Anxiety is the most widespread mental illness in the United States, affecting roughly 40 million Americans (almost one in five people). While cannabis isn’t a replacement for professional therapy and medication, many people have found it to be a beneficial aid to help manage their anxiety. What cannabis strain is best for anxiety? Not all strains of cannabis are created equal, and if you are looking specifically for a strain that will help to alleviate some of your anxiety, it can help to know what to look for when comparing different strains.
The first thing to know is the difference between CBD and THC as they relate to anxiety. Both CBD and THC have properties that can help with anxiety, however, some people feel that the psychoactive effects of THC are counterproductive to managing anxiety and prefer CBD-dominant strains. Be sure to talk to your budtender about how different strains affect you to determine if you prefer THC, CBD, or a balanced mix of the two. Once you have a good idea of what levels work best for you, you can begin looking at different strains.
Cannabis strains for anxiety
Finding the right strains to fit your individual needs can take some trial and error. Every person responds differently to the herb and what works for one person may feel disastrous for another.
Unfortunately, the lack of formal research on cannabis in human test subjects means that there is no sure-fire way to tell whether or not an individual strain will be helpful for anxiety. However, based on the available clinical and preclinical research thus far, it is possible to make an educated guess as to which strains may be most beneficial. For those searching for the right flower, here are the best cannabis strains for anxiety:
Purple Kush
Purple Kush is a 100% pure indica strain created as a potent cross between the insanely popular Hindu Kush X Purple Afghani strains. This dank bud was named one of the Top 10 Most Powerful Strains in the World by High Times magazine and boasts a THC level that ranges from 22% on average. Users describe the Purple Kush high as having an immediately uplifting euphoric head high that leaves you completely pain-free and slightly introspective. This is accompanied by a warming numbing body high that starts in the head and spreads throughout the body, leaving you completely relaxed and sedated. Upon the come down, you’ll be eased into a deep and powerful pain-free sleep that lasts hours on end.
Due to these potent effects, Purple Kush is said to be an ideal strain for treating patients suffering from conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, nerve damage, and muscle spasms. Purple Kush has an iconic smell of earthy sweet grapes and a taste of earthy red wine. These buds have small furry bright neon green nugs with rich purple and fiery orange hairs and dark purple undertones. These nugs are frosty with fine white trichomes and sticky with sweet resin.
Cannatonic
Cannatonic is a hybrid cannabis strain that was purpose-bred for its low THC content and high CBD content, which can run as high as 17%, though it can sometimes be higher. The most notable effects of Cannatonic are extreme relaxation and happy feelings, as well as its relatively low psychoactive impact. Cannatonic is renowned as one of the top medical strains for reducing anxiety and inflammation. It is related to both AC/DC and Canna-Tsu.
AC/DC
AC/DC is a sativa-dominant strain that is extremely effective at reducing anxiety. AC/DC is one of the highest CBD strains available with CBD levels of 19% and boasting a 20:1 ratio of CBD to THC. The high CBD to THC ratio helps to offset the more intense psychoactive effects characteristic of cannabis that is more THC-dominant. The most notable effects of AC/DC are relaxed and happy feelings.
Canna-Tsu
Canna-Tsu is a hybrid strain that’s a mix of two high CBD strains – Cannatonic and Sour Tsunami. While Canna-Tsu features high levels of CBD like Cannatonic, it differs in that it has a 1:1 CBD to THC ratio. The most notable effects of Canna-Tsu are deeper relaxation and increased focus. It is very effective for treating anxiety, as well as pain, inflammation and seizures.
Jack Herer
Jack Herer is a sativa-dominant strain that has won many awards for its quality and potency. It is a relatively high THC strain (usually coming in at around 15-19%) but has almost no CBD. The most notable effects of Jack Herer are happy and uplifted feelings. In addition to being an effective strain for anxiety, it is also lauded for its ability to help ease stress and depression.
Trident
Trident is a hybrid strain that also features high CBD content. It usually contains CBD levels of around 12%, but lower THC levels, registering below 6%. The most notable effects are increased relaxation and focus and are also known for its more cerebral attributes. Trident is considered to be very effective at helping people lessen anxiety and stress.
Haoma
Haoma is an indica-dominant cannabis strain with dense buds that give off a fruity and floral smell. It typically features a 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC, with high levels of both CBD and THC. The most notable effects are increased relaxation and happy feelings. Haoma can be very beneficial to those with anxiety, and because it is an indica-dominant strain, it is also a very effective sleep-aid.
Speak with an Experienced Budtender About Best Strains For Anxiety
Pure Oasis is Boston’s first and best cannabis dispensary, revolutionizing how you buy adult-use marijuana. Our boutique shop offers a user-friendly experience, with the knowledgeable staff here to guide you with information and advice on all of our high-quality products.
We pride ourselves in giving adult consumers the information to help them make the best choices for their individual needs. Our easy-to-use menu includes THC percentages and gradings that guide you toward your desired effect. Need to lower your anxiety levels? We have several strains that can help. Looking for a calming variety? We have you covered. Something to energize? No problem. In need of pain relief? We have something just for you. Many cannabis users report positive benefits such as increased appetite, reduced anxiety, better sleep, improved mood, and less pain and inflammation.
We always recommend starting with the lowest dose, so you can feel comfortable trying out a new product. We take the guesswork out of adult-use marijuana, providing statistics from how long effects last to when you should start to notice effects. Think of us as your cannabis sommelier.
What cannabis strain is best for anxiety? Let the experts help. Whether you are a first-time cannabis user looking to explore the benefits of marijuana use or a long-time connoisseur, Pure Oasis is focused on your needs and making your shopping process smooth, efficient, and enjoyable. Our coffee-shop style dispensary is designed to make shopping a breeze and our knowledgeable staff is here ready to guide you through our many choices.