CBD has been gaining much attention lately regarding its benefits and potential uses for anxiety. With an increased demand for CBD products, the variety and quality of CBD products continue to grow as well.
The question people seem to be asking then is: “What’s the best CBD for anxiety?”.
If you’re someone who suffers from anxiety and is wondering if CBD can help you, here’s a complete guide to the most popular products available that may help you relax.
First, let’s have a look at the top 10 CBD products that may help to relieve some anxiety symptoms:
- est No-Mess CBD Product: Cornbread Hemp Full Spectrum CBD Capsules
- Best for Relaxing: Green Roads Relax Hemp Capsules
- Best For Overall Calmness: CBDfx CBD + CBN Oil Calming Tincture
- Best CBD Essential Oil: Zatural CBD Stress Away Essential Oil
- Best for Nighttime Use: FOCL Night
- Best Gentle CBD Oil for Sleep: Slumber Sleep Aid CBN Tincture for Sleep
- University-Developed Formula: Tanasi CBD + CBDA Gold Tinctures
- Best for Overall Wellness: Batch CBD Original CBD Oil Tincture
Best CBD for Anxiety in 2023
Note that while these CBD brands are not promising to treat anxiety disorders (you should always go to your doctor for evaluation and possible prescription medications), they may be able to help relieve some symptoms and get you an overall sense of calmness when needed.
Best Overall: CBDistillery Unwind Synergy+ THC & CBD Gummies
CBDistillery is passionate about their mission to lead the “#CBDMOVEMENT” in providing access to high-quality CBD products to their nationwide customer base. They were founded in Colorado by a group of individuals with the collective goal of creating a product that would provide the benefits of quality CBD at a fair, accessible price point. The company offers a wide range of products targeting sleep and relaxation, help with maintaining focus, specific formulas for pain relief and active recovery and select products for your pet.
The company’s CBD Gummies are a once-a-day berry-flavored gummy with a dosage of 5 mg THC and 25 mg CBD. This gummy is recommended for a user looking to unwind and relax at the end of a long day.
The user may feel some intoxicating effects at this dosage of THC, and usage is directed for those over 21 years old. When consuming the product, the recommended serving size is half a gummy, and the user should feel the full effect in about 2 hours. It is also advisable to adhere to the same precautions one would take after consuming any medicine that may cause drowsiness.
Pros:
- High potency for relaxation
- A small serving is effective for positive results
- Gives you a balanced state of relaxation and well-being
Cons:
- May cause intoxicating effects and daytime drowsiness
In a 2019 study, about 90% of users indicated that the Unwind Synergy Gummy reduced mild anxiety, supported a calm mind, and led to better sleep. Customers appreciated the potency level, indicating that they only needed — at most — one CBD gummy to feel the positive effects.
Best No-Mess CBD Product: Cornbread Hemp Full Spectrum CBD Capsules
When starting the company, the founders “set about to make the best product” by attending to details throughout the farming and manufacturing processes. This commitment to quality led them to their “flower-only” innovation, which is sourcing only the hemp flower for extraction rather than the whole stem.
The company’s full spectrum, flower-only CBD capsules are packed with 25 mg of CBD and 1 mg of THC per serving, giving you a fast, tasteless and mess-free way to pop some CBD and get calming relief whenever — and wherever — you need to.
Pros:
- USA-grown hemp from Kentucky
- Attention to quality throughout the extraction and manufacturing process
- Tasteless and mess-free
Cons:
- Includes THC, which some people may not like
Many satisfied users of these full spectrum CBD pills note an overall calming effect and a better night’s sleep. Some customers noted that they felt full effects about 30–45 minutes after taking one. Those who shared that they tried the capsules as part of a plan to manage anxiety noted that the capsules helped to support good mental health and a natural sleep cycle.
