Could CBD oil help SAD? (seasonal affective disorder)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a seasonal depression with symptoms that can be unbearable. Have you noticed that when the leaves fall or the cold weather begins to set in, a deep inner sadness that is difficult to explain arises? Some people think it's just a temporary “blues” when in fact it's the change of seasons that causes this depressive feeling. To treat this deep, disturbing condition, there is nothing like a 100% natural and proven effective remedy: Cannabidiol (CBD).
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
What exactly is SAD?
Definition
SAD is a condition that affects a person's mood due to lack of exposure to sunlight. This disorder particularly affects people living in countries with northern climates and those who lack natural light. When the sun's rays hit the skin, they naturally trigger a positive enzymatic reaction. The body also produces vitamin D which is a mood regulator. Read more about CBD and vitamin D here.
People, with less exposure to sunlight in the fall or winter, experience a disruption of their internal biological clocks. This lack of sunlight inevitably leads to a decrease in the production of hormones, particularly serotonin and dopamine.
Symptoms of SAD
The signs of seasonal affective disorder resemble the symptoms of depression that you may already know. In the UK, more than 500,000 people (women in particular) suffer from SAD. But, the intensity of the symptoms varies from person to person, different. Symptoms could be:
- Depression or bad mood
- Lack of interest in activities usually enjoyed
- Problems sleeping
- Prolonged decrease in energy
- Isolation from social situations
- Change in weight or appetite
- Difficulty concentrating
- Suicidal thoughts in severe cases
Treatment options – Could CBD oil help SAD?
If you notice any of these symptoms in your life, consult your doctor immediately. He or she will give you the right advice for your situation and propose solutions that will improve your mood and quality of life. One of the most popular basic treatments is light therapy.
This technique consists of using a lamp equipped with a UV filter to reproduce exposure to intense white sunlight. A human being needs an average of 10,000 lux to completely erase seasonal affective disorder.
In addition, CBD with vitamin D could also be an appropriate remedy to help this transient disorder. These cannabinoids have the power to alleviate some of the side effects associated with this condition, such as anxiety and insomnia.
CBD comes into play for winter blues
You should first know that CBD products do not directly cure SAD. They ease the symptoms to make the winter blues more bearable. Hundreds of articles have published the effectiveness of CBD on anxiety and sleep disorders. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, this natural substance derived from hemp stimulates the level of dopamine and serotonin production in the brain.
Anxiety
Numerous studies have shown that people suffering from anxiety disorders feel immediate relief after consuming a dose of CBD. Spanish researchers actually confirmed this theory in 2016 when they saw a dramatic change in behaviour in depressed rats.
This feeling of anxiety is correlated to a decrease in serotonin levels. CBD/CBG oil has the ability to activate serotonin receptors (5-HT1A) to combat anxiety attacks.
Depression and sleep disorder
Regarding the management of depression, experiments report that cannabidiol has antidepressant properties. These same properties can also improve sleep disorders. Several reliable surveys have been able to establish the link between CBD consumption and insomnia.
CBD/CBN oil calms anxious feelings and promotes relaxation to facilitate sleep. Thus, the quality of sleep seems to improve thanks to the effects of CBD.
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How to use CBD to overcome SAD?
If your main goal is to combat sleep disturbances, opt for consuming CBD oil sublingually (under the tongue). It is a fast and effective way to take full advantage of the relaxing effects of this molecule with a thousand virtues.
CBD capsules are also an easy option to integrate into the diet. In any case, make sure that the product in question is of good quality. Know that in Seasonal Affective Disorder, it is essential to associate the consumption of cannabidiol with the notion of positivity and pleasure. Thus, you will really feel its effects on your well-being.
CBD in the case of allergies
During the transitional period between two seasons or in the spring, many people experience constant discomfort and sniffles. Allergies manifest themselves by causing itchy eyes, an allergic cough, or nasal congestion. This condition can be difficult to manage without harsh prescription medications.
The increase in flower pollen during the spring is also conducive to asthma attacks. Symptoms tend to worsen with this change in season. People with asthma have a compromised immune system and suffer from inflammation of the bronchi. This has an impact on the exchange of oxygen and carbon in the body. Anecdotally we have seen very positive results with the 18% Athletes CBD oil.
In the case of allergic asthma
The Extreme South University of Santa Catarina, in Brazil, has launched a study between CBD and allergic asthma. Scientists from this institution published on January 15, 2019, the notable action of cannabidiol on mice with airway sensitivity.
“… Cannabidiol exerts immunomodulatory effects by activating CB1 and CB2 receptors located in the central nervous system and immune cells, respectively.”
Therefore, a CBD-based treatment helps to decrease airway hyperreactivity. Overall, cannabidiol-based treatment reduces the inflammatory and remodelling process in allergic asthma. This study, and many others, provide hope for hay fever sufferers.
Tips for using CBD to help SAD
Finding the best CBD oil
Since cannabidiol comes in a variety of forms, there is a suitable product for every case. For the treatment of mood disorders, all products containing the basic cannabinoids are recommended – here we are referring to a full-spectrum product. The only thing to watch out for is the potency of the oil/product. Generally, SAD requires a high dosage of CBD.
Evaluate starting dosage
Scientific research suggests a dosage of 100–200 mg of CBD per day for several weeks to help emotional disorders. This dosage is actually higher than the normal dose of CBD. Of course, every person is different, and you don't have to take this dosage to get results.
Our recommendations are to START LOW AND GO SLOW. By that, we mean to start with a low dose of CBD and keep increasing slowly over a few days until you find relief. There is no need to start jamming as much as possible into your body, as too much CBD could enhance your symptoms. There is a personal “sweet spot” for everyone.
Even if a high dosage is advised to treat mood disorders, you should always start with a small CBD dose for first use. To see if you have a bad reaction to the cannabidiol oil or its other components.
Monitor the effects
This last step is very important and should not be neglected. Indeed, the seasonal affective disorder has a multitude of factors. Therefore, CBD or other cannabinoids can cause adverse effects in this type of condition. To avoid this misunderstanding, remember to take careful notes regarding the symptoms that occur throughout your CBD treatment. Then report any changes to your doctor.
In conclusion
The CBD option will probably take time, about a month of regular use, for you to notice the changes. Sometimes, some people need to use it for longer. You have to be patient and persistent with the effects of cannabidiol. But, if despite your best efforts, you are unable to stop your seasonal depression, we recommend that you consult your doctor or a psychiatrist.
FAQ – CBD for seasonal affective disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at the same time every year, often in winter or fall. CBD may help by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system to potentially elevate mood and reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, offering a natural way to manage SAD.
CBD is considered safe for most people. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are currently taking medication or have underlying health issues.
The right dosage of CBD can vary from person to person. It's often recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find what works best for you. A consultation with a cannabis expert or healthcare provider can help you find an appropriate starting point
While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, full-spectrum CBD products, which contain all cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, including a trace amount of THC, are believed to be more effective due to the entourage effect. This theory suggests that cannabinoids have a greater impact when used together.
The onset of effects can depend on the method of consumption. Inhalation (vaping or smoking) can produce effects within minutes, while edibles and oils might take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Consistent daily use over several weeks is often recommended to see the full benefits.
The Real CBD for SAD
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