Mood is a persistent emotional state influenced by biological, psychological, and environmental factors. It is normal to experience emotional fluctuations, but when these become intense, long-lasting, and interfere with daily life, they are considered mood disorders.
But what are mood disorders? This psycho-physical condition, which includes illnesses such as depression and bipolar disorder, may be linked to neurochemical imbalances, stressful events, or genetic predisposition. It often manifests as deep sadness or, on the contrary, marked euphoria, accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, agitation, insomnia, weakness, significant weight changes, reduced libido, chest tightness, rapid heartbeat, or digestive problems.
These symptoms compromise social relationships and, if neglected, can negatively impact brain function. In the following sections, we will look at the causes, natural strategies to manage mood disorders, and the benefits of CBD as therapeutic support.
Mood Disorders: Causes, Classification, and Types
The causes of mood disorders are varied and can differ from person to person. They are usually a response of our body and mind to events that did not go as we expected: disappointment from not achieving set goals, the death of a loved one, leaving the family environment, and so on.
Mood disorders are mainly divided into two categories (or emotional states):
· Depression, which consists of a lowering of mood tone and the appearance of excessive sadness and fatigue.
· Bipolar disorder, which alternates between states of calm and euphoria, causing severe personality issues and consequent difficulties in social interactions.
Mood Disorder: Symptoms and Impact on Daily Life
The main symptoms of mood disorders include:
· fatigue,
· insomnia or hypersomnia,
· weight changes (gain or loss),
· decreased libido,
· agitation,
· weakness,
· fixed gaze,
· chest tightness,
· rapid heartbeat,
· indigestion.
These symptoms compromise relationships, productivity, and can alter brain circuits in the long term.
How to Improve Mood: Natural Remedies and Strategies
Here are some strategies, supported by scientific research, on how to naturally boost your mood and promote emotional well-being, helping to keep it stable.
1. Regular Physical Activity
Engaging in sports or even simple daily walks stimulates the production of serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins—the so-called “happiness hormones”—which improve mood, reduce anxiety, and increase resilience to stress. Practices like yoga or Pilates, combined with aerobic exercise, can also provide significant benefits.
2. Exposure to Natural Light
Daily exposure to sunlight, preferably in the morning, promotes serotonin and vitamin D synthesis, regulates the circadian rhythm, and reduces the risk of seasonal depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder). Just 20–30 minutes of natural light are enough to achieve noticeable benefits.
3. Balanced Nutrition
Follow a varied diet rich in essential nutrients for brain health: fresh fruits and vegetables for antioxidants, omega-3s (flaxseeds, walnuts, oily fish) to support neuronal function, tryptophan (cashews, lupins, legumes) as a precursor of serotonin, B vitamins for neurotransmitter synthesis, and vitamin D for mental well-being.
4. Use of Adaptogenic Plants, Supplements, and CBD
- Adaptogenic plants: St. John’s Wort is known for its mild antidepressant action, useful in mild to moderate mood disorders; Rhodiola improves stress resistance and reduces mental fatigue; saffron has shown positive effects on mood; chamomile, lemon balm, lavender, and ginseng promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
- Supplements: Omega-3s, magnesium, B and D vitamins, and ashwagandha can help improve stress response and emotional stability.
- CBD (cannabidiol): Several preliminary studies suggest that CBD may modulate the endocannabinoid system and interact with serotonin receptors, helping to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms. It is available in sublingual oil, capsules, or teas, and should always be chosen with certified purity and verified concentration.
5. Relaxation Techniques and Meditation
Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, and autogenic training help reduce chronic stress, improve emotional awareness, and foster a sense of inner calm.
6. Sleep Quality
Restorative sleep is essential for emotional balance: sleep deprivation disrupts serotonin regulation and worsens anxiety and depressive symptoms. Creating a relaxing evening routine and maintaining regular sleep schedules can make a significant difference.
7. Routine and Time Management
Establishing daily habits, planning time in a balanced way, and engaging in rewarding activities such as hobbies, volunteering, or social interactions contribute to maintaining a stable and positive mood.
The Benefits of CBD for Mood Disorders
CBD is the subject of growing interest as a potential aid for mood disorders, but high-quality clinical studies are still needed to fully confirm its effectiveness.
