Best Cannabis Strains for Depression

Anxiety, depression, or other mental illnesses can cause discomfort or be completely incapacitating. Depression symptoms such as despair, hopelessness, and anger commonly manifest during these conditions, making it difficult to carry on with day-to-day activities. However, there are treatments and lifestyle changes that can help you regain your sense of well-being and control over your life.

Of course, you can overcome mental health issues in various ways, some of which may cause harmful side effects. As a complement to prescription drugs, some people use cannabinoids like CBD to alleviate their pain and discomfort. This article will introduce some of the best cannabis strains for depression and how they can help improve your mental health.

How Has Cannabis Been Used For Depression In The Past?

For centuries, cannabis has been used to address depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. It is believed that the active compounds in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body to help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

While the use of cannabis for depression is nothing new, its effects have only recently begun to be studied in depth. This provides a greater understanding of how it interacts with our bodies to potentially improve mental health.

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Tips on Picking the Best Cannabis Strain for Depression

Cannabis contains hundreds of active compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Each strain of cannabis has a unique combination of these compounds, which can affect the way the body and brain respond to the plant. Understanding the effects of different cannabis strains can help people find the most effective strain to combat their depression. Consider the following factors when selecting a cannabis strain to treat depression:

Every Strain Sample Is Different

In addition to genetic factors, environmental and growth factors have a significant impact on the number of terpenes a plant can produce.
As a result, testing results from a plant cultivated in Toronto may differ from those produced in Santa Monica. Choosing lab-tested marijuana strains and understanding test findings and interpretations will help you decide which marijuana strain is the right choice for you.

Experiment With Different Strains For Depression

Even though preclinical research provides a better understanding of which cannabis strains may be beneficial for depression, each person's depression and brain chemistry is different.

Furthermore, each person has a unique chemical composition and reaction to the cannabinoids and terpenes in the cannabis plant. It is, therefore, necessary to try out a number of cannabis strains in order to find the best one.

Keeping a cannabis strain journal and noting your reactions to the substances you consume can help you figure out what works best and what does not work for you. In addition, it's a convenient method to track how much you're ingesting and how it affects your overall mood.

Dosage is Important

Finding the proper dosage is crucial for long-term depression relief using cannabis. Working with a cannabis-savvy professional can assist you in determining the safest and most effective dosage for your specific situation.

For example, a modest amount of high-THC or high-CBD cannabis may be the optimal dosage for some. Others might need a lot more to maintain the positive effects.

No two people are the same, so finding the appropriate mix of active cannabinoids, terpenes, and dosing might take some time.

How To Use Marijuana For Depression Relief

There are many ways to use marijuana cannabinoids like CBD to supplement or substitute anxiety medications and antidepressants. First, it's essential to find the best products for your needs, whether smoke-free or topical-based. Some standard methods include:

Smoking

As the title suggests, smoking marijuana includes inhaling the smoke from a bong, pipe, or joint made from high-quality marijuana flowers. Many people prefer smoking since the effects are instantaneous and can last between 20 minutes to four hours. Additionally, smoking marijuana strains provides users with some more control over their dosage, as they can inhale as little or as much smoke as they desire.

Vaping

In this approach, the chemicals of marijuana are released in vapor form by heating marijuana oil, wax, or flower. As with smoking, the vapor is breathed, providing a comparable sensation to smoking that lasts between 20 minutes to four hours.

This vaporized form of marijuana is often preferred over smoking due to its lack of smoke and ash, making it a more comfortable and discreet method of consuming marijuana strains. For example, the vaporized form of marijuana is often used in public settings where smoking is prohibited, such as restaurants and concert venues.

Edibles

This method includes ingesting marijuana-infused food, such as brownies or cookies to get the desired effects. Edibles are a terrific option for folks with a high tolerance who seek long-lasting effects. Edibles also provide an easy, discreet way to consume marijuana without the smoke, meaning that it is ideal for those who prefer not to inhale.

Transdermal Patches

A continuous supply of marijuana enters your system through transdermal patches applied directly to the skin. The benefits of transdermal patches begin to appear 15 minutes after application and persist for up to 72 hours after removal.

This method of delivery offers a safer, more discreet, and more consistent way of consuming cannabis strains like CBD compared to other methods.

For example, transdermal patches provide more controlled delivery of cannabis than smoking, since the rate of absorption can be determined and maintained over the period of use.

Cannabis Concentrates

The higher concentration of cannabinoids in cannabis creates a more potent form of cannabis. It is possible to ingest the cannabinoids present in the concentrate by vaping or dabbing it. Concentrates have a quick onset and a short half-life of 2-4 hours.

As such, concentrates are ideal for those who seek immediate relief from their symptoms and require a shorter-lasting effect.

Oral Products

It's possible to get the antidepressant effects of marijuana without smoking, thanks to oral cannabis medicines. These medicines are an excellent alternative for people who find it challenging to inhale weed. While oral products have a slower onset time, their impacts last longer than other methods (around 4-6 hours.)

Additionally, with the oral method, users don't have to worry about the smoke and odor associated with smoking, making it an even more attractive option for those seeking the antidepressant effects of marijuana.