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Best for Relaxing: Green Roads Relax Hemp Capsules
Green Roads was co-founded by current CEO Laura Fuentes, a compounding pharmacist with over two decades of experience. The company prides themselves on their medical expertise, naturally sourced ingredients, and uniquely blended CBD oil formula. With a mission to treat every customer like family, they strive to “help every person find the healthiest version of themselves through the power of plants.”
The company’s staff favorite CBD Capsules are formulated to help you relax and unwind without intoxicating effects. The capsules are made of a combination of hemp with GABA and 5-HTP, at a dosage of 25mg hemp extract per capsule. Both GABA and 5-HTP help increase serotonin production in the body, which has been shown to elevate mood and reduce anxiety.
Pros:
- Additional ingredients formulated for overall mental wellness
- Medically driven formulas
- Easy to take capsules
Cons:
- Only one concentration strength offered
Users agree that the Relax Hemp Capsules help them unwind and sustain a calm mind without any foggy-brain effects. Most customers boast of better sleep and a decrease in symptoms associated with mild anxiety.
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Best For Overall Calmness: CBDfx CBD + CBN Oil Calming Tincture
Currently, the second largest privately held CBD company in the world, CBDfx maintains “quality as [their] highest virtue.” The company adheres to this statement by sourcing only organically-grown, pesticide-free, and non-GMO hemp that is then processed with the use of CO2 extraction.
CBDfx offers a range of CBD edibles, sleep aids, vape juice and pens, topicals, pet-focused options, and a varied line of full spectrum products. The company has also begun to combine the benefits of mushrooms and cannabinoids in drops formulated for focus and relaxation.
The company’s CBD Tincture is formulated with full spectrum CBD, CBN and proprietary terpene blend with the goal of helping you relax. CBN is derived directly from THC, as it is degraded in the sun and heat. Therefore it is considered a milder version of THC and does not result in the user feeling any psychoactive effects. Although still being studied, the newly discovered compound may hold many powerful benefits, such as promoting better sleep, relieving chronic pain symptoms, and helping improve some neurological conditions. CBDfx’s calming tincture is available in four different dosing strengths, ranging from 1000 mg CBD / 150 mg CBN to 6000 mg CBD / 300 mg CBN.
Pros:
- Variety of potency allows for proper dosage
- Addition of CBN improves the effectiveness of calming effects and aids in better sleep
- Curated blend of calming terpenes
Cons:
- Natural flavor may take some getting used to
CBDfx’s CBD Tincture rates a 4.8 out of 5-star rating, with almost 1,000 reviews. Customers stated that the CBD oil helped improve sleep, even alleviating symptoms of insomnia. They also noted that the oil aided in the reduction of symptoms associated with chronic and severe anxiety. Some customers, who shared aspects of their mental health, reported a decrease in responses that often led to panic attacks following regular use of the calming tincture.
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Best CBD Essential Oil: Zatural CBD Stress Away Essential Oil
Zatural was founded by Maryann Stranger as part of her drive to establish a healthier lifestyle for herself and her eight children. At the start of that journey was the completion of a naturopathic doctoral degree from Clayton College of Nutrition Health, which then culminated in the start of a company to provide her patients with the best therapeutic products.
The company’s CBD Essential Oil combines the benefits of CBD with natural ingredients that have been shown to promote a sense of calm. Along with CO2 extracted CBD oil, the essential oil formula also includes sandalwood, lavender, ylang ylang, sweet marjoram, roman chamomile and peru psalm. Unlike other products featured within this list that are meant to be consumed, the Zatural essential oil product is intended to be diluted within a diffuser or rubbed onto the skin.
Pros:
- Combination of CBD and herbal ingredients that promote relaxation
- Easy application methods allow for use throughout the day
- 30-day return policy
Cons:
- Positive calming effects of CBD may be less potent in the form of a non-consumable
Generally, users acknowledge the company’s excellent customer service and quality of the product. Customers who have remained loyal to the brand note that there is excellent quality control across batches.
