Are you curious about the effects of CBD on mood? CBD Clinicals has gathered pertinent information about this compound and its potential benefits for your overall health and well-being. 

How CBD May Help With Mood Disorders

Mood disorders are mental illnesses that impact an individual’s mood and emotional state. Approximately 21.4% of adults in the United States may have experienced some type of mood disorder(1).

Cannabidiol, more typically called CBD, is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid from the cannabis plant(2).

Studies have hypothesized that the compound may possess therapeutic benefits for mood or mood disorders(3).

These benefits may be linked with CBD’s interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) and its cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2)(4).

The ECS regulates vital bodily functions, such as mood, memory, sleep, appetite, and cognition.

CB1 receptors regulate memory processing, pain sensation, appetite, motor function, and mood. Meanwhile, CB2 receptors influence the body’s anti-inflammatory response(5).

Studies have also noted that CBD may produce anxiety-relieving (anxiolytic) properties by indirectly activating 5-HT1A serotonin receptors(6).

Serotonin is a chemical hormone or neurotransmitter that regulates mood and stimulates feelings of wellness and happiness.

Benefits of Using CBD for Mood Disorders

Some mental illnesses that may affect mood include anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder(7).

A study in 2020 from the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research examined the effects of CBD oil for anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder (PD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and agoraphobia(8).

Agoraphobia is a fear of places or situations that may make you feel helpless, trapped, or embarrassed. This phobia usually induces panic attacks in individuals(9).

The participants were given CBD oil capsules for eight weeks. The results indicated that CBD may contain potential anxiolytic-like properties that may help reduce anxiety levels of healthy individuals with social anxiety disorders(10).

A study evaluated the effects of oral CBD on individuals diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)(11). The research examined 11 adult participants who were given a CBD regimen and routine psychiatric care for eight weeks.

Results indicate that oral CBD may have therapeutic benefits for individuals with PTSD(12).

Post-traumatic stress disorder is characterized by numerous symptoms such as intrusive memories and remembering traumatic events, nightmares, and alterations in mood(13).

A recent study stated that CBD may be a potential microglial stabilizer, which are cells that may aid with depression and stabilization of mood(14).

Microglia is defined as a type of immune cell located in the central nervous system that plays a vital role in inflammation and brain infections(15).

In addition, a study in 2020 showed a link between inflammation and mood disorders(16).

Meanwhile, CBD is hypothesized to possess anti-inflammatory benefits(17). The non-psychoactive compound is safe for use and well tolerated by humans(18).

Furthermore, the serotonin receptor 5-TH1A is one of the endocannabinoid receptors activated by CBD(19).

Serotonin, also called the “happy hormone,” regulates mood and induces the feeling of happiness.

Individuals with mood disorders are prescribed antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which increase the serotonin levels in the brain(20).

Although these study findings are promising, further research is required to determine the benefits of CBD for mood.

How to Use CBD for Mood Disorders

There are several delivery methods for CBD oil products that may help manage mood and improve quality of life:

    • Sublingual administration: CBD oil tinctures are delivered sublingually (under the tongue). This method bypasses the gastrointestinal tract and instead directly enters the bloodstream. This CBD form may come in unflavored and flavored options.

CBD tinctures are usually taken via oromucosal sprays or droppers for a more measured dose.

    • Oral administration: CBD is taken into the body through oral ingestion. In this method, the compound passes through the digestive tract before dispersing through the bloodstream.

CBD products taken through oral administration include edibles, such as CBD gummies, CBD capsules, and chews.

Flavored CBD edibles may be beneficial for individuals who dislike the natural flavor of CBD oil.

    • Inhalation: CBD oil is administered through inhalation or smoking. This method is among the quickest routes to deliver CBD into the system(21).

However, vaping or using CBD vapes may negatively affect the lungs. This method is associated with pulmonary disease(22).

Thus, it is highly advisable to exercise caution when using this CBD method or to opt for other delivery methods to take CBD.

Alternative ways to administer CBD include using topical CBD products, which are directly applied to the skin for localized pain relief(23). Some examples of topicals are creams, balms, and salves.

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has not authorized the use of CBD for managing mood.

If you experience symptoms of mood disorders or issues with mental health and well-being, it is highly encouraged to schedule an appointment with a psychiatrist or a mental health expert.

How Much CBD Oil Should You Take for Mood Disorders?

No CBD dosage guideline has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for managing mood.

A general suggestion for individuals taking CBD for the first time is to begin taking lower doses(24).

Moreover, a study from Current Drug Safety indicated that humans may be able to tolerate up to 1mg to 1,500 mg of CBD per day(25).

