Anxiety is defined as “intense and persistent worry over everyday situations that can include fast heart-rate, rapid breathing, sweating, and tiredness.” This definition is a neat and tidy version of what anxiety really is – an often unbearable state of fear-based emotions paired with a dysregulated nervous system. Anxiety is the most common mental health concern in the United States, with nearly 40 million adults experiencing anxiety disorders, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. When anxiety is consistent and prolonged, it is often diagnosed and treated with medications, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, or a long list of “coping” mechanisms targeted at lowering the body and brain’s stress responses.
As more research explores the relationship between cannabis and its potential to alleviate symptoms associated with anxiety, cannabis brands are developing certain products specifically for anxiety, and research on terpenes is revealing specific strains that are best suited for consumers suffering with anxiety symptoms. So, what exactly are the best cannabis strains for anxiety?
Anxiety’s Roots
Before we jump into strain profiles, let’s take a look at what’s happening in the body when anxiety occurs. Though there are myriad reasons why any individual may experience anxiety, much of anxiety is rooted in the Fight-or-Flight response. This stress response is an automatic physiological reaction to any perceived threatening or stressful event. This event then triggers an acute stress response in our nervous system which prepares the body to “fight or flee.” In our modern world, this response manifests as anxiety.
Now that we understand what anxiety actually is and its primary causes, we can better understand how cannabis and its many plant compounds may come to our aid when we are experiencing a tough bout of anxiety.
The Role of CBD and THC in Anxiety Treatment
In general, more clinical research is needed before we fully understand the breadth of human applications available to us through the cannabis plant. Until then, we have a variety of studies to explore the efficacy of cannabis as a potential therapy for symptoms of anxiety.
When an individual consumes cannabis, the plant compounds within that product work alongside our body’s ECS, or endocannabinoid system. This is a “lock and key” system which helps our body maintain balance or homeostasis. Our ECS manages many of our body’s processes, one of which is our stress response. Recent research shows that cannabis interacts with our body much like many FDA-approved anxiolytic drugs, by targeting neurotransmitters that manage stress levels. Similarly, other research revealed that cannabis may lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.
CBD and THC exhibit different results when used to alleviate anxiety. CBD, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid, shows great promise as an anxiolytic. Existing pre-clinical research shows there is strong evidence to suggest CBD has potential to be a legitimate treatment for anxiety disorders. In a study where subjects with Generalized Social Anxiety Disorder were treated with CBD, there were significant reductions in self-reported “subjective” anxiety.
As for THC, there is evidence to suggest that lower doses may decrease symptoms of anxiety, whereas higher doses may increase symptoms. Therefore, it is widely recommended to use low-dose or specifically dosed “ratio” products when using THC products for anxiety symptoms. Here are some of the best strains for anxiety as reported anecdotally by many. Also noting that while some may have had success with these strains, effects will vary from person to person.
Top 5 Cannabis Strains for Anxiety
1. Harlequin
This high CBD strain is reported as providing relaxing yet clear-headed effects without the feelings of sedation or intoxication.
2. ACDC
For those looking to relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety without the “high,” opt for ACDC. It has high CBD content with virtually no THC.
3. Cannatonic
This mostly CBD strain produces mellow, relaxing, and uplifting effects.
4. Sour Tsunami
Specifically bred for high CBD, the strain is popular among medical patients looking to alleviate symptoms of pain and inflammation.
5. Agent Orange
Considered a well-balanced “hybrid” strain with uplifting effects that may be good for those with a bit more THC tolerance.
Other Considerations for Choosing the Best Cannabis Strains for Anxiety
There are several factors that contribute to finding the proper dosage for anxiety, and all people and circumstances are different. A person’s height, weight, and sex can contribute to how cannabis’s effects are felt. Furthermore, terpene profile, in addition to the way in which you choose to consume – whether one chooses an edible or flower, for example – can impact the way cannabis is experienced.
Conclusion
Overall, more research is needed to fully understand how cannabis can be used to effectively treat anxiety, but it’s clear that certain cannabis products, strains, and ratios may effectively alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety better than others. If you are experiencing anxiety, speak with your doctor or a cannabis specialist about which options are best for you.
