How Can You Use Weed For Anxiety?
Did you know that over 40 million adults in America have some sort of anxiety disorder according to the National Alliance on Mental Health? That’s 19.1% of adults. Mental health has finally become a forefront of conversation for a person’s overall well-being and is something we take to heart here at Caliva.
Of course, there are many different ways of coping with anxiety because everyone reacts differently. For some, cannabis products have really helped soothe anxiety. For others, it can make anxiety worse. It really just depends on you as an individual. However, if you’re interested in trying weed for anxiety, we have a variety of tips and tricks and product suggestions for you to start with to see what works best for you.
THC vs. CBD Strains For Anxiety
One of the first things you’ll want to consider is whether you want a THC strain or a CBD strain. THC strains are the most common strains of cannabis and are known for producing the euphoric high that is so well known with using cannabis. While many find these effects to be relaxing and calming, some may be sensitive to THC and find that it actually makes anxiety worse. This is where our “go low and slow” message comes into play until you know how you’re going to react to each type of strain. CBD cannabis strains are much less common but are more well-known for anxiety relief. If you’re new to marijuana or looking for relief without a high effect, CBD strains are a great place to start. There’s even strains that are a mix of CBD and THC so be sure to experiment what strains work best for relieving your anxiety.
Dosing Tips
The effects of marijuana for anxiety are often very dependent on the amount of cannabis. Many studies have shown that lower doses of cannabis are more likely to decrease anxiety while high doses of cannabis can sometimes increase anxiety. Because of this, it’s really important to pay attention to the percentages of THC and CBD in the strain you purchase. This means if you opt for a high percent THC strain, say 25%-35% for example, you would want to have a much smaller dose than if you were to have a 5%-15% THC strain. Same idea with CBD strains. Again, we always recommend going low and slow. Take a hit and then wait a bit to see how you feel before taking another.
Finding The Right Type of Marijuana For Anxiety
After you figure out the strain type you prefer, you can start to look into the many different cannabis products available. Most can be divided into two categories: inhaled or ingested. In general, inhaled methods like vaporizing or smoking cannabis provide the most immediate relief with its effects, but they don’t last as long as ingestible methods. Ingestible cannabis products will take longer to take effect but will last longer. The most important thing to remember with edibles for anxiety is the dosing amount. Remember, you can always eat more if needed to get your desired effects.
Another thing to play around with when finding the right types of cannabis products for anxiety, is experimenting with different terpenes and cannabinoids. The most common terpenes associated with reducing anxiety include:
- Linalool
- Beta Caryophyllene
- Limonene
- Nerolidol
- Myrcene
- Pinene
- Phytol
Cannabinoids also play a role. Maybe you prefer Sativas over Indicas for reducing anxiety. Or maybe Hybrids help you relax the most. Keeping track of how you feel will inform you on what to try or avoid trying in the future. And don’t forget to keep your doctor in the loop when using marijuana for anxiety, especially if you’re taking other medications.
The Most Common Weed Strains Used For Anxiety
While there’s still much research to be done on weed and anxiety, we know a lot just from weed customers and their reviews. If you’re looking for the best weed strain for anxiety, we’ve put together our list of the five most commonly used strains for reducing anxiety.
1. Grandaddy Purple
This dreamy Intica is the perfect nightcap to a long day. Relax your mind and body with the peaceful effects and sweet grape and berry flavor.
Cannabinoid Profile: THC-Dominant Indica
Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Pinene
Shop Fun Uncle Grandaddy Purple (Cruisers Vape)
2. Jack Herer
Feel happy and uplifted once the effects of this strain start to set in. Best known for a daytime solution to early anxiety since it energizes while reducing anxious feelings.
Cannabinoid Profile: THC-Dominant
Terpenes: Terpinolene, Caryophyllene, Pinene
Shop Heavy Hitters Jack Herer (Disposable Cartridge)
Shop Heavy Hitters Jack Here (Pax Pod)
Shop Select Jack Herer (Live Cartridge)
3. Northern Lights
Northern Lights provides euphoric, relaxed and happy effects with a taste profile of pine, earth, and spice. It is one of the most popular strains used by medical users to manage anxiety, control pain and combat insomnia.
Cannabinoid Profile: THC & Indica-Dominant Hybrid
Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Pinene
Shop Heavy Hitters Northern Lights (Disposable Cartridge)
Shop Heavy Hitters Northern Lights (Pax Pod)
4. Cherry Pie
This down-to-earth herb provides a balanced euphoria: expanding energy outward while releasing any inward anxiety.
Cannabinoid Profile: THC-Dominant Hybrid
Terpenes: Myrcene, Linalool, Pinene, Limonene, Caryophyllene
Shop Deli by Caliva Greens Cherry Pie (Flower)
Shop Mirayo Cherry Pie (Flower)
Shop Yummi Karma Cherry Pie (Tincture)
5. Bubba Kush
If relaxation is what you seek, this chill Indica is sure to do the trick. Breathe in the sweet hashish and subtle chocolate notes, while exhaling all worry and anxiety.
Cannabinoid Profile: THC-Dominant Indica
Terpenes: Limonene, Myrcene, Caryophyllene
Shop Deli by Caliva Greens Bubba Kush (Flower)
Shop Deli by Caliva Bubba Kush (Flower)
The relationship between cannabis and anxiety is different for everyone, but in some cases can be a great, natural way to reduce anxiety. The strains listed above are just a few of many that could help with anxiety relief. Visit our wellness collection for more options or pick the brains of our expert budtenders at one of our convenient California weed dispensaries!