Preclinical research shows that CBD may have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. It acts through several mechanisms:
· stimulates the serotonin receptor (5-HT₁A), promoting emotional well-being;
· modulates the endocannabinoid system, which contributes to brain balance (homeostasis) and regulates substances such as anandamide, important for mood;
· promotes neurogenesis in the hippocampus, a key area for memory and emotions, supporting the formation and survival of new neurons.
In animal models, these mechanisms are associated with potential neuroprotective, anxiolytic, and antidepressant effects. In clinical studies, although still preliminary, CBD has shown promise in reducing symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and agitation. In a series of real-world cases, about 80% of participants reported a decrease in anxiety after one month of use, while over 65% reported improved sleep.
Some scientific reviews indicate that CBD, alone or in combination with THC, may relieve insomnia, although the available evidence is still limited and often based on subjective measurements. A more recent study suggests that CBD-rich products provide more consistent improvements in mood and sleep quality compared to those with higher THC content, with effects less influenced by the subject’s level of inflammation.
How to Use CBD and Recommended Dosages for Mood Disorders
It is recommended to start with a low dose, for example, 5–10 mg per day, preferably taken sublingually as an oil. This “start low, go slow” approach allows you to evaluate individual response and avoid unwanted effects.
If necessary, gradually increase the dose by about 5 mg every few days until reaching 20–40 mg per day, which many experts consider an effective range for several common uses.
It is essential to always consult a doctor before starting, especially if you are taking other medications or have complex medical conditions.
H3 - Safety, Side Effects, and Interactions of CBD for Mood Disorders
CBD is generally well tolerated. Among the mild side effects, the most common are:
· drowsiness,
· dry mouth,
· nausea,
· changes in appetite,
· gastrointestinal issues.
However, prolonged use or high doses may affect liver function or interfere with the metabolism of other medications, since CBD can inhibit several isoenzymes involved in processing many clinically relevant drugs.
For this reason, it is essential to always seek medical advice if you are taking other medications, especially anticoagulants, antidepressants, or immunosuppressants.
Which CBD Products to Choose for Relieving Mood Disorders
For support with mood disorders, it is advisable to choose certified CBD products (with a certificate of analysis from independent laboratories), in order to guarantee purity, absence of contaminants (heavy metals, pesticides, residual solvents), and accuracy of labeling.
Full-spectrum formulations contain a range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that can act synergistically thanks to the so-called entourage effect, potentially improving overall effectiveness; broad-spectrum formulations offer a similar profile but without THC, suitable for those who wish to avoid it completely.
It is important that the label clearly indicates the CBD concentration (for example, in milligrams per milliliter), as in the Eusphera CBD Oils, so that the dosage can be adjusted precisely.
The most common forms include sublingual oil, controlled-release capsules, powdered extracts, or enriched teas. The choice of type depends on personal preferences, practicality of use, and therapeutic goals: for mood disorders, sublingual formulations are generally preferred for more effective systemic bioavailability.
When It Is Important to Consult a Specialist
If symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, worsen, or interfere with daily life, it is essential to consult a specialist (psychologist or psychiatrist). It is important to combine natural remedies with professional clinical support, especially in the case of bipolar disorder or severe symptoms.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About the Use of CBD for Mood Disorders
1. Can CBD modulate the endocannabinoid system and influence mood?
Yes, CBD plays a role in supporting the endocannabinoid system (ECS), helping to regulate anandamide and other endocannabinoids, potentially contributing to emotional stability and mood well-being.
2. Is there scientific evidence on CBD for anxiety and depression?
Some studies show anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, mainly through activation of serotonin receptors such as 5-HT1A and interaction with the ECS. However, most evidence comes from animal models or limited studies, and further clinical trials in humans are necessary.
3. How long does it take to see the effects of CBD on mood?
Times vary: some users report benefits within a few days or weeks, while others notice improvements only after a month or more of regular use.
4. Does CBD used to combat mood disorders cause dependence?
No, CBD is not psychoactive and does not create dependence, unlike cannabis with THC.
5. Can I take CBD every day?
Yes, it is generally well tolerated for daily use at low–moderate dosage, provided it is under medical supervision.
6. Is CBD also useful in cases of mild anxiety or depression?
Yes, some evidence suggests benefits also in conditions of general anxiety or mild depression, especially in combination with other natural and psychotherapeutic remedies.
7. Can I use CBD together with other natural remedies?
Generally yes, CBD can be combined with omega-3, ashwagandha, lemon balm, etc., but it is essential to check for possible interactions with a healthcare professional.