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Best for Nighttime Use: FOCL Night
FOCL is a modern wellness brand founded by Ken Lawson following his battle with chronic fatigue syndrome. He created the company with the goal of providing access to high-quality CBD products, and continues to operate the company with the vision of quality, transparency, and value. The company has a simple line of CBD drops, topicals, gummies, and daily supplements.
The company’s CBD Capsules are formulated with CBD oil and five botanicals to promote deep sleep, including passion flower, valerian, ashwagandha, hops cones, and griffonia simplicifolia. The CBD supplement is designed to be part of your bedtime routine, and it is recommended to take two capsules with a full glass of water about 30-60 minutes before bed. The formula contains no THC, is 100% plant-based, and is made with all organic ingredients.
Pros:
- Organic ingredients and Vegan friendly
- Additional botanicals promote relaxation
- Ashwagandha helps repair muscle tension
Cons:
- Some customers noted a dislike for the taste and smell of the capsule
Overall, most of the reviews reported falling asleep faster, staying asleep throughout the night, and waking refreshed. While there were no specific reviews on the impact to overall anxiety symptoms, customers consistently stated that the CBD capsule helped them relax as part of getting ready for a good night’s sleep.
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Best Gentle CBD Oil for Sleep: Slumber Sleep Aid CBN Tincture for Sleep
Slumber Sleep Aid is all about helping you have a better night’s sleep. The whole mission centers around the idea that a proper night’s sleep is the key to being healthy and mentally well. They are committed to education on the benefits of sleep, gaining customer’s trust with effective formulas, and delivering consistent quality products. Slumber Sleep Aid’s products are made with CBN, a cannabinol derived from THC that is non psychoactive. CBN has been shown to have unique “therapeutic benefits for sleep and tranquility.”
The company’s CBN Tincture for sleep is a unique and specially blended formula with the primary purpose to promote a natural and optimal night’s rest. Recommendations for use of the product include holding the tincture under your tongue for 20 seconds before swallowing, about 30 minutes before bed. The tincture is offered at 10 mg CBN or 20 mg CBN per serving.
Pros:
- Unique formula that uses CBN as a primary ingredient
- Addition of botanicals that promote sleep
- Available at two different concentrations levels
Cons:
- MCT oil may contain tree nuts (coconut)
Reviews for Slumber Sleep Aid’s CBN Tincture align with the presented sleep study. Most users found the formula helpful in promoting better and lasting sleep. A few customers even noted within the reviews that the CBN oil was an effective part of their treatment plan to address insomnia. While not users specifically mentioned any effects to anxiety symptoms, the company’s mission notes that a better night’s sleep is the start to a better day.
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University-Developed Formula: Tanasi CBD + CBDA Gold Tinctures
The Tanasai (Ta – NAH – see) products are part of the Greenway Herbal Products company. They are committed to scientifically validated formulas and work in close partnership with Middle Tennessee State University on hemp research. The company offers a small line of topicals, gummies, softgels, and tinctures that all include their patent-pending formula of CBD and CBDa.
The company’s Gold Tinctures pull together two different full spectrum hemp extractions for a product that promotes sleep, aids muscle recovery, and provides a sense of calm. The patent-pending formula was developed by university-based research to find the most beneficial extraction process. From that research came the blend found in the Gold Tincture products that boast the potential of being as much as twice as effective as CBD alone.
Pros:
- Proprietary blend of CBD and CBDa that preliminary studies have shown to have a more significant impact on relaxation and calm than CBD alone
- Support for better sleep, sense of calm and muscle recovery
- University-developed formula
Cons:
- MCT oil may contain tree nuts (coconut)
Overall, customer reviews noted improved sleep, reduced pain, and reduction of anxiety symptoms. While there were less than 50 reviews on the products page, the initial customer reports appear to be positive.
