Cannabidiol, also known as CBD oil, is a product extracted from the Cannabis plant which is then diluted with a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil.

It is one of the many natural compounds found in the marijuana plant; however, unlike the other compounds found in Cannabis, CBD is not psychoactive, which means it does not cause the "high" associated with marijuana use.

CBD oil is commonly used as a natural remedy for a variety of health conditions, such as anxiety, chronic pain, depression, epilepsy, and insomnia and while it has not been approved and regulated by the national regulatory body, some studies suggest that it may be effective in reducing pain, inflammation, and anxiety. 

Here is a look at how CBD oil helps in managing anxiety, how it is taken to help with anxiety, as well as some of its side effects that have been reported.

CBD oil has been studied as a potential treatment for anxiety, and some people use it to manage symptoms of anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Some research suggests that CBD oil may have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties. For example, a 2019 review of studies on CBD and anxiety discovered that CBD may help reduce some anxiety symptoms, including restlessness and nervousness.

CBD oil may also help reduce anxiety symptoms by interacting with the body's complex network of receptors and chemicals that help regulate various bodily functions, such as mood, stress response, and inflammation. CBD’s interaction with the receptors and chemicals can help to regulate these functions and promote a sense of calm.

Additionally, some studies done on animals have shown that CBD oil can reduce anxiety in animals by reducing stress, inducing sleep in insomniac animals, improving symptoms of PTSD and decreasing the side effects of anxiety such as rapid heartbeat rate. 

More studies are needed to make a conclusive report about how CBD oil for anxiety works on humans and if it really works.

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Tinctures and oils. These come in dropper bottles and are taken through the mouth. Some people also add a few drops of CBD oil to their drinks.

CBD pills. They can be in the form of capsules, tablets, or soft gels which are swallowed. 

CBD gummies. These are chewy edibles that are often sweet and fruit-flavoured.

Vapes. The CBD oil can be heated to produce a vapour which is then inhaled.

Smoke. The flowers of marijuana which contain CBD are dried up, rolled up, ignited, and the smoke inhaled.

CBD sprays. They come in bottles with nozzles and are sprayed in the mouth.

CBD creams and lotions. These are applied to the skin and absorbed into the body.

Although CBD oil is generally regarded as a safe and well-tolerated substance with no major risks for users, its side effects can include the following:

The possession and use of CBD oil are currently not legal in Kenya. 

Cannabis is illegal in Kenya and the cultivation, possession, and use of cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD oil are prohibited under the country's Narcotics Control Act.

Being in possession of cannabis or CBD oil can result in severe penalties, including fines and even imprisonment.