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How Cannabidiol (CBD) Works for Depression
CBD itself is not psychoactive, as many people think, however, Cannabidiol can connect to the endocannabinoid receptors in our body and activate them, thus producing effects similar to those caused by other cannabinoids.
The body also naturally produces its own cannabinoids. These also bind to cannabinoid receptors, which has led many researchers to believe that they play an important role in regulating both physical and mental processes, such as the perception of pain.
Studies have shown that cannabidiol can decrease the production of enzymes in your body responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids, which could increase the availability of naturally produced cannabinoids. That is, this could lead to a better mood and less anxiety.
Cannabidiol and the Endocannabinoid System
Let's do it by steps. So far we understand that cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the marijuana plant. Just to give you an idea: CBD is one of over 113 cannabinoids that have been identified in the cannabis plant and is found in abundance in hemp – a variety of the plant species Cannabis sativa.
The Endocannabinoid System, in turn, is a network of receptors and corresponding compounds that help regulate our body's functions. That is, everything that is not regulated, CBD will act to regulate. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in numerous health-related functions, including appetite and sleep patterns, mood (depression), pain perception, inflammation response, and memory function.
can i take cannabidiol oil for depression
If you are wondering if CBD oil can help with depression, the answer is yes.
There are several studies where Cannabidiol has been used to help reduce anxiety and stress levels, which are two of the most common symptoms of depression.
It is important to note that CBD oil is not a cure for depression – it will not instantly improve your mood or erase all traces of sadness or hopelessness from your brain. But it does have positive effects on many people who struggle with their mental health.
It is always important to consult an experienced doctor who prescribes cannabidiol to clear all your doubts.
Cannabidiol oil has a very wide variety of uses. Cannabidiol is used to relieve pain as well as inflammation, and can be a super-reliable relaxing treatment, even after a stressful day.
Interestingly, cannabidiol owes this ability to its incredible anti-inflammatory benefits.
And by the way: inflammation is one of the main underlying causes of depression.
What are the effects of cannabidiol for Depression?
There are a few ways that cannabidiol can be helpful in treating symptoms of depression.
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Stimulates our ability to maintain homeostasis, that is to say, our balance;
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Protects us from oxidative damage (something very important for our body)
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Increases GABA activity in the brain (our main neurotransmitter that helps to reduce the activity of neurons, which produces that feeling of calm and relaxation)
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Supports the balance of serotonin and dopamine (these two you may already be familiar with).
How can cannabidiol help people with depression?
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CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid
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cannabidiol is not addictive
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Cannabidiol is not toxic
The chemical composition of CBD is different from other cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which causes the psychoactive effect when consumed, that is, it is what “gives you a high”. Cannabinoids are found within the hemp plant and have many benefits including pain and anxiety relief.
CBD can be used as an alternative treatment for depression because it is not associated with any negative side effects or drug interactions.
In fact, CBD has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression by increasing serotonin activity in the brain and reducing inflammation throughout the body.
What are the main symptoms of Depression?
To begin with, we know that the human body is extremely complex. Here are some of the signs and symptoms of depression:
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daily sadness
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Loss of interest in activities that used to be pleasurable
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Loss of motivation over the days
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Trouble sleeping or insomnia
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Feeling of constant tiredness
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Feelings of worthlessness or emptiness
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Difficulty focusing on important things
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appetite changes
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Irritability
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Inability to feel pleasure