CBD is known for its calming effects, helping many people feel more relaxed, focused, or at ease. Some say it helps with stress, sleep, or everyday tension, but everyone’s experience is different.
While some folks use CBD to help with mood and stress, it’s not a cure or an FDA-approved treatment for depression. If you're struggling, it’s always best to talk to a healthcare professional for the proper support.
CBD Oil’s Effect on Depression
CBD oil is not a treatment for depression. That being said, many people find it helpful in supporting a balanced mental state. CBD oil works with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is involved in maintaining healthy stress levels, mood, and motivation.
The ECS includes special receptors (CB1 and CB2), natural cannabinoids, and enzymes that keep the body in check.
Instead of directly binding to CB1 receptors — which are linked to mood — CBD helps regulate their activity. This may support the brain’s response to serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with happy feelings.
CBD has also been shown to act on 5-HT1A receptors, which help with deep relaxation and emotional stability. CBD may also help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which have been linked to mood imbalances [1].
While the research on CBD and it’s effects on mood are still ongoing, many people say CBD oil helps them feel more balanced, relaxed, and less weighed down by stress, though everyone’s experience is different.
3 Types of CBD Oil: Which Should You Choose?
Full Spectrum CBD
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What it is: Also called whole hemp extract, full spectrum is the least processed of the three extract types. It contains all naturally occurring cannabinoids in the hemp plant, including up to 0.3% THC, along with terpenes and flavonoids.
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Effects: It’s supposed to have a stronger and well-balanced effect profile because it has more natural compounds working synergistically for the “entourage effect.” Some users experience deep relaxation, stress relief, and improved mood with lighter doses compared to the other two extract types.
Broad Spectrum CBD
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What it is: Similar to full spectrum but with zero THC while still containing other cannabinoids and terpenes.
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Effects: Provides many of the same benefits as full spectrum CBD but without THC. Ideal for those who want the entourage effect without any trace of THC.
CBD Isolate
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What it is: Up to 99.9% pure CBD with no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or THC.
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Effects: Offers a more targeted experience, often used for relaxation, focus, or post-workout recovery. No entourage effect, but it’s great for those who prefer THC-free options. You may need to take higher doses of CBD isolate to achieve similar effects to broad spectrum or full spectrum products.
Trusted CBD Oil Brands
Unfortunately, not all CBD brands prioritize regulating and testing their products to ensure safety and efficacy. Here are some CBD oil brands we recommend that prioritize all the right things:
Neurogan
Our High Potency CBD Oil contains 12,000 mg of CBD — an incredibly strong dose of CBD, with 100 mg per serving — more than twice the amount found in other high-strength products.
This 2oz bottle is a 120-day supply (if used daily), making it an excellent option for those seeking long-term support for their mood without breaking the bank. With its potent formula, this CBD oil may be particularly effective for individuals who need a higher dose to manage stress, mood imbalances, and emotional discomfort.
This high-potency formula is designed for fast absorption and is convenient for those who want support for relaxation and restful sleep. Neurogan is proud to conduct in-house and third-party testing to maintain some of the highest standards of quality in the industry.
Medterra
Medterra offers a range of CBD products, including oils, tinctures, and capsules, formulated to support overall well-being. Its CBD oils are mostly made with CBD isolate for a THC-free experience.
Customer feedback on Medterra's CBD oils is generally positive. Many users appreciate the unflavored nature of the oil, noting its versatility in consumption. One reviewer mentioned, "This is the very first CBD oil that is truly unflavored. There's no odor, taste, no hint of hemp or anything, which I am impressed by." This is because CBD isolate doesn’t have a taste or flavor.
However, some users have expressed concerns about the potency of Medterra's products. A review from Innerbody noted that while Medterra's CBD products are reasonably dosed, they are not considered high-potency. The review suggests that Medterra's CBD isolate products may not offer the benefits of minor cannabinoids and the entourage effect, which are present in full spectrum CBD products.
Joy Organics
Joy Organics is best known for its organic CBD gummies, but it also sells CBD oils, including full spectrum and broad spectrum options. Its oils are designed to support relaxation, mood balance, and stress relief without the intoxicating effects of THC.
This brand stands out for its commitment to high-quality, organic ingredients and third-party lab testing, ensuring consistency and potency. Its BBB A+ rating also speaks to the company's dedication to customer service and product integrity.
Reviews for Joy Organics' oils indicate users often feel more grounded and relaxed. Many have shared that it helps with their daily stress levels and creates a more balanced emotional state. For example, the Fresh Lime CBD Tincture has been praised for improving mood and bringing a sense of calm without making users feel sedated or "high."
CBD Oil for Depression
While CBD oil doesn’t treat or cure anxiety or depression, many users find it helps promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support overall emotional balance as part of their wellness routine.
CBD’s potential role in a management plan for anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders is of a lot of interest to researchers, so we expect more information to come out about its impact in the near future [2].
With online reviews and personal testimonies of the game-changing impact of CBD, it can be a great idea to discuss your options with a healthcare professional.
References:
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Pereira, S. R., Hackett, B., O’Driscoll, D. N., Sun, M. C., & Downer, E. J. (2021). Cannabidiol modulation of oxidative stress and signalling. Neuronal Signaling, 5(3), NS20200080.
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García-Gutiérrez, M. S., Navarrete, F., Gasparyan, A., Austrich-Olivares, A., Sala, F., & Manzanares, J. (2020). Cannabidiol: a potential new alternative for the treatment of anxiety, depression, and psychotic disorders. Biomolecules, 10(11), 1575.
