What To Keep In Mind When Trying Marijuana Strains For Anxiety
As you go through this list and experiment with different strains, take note of which cannabinoids and terpenes your body gravitates towards for anxiety relief. That will make it easier to identify the types of strains you should try going forward.
And last of all, we encourage you to keep your doctor in the loop if you choose to use cannabis therapeutically, especially if there are treatment or medication interactions to consider.
Hybrid Strains Are A Nice Mixture Of Indica And Sativa Effects
Hybrid strains, those that contain both indica and sativa, are a fantastic way to experience the upsides to each type. Take the Rosetta Stone flower, for example. Ringing in at $15.00 a gram, this hybrid strain contains a relatively low rate of THC, and a slightly boosted amount of CBD . In this range, hybrid flowers are perfect for clients seeking full-body benefits without potentially distracting psychological effects.
Do Strains Really Matter
Maybe.
Experts disagree on the role strains play when it comes to effects. Dr. Tishler believes strains lead to different preferences during sex, but dont guarantee any outcomes. He advises his patients to ignore strains altogether and focus on dosing and method of delivery.
Renko believes the real magic lies in the terpenes when it comes to defining the effects of each strain.
Terpenes are compounds found in plants that are responsible for the aroma and flavor. If one cannabis plant smells like diesel and another reminds you of lemons thats terpenes at work.
Terpenes impact the different effects of cannabis, though how is not clear yet. The research into strains individual traits and how those might affect humans continues.
Using Cannabis Indica And Sativa For Anxiety Treatment
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An anxiety diagnosis can be difficult to handle whether you just received the diagnosis or have been grappled with it for a long time. Regardless of how severe anxiety disorder is, it makes simple daily tasks feel like insurmountable activities. Anxiety affects millions of people, not only in America but also in other countries worldwide. Unfortunately, some people suffering from anxiety go without a diagnosis, making treatment harder than those diagnosed.
Some patients may struggle with finding the right treatment because brain chemistry differs among individuals. Also, the brain may react differently to anxiety medications. Additionally, seeing the right therapy makes the disorder more confusing. However, its essential to talk to a therapist after an anxiety diagnosis.
Some common types of anxiety are panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Some disorder features may entail feelings of worry, fear, and unease, and they can significantly reduce your quality of life if these problems are not under control. The condition can result from past trauma, overactivity of your brain, hormonal imbalance, drug abuse history, and genetic inheritance.
Do Marijuana And Anxiety Mix
Although the media is sometimes awash with reports that cannabis can have harmful psychoactive effects, this isnt always the case. One study from Washington State University reveals that marijuana and anxiety have a positive relationship. Using a self-reported study, the research team found that anxious feelings reduce in the short-term, resulting in temporary relief for patients. This could prevent panic attacks, which are often the most disabling elements of anxiety.
At the same time, some forms of medical marijuana can make a few of the symptoms of anxiety worse. For example, Indica may cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a form of low blood pressure thats worse when you stand up. For those who suffer from anxiety, the feeling of disconnect and wooziness that comes with orthostatic hypotension could worsen their anxiety symptoms.
How Cannabis Can Help
Since cannabis contains cannabinoids, it can induce the release of endorphins and serve as a beneficial medicine to reduce stress. When you use cannabis for stress, these cannabinoids travel through your bloodstream and search for areas in need of support. During times of excess stress, the body will let these cannabinoids know that regulation needs to occur. So, the cannabis plant gets to work, absorbing molecules as required and slowing the production of cortisol.
With this, it becomes a whole lot easier to take a deep breath.
Cannabis as a medicinal plant can help manage stressful situations of all types. Of course, it isn’t ridding stressful situations entirely, but it makes your body’s response a lot more manageable. In general, the cannabis plant can help with symptoms of stress such as:
- Low energy
- Feelings of low self-esteem, worthlessness, loneliness, and depression
- Pains aches and tense muscles,
- Easy frustration, mood swings, and agitation
Indica Vs Sativa: Understanding The Basics
When cannabis consumers think of indica vs. sativa marijuana strains, they generally think that indica strains are physically sedating, perfect for relaxing with a movie or as a nightcap before bed, and sativa strains are energizing with uplifting cerebral effects that pair well with physical activity, social gatherings, and creative projects. Hybrid strains are thought to have a mix of indica and sativa effects.