How Long Does CBD Take to Help With Mood Disorders?

There are no clinical studies that have been conducted to determine the time required for individuals to experience the biological effects of CBD on mood.

In general, ingesting CBD tinctures may allow you to experience the effects of the compound within 15 to 30 minutes after application(26).

On the other hand, you may experience the therapeutic effects of CBD edibles within 30 minutes to two hours after consumption(27).

Inhalation of CBD through vaping or smoking may have an onset time of two minutes(28).

However, keep in mind that inhaling vapor or smoke may induce allergic reactions and chemical irritation of the lungs(29).

Lastly, individuals may feel the localized benefits of CBD topicals within 10 minutes(30).

How Long Will CBD Help With Mood Disorders?

How long CBD will linger in the body after it takes effect may depend on the compound’s bioavailability.

Bioavailability is the extent to which a particular drug or medication becomes entirely available to its intended biological destination.

If CBD is taken through ingestion, the compound’s bioavailability is between 6% and 15%(31). Meanwhile, if CBD is taken sublingually, the bioavailability is between 6% and 20%(32).

What to Look for if You Want to Use CBD for Mood Disorders

Before you purchase CBD oil products for your mood, it is pertinent to note several factors to ensure that you are buying high-quality products.

Individuals should look for certain factors such as CBD extracts, extraction methods, hemp source, ingredients, and customer reviews.

Types of CBD Extracts

The types of CBD oil extracts are:

Full-spectrum CBD oil or full-spectrum products contain all the cannabinoids and compounds of the cannabis plant, including terpenes, flavonoids, and a THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) concentration of less than 0.3%(33).

Terpenes play a vital role in giving the cannabis plant its unique aroma(34), while flavonoids are plant compounds with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties(35).

THC is a chemical compound of cannabis that contains psychoactive properties or gives users a euphoric high(36).

These compounds may produce an “entourage effect” when combined in one product.

The entourage effect refers to the phenomenon where the amalgamation of different cannabis compounds may improve their medicinal properties(37).

A study published in Frontiers in Plant Science indicated that the entourage effect in full-spectrum hemp extracts may deliver better health benefits than pure CBD(38).

Meanwhile, broad-spectrum CBD oil is much like full-spectrum CBD oil, as it contains similar cannabinoids and compounds.

The difference is that broad-spectrum CBD oil has only small amounts of THC or is completely THC-free.

Lastly, CBD isolates are a pure form of cannabidiol. These extracts do not possess any cannabinoids or compounds.

Individuals who may want to experience the benefits of CBD without the psychoactive effects of THC may opt for broad-spectrum CBD or CBD isolates.

Carrier Oils 

Cannabidiol is infused into carrier oils upon its extraction from the hemp plant. Examples of carrier oils are coconut oil, MCT oil, and hempseed oil.

It is vital to remember that “hempseed oil” and “hemp oil” have significant differences.

Hemp oil, also called CBD oil, is an essential oil derived from the flowers and leaves of hemp plants.

Meanwhile, hempseed oil is made from the pressed seeds of hemp. Moreover, hempseed oil is rich in fatty acids and nutrients but does not have CBD(39).

Hemp Source

It is vital to determine the hemp source of CBD products prior to purchasing them.

Some CBD products may contain harmful substances such as pesticides or GMOs (genetically modified organisms), which may be detrimental to consumers when ingested.

It is highly suggested to choose CBD products made by CBD companies that supply cruelty-free, non-GMO CBD extracts sourced from organic hemp.

Extraction Methods

When obtaining hemp extracts, CBD companies utilize various extraction methods.

Steam distillation and ethanol, natural solvent, and carbon dioxide or CO2 extraction are some extraction techniques.

Carbon dioxide extraction is a preferred technique to create a safe CBD product(40).

Website and Customer Service

CBD brands may sometimes offer a 30-day money-back guarantee for their customers’ satisfaction.

In the United States, Colorado Botanicals, CBDistillery, Charlotte’s Web, Nuleaf Naturals, and Joy Organics are some brands that sell a variety of CBD products.

Third-party Lab Testing

Trustworthy CBD companies should undergo a thorough evaluation through third-party testing.

CBD products are assessed by third-party labs for harmful contaminants such as pesticides or heavy metals that may be harmful to consumers.

Brands should also feature their certificate of analysis (COA) on their websites.

It is highly advisable to review the COA and ensure that the results match the CBD product label claims.

Risks and Side Effects of Using CBD for Mood Disorders

In general, using CBD may induce mild side effects such as(41):

    • Dry mouth

    • Drowsiness

Additionally, using CBD may cause possible drug-to-drug interactions when taken alongside some medications.

