Cannabis is a go-to cure for some folks living with stress. However, maybe not all cannabis is created equal. Some strains can actually cause or worsen anxiety.
The key is to choose a strain with a high CBD-to-THC ratio.
Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) would be the primary active chemicals in cannabis. They’re both similar in structure, but there’s one very major difference.
THC is a carcinogenic compound, also CBD is not. It’s THC that causes the”high” associated with cannabis, including the anxiety and paranoia that some people experience.
While not a treatment for anxiety, using high-CBD strains may help ease certain symptoms, particularly when coupled with other tools, like treatment.
We combed through Leafly’s pressure explorer to locate 12 CBD-dominant strains worth trying if you’re looking for something on the mellower side.
Keep in mind that strains aren’t a specific science. The effects aren’t always constant, even among products of the same strain.
1. Remedy
The remedy is a 14 percent CBD strain that generates little to no psychoactive effects.
It has got a lemon-pine odor. Most consumers recommend it to its capacity to mellow you out with no intense mind and body impacts of high-THC strains.
2. ACDC
This is just another 14 percent CBD strain favored by people seeking to alleviate stress, anxiety, and pain without any feeling stoned.
It includes no relevant amount of THC. The two most frequent words used to describe its consequences are”relaxed” and”happy,” according to reviews on Leafly.
3. Lifter
The lifter is a newer player in the cannabis game. It averages around 16 percent CBD with next to no THC.
Its odor is called”amazing cheese with a hint of gas” (weird flex, but OK). Its uber-relaxing effects will not put a damper on your focus or function.
4. Charlotte’s Web
This is one of those best-known high-CBD strains. It comprises around 13% CBD with little to no THC.
It is used in many health and wellness products to help alleviate anxiety, pain, and depression without any psychoactive effects.
5. Cherry Wine
If you want the smell of wine and cheese, Cherry Wine’s your own strain.
It averages approximately 17% CBD with less than one percent THC. According to consumer testimonials, it calms your mind and muscles without negative effects.
6. Ringo’s Present
This CBD strain has an ordinary CBD-to-THC ratio of 13:1, but strains as high as 20:1 can be found.
Ringo’s Gift is a combination of two high-CBD breeds: ACDC and Harle-Tsu, which are really next on our list.
Users report a big improvement in anxiety and stress levels after utilizing this strain. Increased sleep is another effect users rave about.
7. Harle-Tsu
This award-winning strain averages around 13 percent CBD but often tests considerably greater.
It was named the best CBD flower at the 2014 Emerald Cup. Lab tests found it to comprise 21.05 percent CBD and 0.86 percent THC.
This ratio makes it a favorite for people looking to lower anxiety and enhance their mood and focus.
8. Sour Tsunami
This was one of the first high-CBD breeds ever filmed and remains a fan favorite.
It has an ordinary CBD: THC ratio of 13:1 or even lower THC. Users report feeling relaxed and happy with no”heavy body” feeling.
9. Elektra
Elektra averages around 16 percent CBD with less than 1 percent THC. Some consumer reviews say it is analyzed as large as approximately 20 percent CBD.
Its musty odor and odor get mixed reviews, but people love it for its calming effect that doesn’t totally wipe out you.
10. Sour Space Candy
This high-CBD strain has some sour notes as far as the aroma, but it has props from people using it to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Sour Space Candy has a mean of 17% CBD and just a touch of THC.
11. Suzy Q
Suzy Q is not as high in CBD as some additional strains. It comes in at roughly 11% CBD with little to no THC.
It’s considered a good alternative for helping to unwind an anxious mind and stressed muscles without getting you knocking you out.
12. Critical Mass
This strain contains more THC than the others we have listed, which makes it a fantastic option if you’re still trying to find a light buzz. It may comprise anywhere from 4 to 7 percent THC and 8 to 10 percent CBD.
According to user testimonials, people who don’t typically do well with THC discover this breed relaxes and calms without causing a green out.
Safety tips
Even if you’re going with a high-CBD strain, most still contain a few THC, even if only a trace amount. Still, as it is hard to predict precisely how any amount of THC will impact someone, a bit of caution is always a fantastic idea.
Here are some tips that can help make your adventure a little safer when attempting a new breed:
- Go low and slow by picking a strain with the lowest THC you can locate. Give it ample time to work before contemplating having more.
- Contemplate nonsmoking procedures, like CBD oils, to protect your lungs. Cannabis smoke contains a lot of the same toxins and carcinogens as tobacco smoke.
- If you do smoke, avoid deep inhalation or holding your breath to restrict exposure to smoke harmful byproducts.
- Don’t drive for at least 6 hours following use, or longer if you’re still feeling any effects.
- Avoid cannabis entirely if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Also, keep in mind that individual nations have their own legislation regarding legal levels of CBD and THC. Check your country’s legislation for specific information. Be cautious of other state laws when traveling with cannabis.
The Most Important Thing
Research continues into cannabis, specifically CBD, as a potential approach to handle anxiety. Although it isn’t a tried-and-true remedy, a few people do find it useful for easing some of their symptoms.
If you want to offer high-CBD breeds a go, just be sure to keep up with almost any anxiety treatments prescribed by your health care provider.