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Best for Overall Wellness: Batch CBD Original CBD Oil Tincture
With a background in chemistry from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, three lifelong friends went from roommates to entrepreneurs with the tide of legalization in their home state. In 2018, Dennis, Griff, and Andy, their newly founded company, was accepted into the “Wisconsin Hemp Pilot Program.” The company started as a grower and manufacturer for other CBD lines but quickly turned to creating their own formulas for production. From those uniquely curated formulas came BATCH, with their first products rolling out in 2020. They are committed to using locally grown, ethically sourced hemp and processing it in small batches to maintain a high-quality final product.
The company’s CBD Oil Tincture was their first in-house product and remains one of their top-selling CBD oils. The formula is offered in four concentrations, 500 mg, 1000 mg, 2000 mg, and 3000 mg. For use, place the CBD oil under the tongue for about 30 seconds with the use of the graduated dropper. Most users report usage of the product 1 to 2 times per day.
Pros:
- Simple, all-natural ingredients
- Locally sourced hemp
- Small batches increasing quality control
Cons:
- Full effects may take up to 1 to 2 hours
Almost 100% of the reviews on Batch CBD’s Oil Tincture are 5 stars and boast of the difference they have noticed in their symptoms related to anxiety. In addition, many of the noted reviews are from long-term and returning customers who have come to rely on usage as part of their anxiety treatment. While the total number of reviews of this product remains under 100 users, the company has garnered long-time users in less than two years of production.
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How We Chose Our Winners
While the best CBD for generalized anxiety disorder is primarily based on individual needs for use, we created this list with some overall criteria in mind.
When identifying reputable CBD companies, we considered the activities ingredients formulated to reduce symptoms of anxiety and promote calm. We looked at the quality of sourced ingredients, the company’s extraction process, and the quality control measures in place for each product. We also, most importantly, compared provided customer results for each product and noted which products aligned with user needs.
We looked at each CBD oil, gummy, or capsule’s specific formula, including the type of CBD used, additional ingredients, and available potency. While each of the highlighted products’ formulas stood out for different reasons, each showed positive effects for their users’ needs. Our winners’ formulas stood out among other CBD products based on the use of combined ingredients that resulted in the most effective formula for calm and relaxation.
We also looked at where their ingredients were sourced, their methods of extracting CBD oil from the hemp plant, and their attention to detail within quality control measures. Our winners paid meticulous attention to their entire product, from sourced ingredients to final packaging.
Lastly, reviewing customer results was important in choosing who led among the winners. Our top winners consistently had positive customer reviews indicating improved sleep, decreased anxiety symptoms, and an increase in overall mental wellness. Our top CBD for anxiety demonstrated positive customer results across all three noted areas.
What is CBD?
Types of CBD
Full spectrum CBD products are processed through an extraction method that leaves the most cannabinoids and other compounds within the extracted CBD oil, including small amounts of THC. While THC in higher concentrations can result in the user feeling a high, the amounts found in full spectrum CBD will not have the same results. Users boast benefits of the “Entourage Effect” from full spectrum products due to the combination of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that remain in the final product and work synergistically in positively affecting the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Broad spectrum CBD products are similar to full spectrum CBD products, except that they do not contain any traces of THC. To obtain broad spectrum CBD oil, a second extraction process is completed which removes the THC from the compound. The CBD oil maintains all of the synergistic benefits of the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids; without the worry of any trace of THC.
Pure CBD isolate products are a pure form of CBD. These products do not contain any other cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, or THC. They are typically in powder form or capsules.
Uses of CBD
As the CBD market continues to grow the availability of different product uses has expanded. Currently, the most common uses of CBD are related to pain management, anxiety reduction, sleep improvement, and treating inflammation. There are also products containing CBD that target skin care, digestion, and pet care.
How to Choose the Right CBD Product for Your Needs
When considering your individual choice for CBD, it is important to identify what you are hoping to gain from adding CBD into your daily routine. While all CBD formulas share similarities, each product is created with a unique goal in mind for the user. As outlined across our winners’ list, a product may be better suited for improving sleep rather than targeting general wellness.