But indica doesnt always mean in da couch, and sativa doesnt necessarily energize all of its consumers. As research opens up and we learn more about the cannabis plant, it turns out the chemical compounds in each strainthe cannabinoids and terpenes in itdetermine the effects youll feel, not whether its an indica or sativa. In fact, the origins of those two terms are rooted in botany, not effects.
However, even today, the belief that indicas, sativas, and hybrids deliver distinct effects is still deeply rooted in mainstream cannabis culture. If youve ever been to a dispensary, youve likely heard a budtender begin a strain recommendation by asking which of those three types you prefer.
Lets look at where the terms indica,sativa, and hybrid actually come from, and how a cannabis strains chemical profile interacts with your unique body to make you feel effects.
The Best Marijuana Strains For Anxiety Management
Each marijuana strain has its own set of effects that are similar but not entirely the same. Depending on the combination of strains used to make the hybrid, a particular strain can have a drastically different effect on you compared to others. Here are some of the best marijuana strains for anxiety and what you need to know about them to make a well-informed decision.
Can Ptsd Be Cured Or Treated Effectively With Pot
As a mental illness, PTSD is not able to be cured. However, you can use medical cannabis strains to help treat PTSD & anxiety. The first treatment for PTSD patients should be to use psychotherapy or group therapy to help people living with PTSD deal with their traumatic event. Being able to overcome the memory of this traumatic event depends on the trauma experienced by PTSD patients, as well as how well they use the tools given to them by the therapist.
To supplement therapy as a treatment for PTSD, many PTSD patients use specific strains of cannabis to treat depression and anxiety. Depression and anxiety are both common symptoms in those who suffer from PTSD. The calming effect of Indica strains, the energizing effect of Sativa strains, and the regulating effects of CBD are all ways that cannabis can help treat these PTSD symptoms.
Chronic pain, insomnia, and loss of appetite are more symptoms that people with PTSD often experience. Certain marijuana strains can greatly help those with PTSD find relief from these symptoms.
Indica Vs Sativa Vs Hybrid
Ever hear weed smokers discussing which strain is best? This Indica vs. Sativa vs. Hybrid comparison will tell you everything you need to know. While both strains are suitable for recreational and medicinal purposes, they boast relatively different properties.
For one, the Sativa strain is known to get you a head high. Thanks to this, you will feel a stimulating effect that helps reduce anxiety or stress. The Sativa high also enhances focus and creativity. Indica, on the other hand, delivers full-body effects increasing relaxation and aiding with sleep, as it tackles insomnia.
The Hybrid strain combines a mix of both offering versatile effects. Nonetheless, this is not all there is to know about cannabis strains. This in-depth Indica vs. Sativa vs. Hybrid comparison breaks down each stain to give you an even better understanding so you can make an informed decision when choosing the best strain for you.
Pure Strains Of Sativa
Pure Sativa strains include:
- Panama Red: As the name suggests, this strain comes from Panama and has been popular since the 1960s. It provides you with a happy and euphoric effect and is often used by people to cope with stress, fatigue and depression.
- Thai: As you might imagine, Thai comes from Thailand. It arrived in the U.S. in the 70s and 80s. This strain has a powerful effect and boasts a citrus aroma. Medicinally, its used for treating stress, depression and fatigue, as it gives you a very focused, happy and relaxed feeling.
- Hawaiian: Hawaiian is a tropical fruit-fragranced strain that gives you a happy and relaxed feeling. Its very useful if you suffer from stress or depression.
Biology Dosing And Consumption Method Of Cannabis
Additionally, your tolerance to cannabis, the amount you consume , and the consumption method will also determine how a strain affects you. Consider the following questions when looking for the right strain or product.
- How much experience do you have with cannabis? If your tolerance is low, consider a low-THC strain in low doses.
