Anxiety and stress can affect anyone, even the healthiest of us. For many, medicinal marijuana can provide much-needed relief without unwanted side effects or potentially dangerous drug interactions. With so many strains available today, finding one that’s right for you can be tricky – but don't worry! In this blog post, we’re sharing our top five picks for the best marijuana strains to fight off anxiety and stress. Read on to find out which ones could work for you!
How Does Cannabis Affect Anxiety?
Cannabis interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various activities such as memory, hunger, metabolism, immunological response, and stress. Because the ECS is so important in stress and anxiety management, cannabis fits like a glove to bring relief.
Recent research indicates that cannabis interacts with the body in the same way that FDA-approved anxiety medicines do. Many anti-anxiety medications target GABA function, one of several neurotransmitters important for stress regulation. Cannabis, specifically CBD, has been shown in studies to alter GABA function in the body. This suggests that cannabis can regulate stress levels in the same way as prescription anti-anxiety medications do.
Cannabis has a soothing effect because it affects cortisol levels in the body, another hormone that is closely related to stress levels. A study discovered that when individuals with anxiety were given marijuana, their cortisol levels dropped significantly, indicating that they entered a more calm, stress-free condition.
Additionally, medical marijuana can treat sleeplessness, a typical sign of generalized anxiety disorder. Many strains, particularly those high in CBD, have been reported to enhance sleep, and studies have shown that sleep quality increases with lower anxiety levels.
CBD, in particular, has demonstrated long-term potential as a powerful aid for reducing anxiety. Researchers discovered that when CBD was given to people with social anxiety disorder (SAD) over numerous sessions, they reported a significant reduction in subjective anxiety.
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5 Best Cannabis Strains for Anxiety and Stress
1. Critical Cure
Critical Cure, also known as CBD Critical Cure, is a soothing strain that is supposed to relax tense muscles and slow racing thoughts, making it an excellent choice for worried people. The major terpenes in Critical Cure include geraniol, ocimene, myrcene, and humulene.
2. ACDC
ACDC is a CBD-rich strain that provides substantial pain relief while avoiding the euphoric effects of THC. Its high CBD content also provides anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for modulating the molecular signaling associated with stress responses. Myrcene and beta-caryophyllene, both known for their anxiety-relieving qualities, are dominant terpenes in ACDC.
3. Ringo's Gift
Ringo's Gift is a high-CBD cross between ACDC and Harle-Tsu, two additional strains on this list. Following use, users report a reduction in overall anxiety and stress. Its persistent high CBD-to-THC ratio of 13:1 makes it an effective long-term solution for those looking to relieve stress and improve their quality of life.
4. Purple Granddaddy
This hybrid strain is well-known for its deeply soothing properties, making it ideal for those suffering from sleeplessness and tense muscles. The strain's relaxing terpene linalool and natural stress reliever camphene make it ideal for dealing with nighttime tension or panic attacks.
5. Harle-Tsu
Harle-Tsu is an award-winning strain with less than 1% THC and an average CBD content of roughly 13%. This ratio makes it a good alternative for people who want to reduce anxiety while also improving their mood and attention. The major terpenes in Harle-Tsu include ocimene, myrcene, pinene, and terpinolene (alpha-terpinene).
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Alternative Solutions for Anxiety and Stress: Kava & Kratom
The Kratom & Kava shot from Shot of Joy can help with anxiety and stress because both kratom and kava are known for their relaxing and relaxation-inducing properties. It is believed that kratom works by interacting with the opioid receptors in the brain, resulting in sensations of comfort and relaxation. Alternatively, kava contains kavalactones that are believed to have anxiolytic effects by lowering neuronal excitability and enhancing GABA activity in the brain. The Shot of Joy's unique combination of kratom and kava can help individuals cope with anxiety and stress, making it an effective alternative for those looking for a natural approach to manage their mental well-being. However, it is crucial to note that the effects of kratom and kava might differ from individual to individual, and it is always advisable to see a healthcare practitioner before beginning a new supplement regimen.
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The Best Cannabis Uses for Anxiety
Because anxiety is a personal experience, the cannabis consuming technique most suited for treating the illness varies on the individual, physiology, and particular use scenario.
Cannabis can be consumed fast by smoking or vaping it. Cannabinoids enter the bloodstream through the lungs and circulate throughout the body in roughly 30 minutes. The effects can last up to three hours, making it a beneficial short-term form of stress management or handy when you need immediate respite to fight off a panic attack.
Cannabis-infused edibles provide a longer-lasting treatment for anxiety. However, the effects can take up to 90 minutes to appear. When acquired from dispensaries, edibles can provide exact, constant dosing, allowing you to reliably control your consumption and prevent taking too much, which could make you uneasy.
Some cannabis strains, in particular, especially too high doses with high THC, can create greater stress and worsen symptoms.
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Fighting Anxiety and Stress with Marijuana
While there are many different marijuana strains available, these five have been found to be particularly effective in reducing anxiety and stress. If you're looking for a strain to help you relax and de-stress, any of these would be a good choice. However, it's important to remember that everyone reacts differently to marijuana, so what works for one person may not work for another. And if you're looking for other natural options for reducing anxiety and stress, kratom and kava are also great choices. Check out our blog to learn more about Kratom & Kava.
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