Living with anxiety disorders can present significant difficulties and discouragement, as even simple tasks or situations can become overwhelming experiences. Numerous individuals with anxiety find solace in using cannabis as a means to cope with their symptoms. Research studies have shown that both tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) have the potential to alleviate anxiety. If you are looking to manage your health using medical marijuana, it is best that you consult licensed health professionals and understand the marijuana laws of your state. For instance, if you live in Iowa, you need to get a medical card online iowa to access medical marijuana.
If you want to see how medical marijuana can help with your generalized anxiety disorder, here are some top strains for anxiety:
- ACDC
- Chocolate Chunk
- Grandaddy Purple
- Critical Mass
- Harle-Tsu
- Amnesia Haze
How Cannabis Helps with Anxiety?
Although there is limited scientific research on medical marijuana, existing studies support its effectiveness in treating anxiety over the long term.
Cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various processes like memory, appetite, metabolism, immune response, and stress. Since the ECS plays a crucial role in managing stress and anxiety, cannabis can provide relief.
Recent studies reveal that cannabis affects the body in a similar way to FDA-approved anxiety medications. Many anti-anxiety drugs target GABA activity, one of the neurotransmitters responsible for balancing stress levels. Research shows that cannabis, especially CBD, can influence GABA activity, allowing it to manage stress levels just like prescription anti-anxiety medications.
Cannabis has a calming effect by impacting cortisol levels in the body, which is a hormone directly linked to stress levels. A study found that patients with anxiety experienced significant reductions in cortisol when using marijuana, indicating a state of relaxation and reduced stress.
AC-DC
AC-DC is a strain with higher levels of CBD, making it a great option for those who want to use cannabis to address anxiety but are worried about the anxiety-inducing effects of THC. This strain provides a clear-headed experience and helps relax both the mind and body, allowing you to release stress after a tiring day. AC-DC is also notable for its high camphene content, a terpene that may provide additional benefits such as relieving nerve pain and lowering triglyceride levels, which can be beneficial for many.
Chocolate Chunk
Chocolate Chunk is a strain that contains terpenes like myrcene and caryophyllene. Caryophyllene is known for reducing anxiety, while myrcene acts as a muscle relaxant and aids in promoting sleep.
In simple terms, using Chocolate Chunk is best suited for bedtime or when you have time to relax and doze off. It’s not recommended for starting your day or operating machinery. However, if you struggle with anxiety at night, this strain might be the solution you’re looking for.
Granddaddy Purple
Granddaddy Purple is a hybrid strain that is highly regarded for its strong relaxing effects. It can be beneficial for individuals experiencing stress-related insomnia and tense muscles. The strain contains linalool, a calming terpene, and camphene, a natural stress reliever, making it an excellent choice for managing evening-time stress or panic attacks.
Critical Mass
Critical Mass is a strain with higher THC levels compared to the others mentioned, making it a suitable choice if you desire a mild buzz. It typically contains around 4 to 7 percent THC and 8 to 10 percent CBD.
Based on public opinions and our research on review websites, individuals who usually don’t tolerate THC well discover that this strain provides relaxation and calmness without causing overwhelming effects.
Harle Tsu
Harle-Tsu is a strain that has won awards and usually has around 13 percent CBD, but it often tests even higher. In 2014, it was recognized as the best CBD flower at the Emerald Cup. Lab tests revealed that it contains 21.05 percent CBD and 0.86 percent THC.
This strain’s ratio of CBD to THC makes it popular among individuals who want to reduce anxiety and improve their mood and focus.
Amnesia Haze
When choosing a strain, it’s important to consider the THC content and whether it’s Indica or Sativa dominant. But another crucial factor is the strain’s terpenes.
Terpenes not only affect the flavor and smell of cannabis but also contribute to its effects on the body. Amnesia Haze contains a significant amount of limonene, a terpene also found in lemon peels and citrus fruits.
This strain is noteworthy for its anxiety-relieving terpenes such as geraniol, pinene, beta-caryophyllene, and nerolidol. While Amnesia Haze’s high THC content provides a strong head high, the presence of limonene acts as a mood lifter to help alleviate anxiety.
