5 Ways CBD Can Heal And Fight Depression

There are over 264 million people worldwide suffering from depression. Although the numbers show how common depression is, it does not take away the loneliness and sense of detachment that you experience when you have depression.

Several factors cause this mental health disorder. It can result from trauma, genetics, physical illness, chronic pain, chronic stress, anxiety, and social isolation. While it may feel like a losing battle, you can live a good life when you suffer from depression. The important thing to remember is to address your mental health rather than avoid it.

From professional advice to therapy and lifestyle changes, you can proactively tackle depression. With a new natural product on the market, you can also arm yourself with a more potent tool to combat depression.

What Is Cannabinol?

CBD has been trending on social media and several blogs over the past months as marijuana’s safer cousin. While the latter can contain up to 30 percent THC and cause users to get high, hemp-derived CBD has less than 0.3 percent THC. So when you take this natural compound, there is no risk of getting high, paranoid or overdosing.
The low THC level is one reason CBD is now legal in all US states and other countries worldwide. As a result, CBD has never been safer to purchase, leading to a rise in demand for this natural compound. With more people wanting to try CBD, manufacturers such as CBD.

Distilery are now offering various CBD infused products, including chocolate, gummies, vape liquids, skincare products, oil tinctures, and more.

Although studies on CBD are limited, early data shows CBD’s potential in helping users with various chronic and mental health conditions such as anxiety, pain management, infertility, insomnia, and more. 

Early studies have also shown encouraging results regarding CBD’s benefits for people with depression. The following are five significant ways CBD can help you heal and fight depression.

CBD and serotonin

Low serotonin levels are not the primary cause of depression. However, researchers have linked low levels of this neurotransmitter with depression. Serotonin is essential to our body because it is a natural mood stabilizer. It is the component that enables us to feel well. 

Although research is inconclusive, researchers have seen CBD’s potential to signal to the receptors managed by the endocannabinoid system to release more serotonin in the body. Alternatively, CBD may also help the brain’s chemical receptors respond better to the serotonin in the body. 

CBD as an antidepressant

Antidepressants aren’t new to the scene for treating depression. With medical professionals’ help, many people in the world have found the right antidepressant dose to treat their mental health condition. If you have yet to find the antidepressant for you, you may wish to consider CBD as your drug of choice. 

In an animal study conducted in 2014, researchers observed how this natural compound works similar to how antidepressants work on the brain. As a result, CBD offers the anti-anxiety effects many depression sufferers seek. 

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CBD as a safer alternative

Although more studies have to be conducted on CBD, this natural compound is safer to take than certain antidepressants because of its lack of harmful side effects. Some of the most effective antidepressants on the market come with a substantial list of side effects. These include sexual dysfunction, agitation, insomnia, and mood swings. In contrast, the only known side effects of CBD some users have experienced include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. 

CBD and BDNF

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an essential protein in the body that assists neurons by helping them to survive. This protein stimulates the growth of new neurons and connections as well. Researchers believe that BDNF is decreased when depression is a factor, so promoting BDNF levels is essential. CBD can contribute by increasing the BDNF levels. Studies on rodents showed CBD’s potential to boost protein levels in the hippocampus and relieve depression symptoms. 

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CBD and sleep

Sleeping is a challenge when depression is a factor. People who have depression can find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep, as they can wake up several times during the night. CBD can eliminate this challenge by promoting better sleep. When taken in high doses, this natural compound can make users drowsy, helping cut down on time taken to fall asleep.

Researchers have noted CBD’s potential effects on the REM sleep cycle as well. The latter is the part of the sleep cycle where we process our dreams and memories. For people who have post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmares are often a substantial part of their nightly routine. While it should not be a permanent solution, CBD can promote better sleep, as researchers have observed its ability to cut down on REM sleep. 

Depression does not have to take over your life, but it is best to ask a medical professional for advice, even if you wish to take CBD. A professional can guide you into choosing the highest quality CBD brands and the right dose. If you are already taking antidepressants, a professional can advise you on the best way to cut down on traditional medication if this is your goal.