What Cannabis Terpenes Are Good For Depression?

Natural molecules known as terpenes are responsible for the distinct aroma, flavor, and physiological effects of various marijuana strains. Terpenes like linalool, limonene, and pinene have been associated with a boost in emotional well-being, with linalool having a calming, sedative effect, limonene having a mood-elevating effect, and pinene aiding in alertness and memory retention.

So make sure you don't ignore these terpenes if you're looking for the ideal way to deal with depression:

• Limonene - Limonene is the most powerful terpene in marijuana that may be helpful in alleviating depression. Consistent use reduces tension and anxiety and eases depressive symptoms.
• Pinene - Rosemary, pine needles, and black pepper all contain pinene. Supplements like this help people who suffer from depression or have trouble focusing on their goals. Pinene is also known to have calming and anti-anxiety effects, so taking supplements with this compound can be beneficial for those looking to reduce their symptoms.
• Linalool - Terpene linalool is present in lavender and rosewood oils. It is widely believed to have a relaxing impact on the mind and body, which can help ease symptoms of depression and anxiety. Therefore, linalool has been used in aromatherapy for centuries to induce feelings of peace and well-being.
• Caryophyllene - Black pepper, cloves, oregano, cinnamon, and parsley contain terpene caryophyllene. It works by interacting with the CB2 cannabinoid receptor, which new studies show might aid with mood regulation. Furthermore, caryophyllene could also help reduce inflammation, which may be beneficial for a range of medical conditions.

Best Cannabis Strains for Depression And Anxiety?

For those suffering from stress, depression, and anxiety, CBD offers the most relief, providing soothing effects that can help to reduce tension and promote relaxation. The following marijuana strains are our most effective at alleviating the symptoms of stress and anxiety. Let's discuss each of their effects and features individually:

Granddaddy Purple

Granddaddy Purple, another marijuana strain for depression, is known for reviving your lost appetite and producing a sense of relaxation throughout your body. It acts quickly and leaves you feeling emotionally and physically relaxed and calm.

Furthermore, the flavor of this strain is best characterized as 'candy,' therefore, not only the mind but even the taste buds are having some fun. As a result, it is one of the most popular depression strains.

Its physical and mental effects provide a feeling of peace that clears your mind before lulling you into a long, peaceful sleep. It's especially beneficial for people who have chronic pain, insomnia, or a loss of appetite.

Charlotte's Web

Charlotte's Web is good for those susceptible to THC-induced paranoia since it's derived from industrial hemp. This CBD-dominant variety has a fascinating and motivating background too.

Charlotte Fig, a six-year-old with Dravet syndrome, was the inspiration for the Stanley Brothers' creation of this breed in 2006. Fig used to have 300 seizures a month before the therapy, but she only has four now, partly thanks to cannabis' properties.

Because of this, the strain's moniker was coined by the general public. CBD and THC levels of 15-20% make it one of the most easy-going strains on the market.

XJ-13

XJ-13 is a THC-dominant strain that is well praised for its ability to lift one's spirits immediately. Additionally, it boosts your ability to converse with others and develop new ideas.

XJ-13 has a serene, colorful vibe about it. It's a bit of a difficult-to-find strain that helps with depression symptoms and allows the user to work and perform efficiently and creatively with a clear mind.

Lemon Haze

Lemon Haze contains a THC level of between 15% and 20%, whereas the CBD content is less than 1%. Therefore, you should expect uplifting and euphoric effects from this Sativa dominant strain.

In addition, due to the high concentration of limonene in Lemon Haze, the flavor and aroma are strongly reminiscent of lemon. For those suffering from depression, Lemon Haze is an excellent choice because of the strain's stress-reducing and energizing characteristics.

Blackberry Kush

Blackberry Kush is an Indica strain with a calming and soothing effect, making it ideal for relaxing at the end of the day. It's especially beneficial for people who have chronic pain or insomnia.

In addition, its calming effects make it an excellent choice for nighttime consumption, and it helps people experiencing stress-related symptoms like nervousness and anxiety.

Northern Lights

Northern Lights is one of the most iconic and aromatic buds in the history of medical cannabis. Numerous well-known hybrids are descendants of Northern Light – notably Super Silver Haze and Shiva Skunk.

When it comes to cannabis strains for depression, Northern Lights is one of the most popular options. It also possesses pain-relieving and uplifting qualities that relax the nervous system and are perfect for a good night's sleep or a peaceful evening. It's the ultimate remedy for depressed moods and difficult days.

Pineapple Express

This strain is well-known for its positive effects because of its association with the wildly popular comedy film of the same name. You can smoke Pineapple Express and go about your day without a hiccup, thanks to its stimulating effect.

It's one of the excellent depression-fighting cannabis strains. Pineapple Express provides a subtle body numbing high, combined with creativity and talkativeness when you feel sluggish and unable to do much. This miraculous flower can take care of everything you've been dreading to do.

Laughing Buddha

The euphoric high associated with Laughing Buddha is linked to free-flowing conversations, deep relaxation, and productivity. It's a well-balanced strain with a high that's equal parts mental and physical.

