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Best CBD For Mood Stabilizer 2024: Can Marijuana Help With Bipolar Disorder?
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- Written by Lindsey Desoto, RDN, LD
Medically reviewed by
Victor Nguyen, PharmD.
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- Includes CBN to promote relaxation.
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People who suffer from mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, are willing to try just about anything to help get their mood swings under control. Lately, there has been more ongoing research supporting natural remedies to help manage symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, including a potential positive relationship between CBD oil and treating bipolar disorder.
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness with many new diagnoses on the rise. The mood swings that come with this illness can seriously affect your quality of life if not properly managed. This article discusses how CBD oil may help reduce mood swings, the research behind CBD and bipolar, and ways to take CBD oil to relieve symptoms.
Best CBD For Bipolar On The Market In (October. 2024)
- CBDfx – Best Taste
- Spruce CBD – Editor’s choice
- Medterra – Most Variety
CBD For Bipolar
Ongoing research shows that CBD oil may act as a mood stabilizer, posing potential benefits for bipolar disorder chronic pain. How does CBD oil act as a mood stabilizer?
Best CBD For Mood Stabilizer 2024
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- Includes CBN to promote relaxation.
- Carbon dioxide, i.e., CO2 extraction.
- Third-party tested with a COA.
- Lacks flavor options.
- Not appropriate for individuals who want a THC-free product.
CBDfx CBD + CBN Oil Calming Tincture features full-spectrum CBD and cannabinol,[1] or CBN, a relaxation-inducing cannabinoid found in the Cannabis sativa plant. It has a citrusy flavor with no hempy aftertaste.
Full-spectrum CBD includes numerous naturally occurring cannabis extracts, including terpenes,[2] essential oils, and other cannabinoids.
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Products sold by CBDfx come with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
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Spruce 750mg Lab Grade CBD Oil is a high-quality oil made from full-spectrum CBD oil that comes with a generous return policy.
- Third-party tested with a COA.
- Made with an heirloom strain of hemp.
- Generous return policy for first-time customers.
- Only one flavor option.
- Not appropriate for individuals who want THC-free products.
- Results of third-party testing are not easily accessible.
Spruce is known for their high-quality CBD products made from an heirloom strain of U.S.-grown hemp with a unique terpene profile. All CBD oil sold by Spruce is extracted using a moonshine extraction method.[3]
Spruce 750mg Lab Grade CBD Oil contains 25 milligrams of full-spectrum CBD oil per 1-milliliter serving and has a delicious peppermint flavor.
This CBD oil is free of gluten and artificial preservatives, sweeteners, and flavors, although an ingredient list is difficult to find on their website. It is third-party tested for potency and microbial contaminants, residual solvents, pesticides, heavy metals, and mycotoxins. Current COAs are also publicly available on the company’s website.
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Medterra is a well-known CBD company offering a wide range of high-quality products. However, its best-selling product is reportedly its Isolate CBD Oil.
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The CBD isolate is made with organic, non-GMO hemp, and it undergoes third-party testing. Additionally, the product is certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority.
Medterra recommends taking one full dropper daily or as needed. However, for maximum effectiveness, take over an extended period. Medterra Isolate contains absolutely no THC.
You can buy the CBD isolate as a one-time purchase or set up a delivery subscription for 30% cost savings. Medterra also offers new customers a risk-free guarantee, which allows customers to try a product for 30 days.
CBD Oil As A Mood Stabilizer
What Does The Research Say?
CBD has been all the rave as a natural treatment of symptoms associated with mental health issues. It has been studied to act as a mood stabilizer[4] and improve anxiety[5] while reducing symptoms of depression.
Many believe CBD oil helps improve and stabilize mood by having a positive effect on serotonin levels.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in our body that regulates mood.
Although there should be more research done, an increasingly large number of studies support the use of CBD oil to manage symptoms associated with various mental health conditions ranging from anxiety to depression and bipolar depression.
One study[6], in particular, was conducted in 2012 and followed participants with bipolar disorder over nine years. This study found that marijuana use improved attention span, better processing speed, and enhanced memory.
In addition, a 2018 review[7] found that CBD has antipsychotic benefits and may result in reduced depression related to stress.
Unfortunately, all research has not shown positive benefits.
An older study[8] from 2008 studied two people during a manic episode. The study results showed CBD did not significantly affect these patients. But again, this is only one study conducted years ago on two individuals. Of note, despite no significant benefits shown, there were no findings of any adverse side effects associated with CBD consumption during manic episodes.
How Does CBD Oil Compare To Medications?
While there have been many positive benefits associated with CBD for bipolar and managing the symptoms associated with it, you should never stop taking medicine or add on to your existing regimen without talking to your healthcare provider first.
According to a study[9] published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, CBD has the same antipsychotic properties as traditional medications that treat bipolar disorder in addition to other anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Compared to prescription medications, CBD may also have fewer potential adverse side effects such as agitation and sexual dysfunction.
