Depression can often be treated pharmacologically with antidepressants; however, these medicines can have intolerable side effects that require discontinuing therapy altogether.
CBD oils have rapidly emerged as low-side effect solutions for alleviating stress and anxiety, offering alternatives without adverse side effects. Here are our top picks which utilize third-party testing and sustainable sourcing, boasting organic extra-virgin olive oil tinctures featuring peppermint essential oil for added benefits.
Acne
CBD, one of the cannabinoids found in cannabis, can be an effective treatment for mild acne due to its anti-inflammatory effects. By decreasing inflammation associated with spots and blemishes, spots appear less angry and red. By including premium natural terpenes like Limonene in skin care products you may also help your skin stay healthier and clearer for longer.
Studies have demonstrated that CBD can also reduce breakouts by controlling sebum production. Sebum is an oily substance produced by our bodies to lubricate hair and skin; when too much of this oil builds up on our hair follicles it leads to acne formation.
CBD has recently been shown to inhibit certain enzymes that control sebum production, providing hope in fighting acne as it could pave the way to new treatments for this widespread condition.
Depression
Depression is a widespread mental health condition that can arise for a number of reasons, including major life transitions, trauma, stress or as a side effect of certain medications. CBD oil has been found to effectively combat anxiety and improve mood by activating receptors in the brain; additionally it lowers heart rate and boosts serotonin levels – all qualities essential to effective antidepressant medication.
CBD interacts with several receptors in the body, including CB1 and CB2 receptors, 5-HT1A/2A/3A serotonergic, TRPV1-2 vanilloid receptors and alpha-1 adrenergic/u-opioid receptors. Furthermore, CBD prevents cell uptake of anandamide, increases activity at inhibitory glycine receptors, and prevents fatty acid synthesis.
As with all alternative and complementary therapies, alternative and complementary medicines should not be seen as replacements for professional medical advice or psychotherapy. While CBD has shown promise for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in one small study published in 2021 and may help ease PTSD-induced nightmares for some individuals, its effect as an anticonvulsant has yet to be proven conclusively. CBD is currently also being studied for treating seizure disorders – its use has even been approved by the FDA to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome respectively in children.
Anxiety
CBD may help alleviate anxiety symptoms and aid relaxation, but it’s essential for consumers to consult their physician prior to beginning any new supplements or treatments. They should also make sure they know where their CBD oil comes from and consider its administration method as both of these factors can impact its onset time and effects.
A small 2019 study concluded that CBD could significantly decrease anxiety in 57 adult males; however, these results should be seen as preliminary as additional research should be performed. Furthermore, CBD can interact with certain medications so it’s wise to speak to your physician about the best way to use it to treat anxiety.
Studies have also shown that CBD can aid sleep quality and decrease pain relief – both common symptoms of anxiety. Furthermore, CBD may enhance cognitive processing speed as well as help people with substance use disorder reduce cravings for drugs.
Sleep
Insomnia can have a serious negative impact on quality of life and be caused by many conditions, including anxiety, pain and stress. CBD has been proven to effectively alleviate insomnia symptoms and aid better restful sleeping for those suffering.
CBD serves as a noncompetitive antagonist of CB1 receptors and has been shown to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant effects – all which may help those experiencing sleep issues. Studies have also indicated that CBD can decrease REM sleep latency as well as increase total sleep percentage, depending on its dosage.
Recent research with 103 adults with either anxiety or poor sleep as primary diagnoses found that CBD significantly reduced both anxiety and the quality of their restful slumber. The research was carried out at a psychiatric clinic where CBD was added as an additional therapy option to their existing medications; monthly documentation of anxiety and sleep was performed using validated measures.
