Cannabidiol or CBD is a kind of natural compound known as cannabinoid, which are found in the cannabis plant. These plants are sometimes called marijuana or hemp, depending on their tetrahydrocannabinol or THC level, which is another kind of cannabinoid. THC is associated with that famous “high,” while CBD does not cause any psychoactive effects. CBD is derived from both the marijuana and hemp plant. In the recent years, we have seen a surge in the popularity of CBD, as more and more studies explore its potential health benefits. Research show that CBD may be helpful for symptoms of depression.
How can CBD Help Against Depression?
If you want to use CBD for therapeutic purposes, it is important to know that the research around it is still limited. Although a lot of studies have been conducted on it in the last decade, most of them are done with animals as test subjects. This means that the possible benefits of CBD for depression among human are largely speculative at the moment. Despite this, CBD still appear to offer some benefits for depression, particularly if you are dealing with anxiety, discomfort in public speaking and cognitive impairment. CBD and THC can also help for conditions related to depression like chronic pain.
CBD vs Antidepressant Medications
For treating depression, CBD seems to have some benefits over conventional antidepressant medications. Most of the medications take weeks before they start to take effect, while one study found that CBD has a fast and sustained antidepressant-like effect. CBD can also result to fewer side effects compared to antidepressant medicines. Agitation, mood swings, insomnia and sexual dysfunction are just some of the common side effects association with antidepressants. CBD does not show similar issues.
Does CBD Also Work for Anxiety?
Depression and anxiety usually happen together; a person with one most likely have the other. CBD has shown to help with both. A study found that people who took 600 milligrams of CBD reported less social anxiety compared to those who were given a placebo. There is another study that used a smaller dose of 300 milligrams, which was still effective in reducing anxiety levels. Anxiety has also shown some links to low serotonin levels, so the effect of CBD on serotonin receptors might explain these benefits.
How Do I Use CBD for Depression?
• Oral. This includes oils, capsules, tinctures and sprays. These mixes are consumed as they are, or be used in other preparations, like coffee or smoothies.
• Edible. Food and beverages that are infused with CBD are now widely available.
• Vaping. This is one way to ingest the compounds, although this might cause some throat irritation and coughing.
• Topical. CBD-infused beauty products like creams and lotions are very popular these days. These are products incorporated with CBD that are directly applied to the skin, and are best for pain.
Where Can I Buy CBD?
If you want to experience CBD, look for a reputable seller to ensure that you are getting high quality products. Hemp-derived CBD is widely available these days, even in health food stores. On the other hand, marijuana-derived CBD is only sold in dispensaries in countries or states where it medicinal or recreational use is legal. You can also find oils, lotions and gummies sold online. When buying CBD, look for brands that are trustworthy and reputable. Check if the brand is reputable by checking is they have third-party testing of their products.
CBD is fast becoming a popular remedy for a wide range of health issues like depression. If you are interested in trying CBD, talk this out with your healthcare provider. Although studies have shown that is it generally safe, it can still interact with certain medications so take caution.
