The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t approve or test retail CBD products for quality or potency, meaning consumers are responsible for selecting the best product to meet their needs. Further complicating matters, some retail CBD products have been found to be mislabeled regarding potency, as well as purity. A 2017 study in JAMA Network indicates that, among 84 independently tested retail CBD products, 26% contained less CBD than the label claimed, and 43% contained more CBD compared to the label. Knowing the signs of a high-quality CBD product for anxiety and stress is therefore extremely important prior to purchase or consumption.
Factors that may indicate a product is high quality include:
- USDA-certified organic seal
- Label indicates the product is non-GMO and contains all-natural ingredients
- Certificate of analysis (COA) is easily accessible, demonstrating potency and safety
- Company doesn’t make unsupported health claims
- Manufacturer provides specific dosage information
- Whether the CBD is processed to be water soluble
A health care professional familiar with using CBD for anxiety may be able to help you choose the highest quality product for your needs.
Types of CBD for Anxiety
Retail CBD products are available in three forms: CBD isolate, broad-spectrum CBD and full-spectrum CBD, which differ based on extraction and processing methods. While CBD isolate contains exclusively CBD, broad-spectrum and full-spectrum CBD contain additional cannabinoids and active plant constituents, such as terpenes. Meanwhile, broad-spectrum CBD is processed to contain non-detectable levels of THC while full-spectrum CBD contains all naturally occurring cannabinoids, including up to 0.3% THC by dry weight.
Personal preference comes into play regarding the type of CBD product an individual prefers, from beverage to edible gummy to oil and more.
Recommended CBD Dosage for Anxiety
There’s no established CBD dosage for anxiety management. Manufacturers typically include a recommended dose on the product packaging and/or website, and CBD consumers should read these instructions carefully.
CBD may also be absorbed more effectively when taken with food, according to Dr. McNally, which may be important when considering one’s optimal dosage. Experts generally recommend starting at a low dosage and increasing that amount slowly over time to avoid unwanted side effects.
CBD Risks and Side Effects
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), orally administered CBD products like CBD gummies and CBD oils may cause uncomfortable or harmful side effects, including:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Decreased mental alertness/sedation
- Fatigue
- Mood changes, such as irritability
- Liver injury
- Male reproductive harm
- Drug interactions
Always speak to a health care provider familiar with your medical history and any medications you’re taking before adding a retail CBD product to your wellness regimen to limit the potential for negative side effects.
