Taking a long look at the marijuana plant, you may begin to realize that (like any medication) the little green herb has a long list of negative side effects (which are all too true, when laid out on the table) as well as a long list of positive aspects, too. When we are considering the harmful elements of marijuana, more often than not we look to the chemical THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), a potent psychoactive agent that induces the “high” that we associate with marijuana. However, did you know that the mind-altering effects of THC’s cousin CBD are actually beneficial? In fact, research has indicated that this little chemical improves mood, alleviates seizures, and (even more interesting) might affect depression. How is this possible? Let’s see what scientists have recently uncovered.
Cannabidiol as a Depression Medication
Although human trials are restricted in the scientific community, researchers in Spain have made interesting discoveries while studying the effects of the cannabinoid on lab mice. Back in 2016, the team discovered that this drug immediately triggered long-term antidepressant effects in the rodents, due mostly in part to CBD’s intense interactions with serotonin receptors. Why is this so significant? Serotonin is the primary neurotransmitter affected by antidepressant drugs like Prozac or Zoloft.
Back in 2018, another experiment involving lab mice revealed that the union of CBD and antidepressant medication (to a certain limit) completely improved depression. Once again, the cannabinoid directly impacted the serotonin receptor. Even rats that have been bred to feel depressed (as shocking as that sounds) have demonstrated positive reactions to the cannabinoid.
Can It Work on Humans?
Sadly, scientists cannot give a completely honest answer to this question, given the fact that depression is a highly unpredictable behavioral problem. A variety of factors including stress, genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle can trigger this unfortunate mental issue. While cannabidiol might alleviate some of the most severe aspects of depression, it cannot by any means cure this illness. However, through the combination of therapy and CBD medication, a person may find they are much happier than before.
Initial research has confirmed that CBD can alleviate the following depression symptoms:
- Anxiety
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Drowsiness
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
