Recently, CBD or cannabinoid has widely been recognized for its medicinal value. A good work by researchers is ongoing about the potential health gains from CBD. For instance, it’s used in the treatment of various conditions, including depression. Results from various studies show promising information to victims with different conditions thought to be countered by CBD. CBD is a compound found in the cannabis plant that occurs naturally. It might be the same as THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, but their working is different when consumed. To illustrate, THC gives a user the ‘high’ feeling, but CBD doesn’t. That’s why CBD can comfortably be used for treatment. Here, we will discuss CBD’s usefulness in treating depression.
Some mental health conditions have a lasting effect on an individual’s wellbeing. They include disorders such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Such conditions are dangerous to a person’s general health because they hinder working, enjoying social life, and overall welfare. Medical professionals may give medicines or advice on how to treat or manage them. The drugs prescribed in most cases come with side effects, including lack of sleep, mood swings, and sexual dysfunction.
Research has hopeful information about how CBD can treat both anxiety and depression. For example, in 2014, a study stated that CBD could be beneficial in easing symptoms associated with depression. It was recorded that cannabinoid interacts positively with receptors in the brain, such as serotonin. This receptor plays a wide range of activities in humans. A person’s happiness and state of wellbeing are among its functions. Individuals with depression always need to maintain a balanced serotonin level.
Researchers’ information
Numerous studies have come up with several ways of knowing how CBD can helpease depression. The following are some of the studies and findings:
- In 2018, a study collected data on medical cannabis users. The participants were asked to record their doses and symptoms. After that, the results were analyzed. It was concluded that cannabis helped manage depression, stress, and anxiety symptoms- they recorded a 50% reduction. Again, it was revealed that a lower THC amount as compared to CBD gave a more significant progress.
- In 2019, male and female rats were studied to examine cannabinoid’s action on depression. The rats were fed with a certain amount of CBD, after which their coping ability was monitored. They concluded that the rats became calm. This means they didn’t look helpless, a common depression sign.
- Another study in 2019 involved an adolescent having numerous mental issues, including anxiety, depression, plus substance use disorders. He was treated for eight weeks, and the symptoms greatly decreased. Furthermore, he could abstain from antidepressants use.
- Other researchers in 2020 submitted rats to different stressors during treatment with CBD for almost a month. Later, the analysis revealed that CBD helped reduce symptoms of depression and anhedonia- no ability for pleasure.
From the animal model findings, at least there’s evidence that CBD is useful in depression. Even in a 2014 review, using CBD on animal models acted as an antianxiety and antidepressant treatment. The tests indicated that CBD use positively affected depression and anxiety either after a long or short-term use. Researchers also demonstrated that the cannabinoid compound worked without tempering with the brain’s receptors. This implies a limited chance for CBD to be addictive. Authors also documented that CBD helps lower cravings among patients with opioid substance use condition. All research work done on humans or animals is important in giving way forward on how the cannabinoid compound works in the body.
Using CBD for depression
How do you use CBD drugs for treating depression? Well, CBD drugs come in different forms. Some are in capsules, oils, and others tinctures. Despite the form one chooses to use, regular intake is advisable. It’s because there’s no risk associated with addiction or habit use, which means it can be used for a longer period. Unfortunately, CBD products lack approval by the Food and Drugs Administration. You should, therefore, be careful when buying any of these substances. It’d be best if you consider purchasing from a highly reputable company. Don’t also forget to look for the labeling. Please make sure the CBD levels are indicated by a third-party lab.
Some state laws recognize CBD products from the marijuana plant, but at the federal rank, it’s prohibited. Additionally, if these products compose THC below 0.3%, they’re considered illegal both by some state laws and the federal level. It’s the reason you should also check your country’s laws before buying. A person shouldn’t dwell so much on labeling because it might be inaccurate. Just remember that FDA doesn’t recognize its prescription.
Comparison between CBD and other antidepressants
How good or bad is CBD over other antidepressant medications in managing anxiety and depression? As proven by researchers, CBD is thought to be more beneficial than other medications for depression. These antidepressant drugs take longer before they begin working. It’s unlike a study in 2019 that demonstrated how fast cannabidiol acted. Another benefit is that CBD has less risks and side effects than other antidepressants. Such side effects are mood swings, insomnia, agitation, and sexual dysfunction. This isn’t the case with cannabinoid drugs.
Note: You shouldn’t take CBD as a replacement for antidepressants despite having more benefits. Also, ensure your doctor is aware if you wish to stop taking prescribed medication. This is because sudden stopping can bridge deadly side effects. Therefore, avoid this by consulting the doctor to provide a guide on gradual decrease in dosage.
The bottom line
Cannabidiol is among the alternative medicines gaining popularity in recent times. Despite the available evidence on CBD’s use as an antidepressant, more research is required to understand its benefits and safety. When choosing to use CBD drugs, it’s good to seek medical advice from a professional. This will enable get guidance on proper use alongside other medications and progress monitoring. Moreover, buy CBD products from a source with a great reputation. Please don’t forget to check for labeling as discussed earlier.
