcome measurements are needed to determine the appropriate dosing strategy for CBD and its place in therapy. Doses varied widely, with studies employing fixed CBD doses ranging from 6 mg to 400 mg per dose. Although in real life many people report using cannabis use for depression, anxiety and sleep, this area of research is still relatively scarce. Some studies have also reported age-related variability in the presentation of symptoms of major depressive disorder, with older adults reporting more sleep-related depressive symptomology, including problems sleeping during the night and more early morning awakenings . A meta-analysis of medical cannabis use reported similar findings, with anxiety (50%) and depression (34%) among the top reasons for use . Despite this, evidence-based strategies for treating insomnia in mood and anxiety disorders are limited, and first-line treatments for mood and anxiety disorders do little to manage insomnia symptoms in treatment-resistant individuals 9–11. Overall, current evidence indicates CBD has considerable potential as a treatment for multiple anxiety disorders, with need for further study of chronic and therapeutic effects in relevant clinical populations. CBD is also commonly used on its own as a supplement, marketed for pain, sleep, anxiety, substance use disorders and much more — but studies on its effectiveness for medical purposes other than epilepsy are limited. It revealed that CBD-rich treatments have a beneficial impact on patients with self-reported moderate or severe symptoms of pain, anxiety, or depression and overall wellbeing but not in patients with mild symptoms. Specifically, studies showed self-perceived improvement in ESAS-r emotional symptoms (anxiety and depression) scores following CBM treatment in oncology patients, while pain and wellbeing symptoms showed no improvement (Good et al. 2019; Pawasarat et al. 2020). full spectrum cbd All information provided on United Patients Group’s Website is provided for information purposes only and should not replace the opinion of a certified medical professional. As research continues to progress, it is important that consumers are able to disentangle which products are likely to have a therapeutic effect and which are not. Further, it is possible that consumers mistakenly assume that evidence from controlled research with pharmaceutical-grade cannabinoid therapeutics (e.g., Epidiolex®) apply to all retail CBD-products. That said, there are so many promising studies out there that point to the incredible therapeutic properties being discovered in various cannabinoids.The datasets presented in this article are not readily available because the corresponding author does not own this data.Studies report that medical cannabis might help some conditions.Dreamt is my favorite sleep aid brand on the market.However, none of the clinical trials considered lasted more than 12 weeks, making it impossible to determine long-term effectiveness and benefits for patients with severe depression or suicidal patients.Therefore, it is also not surprising that people who believed medicinal cannabis might assist with their condition enough to initiate use would perceive a substantial benefit.Although there is a lack of firm evidence for the use of lavender flowers and lavender oil for anxiety and related sleep disorders, positive effects have been reported.By comparison, there is a dearth of knowledge regarding the effect of CU on cognition in depression. This body of evidence suggests that cannabis could have a therapeutic effect on depression. Observations of decreased neurogenesis in the hippocampus and its reversal by antidepressants have led to the theory that changes in neuroplasticity are central to the pathogenesis of depression as well as its treatment (113, 114). Interestingly, structural brain changes in depression in the hippocampus and density of gray matter in some cortical regions are similar to those seen in individuals who use cannabis regularly. While cannabis containing THC remains prohibited under federal law, individual states have enacted their own regulations, creating a patchwork of laws governing its medical and recreational use. Once a widely accepted treatment option, the federal government imposed sanctions on the sale and cultivation of cannabis in 1937, leading to its classification as a Schedule I controlled substance in 1970. The legal framework surrounding medical cannabis has changed significantly over the years. We also expand on other epidemiological work that has principally focused on the impact of non-medicinal cannabis use on symptoms of anxiety and depression by providing insight into the effects of medicinal cannabis use on these symptoms. Notably, both of these studies listed current psychiatric diagnosis as exclusion criteria, making it difficult to extrapolate these outcomes to people with clinical anxiety or depression. Nabiximols produced no effect on symptoms of anxiety or depression in people with multiple sclerosis (74) or in people with chronic pain due to cancer (75). In this vein, an increasing number of people struggling with anxiety and/or depression are trying cannabis products for symptom management (27–29). The aim of the present observational study was to assess general health in medicinal cannabis users and non-using controls with anxiety and/or