CBD is known to interact with medications that have a grapefruit warning by altering the way your body processes certain drugs.
Therefore, you should avoid taking CBD alongside medications with a grapefruit warning.
Does CBD Cause Adverse Effects?
To date, it does not appear that taking CBD oil causes many severe adverse side effects. However, there are a few people who have reported experiencing the following issues when taking CBD.
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Changes in appetite
According to a 2017 review, the World Health Organization stated that CBD oil is generally safe.
They did, however, report that it may cause interactions with certain medications, as mentioned above.
Always speak with your health provider before starting or stopping any medication, including over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, and prescription medications.
Bipolar Disorder: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
Bipolar disorder diagnoses are increasing[10] in individuals across the world. Though diagnosis rates are increasing, overdiagnosis is thought to play a large role in these statistics.
Unfortunately, the exact cause of the bipolar disorder is unclear. A variety of factors such as genetics, brain structure, and other mental illnesses may be associated with bipolar disorder.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder can last from days to years.
In particular, those with bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, may experience mood swings that range in severity.
The shifts in mood often alternate between mania and depression[11].
During a manic episode, the individual may experience the following symptoms.
- Extreme happiness
- Hyperactivity
- Inability to sleep
- Increased sex drive
- Heightened energy
- Impaired judgment
During the depressive phase, the individual may experience the following symptoms.
- Crying
- Hopelessness
- Weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Suicidal thoughts
- Loneliness
A psychiatrist usually makes the initial diagnosis after a review of your medical history, including a review of symptoms and significant life events.
Sometimes the person may have the disorder for many years before being given an official diagnosis.
Once given the diagnosis, treatment typically consists of medication, supportive care, and therapy.[12]
Medications commonly prescribed to treat bipolar disorder include mood stabilizers, anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants, or antipsychotic drugs.
In more severe cases, the doctor may prescribe a combination of the above medications.
In addition to medication, the provider typically gives referrals to psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, and family therapy to help members better understand the condition.
Additional therapy methods are available for severe cases, including electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TCM).
ECT involves passing an electric current to the brain to change its chemistry.
TCM is relatively new and still being studied for potential benefits. It consists of applying magnetic pulses through some regions of the brain to change its functions.
How To Use CBD Oil For Mood Stabilizer?
There are many ways to use broad-spectrum CBD oil for bipolar disorder. Some of the common ways to use cannabidiol are.
CBD Oil
Oil is the most commonly used form of CBD. It typically comes in a bottle with a dropper and is easy to use. These oils are infused with CBD and placed under the tongue for one minute before swallowing. Placing the oil under the tongue results in faster absorption and reaches your bloodstream quicker. To ensure proper dosage, you can also let the drops fall into your hand before putting them under your tongue.
CBD Capsules
CBD capsules are very popular, and often manufacturers will add additional ingredients to promote bioavailability. They are quick and easy to take on the go but may not absorb into the bloodstream quickly.
CBD Vape Pens
Vaping is an increasingly popular way to inhale CBD oil and might help the user get symptom relief faster. There is still a lot of ongoing research about vaping and its effect on the lungs, so you should consider this before deciding to use CBD vape pens.
CBD Edibles
CBD edibles include CBD gummies, honey sticks, or hard candies. While they are easy to take, they may take a little longer to produce positive effects.
CBD Dosage
While the dosage of CBD will not get you “high,” The proper dosage of CBD varies from person to person based on various factors. Getting the correct dose is key to making sure you reap the most benefits from taking CBD.
The FDA does not currently regulate CBD, so there are no official dosage recommendations at this time.
If you do a simple search on the internet, you will likely find a wide range of dose recommendations from 20 mg- 1500 mg per day.
Depending on how receptive your doctor is to you taking CBD, they might provide a recommended initial dose.
If your medical provider does not recommend a dosage, it is always better to start with the lowest dose possible and gradually work your way up to find what treats your symptoms the best.
The dose that works for you will depend on your condition, body size, and concentration of CBD in the particular product.
Depending on your condition, CBD doses come in high, medium, and low.
The product you buy will typically come with a dosage guideline to guide you in the right direction.
According to a 2020 review by the Journal of Clinical Medicine Research, participant’s anxiety levels improved after one oral capsule of CBD, ranging from 300-600 mg.
If starting slow and trying for a week does not relieve symptoms, many manufacturers recommend doubling your dose to help relieve symptoms.
According to one review,[13] humans can safely tolerate around 1,500 mg of CBD per day orally. But again, It is always recommended to start with the lowest possible dose and work yourself up until you are satisfied with the results.
It is also crucial to research your brand options before purchase, as low-quality CBD products may result in adverse side effects and have the potential for dangerous reactions.
Make sure you choose brands that have a good reputation and undergo third-party testing.
CBD may be very promising to treat symptoms associated with bipolar disorder.
