The Impact on Cannabidiol on Mental Health Disorders

By Dr. Nathalie Solomon: PharmD, CPH

Occasional feelings of anxiety or depression are nothing to be alarmed about. Nearly everyone will experience these unwanted feelings at some time or another. However, when the frequency and intensity of either begins to interrupt your day-to-day life, it may be time to get help. While avoiding certain places, people, and situations may be helpful, sometimes it is impossible. Living in a bubble just isn’t possible or healthy. Having something to help calm your fears and worries can be beneficial.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid from the Cannabis sativa plant. It, along with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been researched extensively and has been shown to bind to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. CBD, unlike THC, does not produce a “high” and offers a variety of health benefits. Among those benefits is the treatment of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Benefits of CBD
CBD acts on opioid and glycine receptors in the body. These receptors are mostly found in the central and peripheral nervous systems. They regulate pain in the body. It also acts on the neurotransmitter serotonin, which helps us feel good in general. Low serotonin levels are closely associated with depression and may also cause anxiety.

Research has shown that some of the benefits of CBD can include:
• Reducing seizures
• Reducing inflammation
• Reducing pain
• Regulating the immune system
• Reducing anxiety

Conventional medicines generally used to treat low serotonin are called serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). Their common trade names are Zoloft and Prozac. These are only available by prescription. However, some studies have shown that instead of using SSRIs to treat anxiety, some patients may be able to manage their condition with CBD instead. (Always speak to your doctor before making any changes to prescribed medications.)

Cannabinoids for depression
Experts believe that CBD’s potential benefits for depression are related to its positive effect on serotonin receptors in the brain.

Low serotonin levels are likely connected to depression. CBD doesn’t necessarily boost serotonin levels, but it may affect how your brain’s chemical receptors respond to the serotonin that’s already in your system.

Cannabinoids for anxiety
Depression and anxiety commonly occur together, and people with one are more likely to have the other. CBD does appear to help with both.

One study found that people who took 600 milligrams (mg) of CBD experienced significantly less social anxiety than people who took a placebo. Another study used a smaller dose of 300 mg, which reduced levels of anxiety.1

Anxiety may also have a link to low serotonin, so CBD’s effect on serotonin receptors might partly explain these beneficial effects.

How to use CBD for depression and anxiety
Since CBD has not yet been given clear FDA guidance, the best way to use CBD for anxiety and depression varies from person to person. Someone may find that a certain type and certain dosage works, while the same type and dosage has little effect on someone else. A bit of trial and error may be necessary in order to reach optimal effectiveness. (This is also true with conventional medicines too, so no need to be alarmed.)

The following are some of the forms in which CBD is available:
• Vapes heat CBD oil giving off an inhalable vapor.
• Flowers (dried hemp plants) can be smoked.
• Gummies are chewable and sweet like the popular candies.
• Oils and tinctures are consumed orally usually from droppers.
• Sprays can be sprayed into the mouth, usually under the tongue.
• Capsules or tablets are taken orally.
• Creams and gels are absorbed through the skin.

Again, trying different types and doses may be necessary. For example, you may find that vaping is more effective than gummies while another may find smoking to be most effective. Trying the different types will help you find what is right for you.

Usually the effects of oral CBDs, such as gummies or capsules, are felt within 30 minutes or a little more. Smoking or vaping usually has a more immediate effect.

These various forms can be used throughout the day to relieve anxiety. Some find it helpful to take them in the morning with breakfast.

If you are interested in learning more, The Greene Pharmacist offers a full consultation on any Hemp Extract needs you may have. Worried about dosages? Worried about drug interactions? Not sure if Hemp Extract can help you? Under the expertise of a licensed pharmacist, each product comes with the service of cannabis consultations, drug-drug interaction checks, assistance of product selection or dosage recommendations. With topical, oral, and pet products we have something for everyone in your household. Send us an email or message our Facebook page to speak to our pharmacist Dr. Solomon.

Dr. Nathalie Solomon: PharmD, CPH
Dr. Solomon is our licensed on staff pharmacist. She graduated from the University of Florida college of pharmacy and has 15 years of combined pharmacy experience. As a wife, mother, and provider to her family she discovered the medicinal value of cannabis. She decided to devote her career in creating valuable Hemp Extract products that are safely formulated and tested. She also wanted to guarantee that her Hemp Extract products came with the opportunity to be counseled by a pharmacist to ensure the consumer receive a product that can be trusted. There are not many companies that have a direct link to this kind of knowledge right at the customers fingertips and we are so lucky to have her!

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1. Holland, K. (2019) CBD for depression: What are the benefits?,
Healthline. Healthline Media. Available at:
https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-for-depression#for-anxiety.