Can CBD Help in Treating Depression?

Recreational marijuana has several compounds that scientists across the globe are continually investigating. It's no surprise that many individuals are turning to cannabidiol (CBD) to treat sadness and anxiety after reading about its potential benefits in treating mental illness. Herein consumers discover if CBD can be used to treat depression and the dosage.

There are many therapies for depression, but researchers are always looking for new ways to treat depression. However, conventional medication for depression has side effects and may lead to dependency. As a result, many patients are turning to organic products such as CBD to treat this mental illness. Hemp is the common source of CBD products since it is federally legal due to its low amounts of THC. Here is how CBD works in depression.

What Is Depression?

According to Van et al. (2012),  Major depressive disorder (MDD), generally known as depression, is a medical condition affecting how a person thinks, feels, and performs. While it's rather frequent, it may be dangerous and lead to self-harm or suicide. One of the most common symptoms of depression is a persistent melancholy accompanied by a lack of interest in once enjoyable activities. Because of this, depression may harm one's overall well-being by contributing to physical and emotional symptoms. Depression may strike at any time, but for most individuals, it first manifests itself in their late teens or early twenties. Women are more prone to depression than males. Medicine and psychotherapy treat depression in most situations, although the exact combination varies.

Can Cannabidiol (CBD) Be Used To Treat Depression?

Several reports claim that CBD helps alleviate symptoms of depression. According to Sales et al. (2019), CBD might have antidepressant qualities, but more study is required to ascertain this claim. When it comes to depression, why does cannabidiol (CBD) appear to help? Fang et al.  (2019) explained that anxiety and depression are intertwined, and low serotonin levels can cause these illnesses. CBD reduces anxiety by binding to the receptors in the Endocannabinoid system. According to Liu (2019), people suffering from sadness and anxiety may benefit from cannabinoid oil. Still, more extensive human clinical trials should be done to determine if CBD can be used to treat depression.

How It's Used

Cannabidiol can be taken in several ways; however, oral administration is ideal for mental health, antidepressant-like effects, or other advantages. It may be taken orally as an oil, spray, or pill or infused in sweets and drinks. CBD may also be used topically in creams, lotions, salves, and balms, but this application is more likely to have localized effects. It's also worth noting that CBD comes in three forms: isolate (includes just CBD), broad-spectrum (also contains other cannabinoids but does not contain THC), and full-spectrum.

What Dosage of CBD Should I Take for Depression?

According to Herbst et al. (2020), using CBD for depression is not regulated by the FDA. Thus, there are no particular dose recommendations. However, start with a modest dose of CBD and then gradually increase it. This enables you to investigate the potential advantages while limiting the danger of negative effects. Many CBD manufacturers advocate starting with 10 to 20 mg of CBD daily. Before utilizing any new health product, including CBD products, speak with a healthcare expert. A CBD-friendly doctor may be able to recommend a dose.

The Potential for Adverse Reactions and the Recommended Dose

The amount of CBD oil appropriate depends on preference and the goal. It's natural to experiment with different times of day to discover the one that works best for you. Some individuals like to take a few drops of CBD oil first thing in the morning to keep their spirits high, while others prefer to take it a few hours before bed to help with sleep. According to Arnold et al.  (2020), CBD oil should be used in small doses, particularly those new to cannabis-based products. Depending on the results, gradually raise the dose and frequency of administration. Taking a few drops a day is a decent starting point, and sublingually is a systematic method of taking it (under the tongue).

Some individuals may have adverse effects when using CBD. Several variables, including metabolism and body composition, have been shown to have a role in this. Below are some side effects:

• Constipation or diarrhea.
• Mouth dryness.
• Increased or decreased hunger.
• Dizziness

These effects often subside as the body gets accustomed to CBD. Before, during, and after using this oil, it's important to see the doctor if any symptoms continue or worsen. If you have any concerns regarding the exact amount or whether you're unsure if CBD oil is the right decision, speak to the doctor. It is important to consult with a healthcare practitioner before using CBD and antidepressants.

Conclusion

CBD is gaining popularity in the world of health and wellness. Many individuals, especially those who are depressed, turn to it for relief from various ailments. Whether CBD has antidepressant qualities in animals, human clinical trials are required before ascertaining that it is an effective therapy for depression. It's critical to consult with a medical practitioner before using CBD for depression.

References

Alger, B. E. (2013, November). Getting high on the endocannabinoid system. In Cerebrum: the Dana forum on brain science (Vol. 2013). Dana Foundation.

Arnold, J. C., Nation, T., & McGregor, I. S. (2020). Prescribing medicinal cannabis. Australian prescriber, 43(5), 152.

Fang, H., Tu, S., Sheng, J., & Shao, A. (2019). Depression in sleep disturbance: a review on a bidirectional relationship, mechanisms and treatment. Journal of cellular and molecular medicine, 23(4), 2324-2332.

Herbst, J., & Musgrave, G. (2020). Respiratory depression following an accidental overdose of a CBD-labeled product: A pediatric case report. Journal of the American Pharmacists Association, 60(1), 248-252.

Liu, T. (2019). What is CBD Oil? Learn the Facts: Uses, Benefits and Side Effects.

Sales, A. J., Fogaça, M. V., Sartim, A. G., Pereira, V. S., Wegener, G., Guimarães, F. S., & Joca, S. R. (2019). Cannabidiol induces rapid and sustained antidepressant-like effects through increased BDNF signaling and synaptogenesis in the prefrontal cortex. Molecular neurobiology, 56(2), 1070-1081.

Van Loo, H. M., De Jonge, P., Romeijn, J. W., Kessler, R. C., & Schoevers, R. A. (2012). Data-driven subtypes of major depressive disorder: a systematic review. BMC medicine, 10(1), 1-12.