Disclosure: BDI.ie is run by the team behind Dr. Hemp Me and CBD Éire. Where we mention those brands, we have a commercial interest. More about who we are.
Last reviewed: October 2026
This guide is for readers in Great Britain and Northern Ireland who are curious about CBD and anxiety. Rules for CBD in the UK differ from those in the Republic of Ireland, and the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) has published specific safety advice. Below we cover the UK rules, what the research does and does not show, how to stay safe, and where to get support.
If you need to talk to someone now, Samaritans are free on 116 123 across the UK and Ireland. In Northern Ireland, the Lifeline crisis service is on 0808 808 8000. In an emergency, call 999.
UK rules on CBD food products
In the UK, CBD foods and supplements are regulated as “novel foods”. In England and Wales, the FSA keeps a public list of CBD products linked to novel food applications that are allowed to stay on sale while they are assessed. Products not on that list should not be sold. Northern Ireland is covered by the FSA in Northern Ireland, and because of the Windsor Framework, some EU food rules also apply there, so the position is not identical to Great Britain.
CBD products must not contain controlled substances such as THC above the very strict limits set by UK drug law, and they cannot claim to treat or prevent illness.
The FSA’s 10mg a day advice
In 2023 the FSA updated its advice, recommending that healthy adults take no more than 10mg of CBD a day (about 4 to 5 drops of a 5% oil). The FSA also advises that CBD is not suitable for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication, unless advised by a doctor. This advice was based on concerns about effects on the liver and thyroid from long-term use at higher amounts.
This is much lower than the doses used in most anxiety studies, which is important when reading headlines.
What the research says about CBD and anxiety
Several small studies have tested single, high doses of CBD (often 300mg or more) in situations such as simulated public speaking, with some showing reduced anxiety scores. Studies in people with anxiety disorders are fewer, smaller and mixed. Many used doses 30 to 60 times higher than the FSA’s 10mg advice. So there is no good evidence that taking CBD within UK safety advice will reduce anxiety, and CBD should not be used instead of proper treatment.
Our more detailed review of the research is here: CBD and anxiety: what the research says.
Treatments with strong evidence
- Talking therapies: CBT and related therapies are recommended for most anxiety disorders. In England, you can refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, start with your GP, who can refer you to local psychological services.
- Guided self-help: structured workbooks or online programmes based on CBT.
- Exercise: regular physical activity has good evidence for reducing anxiety.
- Medication: some people benefit from medication prescribed by their GP.
- Sleep, caffeine and alcohol: better sleep and cutting back on caffeine and alcohol help many people.
Support in Northern Ireland
- Your GP practice.
- Lifeline: 0808 808 8000 (24/7 crisis support).
- Samaritans: 116 123.
- Aware NI: support for depression and anxiety.
- Inspire and Action Mental Health: community support and counselling.
- Many employers offer free, confidential Employee Assistance Programmes.
If you choose to try CBD in the UK
- Check the product is on the FSA list (Great Britain) or sold by a reputable business that complies with NI rules.
- Ask for an independent lab report with a batch number, CBD content and THC result.
- Keep to the FSA’s advice of no more than 10mg a day for healthy adults.
- Talk to your GP or pharmacist first if you take any medication, including antidepressants or anti-anxiety medicines.
- Avoid products making medical claims, and anything containing THC, HHC or other synthetic cannabinoids.
Buying CBD across the Irish border
CBD products sold in the Republic of Ireland are labelled for Irish and EU rules, which differ from those in Great Britain. Since Brexit, parcels between Great Britain and Ireland may also involve customs charges. If you live in Northern Ireland, buy from sellers who clearly state their products comply with the rules that apply there.
Driving, work and drug tests
UK drug-driving laws set very low limits for THC. Products containing even small amounts of THC could lead to a positive roadside test. Workplace drug tests may also detect THC. Use only products whose lab report shows THC is not detected, and do not drive if CBD makes you drowsy.
Our position
BDI.ie is run by the team behind two Irish CBD brands, Dr. Hemp Me and CBD Éire, which sell in the Republic of Ireland. We do not claim CBD treats anxiety. If you are in the UK, follow FSA advice and talk to your GP first.
Working out 10mg a day
| Oil strength | CBD per drop (approx.) | Drops for about 10mg |
|---|---|---|
| 5% (500mg in 10ml) | 2.5mg | 4 |
| 10% (1,000mg in 10ml) | 5mg | 2 |
| 20% (2,000mg in 10ml) | 10mg | 1 |
Gummies and capsules often contain 10mg to 25mg each, so a single gummy may already exceed the FSA’s suggested limit. Check the label and add up CBD from every product you use.
Recognising anxiety
Common signs include constant worry, restlessness, a racing heart, tight chest, trouble sleeping, irritability, poor concentration and avoiding situations. If these last for several weeks or interfere with daily life, a GP can help. Physical causes such as an overactive thyroid, some medicines and high caffeine intake can mimic anxiety, so a check-up is worthwhile.
Self-help you can start today
- Slow breathing with a longer out-breath, practised twice daily.
- A daily walk, ideally outdoors and in daylight.
- Regular bed and wake times.
- Limiting caffeine to the morning and cutting back on alcohol.
- Writing worries down in a set “worry time” each day.
- Talking to someone you trust.
The NHS website has free, evidence-based self-help guides for anxiety, and many GP practices can point you to local programmes.
Why the FSA advice changed
The FSA lowered its suggested limit after reviewing new safety evidence, including studies suggesting that long-term intake at higher amounts could affect the liver and thyroid. The FSA described the 10mg figure as precautionary advice for healthy adults while research continues. It may change again, so check the FSA website for the latest guidance.
Choosing a reputable UK CBD product
Look for a UK or NI business with a physical address, a product listed on the FSA’s public list where that applies, an independent certificate of analysis for the batch, clear CBD content per drop or serving, and a label stating the recommended daily amount and FSA advice. Avoid products advertised with anxiety, depression or sleep claims, very cheap oils with no testing, and anything sold through social media or messaging apps. Independent reviews on platforms such as Trustpilot can help, but they cannot tell you what is in the bottle; only a lab report can.
A note for parents
CBD products are not intended for children or teenagers. If your child is struggling with anxiety, talk to your GP. Young people in Northern Ireland can also contact Childline on 0800 1111, free and confidential.
Frequently asked questions
Is CBD legal in the UK?
Yes, CBD food products can be sold if they comply with novel food rules and drug laws. In England and Wales, products should appear on the FSA’s public list.
How much CBD does the FSA recommend?
The FSA advises healthy adults to take no more than 10mg of CBD a day.
Does CBD help anxiety?
Research is limited. Most studies used doses far above the FSA’s 10mg advice. CBD should not replace proper treatment.
Can I take CBD with antidepressants?
The FSA advises against CBD if you take medication unless your doctor agrees. Speak to your GP or pharmacist.
Is CBD legal in Northern Ireland?
CBD foods can be sold if they meet the rules that apply in NI, which include some EU food law under the Windsor Framework.
Where can I get help for anxiety in the UK?
Your GP, NHS Talking Therapies (England, self-referral), Samaritans on 116 123, and in NI, Lifeline on 0808 808 8000.
Will CBD show up on a drug test?
CBD itself usually is not tested for, but products containing THC can cause a positive result.
Can I bring CBD from Ireland to the UK?
Rules differ and customs may apply. Check the product complies with UK rules.
Related guides
This guide is for general information only and is not medical advice. CBD products sold in Ireland are food supplements or cosmetics, not medicines. Speak to your GP or pharmacist before using CBD, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding.