Can you use CBD topicals for mood swings? Talking about our mental health is quite often taboo. It shouldn’t be. We’ve all experienced mood swings from time to time. We know
What causes mood swings?
Mood swings are when you move from one emotion to another. Maybe you’re feeling happy and content one minute, the next, you feel anxious, sad or irritable. Every person experiences mood swings differently, but the onset could be caused by lifestyle factors such as: 
- A significant life change, such as moving home or changing jobs
- Feeling stressed or overwhelmed
- Low blood sugar
- Not getting enough sleep
- Not eating healthfully
- Sleep deprivation
- Taking medications that affect mood or sleep
If, however, these swings become regular or severe, there may be an underlying condition that should be addressed by a medical professional. Mood swings, such as those above, can be more easily treated. If you’re looking for a natural options; however, CBD topicals may be an option to explore for mood swings.
Mood swing mechanics
Neurochemical irregularities in areas of the brain, most commonly in the limbic system (hypothalamus, hippocampus and amygdala) are often the root of mood swings. This area of the brain regulates stress, anxiety and depression. At the same time, there is an active network in our bodies called the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps maintain balance, or homeostasis.
It wasn’t until the 1990s that modern-day scientists discovered it. There’s still a great deal to learn about the ECS, but according to the UCLA Health Cannabis Research here is what we know about it:
“In the 1990s, scientists discovered endocannabinoids, the natural cannabis-like molecules produced by the human body. Scientists began to realize cannabis exerted its effects, in part, by mimicking our endocannabinoids. It appears the primary function of the endocannabinoid system is to maintain bodily homeostasis – biological harmony in response to changes in the environment. Taxonomic investigation revealed that the endocannabinoid system is incredibly old, having evolved over 500 million years ago. Moreover, it’s present in all vertebrates – mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, etc. – all produce endocannabinoids.”
CBD topicals for mood swings
CBD, introduced topically, goes to work quickly and efficiently to ease conditions by interacting with CB receptors throughout our body, including the skin. It binds to the main endocannabinoid receptor, known as CB1, which is found throughout the nervous system and also in the brain. Serotonin, also found in the brain, as noted earlier, is highly receptive to cannabinoids, blossoming in its presence. So, it stands to reason that adding CBD to your therapy may improve your mood, relax you and help you sleep – you get the picture. Plus, and this is huge, CBD has few known side effects.
Stress, often a factor in mood swings, responds well to CBD topicals. When you’re stressed, sleep deprivation can exacerbate it, causing more irritability. Pain is another factor that can cause mood swings. When you’re in pain from arthritis, neuropathy, nerve damage or other causes, your ability to do even the most basic things is compromised.
You can use topicals as often as you need to ease symptoms because CBD wont’ get you high. Rub some on your temples to relieve anxiety and help you relax. You can also do a neck and shoulder massage with a pain-relieving topical that has a way of calming anxiety, depression and other forms of mood swing. Once you relax, you sleep better. A good night’s sleep can change your perspective for the better.
CBD topicals for SAD
With winter waiting in the wings, many people dread less daylight and cold temperatures that can be the harbinger of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It’s a psychological disorder that’s a form of depression. Therapies for SAD range from light therapy to counseling to vitamin D to medication. CBD is a natural means of helping elevate moods because of its antidepressant properties.
Low serotonin levels seem to be the culprit for SAD. Although a CBD topical doesn’t necessarily boost serotonin levels, it may affect how your brain’s chemical receptors respond to the serotonin that’s already in your system. CBD affects those receptors with its anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties, helping to stabilize your mood. Especially when you use it in concert with other forms of therapy.
Rub the CBD topical on your temples or get a massage with a CBD cream to help you relax and sleep. Don’t struggle with SAD this winter, prepare now for the inevitable and arm yourself with protection.
What to look for in CBD topicals
When considering CBD topicals, make sure to choose products with hemp-CBD oil that is free of toxins and impurities. Hemp absorbs toxins from the earth, so make sure the hemp was grown organically. You should be able to easily find the ingredient list for topicals. Check to make sure you’re getting a product with organically sourced ingredients. Avoid products with added chemicals and artificial ingredients that might do more harm than good. Lost Remedy uses only high-quality, organic CBD from hemp for all of our topicals. For more information about what to look for, check out our FAQ page.