As mentioned above, it is always important to discuss potential benefits and potential downfalls with your medical doctor before starting any supplement or medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can, but most people do not. Not only is CBD oil challenging to mix in with most foods and beverages, but it could also potentially affect potency when mixed in with foods. If you are looking to mix CBD oil into your food, you may want to try edible CBD products that have been pre-dosed instead.
CBD is a specific type of cannabinoid in cannabis. CBD does not make you feel “high.” It is less likely to become addictive. On the other hand, cannabis contains more THC and less CBD. Products with higher THC levels are considered illegal in states where recreational cannabis use is prohibited.
No. Never stop any of your prescribed medications without first speaking with your medical doctor. Abruptly stopping certain medications can lead to withdrawal, worsening symptoms, and may even lead to suicidal ideation.
While it is unlikely to overdose on CBD oil, a substantial amount could result in adverse outcomes.
No. CBD oil sold in the United States should not have any addictive properties. In addition, it can not make an individual feel “high.”CBD oil contains little to no TCH and should not result in any euphoric feeling or cause addiction. CBD oil is illegal in states that do not allow recreational cannabis use if it comes from a marijuana plant and contains over 0.3 percent THC.
That is up to you. There is a wide variety of CBD oils out there that can fit into many lifestyles. CBD comes in many forms, from edibles to creams and capsules. This is why you need to do your research and decide which type is the best for you. Lately, people vape with CBD to provide immediate, long-lasting effects. Many people say that vaping may cause harmful effects on your lungs, and additional research should be completed on potential adverse health risks.
The first thing you should do is get an evaluation by your medical provider, usually a psychiatrist. Once you have a diagnosis and medical history is obtained by your provider, you may discuss your interest in using CBD oil and decide together if this is an option for you. Some people may require medications that CBD oil cannot replace. Anytime you have a medical condition, it is essential to talk with your medical provider before making any decisions.
Generally, no. Drug tests typically do not detect CBD because they are not screening for it due to it not creating a mood-altering effect like marijuana. While pure CBD is unlikely to result in a positive drug test, you can consume CBD products and test positive. Some products contain trace amounts of THC. If enough THC is present in the CBD product you use, it very well could result in a positive drug test. If you use any CBD products and are unsure of the exact composition, it may be a good idea to refrain from use for a while before your test to avoid the slight chance of testing positive.
+ 13 sources
Health Canal avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic researches from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in Health Canal, you can read more about the editorial process here
- Melas, P.A., Scherma, M., Fratta, W., Cifani, C. and Fadda, P. (2021). Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety and Mood Disorders: Molecular Targets and Epigenetic Insights from Preclinical Research. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, [online] 22(4), p.1863. Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/4/1863/htm.
- Skelley, J.W., Deas, C.M., Curren, Z. and Ennis, J. (2020). Use of cannabidiol in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. Journal of the American Pharmacists Association, [online] 60(1), pp.253–261. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31866386/ [Accessed 14 Aug. 2021].
- National Cancer Institute. (2021). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms. [online] Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/serotonin.
- Braga, R.J., Burdick, K.E., DeRosse, P. and Malhotra, A.K. (2012). Cognitive and clinical outcomes associated with cannabis use in patients with bipolar I disorder. Psychiatry Research, [online] 200(2-3), pp.242–245. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4408776/.
- Crippa, J.A., Guimarães, F.S., Campos, A.C. and Zuardi, A.W. (2018). Translational Investigation of the Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD): Toward a New Age. Frontiers in Immunology, [online] 9. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6161644/.
- Zuardi, A., Crippa, J., Dursun, S., Morais, S., Vilela, J., Sanches, R. and Hallak, J. (2008). Cannabidiol was ineffective for manic episode of bipolar affective disorder. Journal of Psychopharmacology, [online] 24(1), pp.135–137. Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0269881108096521.
- Blessing, E.M., Steenkamp, M.M., Manzanares, J. and Marmar, C.R. (2015). Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders. Neurotherapeutics, [online] 12(4), pp.825–836. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/.
- Corroon, J. (2021). Cannabinol and Sleep: Separating Fact from Fiction. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. [online] doi:https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2021.0006.
- Sommano, S.R., Chittasupho, C., Ruksiriwanich, W. and Jantrawut, P. (2020). The Cannabis Terpenes. Molecules, [online] 25(24), p.5792. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25245792.
- Lazarjani, M.P., Young, O., Kebede, L. and Seyfoddin, A. (2021). Processing and extraction methods of medicinal cannabis: a narrative review. Journal of Cannabis Research, [online] 3(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00087-9.
- Yutzy, S.H., Woofter, C.R., Abbott, C.C., Melhem, I.M. and Parish, B.S. (2012). The Increasing Frequency of Mania and Bipolar Disorder. Journal of Nervous & Mental Disease, [online] 200(5), pp.380–387. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3632412/.
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- Iffland, K. and Grotenhermen, F. (2017). An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, [online] 2(1), pp.139–154. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569602/.
Written by:
Lindsey Desoto, RDN, LD
Medically reviewed by:
Medically reviewed by:
