
CBD for depression at a glance
CBD for depression is a topic that has become increasingly important in recent years. More and more people are looking for alternatives to traditional treatment methods, and cannabidiol (CBD) is in the spotlight. While some studies offer hope, the scientific situation remains unclear.
Understanding depression – symptoms and prevalence in Switzerland
Typical symptoms of depression
- Depression is more than just a bad mood. It is a serious mental illness characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest and lack of energy. Common symptoms are
- Lack of drive
- Sleep disorders
- Changes in appetite
- Feelings of guilt and hopelessness
How many people are affected in Switzerland
In Switzerland, around 5% of the population is affected, which corresponds to around 400,000 people. Statistically, women are affected slightly more often than men. Depression is usually treated with psychotherapy, medication or a combination. CBD is currently being discussed as a possible supplement.

CBD and its effect on the body
The endocannabinoid system and mood
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for mood, sleep, pain perception and stress regulation, among other things. The possible influence on the 5-HT1A serotonin receptors, which play a central role in emotions and well-being, is particularly relevant for research.
Why CBD is being studied for depression
Many people are looking for natural supplements, as traditional medications can have side effects such as fatigue, weight gain or loss of libido. Initial studies suggest that CBD could have a stress and anxiety-reducing effect – factors that are closely linked to depression.

Current state of research on CBD for depression
Research is still in its infancy:
- Animal studies indicate antidepressant effects(source).
- Small clinical studies in humans show potential for anxiety disorders(source).
- Neuroscientific findings suggest that CBD could promote neuronal plasticity(source).
👉 Conclusion: The indications are promising, but large, long-term studies are still lacking.
Opportunities and risks of CBD for depression

Possible opportunities
- Natural & not intoxicating
- Could have a mood-stabilizing effect
- Good tolerability for most users
- Various forms of application(oil, flowers, cosmetics)
Possible risks
- Placebo effects cannot be ruled out
- Approval as a drug for depression Possible interactions with antidepressants
- Product quality on the market
Legal situation of CBD in Switzerland and worldwide
In Switzerland, CBD products are legal as long as the THC content is below 1 %(BAG, 2025).
Stricter limits apply in the EU, usually between 0.2 and 0.3% depending on the country.
In the United States, CBD is permitted at the federal level if it is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC – but the details vary by state.(FDA, 2024).
Herba di Berna – our approach to transparency and quality
At Herba di Berna we attach particular importance to:
- Living Soil cultivation instead of artificial fertilizers
- Laboratory analyses for each batch
- Regional Swiss quality with short supply chains
- Sustainable production with ecological standards
We do not see CBD as a “miracle cure”, but as an honest supplement for conscious consumers.
CBD bei Depressionen FAQ❓➕
Hilft CBD gegen Depressionen?
CBD is not approved as a medicinal product. Although initial studies indicate potential, there is a lack of clear evidence.
Warum interessiert sich die Forschung für CBD bei Depressionen?
Because CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which influences mood, stress and sleep. Studies indicate a possible effect, but this has not yet been clearly confirmed.
Gibt es Risiken, CBD bei Depressionen einzunehmen?
Yes, especially because of possible interactions with medication. For this reason, medical advice should always be sought before using CBD as a supplement.
Kann CBD Depressionen heilen?
No. There is no official approval or confirmed clinical evidence for it. Research results are only preliminary so far.
Welche Rolle spielt Serotonin in diesem Zusammenhang?
CBD could influence the serotonin system via interaction with the 5-HT1A receptors – similar to some antidepressants, but without the same evidence.
Warum ist die Studienlage noch unsicher?
As most studies have so far been based on small numbers of cases or animal models. Large, long-term clinical studies are needed to draw clear conclusions.
Sources and further information (H2)
Federal Statistical Office (FSO) – Mental health in Switzerland Source
WHO (2021): Depression Fact Sheet Source
WHO (2018): Cannabidiol Critical Review Report Source
Zuardi AW et al (2019): Cannabidiol and depression (PubMed) Source
Blessing EM et al (2015): Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders (PubMed) Source
Campos AC et al (2013): Cannabidiol, Serotonin and Antidepressant Effects (PubMed) Source
Sales AJ et al (2019): Cannabidiol promotes neuroplasticity (PubMed) Source
Huestis MA et al (2019): Cannabidiol Pharmacology and Interactions (PubMed) Source
City of Zurich – Cannabis pilot project Source
FDA (2024): FDA and Cannabis: Research and Drug Approval Process Source