Is CBD a natural antidepressant ?

What is CBD

CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. This chemical compound is unique in that it offers only the benefits of cannabis. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD has no psychoactive or addictive effects. When cannabis contains THC, it is illegal to sell or consume. On the other hand, CBD is a molecule known for its anti-stress and anti-pain properties. In a few words, we can say that CBD is the molecule of well-being, both physically and mentally. All CBD-based products contain less than 0.2% THC.

In recent years, CBD products have continued to grow in popularity. CBD can now be found in flowers, oils, resins, e-liquids, herbal teas, food products, cosmetics, and more. Many consumers have chosen CBD as a natural alternative to relieve their everyday ailments such as stress, anxiety, insomnia or muscle and joint pain.

What is depression

A person suffering from depression experiences a deep sense of sadness and perceives life through a negative prism. She tends to devalue herself, doubting her abilities and the love she can receive. She withdraws into herself and isolates herself because she no longer wants to confront social life. When depression sets in and is left untreated, it can lead to other adverse effects on physical and psychological health.

The main symptoms of depression are:

• loss of energy and motivation;
• loss of appetite and libido;
• difficulty concentrating;
• memory problems;
• disturbances in sleep;
• headache or back pain;
• distress;
• irritability;
• isolation;

Whatever the cause of depression, it is considered to be triggered by a combination of genetic predisposition and a specific social environment. Sometimes it is triggered by an emotional shock related to trauma. People with anxiety or psychiatric illnesses such as bipolarity are also more prone to episodes of depression.

How do antidepressants work ?

Antidepressants are prescribed by a healthcare professional to relieve the symptoms of depression. Note that they can also be prescribed for anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety or anxious depression. Ideally, antidepressants should be accompanied by follow-up therapy to optimize the recovery process and reduce the risk of relapse at the end of treatment.

To treat depressive and anxiety disorders, antidepressants act directly on the brain and, more specifically, on neurotransmitters. Antidepressants rebalance the exchanges between neurons involved in the release of calming chemicals such as serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone and neurotransmitter that directly affects behavior, mood, anxiety, learning, motivation, and decision making.

After a few weeks of use, antidepressants allow you to return to a normal life with energy, appetite and restful sleep. Contrary to popular belief, antidepressants are not addictive. At the end of the treatment, the goal is to regain good mental health, to feel able to overcome the ups and downs of life, to go to work or school and to interact with others without difficulty. It is about regaining a deep and lasting state of well-being.

How does CBD work on the body ?

For the past few years, CBD has been used to reduce stress, anxiety, sleep disorders and chronic pain. According to the WHO, CBD is a harmless molecule since it does not induce any psychoactive effect or any form of dependence. It can therefore be consumed in all serenity to promote well-being and relaxation in everyday life. But can it be used in the context of depression?

According to recent scientific research, CBD would be a natural antidepressant and anxiolytic. This effect is explained by the regulatory action of CBD on the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system is responsible for the balance of essential functions of the body such as pain sensation, immune defenses, mood, memory, appetite, sleep, etc. By consuming CBD, it is possible to support the functioning of the SEC. Cannabinoids activate CB1 and CB2 receptors and naturally help the SEC do its regulatory job.

CBD is also said to have a serotonin reuptake inhibitory action, i.e. the same action as antidepressants. Scientific studies show that CBD would activate serotonin 5-HT1A receptors and promote the regulation of serotonin levels in synapses. Thus, the increase of serotonin linked to the taking of CBD leads to a feeling of lightness of well-being. Gradually, stress, anxiety and sadness disappear.

Does CBD offer the same effects as an antidepressant ?

While it is beneficial to mental health, CBD cannot be said to be an antidepressant. Nor can it be claimed that CBD is a miracle cure that could replace drug treatment, especially in the case of severe depression. On the other hand, doctors can recommend CBD as a supplement to medical care or treatment. Generally, oils and herbal teas or infusions of CBD are preferred.

As you will have understood, CBD does not offer exactly the same effects as an antidepressant, but it can help you and accompany you in this healing process. Moreover, the scientific studies about its antidepressant virtues are still recent and need more research to be confirmed.

The reason why many people are looking for natural alternatives to antidepressants is because the latter are long to assimilate (several weeks) and can cause many side effects. These include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, etc. These side effects impact the quality of life of depressed individuals and cause them to find other solutions.

Even if CB is not used, it can be used to treat depression.

Even if CBD seems beneficial to you, remember to seek the advice of a medical professional before self-medicating. Mental health should be considered as seriously as physical health.

Is mixing CBD and antidepressants dangerous ?

There are different types of antidepressants. Some can be taken with CBD, others cannot. To know the possible interactions with your treatment, you must imperatively ask the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. Only a professional is able to give you reliable advice tailored to your needs.

Generally, it is not recommended to mix CBD and antidepressants because it can cause tachycardia (increased heart rate), dizziness and blurred vision. In case of anxiety disorders, doctors also prescribe anxiolytics such as Xanax. Here again, it is not recommended to mix CBD and anxiolytics. When consumed together, they can cause dizziness, tachycardia, drowsiness, problems with concentration and speech, and confusion.

Note that SNRI (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) antidepressants, are among the only antidepressants that do not have major risks associated with CBD. When in doubt, medical advice is essential.

What form of CBD to choose to fight depression ?

To relieve stress, anxiety and states of sadness, it is possible to consume CBD in all its forms. Depending on your preferences, you can choose flowers, resins, oils, dietary supplements, and many others. Most of the time, sufferers turn to CBD oils and herbal teas.

CBD Oil

Easy to consume and convenient, CBD oil can accompany you throughout the day. To use, simply pour a few drops directly under your tongue using the built-in pipette. Let the product act a few seconds in the mouth before swallowing so that CBD passes more quickly through the oral mucosa. The advantage of this format is that it provides relaxing effects in just a few minutes.

CBD tea or infusion

CBD herbal tea can be made from a ready-made or homemade preparation. To make your own CBD infusion, simply finely chop CBD flowers or CBD resin and infuse your crumbs in boiling water. You can also simply add CBD oil to your regular herbal tea. In any case, don't forget to add a fat such as milk or honey to release the active ingredients of CBD and maximize its therapeutic potential.