If you are considering using CBD, it is important to understand that research on CBD is limited. There have been numerous studies over the past decade, but most of them have been conducted on animals. This means that the potential benefits of CBD for depression in humans are largely speculative at this time.
However, CBD appears to offer certain benefits for depression, particularly in treating:
- anxiety
- cognitive impairment
- feeling nervous before speaking in public
What does the research say about CBD and depression?
Scientists believe that CBD’s potential benefits for depression are linked to its effect on serotonin receptors in the brain. Low serotonin levels are thought to be a trigger for depression. CBD won’t necessarily boost serotonin levels, but it can affect how your brain’s chemical receptors respond to the serotonin that’s already in your body.
A animal study A 2014 study revealed that CBD’s effect on these receptors in the brain produced both antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects.
A study magazine A more recent study from 2018 concluded that CBD has anti-stress effects, which can reduce stress-related depression.
As mentioned, this is a field that is still being studied, and new research and reviews are published every year. As researchers begin to better understand CBD and its potential benefits or concerns, information on how to use the product most effectively will continue to evolve.
How does CBD compare to antidepressants?
When it comes to treating depression, CBD appears to have certain advantages over antidepressants. Most antidepressant medications take weeks to take effect. However, a animal study A 2019 study revealed that CBD has a rapid and long-lasting antidepressant effect.
CBD may also cause fewer side effects than antidepressants. Insomnia, sexual dysfunction, mood swings, and restlessness are common side effects of antidepressants. CBD has not been shown to cause similar problems.
While CBD may offer certain benefits compared to antidepressant medications, it is not intended to replace them. If you plan to stop taking prescription medications, especially antidepressants, you should first talk to your doctor, who can certainly develop a plan to gradually reduce your dosage.
How can CBD be used to treat depression?
CBD is available in several forms. :
- Oral: This includes tinctures, capsules, sprays, and oils. These products can be taken as is or added to other foods or beverages, such as smoothies or coffee
- Edible: Beverages and foods, such as CBD gummy candies, are now widely available
- Vaping: Vaping CBD is a way to quickly ingest CBD and easily control the dosage
- Topical: CBD-infused beauty products, lotions, and creams are a good way to apply CBD topically. These products deliver CBD directly to your skin, with applications that are limited to specific relief for inflammation, pain, or skin conditions.
Sources and scientific studies are cited and linked in the content of the above article.
- Depression