Antidepressants and mood stabilizers are usually prescribed to manage issues related to mood(42).

Using CBD alongside these drugs may induce increased drowsiness, fatigue, accidental falls, and possible driving accidents(43).

It is essential to speak with your psychiatrist or a mental health expert before taking CBD products simultaneously with prescription medications.

Legality of CBD

Presently, the only CBD-based treatment authorized by the FDA is Epidiolex. The drug is a prescription medication used to treat tubular sclerosis and seizures linked to two forms of childhood epilepsy(44).

The 2018 Farm Bill states that CBD products are federally legal in the United States(45) if the product has less than 0.3% THC.

Still, laws and legislation regarding CBD use may differ depending on your state. It is highly advised to check the CBD products’ CBD and THC content before purchasing them to avoid any possible legal repercussions.

FAQs

    1. How can CBD help with mood issues?

Mood disorders are mental health issues that may impact a person’s emotional state and mood(46).

Studies have indicated that CBD may possess anxiolytic and antidepressant benefits that may help manage mood disorders’ symptoms(47).

    1. What evidence or research exists to say that CBD helps with mood enhancement?

Mental health disorders that may affect mood are bipolar, anxiety, and major depressive disorder(48).

A recent study has indicated that individuals with anxiety disorders who were given CBD oil capsules may have experienced reduced anxiety levels(49).

In addition, research has suggested that CBD may offer therapeutic benefits for individuals with PTSD(50).

Post-traumatic stress disorder may cause intrusive memories of traumatic events, nightmares, and mood alterations(51).

    1. Is there any evidence that CBD can make my mood worse?

There is no clinical evidence that suggests CBD can make an individual’s mood worse.

One study investigated the effects of 600mg of CBD on individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Results noted that the compound was well tolerated and did not worsen the individual’s mood or suicidal tendencies(52).

    1. Will CBD interact with any current medication I may be taking for my mood?

Medications prescribed to manage mood include antidepressants(53). Taking CBD alongside these drugs may cause drowsiness, tiredness, accidental falls, and potential driving hazards(54).

Before taking CBD products with any prescription medication, talking to a medical professional first is vital.

    1. Are there other treatments I should consider alongside CBD to help with my mood?

Managing mood or mood disorders may vary depending on the specific mental illness and symptoms. Treatment may involve psychotherapy and medication such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers(55).

    1. Can I fail a drug test if I use CBD for my mood disorder?

CBD oil with less than 0.3% concentration of THC will not appear in a drug test.

However, frequent use of CBD products may cause an elevated THC level, leading to a positive drug test(56).

    1. What is the CBD dosage for mood issues?

There is no set CBD dosage for mood issues. In general, the appropriate dosage for CBD may differ depending on genetics, health conditions, stress levels, diet, and exercise(57).

Additionally, people taking CBD for the first time are highly encouraged to take low doses before gradually increasing the amount of CBD taken(58).

    1. Are there any side effects of CBD for mood issues?

The general side effects of CBD may include drowsiness, diarrhea, dry mouth, appetite loss, and fatigue(59).

Furthermore, doctors may prescribe mood stabilizers or antidepressants to manage problems relating to mood(60).

If taken alongside CBD, these medications may cause increased sleepiness, fatigue, accidental falls, and potential accidents when driving(61).

It is vital to consult with your psychiatrist or medical health expert before taking CBD with prescription medication.

    1. Will CBD make me high?

No, CBD does not possess any psychoactive properties. Thus using the compound will not make users high(62).