- Are you susceptible to anxiety or other side effects of THC? If so, try a strain high in CBD.
- Do you want the effects to last a long time? If you do, consider edibles . Conversely, if you seek a short-term experience, use inhalation methods or a tincture.
There are many factors to consider when choosing a strain, but if you find that indica strains consistently deliver a positive experience, then by all means, stick to what you know. However, if youre still searching for that ideal strain, these are important details to keep in mind.
How To Use Cannabis For Treat Anxiety And Depression
In case you have access to cannabis grown and tested in the laboratory, the way of use does not play an important role. The main thing is that you can accurately calculate the dosage. If you are not sure about the genetics of cannabis flowers that you buy, there is another option CBD cannabis oil. It has the basic properties that are needed to treat depression and anxiety.
CBD oil is legal in more than 40 countries and it is easy to handle with it. The liquid consistency is the most convenient for calculating the dosage. In addition, this oil contains pure CBD without THC, which excludes the appearance of a high effect if you are not sure of your reaction to this condition.
Microdosing of CBD/THC hybrids is another way to treat anxiety and depression. This method is relatively new, but clinical studies showed positive dynamics in treating patients with this mental disorders. Take 2-5 mg of pot for few days and than add more cannabis is needed. The way of use does not play any role.
And now lets finally find out what are the best cannabis strains for depression and anxiety.
The Effects Of Sativa
Smoking sativa-dominant flowers will produce a variety of effects. The most common effect has already been described, but its important to note that sativa strains may also help with depression or anxiety. Sativa is also recommended for those who are feeling creative or people who need to get things done around the house or in their daily life. Strains may arouse creativity levels and cause more focus in tasks.
How Marijuana Helps To Relieve Depression
Information about how cannabis use affects depression is limited, but with each new study, we continue to learn a bit more. Basically, its believed that stress disrupts the production of endocannabinoidsor chemicals that impact our emotions, behavior and moreand the deficiency of these chemicals can cause depression. Cannabinoids like CBD and THC are thought to interact with endocannabinoid receptors, thus helping restore the endocannabinoid system and alleviating symptoms of depression.
Its important to note that while medical marijuana may be helpful for immediate, or short-term, relief of these symptoms, it is not recommended as a primary, long-term treatment for depression. That being said, it could be beneficial as a mood booster to supplement your regular treatment .
Animal studies have shown that THC may stimulate serotonin production, resulting in mood improvements, but high doses of the compound may worsen depressive symptoms. Non-psychoactive CBD is also known to alleviate stress and improve mood, and therefore, strains with higher CBD content may be a helpful option for those seeking depression relief.
Sativa Properties & Effects
- Grows 3-4 feet tall
- Typically has sweet flavor
Origin-wise, Indicas come from the Indian subcontinent and central Asia, whereas Sativas come from equatorial regions like Mexico, Jamaica, and Thailand. The two different types are different in appearance.
Indicas have a flowering period of between 45 and 65 days. Sativas need between 60 to 90 days to finish flowering. Sativas require less time for the actual plants to grow, so the overall time required for both plants works out similarly.
Although Indicas can rapidly grow once they begin to flower, they tend not to grow out of control, usually producing heavier yields than Sativas. In comparison, Sativas quickly grow in height once they begin to flower. They can continue to shoot up as much as 200 or 300 percent during this period.
Indicas are used to give you a stoned effect that is centered on your body. They may also enhance your physical perceptions like taste, sound, and touch. If you need to relax mentally and physically, Indica makes a better fit than Sativa.
Contrastingly, Sativas produce a high effect. This makes you feel creative, cerebral, giggly and energetic. Some people may feel psychedelic effects, too. Sativa sensations are less overpowering than those of Indica.
Taste-wise, Indicas are usually sweet and sometimes fruity, while Sativas are earthy.
Effects You Want To Get
The first thing you have to think about when choosing between the three strains is what you intend to achieve. As mentioned above, different strains deliver different effects. For example, Sativa gives you a head high, while Indica gives you a body high.