Once you have identified a goal for your CBD use, it would be important to consider the type of CBD within the product’s formula — noting either full spectrum CBD (that may contain small traces of THC), broad spectrum CBD or isolate CBD. It would also be important to note the product’s concentration of CBD and review dosing recommendations. A product with a higher concentration that is recommended for nighttime use would be best suited for an individual looking to improve their sleep patterns. While a product that has a lower concentration of CBD and a combination of natural ingredients that promote calm would be best suited for an individual looking to address symptoms related to situational or generalized anxiety.
How to Take CBD Oil, Gummies and Capsules
When consuming any CBD product, it’s important to read the dosing information, including concentration of CBD, potency of any THC, and guidelines for serving size. In most cases, consumption of CBD is intended for use once daily. In all cases, it is best to consult your physician when adding any CBD product to your daily routine.
Typically, when using organic CBD oil for consumption, one using the dropper provided to place a drop underneath the tongue. The user then holds the liquid under the tongue for 30 seconds to a minute before swallowing. Most CBD oils can also be added to food or drinks before consumption.
Particularly when consuming CBD gummies, it is important to pay attention to the noted serving size. Some CBD products outline the dosage per 2 gummies, while others note the dosage per 1 or even half a gummy.
Similarly, CBD capsules will note an intended serving size of 1 to 2 capsules per day. Some may also recommend that the product be consumed during a meal.
Benefits of CBD
There are many potential benefits to using CBD, and this list continues to grow as clinical studies further examine different treatments.
The FDA currently approves the use of CBD as a treatment for epilepsy and other neurological disorders. There’s also a growing body of research that has shown significant improvements in anxiety symptoms across participants whose treatment plan includes the use of CBD.
Additional benefits of using CBD, as reported by users, also include improvement in sleep patterns, reduction in chronic pain symptoms, assistance with relaxation, and as part of a beneficial skincare routine.
Potential Side Effects of CBD
Using CBD is considered generally safe, however mild side effects can occur. There is the possibility of dry mouth, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and/or fatigue.
While the CBD industry has high-quality control standards and has incorporated third-party testing to ensure transparency of ingredients, it is always good practice to be aware of the specific company’s sourced materials and manufacturing process.
It is also important to consider that CBD can interact with medications that you may be taking. As a general rule, it is always a good idea to consult with your physician before trying CBD.
FAQs:
Will I get high from CBD?
Not typically — CBD oil brands usually extract from the hemp plant resulting in a final product that either contains minimal or zero traces of THC. The compound that is responsible for the intoxicating effects of marijuana, THC, is still present in full spectrum CBD but at concentrations so low that the user typically does not feel any effects. There are no detectable traces of THC in either broad spectrum CBD or CBD isolate.
How much CBD oil should I take?
The dosage of CBD that is right for you and your needs depends on your individual needs, the reason for using CBD, and tolerance levels. It is generally recommended to start at the lowest dose offered and slowly increase dosing based on effectiveness. Keep in mind that most products’ full effects are not felt for up to 2 hours after consumption. If you have questions or concerns specific to your medical history, it is always recommended that you consult with a physician on CBD use.
Can I have CBD every day?
Generally — yes! CBD is safe for daily usage in most cases. If using a full spectrum CBD, you should be mindful of the possibility of testing positive on a drug test due to the build of the low concentration of THC. Most consumable CBD products recommend a daily dosage and to maintain a routine with the timing of the dosage.
Recent clinical studies have shown the benefits of CBD oils, gummies, and capsules as part of a treatment plan for addressing anxiety symptoms. A wide variety of options are available for those looking to add CBD to their daily routine. High potency CBD options can be incorporated into nightly use to improve sleep and overall well-being. In contrast, lower potency or concentration CBD oil tinctures can be used during situational or episodic anxiety events.
We hope this list will help you find the best CBD to improve your anxiety symptoms, sleep patterns, calm mind, relaxation, and/or overall mental well-being.
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