Many stoners would tell you that they take cannabis to calm them down when anxiety is creeping in. As much as this is true of most cannabis strains, taking the wrong strain can produce the opposite effect. Instead of calming you down you may experience extreme panic attacks and paranoia. So how do you find the perfect strain to relieve your anxiety?
There are a few factors that can guide you in identifying the perfect marijuana strain; we shall be sharing this briefly. Also, we have gone the extra mile to pick out 10 weed strains that we think are perfect for anxiety. In the end, we shall pick the winner among the ten.
Factors to look out for
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in weed is responsible for providing relief from anxiety. THC binds onto cannabinoid receptor CB1 in the brain to trigger the release of certain neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. It also causes the inhibition of certain neurotransmitters such as GABA and norepinephrine. This causes a change in moods and a reduction in anxiety.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is also helpful in relieving anxiety. It does so by increasing anandamide levels in the body. This promotes a sense of calmness and relaxations which helps in relieving anxiety.
Current recommendations for strains that relieve anxiety include the following:
- High CBD strains that exceed 10% CBD
- High THC strains that exceed 25% THC
- High CBD and moderate THC strains are currently recommended because they are well balanced.
With that in mind, let us find out which strains made to our top ten honor roll.
10 Best Marijuana Strains for Anxiety
Godfather OG strain
Godfather OG strain is a potent indica strain that is a cross between Bubba Kush, LA Confidential and Granddaddy Purps. It has THC levels of between 22% and 25% and CBD levels of less than 1%. The potent cerebral buzz and mellow body effects will provide relaxation and stress relief.
- Pros: High THC levels
- Cons: Very low CBD levels
Super Glue
Super Glue is an indica dominant hybrid strain with 20% THC and 1.4% CBD. However, some phenotypes have THC levels as high as 32%. It is a cross between the hardy Afghani landrace strain and Northern lights. It smells of pine and citrus. This strain is great in relieving anxiety but it also induces the couch lock.
- Pros: has a high THC level
- Cons: has a low CBD level
Chemdawg
Chemdawg is a Sativa dominant hybrid strain. It has THC levels of 20% or higher, a few phenotypes having up to 32% THC. It is not clear who the actual creators of this strain are. It is a highly resinous strain with a diesel-like smell. The cerebral buzz is very potent and enduring. It has shown great potential as an anxiolytic. It has less than 1% CBD.
- Pros: high THC levels
- Cons: Very low CBD levels
Harlequin
Harlequin is a Sativa dominant hybrid strain. It is a descendant of the following strains: Colombian gold, Nepali indica, Thai and Swiss Sativa. This is a high CBD strain with a CBD: THC ratio of 5:2. It is known to cause deep relaxation and is less associated with the overpowering effects of THC. The flavors are a mix of musky and mango. This makes it favorable for many patients. It has 4%-7% THC and 8%-16% CBD.
- Pros: high CBD level
- Cons: low THC level
Emperor Cookie Dough
Emperor Cookie Dough is a Sativa dominant hybrid strain that is a cross between Emperor OG and Girl Scout Cookies. It has THC levels of above 26% and up to 5% CBD. The flavor is that of nuts with citrus undertones. This strain is ideal for relieving anxiety as well as pain.
- Pros: high THC levels
- Cons: moderate CBD levels
CANNATONIC
Cannatonic is a popular indica dominant marijuana strain that is a cross between MK Ultra and G13 Haze. The scent is earthy and accented by sweet pine and citrus scents. The CBD: THC ratio is 1:1. The effects are powerful but do not last long. It has THC of 7-15% and CBD of 6-17%.
- Pros: well-balanced strain
- Cons: the effects are not long-lasting
Canna-Tsu
Canna-Tsu is a hybrid marijuana strain that is a cross between Cannatonic and sour Tsunami. The musky scent from this strain is partly covered by the subtle citrus and aroma emanating from cannabis buds. It has 10% CBD and 8-11% THC, making it a very balanced strain. It is ideal for treating anxiety
- Pros: It is a well-balanced strain with no overpowering effects
- Cons: THC levels can be low
Pennywise
This is an indica dominant strain which is a cross between Harlequin strain and Jack the Ripper strain. It has a THC: CBD ratio of 1:1. It gives a potent body high that is very relaxing and is good at inducing insomnia. It is also a great anxiolytic. It has 12%-15% of both THC and CBD.
- Pros: well-balanced strain
- Cons: does not give a strong cerebral buzz
CBD Critical Cure
This is an indica dominant strain that is a cross between Critical Kush and a rudelaris strain. It has a CBD: THC ratio of 2:1, making it a CBD potent strain. The THC is about 5% while the CBD is around 11%. It gives a very relaxing high and is great for treating anxiety.
- Pros: a well-balanced strain
- Cons: it has low THC levels
Royal Highness
Royal Highness was ranked 3rd in the 2016 Colorado Cannabis Cup. It is a Sativa dominant hybrid strain with a THC: CBD ratio of 1:1. It has 16% THC and 14% CBD. It is a cross between Dance Hall and Respect and gives an energetic buzz. It has well-balanced effects and is a wonderful cure for anxiety.
- Pros: it is a well-balanced strain
- Cons: does not give a strong cerebral buzz
Conclusion
And the winner is none other than Royal Highness. With moderate amounts of THC and high CBD levels, this strain perfectly meets the criteria for the ideal strain for treating anxiety. It has considerable amounts of both THC and CBD but is not overpowering in any way. This makes it ideal for all sorts of patients.
Hey there! I’m Daniel. A Ph.D. in pharmacology and an owner of Green Fleets (former THC Detox). My mission is to help people pass drug tests and get their dream job.
My research into cannabis shows how cannabis affects health, including how cannabinoids can be used in the treatment of various diseases.