On the other hand, a hybrid strain meets you in the middle based on what you want to achieve. You can even discuss your needs with the seller, so they can recommend the perfect strain if you wish to relieve your anxiety or muscle pain.
What Should You Look For To Understand Strain Effects
The often-applied rule of thumb is that sativas are more invigorating and energizing, while indicas are more relaxing and calming but it isnt really that simple.
Individual plants produce varying effects, even among the same type of cannabis. It all depends on the plants chemical composition and the growing technique used.
Instead of looking at the type alone sativa or indica look at the description the grower and dispensary provide.
Oftentimes, the plant types are broken down into specific chemovars, or breeds.
Chemovars are distinguished by their individual cannabinoid and terpene content. This cannabinoid profile will provide the user with the best information to help them determine which chemovar is best suited for them.
Relying on names does not provide the user with the necessary information to pick the correct profile. These compounds are what determine the chemovars overall effects.
Since The Strain Is Known To Give You A Body High Many Active Users Prefer To Enjoy It During The Nighttime
You can use the strain as a sleep aid or a nightcap while watching a movie or reading a book. Indica tends to have higher CBD and THC content. The higher CBD content is why it can offer an intense body high while providing therapeutic effects such as relaxation, pain relief, nausea reduction, and increasing appetite.
Popular Indica strains include the Hindu Kush, Afghan Kush, Bubba Kush, Blue Cheese, Northern Lights, and Granddaddy Purple. However, it is also important to note that these strains grow better in favorable environments. Thus, while it may be the same, a strain type may grow better in conditions A than in conditions B.
Sour Tsunami Cannabis Strain
Sour Tsunami is another strain that contains a high content of CBD that is approximately 10%, while its THC content is about 6 to 17%. Studies have shown that this strain is a powerful stress remover and it manages to calm peoples minds and produce a pleasant and clear-headed effect. This pot is also powerful when it comes to clearing depression and anxiety, making it useful for individuals who are affected by emotional and psychological problems.
Why Use Cannabis When Anxiety And Depression
Since depression is a very common disease, the worlds pharmaceutical companies have long been engaged in developing and selling various medications that help fight this condition. The vast majority of them have a number of unpleasant side effects , they are expensive and they are practically useless without appropriate therapy.
Cannabis copes with the symptoms which accompanies depression and anxiety. It is not toxic to the human body and with proper selection of the strain, dose and way of use it is able to have a significant healing effect on the body and mind. Today many people choice indica or sativa for anxiety and depression instead of Prozac or Xanax.
Indica Vs Sativa For Anxiety: Which Is Better
Anxiety is a condition that affects an estimated19.1 percent of American adults, many of whom turn to medical marijuana to help manage their symptoms. But considering how many varieties of cannabis exist, its necessary to do a little research in order to figure out which strains are likely to produce the effects youre looking for. After all, no two cannabis strains are exactly alike.
The first distinction to be made here is indica vs sativathe two main classes of weed. Broadly speaking, indica strains are known for their sedative properties, while sativa dominant strains are known for their ability to generate a more intense, cerebral high. Both can be used for treating anxiety, certain strains more so than others.
Below we highlight the key differences between indica and sativa strains and identify some of the best strains for anxiety.
What Is Sativa Sativa Strains Are Known For Their Head High
Sativa-dominant strains typically produce an energizing effect that can help with a multitude of issues. Sativa is great for people that want to feel focused, yet still relieve anxiety and decrease stress. Sativa strains are also very impactful for those who want to heighten creativity. As paradoxical as it may seem, this head high can even leave some people feeling more clear-headed.
Considerations On Dosage Strains And Forms
Its a good idea to experiment with different systems of delivery. The way you take pot can provide different effects. If youre wondering if you should inhale or ingest pot, consider the following:
- Know that edibles are harder to dose: If youre making your own edibles or purchasing professionally made ones, they can be difficult to dose. Bear in mind that there is a delay in ingestion and the onset of effects, so you should never overestimate the dose. When you inhale weed, it gives you an immediate reaction so you can gradually dose as needed.
