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Substances described as “natural” are often assumed to besafe, yet clinical experience tells a different story. Psychiatric nursepractitioner Mary Urban draws on nearly two decades in behavioral health toexplain how anxiety, depression, isolation, and stress—intensified afterCOVID—have driven increased substance use, including a growing reliance onproducts marketed as natural alternatives.

While holistic care and supplements can play a role inmental health, understanding what is actually being used matters. Not allnatural products deliver the benefits promised online, and some carry risksthat are rarely explained.

Modern Cannabis Is Fundamentally Different

Cannabis today is not the same substance used decades ago.In the 1970s, average THC levels ranged from 1–3%. Many current productscontain 15–25% THC, with concentrates reaching 60–90%. This dramatic increasein potency has changed how cannabis affects the brain and body.

High-potency THC overstimulates cannabinoid receptors,disrupting mood regulation, memory, coordination, anxiety response, anddecision-making. Clinical outcomes increasingly include panic attacks,paranoia, impaired judgment, accidents, and a higher risk ofpsychosis—particularly with frequent use.

Emergency room visits linked to cannabis have risen sharply,especially in states where it is legal, with common presentations includingsevere anxiety, psychosis, cardiac symptoms, and hyperemesis syndrome.

Edibles, Gummies, and Concentrates Increase Risk

Cannabis is now consumed through flowers, vapes, oils,waxes, and edibles. Gummies and candies are especially problematic because theyare easy to overconsume and often made with concentrated THC. Delayed onset ofeffects can lead to repeated dosing before impairment is recognized, increasingthe likelihood of adverse reactions.

CBD: Accessible but Poorly Regulated

CBD is commonly viewed as a safe alternative because it doesnot produce a high. However, most CBD products are unregulated and notFDA-approved. Testing has shown that many contain undisclosed THC, even whenlabeled “THC-free.”

CBD can interact with medications, affect liver enzymes, andin some cases worsen anxiety or agitation. Contaminants such as pesticides,heavy metals, and solvents have also been identified in some products.

Delta THC Gummies Are Not CBD

Delta THC products are frequently packaged and marketed toresemble CBD, creating confusion. Unlike CBD, delta products are intoxicatingand can cause anxiety, panic, paranoia, psychosis, and respiratory depression.They also result in positive drug tests and pose a risk of accidentalingestion, particularly for children.

Kratom and 7-OH Act Like Opioids

Kratom is often sold as a supplement, but its activecompounds act on opioid receptors. A derivative known as 7-OH is especiallyconcerning, with potency reported to be 13–46% stronger than morphine at theopioid receptor.

These substances carry risks of addiction, respiratorydepression, overdose, and severe withdrawal. Many individuals begin usebelieving it to be harmless, only to find discontinuation extremely difficult.

Key Points to Remember

Today’s cannabis is far more potent and associated withpsychiatric, cardiac, and emergency risks

·     Most CBD products are unregulated and maycontain undisclosed THC

·     Delta THC products are intoxicating and oftenmistaken for CBD

·     Kratom and 7-OH behave like opioids and can belethal

·     Natural does not guarantee safety

This overview highlights the need for clearer understandingand more caution around substances that are widely available but poorlyexplained.