depression. The literature suggests that cannabis use is linked to the onset and poorer clinical course in bipolar disorder and PTSD, but this finding is not as clear in depression and anxiety disorders (ADs). Another recent review, whose results were published in June 2025, analyzed the effects of cannabis preparations on patients with anxiety disorders. Be sure to consult with your healthcare practitioner and discuss any prior substance abuse issues before consuming cannabis as a treatment of depression, anxiety, or any other condition. If you have been diagnosed with depression and are seeking treatments beyond prescription antidepressants with their often unpleasant side effects, medical marijuana could help address your symptoms. The vast majority (86%) were current cannabis users. The new Harvard-led survey, published in the journal Menopause, looked at patterns of cannabis use in 131 women in perimenopause — the often years-long stretch before periods cease — along with 127 women who had passed through menopause. This wave of acceptance runs alongside skepticism in some quarters concerning FDA-approved menopause treatment options, including hormone therapy. Gene-editing therapy lowers harmful blood fats in early study Organizations such as Holistic Caring & The Green Nurse and Bloom Hemp CBD are leading the way in integrative cannabis care. Linares et al (2018) and Zuardi et al (2017) also tested other doses and observed no effect on anxiety levels after acute administration of 150, 600 and 900 mg of CBD on anxiety levels.In anxiety and comorbid conditions, all strain categories were perceived to be efficacious with no significant differences between strains.Every person responds to cannabis differently and the various forms can have effects that differ from one another.Three RCTs, all individually randomized parallel group, reported on different medical conditions (one study for each category) 28-37.More women than men are diagnosed with depression, but this may be due in part because women are more likely to seek treatment.As Dr. Barnett points out, the 2019 study didn’t find much support for marijuana helping anxiety symptoms.Apps such as these are able to track patient symptoms and collect data on the specific cannabis dosage form, cannabinoid ratios and particular cannabis products used for certain diseases, conditions or symptomatic relief. The total number of reported patients, withdrawing from the study due to experience of side effects, was 16 in the CBD group. Irvin et al (2018) reported no effects of CBD-rich extracts (100 mg/day up to 250/day for 8 weeks) added to current treatment and administrated in the form of oral capsules to patients diagnosed with ulcerative colitis . Four randomized parallel-group trials (196 participants) assessed the role of CBD on cognitive impairment and psychotic symptoms in patients with psychotic disorders (schizophrenia) 28-31. These studies reported that acute oral administration of 600 mg (SAD subjects) and 300 mg (healthy subjects) of CBD reduced anxiety assessed by the visual analogue mood scale compared to placebo. Outcome level assessment was performed only for anxiety in social anxiety disorder (SAD) and psychotic symptoms and cognitive function in schizophrenia patients following recommendations applying GRADE approach in narrative synthesis . Some research suggests that cannabis enhances people’s sexual experience by helping them relax. Some studies have found a negative relationship between cannabis use and sperm count, as well as other measures of male fertility, including sperm viability and motility. Not much research has looked specifically at CBD and fertility, and most studies have been in animals, not people. One trial suggested an increased risk of liver injury among people using other epilepsy drugs (valproate and clobazam), but a later study did not. Buying CBD products from a licensed dispensary can help ensure that a product is safe, as these establishments are regulated in states where cannabis is legal. Americans overwhelmingly say marijuana should be legal for medical or recreational use. Associations between adolescent cannabis use and young-adult functioning in three longitudinal twin studies. Chapter 8 - Cannabis-induced psychotic disorders. Effects of extended cannabis abstinence in major depressive disorder. To understand how cannabis-based medical products might affect insomnia symptoms, the authors of this study analyzed a set of 124 insomnia patients taking medical cannabis products. A recent meta-analysis that included studies of symptoms among patients given THC, CBD, or THC-CBD combinations for other conditions or disorders (e.g., pain or multiple sclerosis) similarly found insufficient evidence to confirm efficacy for these conditions and disorders (35). Another two studies of single-dose CBD and one of daily-dosed CBD for 4 weeks among individuals with social anxiety disorders reported beneficial effects of CBD (28, 29). The goal of this review was to gather information in order to determine whether THC and CBD specifically influence clinical symptoms of anxiety and depression among individuals with psychiatric disorders. It’s believed that cannabinoids help you sleep because they tell the cannabinoid receptors in your brain to increase adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes sleep. She's happy to report that she sleeps well most nights, which is probably thanks to her energetic dog and her other work managing a family-owned whitewater rafting business in Upstate New York. Cassandra is a health writer who has been a contributor to Sleep Foundation since 2021. Some studies report reductions in anxiety scores and perceived symptom improvement with CBD use.Cannabis comes in different strains, each providing different effects.This could suggest that individuals with depression have a distinct response profile to CBD for insomnia, and/or CBD might exert anxiolytic effects in individuals with anxiety and comorbid depression/anxiety, which, in turn, may improve sleep.CBD-rich products are administered in various methods and formats, but most commonly as oral plant-derived extracts or oils and as inhaled dried flowers.Now I sleep through the night and wake up refreshed and rejuvenated!Further, large RCTs are needed to confirm the effect of CBD for the treatment of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, dyslipidemia and cannabis use disorders.In short, without adequate sleep, the brain struggles to regulate pain, mood, and stress—regardless of other treatments used. The total treatment cost has significant impact on treatment continuation. Also, there was a large drop of sample size (53% loss) due to missing data. Future research is required in controlled clinical settings to examine these factors in order to provide a more complete account of CBD effectiveness. The other review was an update of the previous focusing more on clinical data. The comprehensive review by Bergamaschi et al included animal and clinical studies reporting a favorable safety profile of CBD in humans . Results for the remaining studies, by indication and follow-up, for the number of participants experiencing any AEs compared to placebo AEs, classified by primary system organ class are reported in Table 4. In another study side effects were monitored by answering question to a questionnaire . All patients experienced an improvement in sleep quality and RLS severity over the course of the study. Eleven persons had a diagnosis of major depression according to the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-4”, and two had a primary sleep disorder. Other side effects of St. John’s wort-containing preparations are gastrointestinal disorders, fatigue, and restlessness . The 2 major phyto- cannabinoid constituents with central nervous system activity are THC, responsible for the euphoric and mind-altering effects, and CBD, which lacks these psychoactive effects. In recent years, CBD has attracted increasing interest as a potential anxiolytic treatment 13–15. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid constituent of Cannabis sativa that lacks the psychoactive effects of ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Currently available pharmacological treatments include serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, benzodiazepines, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressant drugs, and partial 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)1A receptor agonists. Together, they have a lifetime prevalence in the USA of 29 % , the highest of any mental disorder, and constitute an immense social and economic burden 5, 6. A recent (2021) study by Abdelhalim et al. assessed the effect of peppermint infusion and fresh parts on the mental health of university students . A study by Adam et al. showed that peppermint odor reduced fatigue and improved mood and sleep . Sedative effects on induced sleep, behavior, motility, and coordination were observed in mice treated with aqueous peppermint extract . A recent study of 84 CBD products bought online showed that more than a quarter of the products contained less CBD than labeled. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your wellness routine with new anti-anxiety products or need some more help relaxing, give these cannabinoids a shot! Cannabinol (CBN) is more commonly used as a sleep aid, but it has mild psychoactive properties that can also benefit individuals with anxiety. Formulations, dose and dosage schemes varied significantly between studies. Few new clinical trials have been conducted recently, and the extant trials have significant flaws in methodology. The survey data is generally positive. Unfortunately, the evidence examining its use in mental health has been slow to evolve, but is emerging. Altered frontal cortical volume and decision making in adolescent cannabis users. Biphasic effects of THC in memory and cognition. Differential associations of adolescent versus young adult cannabis initiation with longitudinal brain change and behavior. The endocannabinoid system is involved with mood regulation, and scientists believe that the cannabinoid receptors located primarily in the brain, called CB1 receptors, play a big role in the occurrence of depression. Because the entire system was only discovered in the past 30 years, scientists still have much to learn about the myriad ways cannabis affects the human body. The human body produces its own cannabinoids, which modulate and activate its various functions, but as its name suggests, the endocannabinoid system can also be modulated and activated by cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It should be noted that this study was performed on rodents and not human subjects. CBD dosage recommendations for depression are limited as there hasn’t been enough research into this issue. Although some of these studies initially found an increased odds of anxiety onset, the effect lost significance after adjusting for variables such as other substance use and early-life psychosocial factors. Amongst these are two large national studies 29,37, as well as two small, but more robust analyses of rich data sets following cohorts from adolescence into early adulthood 38,39. We identified six prospective studies demonstrating CU does not significantly affect the odds of a future depression diagnosis 29,37–41. Ratheesh and colleagues 30 demonstrated that CU in a clinically high-risk population may increase odds of conversion to bipolar disorder, although there was a limited number of conversions and they were not able to reach statistical significance with this small sample. Common stressors during that time, such as aging parents or an emptying nest, add to the effects of dipping hormones. For many women, anxiety spikes during perimenopause, she notes. The drug likely helps all of these symptoms by "dimming the prefrontal cortex, the decision-making part of our brain." But Dr. Hirsch wasn't surprised by the high proportion reporting regular cannabis use. Nearly 79% endorsed it to alleviate menopause-related symptoms. You can also ask staff questions about products, how they work, and which ones might work best for you. Their products are tested in labs for contamination and clearly labeled with CBD dosage. Many products that claim to be CBD also contain other cannabinoids, such as THC. The main risk of using CBD is that most CBD products are unregulated. Clinical trials using medical marijuana and its by-products for other psychiatric and medical conditions, which included depression as a secondary outcome, have generated intriguing signals. A population based longitudinal study published in 2017 reported that the onset of depression occurred at a younger age in the non-cannabis using population than in those who used cannabis (64). An epidemiological study in the US described odds for lifetime CUD that were 3.9 times higher for people with mood disorders (including MDD) (65, 66). The frequent absence of linkage between infrequent or low dose CU and the emergence of depression is compatible with preclinical data showing opposing effects on neurogenesis of baseline tonic and more intense stimulation of the ECS (33). Moreover, there is insufficient data to determine the impact of cannabis use on cognition in individuals with major depression disorder. In addition, participants who received CBD reported significantly lower subjective anxiety than those who received a placebo.There is some evidence that the addition of CBD to a THC-containing product may minimise some of the intoxicating and other adverse psychological effects of THC (eg paranoia, anxiety), although this remains controversial.50,58,59If sleep complaints predominated, the dosing was every evening, after dinner.CBD did not affect responses to negative emotional stimuli nor did it alter self-reported mood or anxiety .We will examine the impact of cannabis on the onset and course of depression, and its treatment.The researchers also found that 61 percent of the patients who used cannabis had initiated use after age 60.Though cannabis was perceived efficacious across most age groups in our study, this was not true for older adults in the depressive group. Let us delve into the scientific realm of cannabis, its use, and its legal implications to gain a deeper understanding and perhaps shed light on the question of whether one should begin using cannabis. If you are one of those struggling with anxiety, rest assured that you are not alone. As the quest for knowledge continues, it is important to separate the facts from the fiction surrounding cannabis so that individuals can make informed decisions and enjoy its potential benefits responsibly. These studies examined the role of CBD in the anxiety response of healthy volunteers; in generalized anxiety disorder; in social anxiety disorder; and in the anxiety component of posttraumatic stress syndrome. Some studies have suggested that using cannabis too frequently or using potent products high in the intoxicating cannabinoid THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) can actually worsen anxiety long-term. They often want to avoid opioid medications, which can be highly addictive and cause significant side effects — research has shown that chronic pain patients who use cannabis often decrease their use of opioids. As with other substance use disorders, there are proven treatments for cannabis addiction such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Sellers call it ‘light weed,’ but the health effects and safety are largely unknown Memory problems, lung health and other issues should be considered when using products like this. In some cases, cannabis has also been shown to increase feelings of anxiety, paranoia and panic attacks, especially with high-THC strains. We do know that cannabis does affect your mental state — but not in the ways you may be seeking in order to help manage symptoms. The approved therapeutic indications are mild to moderate depressive episodes