- Understand that edibles are healthier for you than smoking: If you dont enjoy smoking or are worried about the negative health implications, eating marijuana may suit you. Vaping is another healthier way to take in the plant. Edibles can bring you long-lasting relief if youre in pain and theyre easy to take with you, so theyre often the preferred choice for medicinal use.
- Be cognizant of duration and effects: When youre experimenting with edibles, be patient and take less than you think youll need. These can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to kick in and the effects can last for several hours.
- Know how THC is absorbed. Your liver metabolizes the THC when you eat cannabis, which provides you with a more intense high. When you vape or smoke weed, the THC goes straight to your brain, which explains why this method of delivery gives faster results.
Ac/dc: Exceptionally High Cbd:thc Ratio
Gina Coleman/Weedmaps
If you’re a cannabis consumer who’s sensitive to THC or you’re looking for an anti-anxiety strain with virtually no intoxicating effects, check out AC/DC. AC/DC is a branch of the Cannatonic family, and it’s a strain that’s extremely popular among medical cannabis patients for its ability to treat everything from pain to epilepsy and anxiety. A powerful inflammation reducer, ACDC can help soothe anxiety’s symptoms while its terpenes and oils combine synergistically to calm mental agitation.
Sativa Vs Indica: What You Need To Know
Sativa or Indica? Night-time relaxation or daytime focus and energy? Were here to help you find the perfect cannabis strain for you. Every cannabis profile, or strain has a distinct flavor and aroma, and offers a unique combination of medicinal and therapeutic benefits.
With over strains or profiles of cannabis as of 2020, picking the perfect cannabis for you can be overwhelming. Our guests ask questions like these all the time:
What strains are more effective for pain management?
I just want to relax after a long day, which strain is right for me?
Which strains have the most CBD or delta-8 THC?
To make things a little easier, its best to compare profiles by three main categories: sativas, indicas and hybrids. What makes a strain fall under one of these categories? It all comes down to terpenes. Terpenes are what give each strain its distinct smell and properties. The presence or absence of certain terpenes determines if the strain is a sativa or indica, or a hybrid of both.
Which Strain Is Right For Me
A lot of the fun involved with using cannabis is finding out what you like personally. Dont be afraid to ask your marijuana doctor or budtender questions or to experiment with new varieties. There is a strain available to suit everyone, whether youre using the plant for medical or recreational purposes. In a sense, this can be very much a process of trial and error.
Perhaps rather than focusing on the different effects of each species, you could try strains with various ratios of CBD to THC. Remember: if youre using the plant medicinally, CBD is a known therapeutic.
Difference Between Indica And Sativa
Cannabis is divided into two groups, which are the Sativa and Indica. Some cannabis strains are a hybrid of Sativa and Indica. Indica strains are famous for offering relaxing effects that users can feel in their bodies. The strain can promote sleepiness and muscle relaxation that are necessary at night. Sativa strain may have the ability give a euphoric and uplifting effect on your emotions and moods. Sativa strains may be preferred for use during the day.
How To Enjoy Marijuana When You Have Anxiety
In addition to choosing the right strain when you have anxiety, there are a few other things that you can do for the best experience.
First, consume Marijuana in moderation, especially if youre new to a strain and its effects. Starting slow is always wise and can help to reduce any unwanted side effects.
Next, try to use Marijuana in familiar places and with people who make you feel safe. The last thing you need when youre tempted toward anxiety is to be around a bunch of strangers in a place you dont know.
- Enjoy marijuana with familiar people when you have anxiety
If you do start to feel badly after using weed, try to take note of that feeling. It can be helpful to acknowledge that what youre feeling is anxiety or paranoia and that it may have been caused by the weed you used. This can help to ground you in reality and reduce feelings of panic. Then, take some deep breaths, which are helpful anytime youre feeling anxiety.
Next, try to take steps to snap out of it. Go outside for some fresh air or take a quick cold shower. Eat or drink something with calming terpenes, like orange, mango, or a cup of lavender tea.
Finally, make a decision to calmly wait it out. It will pass. In the meantime, try listening to some calming music or watching a familiar and happy show.