CBD Oil for Anxiety & Depression: Research, Benefits, and Risks

CBD oil

CBD has become the star of the wellness culture over the past few years. You can find it everywhere, ranging from health shops to cafés and restaurants.

It has woven itself into our culture seamlessly. Such great attention does not just come willy-nilly; the cultural stamp of approval means something is very right about CBD.

In this article, we will be looking at the numerous benefits it can provide for people suffering from anxiety and depression.

First things first, what is CBD?

Cannabidiol, widely known as CBD, is a cannabinoid that is derived from the cannabis plant. It is one of the 113 identified cannabinoids, one of which is the popular THC.

It is something like a brother of cannabidiol but opposed to THC, CBD does not give the user any bewildering psychoactive effects. In other words, it does not get you “high”.

However, CBD is known to induce a tranquil and relaxed state that can be enjoyed by children and grandmothers alike. It is an ideal option if you want to experience the wonderful calming benefits of the cannabis plant, without having the fear to go psychologically overboard.

These characteristics make it perfect for treating issues like anxiety and depression.

How does CBD ease anxiety and depression?

anxiety and depression

CBD works to ease depression and anxiety symptoms by interacting with the human endocannabinoid system. This system has been discovered recently and is still being investigated, as it’s working is not entirely clear yet.

What is known is that this system plays an important role in the regulation of sleep, mood, immunity to disease, appetite, and other crucial functions of the body.

The body naturally produces its own cannabinoids, such as anandamide. It is known as the chemical that is responsible for inducing a “runners high” after jogging.

Anandamide can also be found in chocolate, explaining its status as popular comfort food. CBD binds to the same receptors that anandamide does, thereby mimicking it and inducing a state of pleasant tranquility in the user.

However, CBD does not only act as a short-term solution in treating psychological issues. Results show that it may provide promising long-term effects that are related to CBD’s interplay with serotonin – the natural “feel good” molecule.

Studies have shown that it has beneficial effects on the 5-HT1A receptor to which serotonin binds. Usual medications against depression act as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’s).

These work to chemically circulate it in the brain for longer periods. Such medications are known to have various unpleasant side effects. CBD may be doing something similar, but naturally, and with little to no risks involved.

Supporting this, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence, as well as reports, that suggest it is incredibly effective for patients who suffer from anxiety, insomnia, depression, and PTSD.

Countless user testimonials praise CBD as having a life-changing impact for people who previously suffered from various anxiety issues and all types of depression.

CBD risks & benefits

CBD for anxiety

As everything comes with a price, there can be mild side effects that CBD could give you if it is overused. These include dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, decreased appetite, and stomach discomfort.

It should be noted that negative effects are fairly uncommon. However, it is of significant importance to get a high-quality CBD product to use. Unregulated products may contain pesticides and be sub-par.

We would recommend trusted vendors with a wide variety of CBD product choices, such as CBD Goodie Bags. It is safe to say that CBD benefits far outweigh the risks in usual cases.

Aside from the effectiveness of CBD oil for anxiety and depression, additional benefits include pain relief, acne reduction, neuroprotection, and antipsychotic properties.

How long does CBD take to work?

Just like with dosage, the time CDB takes to set in will vary for every individual according to their weight and particular metabolic constitution.

There are different methods of administering CBD, ranging from oral oils, topical salves, to vape or smokable CBD.

Sublingual oral ingestion allows CBD to skip the initial digestive process and, like with inhalation, work the fastest.

Oils may take up to two hours until effects are felt. There are many options for the administration, and you will surely find what suits your needs best.

All in all, CBD’s health benefits seem to be very promising in the treatment of anxiety and depression, according to the reports, as well as the countless patient testimonials.

If you or your loved ones are suffering from any of the aforementioned issues, CBD may just be the aid that you need, it is worth giving it a try!

If you have any experience with CBD, we would love to hear about it. Please leave your comments below!

SEE ALSO:
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HOW TO UNDERSTAND MENTAL HEALTH BETTER
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Author’s Bio: Joe Bonte is a freelance writer with an avid interest in health, lifestyle, and popular culture. He writes a weekly column on social media and various online publications. These are read by thousands of readers across the globe.  

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3 Comments

  1. December 13, 2020 / 11:14 am

    Hey, you have really described well and explained every magical aspect of CBD. We should try to use natural ailments for ourselves as they are safe and healthy for body. I am also in this field, and I wish we should all spread awareness about CBD.

  2. March 11, 2021 / 7:03 am

    Your post is very nice and informative also. Thanks for sharing.

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