and short-term treatment of symptoms in mild depressive disorders . In general, insufficient evidence was found to fully support the use of peppermint in anxiety disorders and depression. Students in the treatment group reported better memory function and quality of sleep and reduced anxiety. However, few studies have addressed the effects of peppermint on anxiety and depression. Besides excluding the option of pooling data for a meta-analysis to evaluate efficacy, the consequence of non-consensus of CBD dose is important when evaluating safety issues. An important finding of this review is the heterogeneous use of doses, dosage schemes and formulations (inhalation, oral capsules and sublingual oil, topical gel) across all indications of CBD. Further, the main route of administration for the studies included in this review was oral (either in the form of capsules or sublingual oil). In all studies, expect for one that used plant extracts , purified CBD was administered. Regarding cognitive function little or no effects were observed after chronic or acute administration. Some studies have shown that THC +CBD had a good outcome when used as prophylactic or when given in acute attack . Frequency is also a concern, as patients vary from "1-10 hits per day" or 2-3 times per day depending on the convention used 26,32. The study concluded that THC + CBD 200 mg had a 40.4% improvement over amitriptyline use (40.1%) . In another phase, 25 mg of amitriptyline or THC+CBD 200 mg per day was given prophylactically for three months in chronic migraine patients ; also, THC + CBD 200 mg was required for the acute attack . It was found that a dose of 200 mg effectively reduced the intensity of migraine pain by 55% . In another double-blind, randomized cross-over trial of 24 patients with a neurological diagnosis, sublingual CBD (2.5–120 mg/day for two weeks, titrated against symptom relief/adverse effects) improved spasticity severity on a numerical symptom scale relative to placebo . CBD appears to have little influence on physiological responses to stress (e.g., cortisol, heart rate), though few studies have incorporated such outcomes and many have relied solely on subjective measures of anxiety. CBD did not affect responses to negative emotional stimuli nor did it alter self-reported mood or anxiety . In another study, healthy volunteers ingested CBD (300, 600, or 900 mg) or placebo prior to being exposed to various visual stimuli, both positive and negative. They can accurately diagnose your condition and discuss evidence-based treatments tailored to your specific needs. Currently, only four states – Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska and South Dakota – have chosen not to legalise cannabis in any way. THC has shown potential to increase anxiety, while CBD shows promising anxiolytic properties. In addition, although cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug and is often used in combination with other substances, the evidence is mixed regarding its role as a ‘gateway’ drug to more harmful substances. Contrary to common misconceptions, research does not establish a direct causal link between cannabis use and psychosis or death. Changes in volume and cortical thickness in several brain regions (hippocampus, anterior and posterior cingulate gyrus, frontal and temporal lobes) may underlie the cognitive deficits of depression (112). Changes in cognition may be seen as early as the first episode of depression (111) and may persist upon remission. The hippocampus plays a key role in episodic memory (106), a cognitive domain that has been shown to be consistently impaired by acute and chronic cannabis use. Another factor to consider is that the effects of THC and CBD on cognition may be in opposite directions. Despite the current legal climate, numerous private companies have started manufacturing and marketing CBD and other cannabis products to the public claiming health benefits. We then discuss the effects of cannabis on normal sleep, circadian sleep-wake rhythms, effects on sleep during withdrawal, and conversely, the effects of poor sleep on relapse to cannabis use. For this comprehensive narrative review, a literature search was performed in Ovid Medline, Embase and Scopus using search terms “cannabis” and “sleep” from January 1, 1960 to July 1, 2021 for all English articles of any study design. Buspirone and other 5-HT1AR agonists are approved for the treatment of GAD, with fair response rates . Proposed agents for enhancing CB1R activation include THC, which is a potent and direct agonist; synthetic CB1R agonists; FAAH inhibitors and other agents that increase eCB availability, as well as nonpsychoactive cannabis phytocannabinoids, including CBD. Reduction of AEA–CB1R signaling in the amygdala mediates the anxiogenic effects of corticotropin-releasing hormone , and CB1R activation is essential to negative feedback of the neuroendocrine stress response, and protects against the adverse effects of chronic stress 38, 39. CBD has a broad pharmacological profile, including interactions with several receptors known to regulate fear and anxiety-related behaviors, specifically the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R), the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, and the transient receptor potential (TRP) vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) receptor 11, 12, 19, 21. I have struggled with sleep for decades ... These Sound Asleep gummies are a miracle for me I highly recommend them. As I’ve grown older I’ve been having trouble sleeping through the night. Medterra is my go-to CBD brand because they prioritize quality and clinically tested ingredients that I can confidently recommend. Dr. Barnett reiterates that additional research is needed to determine the full effectiveness of marijuana products to treat mental health problems. The review found no compelling evidence for using any type of marijuana for mental health treatment. In a 2019 review, scientists looked at 83 studies on medicinal marijuana, synthetic marijuana and marijuana-derived products. Here’s what you should know about the effects of cannabis on your mental health. Insufficient data regarding safety issues were provided, but most studies reported no AEs with acute administration and mild to moderate adverse effects with chronic administration.In a recent double-blind, randomized controlled trial conducted with Japanese teenagers who had a DSM-IV diagnosis of social anxiety disorder, 300 mg of CBD oil was administered orally each day for 4 weeks (30).There are scarce clinical studies on the topic of cannabis and depression involving human participants.Currently, small and controlled clinical trials have provided only very limited data regarding the effects of cannabis in the management of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.No interactions with drugs or other interactions have been reported.However, when the analysis was limited to those studies that required at least 1 month of abstinence, no decrement in cognitive function was detected (95). The time course and significance of cannabis withdrawal. Puighermanal E, Busquets-Garcia A, Gomis-González M, Marsicano G, Maldonado R, Ozaita A. Dissociation of the pharmacological effects of THC by mTOR blockade. Treatment and prevention of depression. Epidemiology of adult DSM-5 major depressive disorder and its specifiers in the United States. Overview of key data from the European Study of the Epidemiology of Mental Disorders (ESEMeD). Terpenes also synergize with cannabinoids and may significantly contribute to relieving anxiety, depression, pain, and more. Of those, most patients reported a significant improvement over conventional medicine (78.3%) for anxiety relief. 20 mg of CBG is a much smaller dose compared to the hundreds of milligrams of CBD used in clinical anxiety studies. Based on current data, cannabinoid therapies (containing primarily CBD) may provide a more suitable treatment for people with pre-existing anxiety or as a potential adjunctive role in managing anxiety or stress-related disorders. Many prior studies have reported conflicting results on cannabis’s impact on mental health and sleep, with THC in particular producing both beneficial and detrimental outcomes depending on the study. CBD-rich treatment effectiveness on pain, anxiety, depression symptoms, and on overall wellbeing in 279 patients. Despite growing evidence and interest, no real-world data (RWD) studies have yet investigated patients’ reports of CBD impact on symptom control in the common expression of pain, anxiety, depression, and poor wellbeing. Beyond these effects on physical conditions, cannabis has been reported to improve neurocognitive and psychiatric conditions, such as Alzheimer disease, anxiety disorders and bipolar disorder.2,3 If chronic pain is an issue, the levels of stress and cortisol in your system may be triggering flare-ups. These back-to-back events can affect the way you are dealing with anxiety and how much rest may be able to get. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. You'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. If all domains were judged as being at low risk of bias, the study was considered at low risk of bias. Reference lists of included studies were evaluated, and if needed, authors were contacted for further information. We restricted our search to studies published after the year of 2000 with no demographic limitation. Over time, the impact of cannabis on sleep often becomes neutral, and in some cases may worsen sleep quality. Observational evidence suggests that cannabis can shorten sleep latency, increase slow-wave sleep, and decrease REM latency and duration. Patients commonly report subjective improvements in sleep with cannabis, and individuals with PTSD are especially likely to use it in an effort to reduce nightmares. It is possible that functional problems related to cannabis use, rather than a neurobiological effect of cannabis, might impact PTSD treatment effectiveness. Additionally, trauma-focused treatments were more effective than non-trauma-focused treatments, regardless of whether individuals used cannabis (Hill et al., 2024b). One increasingly popular strategy for sleeping better is taking cannabidiol (CBD), a derivative of cannabis. A good night’s sleep is essential to your overall health and wellbeing. Lauren is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with extensive experience researching and testing a wide variety of sleep products. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help you make an informed decision about CBD use — whether you’re getting it from a beverage or another form.