  1. Any Mood Disorder
    https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-mood-disorder
  2. The Endocannabinoid System, Our Universal Regulator
    https://www.jyi.org/2018-june/2018/6/1/the-endocannabinoid-system-our-universal-regulator
  3. Cannabidiol for Mood Disorders: A Call for More Research
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7918874/
  4. Cannabidiol modulates serotonergic transmission and reverses both allodynia and anxiety-like behavior in a model of neuropathic pain
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6319597/
  5. Cannabinoids and Pain: New Insights From Old Molecules
    https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2018.01259/full
  6. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/
  7. Mood disorders
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mood-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20365057
  8. Use of Cannabidiol for the Treatment of Anxiety: A Short Synthesis of Pre-Clinical and Clinical Evidence
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7480724/
  9. Agoraphobia
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/agoraphobia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355993
  10. Use of Cannabidiol for the Treatment of Anxiety: A Short Synthesis of Pre-Clinical and Clinical Evidence
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7480724/
  11. Cannabidiol: A Potential New Alternative for the Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Psychotic Disorders
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7699613/
  12. ibid.
  13. ibid.
  14. The Impact of Cannabidiol on Psychiatric and Medical Conditions
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7331870/
  15. Functions of microglia in the central nervous system–beyond the immune response
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22613055/
  16. Inflammation as a treatment target in mood disorders: review
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7345526/
  17. Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023045/
  18. An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569602/
  19. Cannabidiol modulates serotonergic transmission and reverses both allodynia and anxiety-like behavior in a model of neuropathic pain
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6319597/
  20. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/ssris/art-20044825
  21. Best way to take CBD
    https://www.projectcbd.org/guidance/best-way-take-cbd
  22. Can vaping damage your lungs? What we do (and don’t) know
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-vaping-damage-your-lungs-what-we-do-and-dont-know-2019090417734
  23. page 210 of Healing With CBD
    https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view
  24. CBD dosing
    https://www.projectcbd.org/guidance/cbd-dosing
  25. Safety and side effects of cannabidiol, a Cannabis sativa constituent
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22129319/
  26. Using CBD for Arthritis: Tips for How to Get Started
    https://creakyjoints.org/alternative-medicine/how-to-take-cbd-for-arthritis/.
  27. ibid.
  28. ibid.
  29. Can vaping damage your lungs? What we do (and don’t) know
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-vaping-damage-your-lungs-what-we-do-and-dont-know-2019090417734
  30. Using CBD for Arthritis: Tips for How to Get Started
    https://creakyjoints.org/alternative-medicine/how-to-take-cbd-for-arthritis/.
  31. Healing With CBD, page 191.
    https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view
  32. Healing With CBD, page 192.
    https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view
  33. Cannabidiol Primer for Healthcare Professionals
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7340472/
  34. The Cannabis Terpenes
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7763918/
  35. Flavonoids as antioxidants
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10924197/
  36. Cannabidiol (CBD)
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556048/
  37. The “Entourage Effect”: Terpenes Coupled with Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7324885/
  38. The Case for the Entourage Effect and Conventional Breeding of Clinical Cannabis: No “Strain,” No Gain
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6334252/
  39. Hemp Seed Oil Properties
    https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/hemp-seed-oil-properties.html
  40. Cannabidiol primer for healthcare professionals
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7340472/
  41. CBD: What You Need to Know Before You Try
    https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/cbd-safe.html
  42. Antidepressants and Mood Stabilizers: Novel Research Avenues and Clinical Insights for Bipolar Depression
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5713374/
  43. CBD and other medications: Proceed with caution
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cbd-and-other-medications-proceed-with-caution-2021011121743
  44. FDA Approves New Indication for Drug Containing an Active Ingredient Derived from Cannabis to Treat Seizures in Rare Genetic Disease
    https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-indication-drug-containing-active-ingredient-derived-cannabis-treat-seizures-rare
  45. Hemp Production and the 2018 Farm Bill
    https://www.fda.gov/news-events/congressional-testimony/hemp-production-and-2018-farm-bill-07252019
  46. Any Mood Disorder
    https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-mood-disorder
  47. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety and Mood Disorders: Molecular Targets and Epigenetic Insights from Preclinical Research
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7917759/
  48. Mood disorders
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mood-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20365057
  49. Use of Cannabidiol for the Treatment of Anxiety: A Short Synthesis of Pre-Clinical and Clinical Evidence
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7480724/
  50. Cannabidiol: A Potential New Alternative for the Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Psychotic Disorders
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7699613/
  51. ibid.
  52. The Impact of Cannabidiol on Psychiatric and Medical Conditions
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7331870/
  53. Antidepressants and Mood Stabilizers: Novel Research Avenues and Clinical Insights for Bipolar Depression
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5713374/
  54. CBD and other medications: Proceed with caution
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cbd-and-other-medications-proceed-with-caution-2021011121743
  55. Mood Disorders
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17843-mood-disorders
  56. Can You Take CBD and Pass a Drug Test?
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cbd/can-you-take-cbd-and-pass-a-drug-test/
  57. CBD dosing
    https://www.projectcbd.org/guidance/cbd-dosing
  58. ibid.
  59. What are the benefits of CBD — and is it safe to use?
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700
  60. Antidepressants and Mood Stabilizers: Novel Research Avenues and Clinical Insights for Bipolar Depression
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5713374/
  61. CBD and other medications: Proceed with caution
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cbd-and-other-medications-proceed-with-caution-2021011121743
  62. Cannabidiol (CBD)-what we know and what we don’t
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476

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Written by 

Stanley Clark

Stanley Clark is a community development volunteer and writer. He had worked on several commercials, events, and campaigns before writing full-time in the area of natural health and wellness. He has a particular interest in reviewing CBD brands for their...

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