Science & tech

The Medical Minute: New Study Looks to Cannabis for Depression Treatment

Published on February 11, 2015 · Last updated July 28, 2020

Cannabis compounds hold promise as a treatment for depression, according to new research from the University of Buffalo’s Institute on Addiction. This study brings hard data to a fact many of us have experienced firsthand, as evidenced by the hundreds of strains patients have reviewed on Leafly as effective anti-depressants.

While looking at the brains of stress-exposed rats, neuroscientists noticed a depletion of endocannabinoids, or the marijuana-like compounds our bodies generate for certain homeostatic functions such as stress reduction. Endocannabinoids operate on the same system of receptors as marijuana cannabinoids like THC, so theoretically our naturally-occurring compounds could be supplemented by those found in the cannabis plant.

Our knowledge of the endocannabinoid is still in its infancy and legal limitations on research aren’t helping it grow up very quickly. This study is an encouraging stepping stone to better marijuana science, but we still have a long way to go. We hope to see human trials underway in the near future, even if most of us have felt a bit like lab rats in our own therapeutic experiments with this amazing herbal remedy.

Shop highly rated stores near you

Showing you stores near
See all stores
Bailey Rahn
Bailey Rahn
Bailey is a senior content manager at Leafly, specializing in strains and health. She's spent 7+ years researching cannabis products, spreading patients’ stories, and exploring healthy ways of integrating cannabis into daily life.
View Bailey Rahn's articles
Get good reads, local deals, and strain spotlights delivered right to your inbox.

By providing us with your email address, you agree to Leafly's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.



Stay In Touch

Receive updates on new products, special offers, and industry news.

By providing us with your email address, you agree to Leafly's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Leafly mobile app
Get high for less.
Download the Leafly app.
Download Leafly: Marijuana Reviews on the App Store
Download Leafly Marijuana Reviews on Google Play




The material provided on Leafly is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Leafly is not engaged in rendering medical service or advice and the information provided is not a substitute for a professional medical opinion. If you have a medical problem, please contact a qualified health professional.


© 2024 Leafly, LLC
Leafly and the Leafly logo are registered trademarks of Leafly, LLC. All Rights Reserved.