Hemp is a variety of the cannabis sativa plant, used for industrial purposes in a myriad of different products. Industrial hemp, like bamboo, is one of the fastest-growing plants in the world. With loosening global regulations and legalization under the 2018 Farm Bill, researchers everywhere have jumped on the chance to utilize hemp’s advantages to research and treat several physical disorders—such as nerve pain, chemotherapy-induced illness, epilepsy, and muscle spasticity. Now taking a more legitimate title as medicinal cannabis, it has been reported to help not only the body but the mind, too.

Affective Disorders

With increased scientific research, hemp has been used to treat different behavior conditions that disrupt mood regulation. Treatment for affective disorders (and all disorders) involves consumption, inhalation, or topical absorption of the plant and can be taken in the form of oil, gummies, serums, and more.

Anxiety

In a 2017 clinical study, the endocannabinoid system was discovered to moderate anxiety and mood, with supporting data finding cannabinoids and other substances stimulating the prefrontal cortex, amygdaloid complex, bed nucleus of stria terminalis, and hippocampus in the brain. Cannabis derivations like hemp target these areas to relieve anxiety and serve as an antidepressant mediated through its serotonergic properties (5-HT1A receptor activation and THC’s CB1 receptor agonism). 

Though there’s limited research to prove that hemp completely cures Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Social Anxiety Disorder, it assists in alleviating anxiety levels in the brain. Using Hemp Pharamicist’s concentrated Ananda or CBDMD gummies for anxiety, roll-ons, or CBD oil can help soothe stress for a clear mind.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

The whole cannabis plant has been observed to relieve PTSD symptoms, specifically in veterans. The prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus release fear in the brain, which, when impaired by medicinal cannabis, improves responses by triggering stimuli.  

One 2014 survey of 170 patients at a medical cannabis dispensary in California found that those with high PTSD scores preferred cannabidiol for sleep improvement and coping. Along with its psychological benefits, hemp-derived CBD can be used in CBD oil to soften and brighten the skin with stress-relieving properties.

Depression

Depression is rising in America, with over 20% of adults in 2019-2020 experiencing the blues. Phytocannabinoids and terpenes drawn from the hemp plant directly affect the endocannabinoid system to act as an antidepressant. However, it illustrates that heavy cannabis users could increase susceptibility to depression, so we recommend using either a low THC dosage of cannabis or CBD gummies, which have 0.3% or less of THC. On a positive note, in a cross-sectional survey of 1429 medical cannabis users, over 50% use cannabis to treat depression. 

Insomnia

Many studies and reports suggest the positive effects of hemp on sleep, including this case study of 72 adults experiencing poor sleep. Sleep scores strengthened within the first month in 48 patients (66.7%) but shifted over time. Overall, CBD was well-tolerated in all but three patients. CBD oil for sleep or hemp night cream can apply this effect with natural, full-spectrum extracts.

Psychotic Disorders

These mental illnesses can impact everyday life with cognitive impairment, social problems, and stressful mental patterns. Hemp can be a shield to keep unhealthy thoughts at bay and reduce distractions.

Schizophrenia

There has been a consistent link between hemp and cannabis in schizophrenia treatment. Though heavy cannabis use can hinder the disorder with enhanced psychosis, healthy consumption of non-THC counterparts like CBD provides an opposite effect to THC inebriation. A double-blind parallel-group trial involving 88 schizophrenia patients gave them either oral CBD (1000 mg/day) or a placebo to replace their antipsychotic medication for six weeks— revealing that the CBD party had lower levels of positive psychotic symptoms on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and a higher chance of being considered clinically improved.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Adults with ADHD favored cannabis as their choice of self-medication in a 2016 study. The observed outcome of cannabis users reported higher cognitive performance and improved activity levels. Hyperactivity/impulsivity can also be alleviated, with hemp terpenes and cannabinoids performing a calming effect on the brain.  

Overstimulation in the brain can also pair with other mental illnesses like depression and anxiety.  Our medical-grade hemp specialists recommend a full-spectrum CBDa formula to take with your daily dose of vitamins as a focus booster.  Full-spectrum cannabidiolic acid softgels break down in the body with 3x higher Cmax (peak serum concentration) levels than CBD when taken alone.

Conclusion

At The Hemp Pharmacist, we are enthusiasts of a hemp-explored future. We believe that embracing the full potential of the cannabis plant can reveal holistic alternatives to pharmaceutical dependence and even ween people off some conventional drugs. More clinical research is needed to prove hemp’s full, comprehensive effects on physical and mental health. With your increased interest in full-spectrum, natural hemp, we can evolve into a healthier community.

Take a mental health day every day with our pharmaceutical-grade hemp products—experience hemp’s benefits with CBD oil, Koi CBD gummies, and more. For extra information or dosage assistance, reach out to our professionals here.

**The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information about CBD and its potential uses, we are not healthcare professionals. The statements made regarding CBD products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.**