There will be bursts of productivity, which will help you get things done. The physical relaxation that follows makes Laughing Buddha a perfect morning or evening strain.

OG Kush

In the early 1990s, this OG strain was initially grown in Florida and has become a worldwide sensation. You'll get the OG Kush you've known and loved if you mix a Northern Californian strain with one from the Hindu Kush family.

The OG Kush strain has a mellow high that calms the body and mind, making it a potent antidepressant strain. When you're feeling a little under the weather, This strain is beneficial on slow and sad days since you won't be overthinking silly things.

Pennywise

No, we do not mean Pennywise, the clown, but a strain of cannabis that helps with depression.

Pennywise is a blend between Harlequin and Jack the Ripper, and it boasts a high CBD content. This makes it a pretty popular one in the medicinal marijuana field. In addition, many users report feeling more clear-minded and focused while using this strain, which beats anxiety, blues, and obsessive thinking.

So lookout for this one when you want to fight away the dark clouds.

Ringo's Gift

If you're looking for a potent high-CBD strain, Ringo Gift is a hybrid strain between Harle-Tsu and ACDC strains. There are several variations of this strain, ranging from "one-for-one" (equal amounts of CBD and THC) to "24:1 CBD/THC ratio."

Regarding its psychoactive high, Ringo's Gift offers a pleasant combination of mental clarity and physical relaxation, making it ideal for a productive workday free of a buzzing mind. Moreover, after taking the strain, users have reported a significant reduction in anxiety and stress.

Cinex

Cinex is a cross of Cinderella and Vortex that exhibits a well-balanced high. This strain may not be a good fit for anxious individuals since it has a high concentration of THC.

Cinex, regarded as one of the most excellent strains for depression, is essentially a 'wake n bake' strain that will rekindle your passion for activities you forgot you had loved. People who don't want to get too high appreciate the flower's impact and the creative stimulation that comes with it. 

Cinex's dominant limonene terpenes increase positive energy and naturally raise dopamine levels in the body.

Cannatonic

With a high concentration of CBD, Cannatonic is one of the most effective strains for potentially managing depression. The cannatonic weed strain is ideal for those who don't like the intoxicating effects of THC. You'll feel less dizzy and more at the moment due to the euphoric high.

Using a 50/50 mix of Sativa and Indica, Cannatonic has the right combination of a mild cerebral buzz and increased energy levels to go through the day without feeling tired. In addition, some of the dominant terpenes, such as linalool, myrcene, and caryophyllene, assist in generating a natural mood-boosting effect and aid with depression.

Sour Kush

This strain combines two renowned strains, Blue Diesel (Sativa) and OG Kush (which we mentioned above). Its soothing and uplifting effects lead to an evening of laughter and joy. In addition, it increases the desire to eat, and a higher dose may even help insomniacs get a good night's rest.

Remember to store it in an odor-proof container because you don't want the pungent odor to get into your home.

Harlequin

This strain has a 2:5 ratio of THC to CBD, like Harlequin and Cannatonic. However, this strain has a greater CBD concentration than other strains, making it well-known for counteracting the anxiety-related effects of high THC.

The high CBD content has a calming and uplifting effect, but without the euphoric high that comes with THC. It's also excellent for easing any form of physical pain. Harlequin's terpenes include caryophyllene and myrcene, which give it a pleasant sensation without causing anxiety to intensify.

Jack Herer

Cannabis strains named after the renowned American novelist and crusader for the legalization of marijuana promise a mood-lifting euphoria and an energizing high to overcome depression's gloom. Activists like Jack Herer campaigned tirelessly to make marijuana for depression a reality.

A 'pick-me-up' strain, Jack Herer is best consumed in the morning or when you're feeling low.

Fresh pine and wood aromas make it pleasant enough to elicit positive feelings. The cerebral and physical effects of the high are well-balanced, resulting in a more attentive and communicative mind and a relaxed physical state. This strain has won nine Cannabis Cups. It's hard to beat energy and motivation when it comes to energy and motivation.

Find Relief With Cannabis

As previously stated, Indica and Sativa strains may be beneficial in managing anxiety. Please consult an appointment with your doctor to experiment with the strains under the guidance of a certified medical professional.

When picking the ideal strain, keep your desired results and THC to CBD ratio in mind. In addition to antidepressants and anxiety relief, you can reap the other benefits of CBD, so check out our CBD products and see for yourself.

Got any questions about cannabis? You can find answers on Fusion's Answers website, where you can interact with a knowledgeable member of our community who will reply to your questions.

Best Cannabis Strains For Depression - FAQ

Is Marijuana Safe?

Although research into the safety of cannabis is still ongoing, the results so far show that Marijuana strains are safe when used in moderation.
It is, however, important to note that using it in excess can lead to an increased risk of developing certain mental health issues, such as anxiety and paranoia. Consequently, it is important to consume cannabis responsibly and within the recommended guidelines to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Is Marijuana Legal?

The legal status of marijuana varies from state to state. In some states, marijuana is legal for medical and/or recreational use, while in others, it is still illegal. The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp-derived products, including cannabidiol (CBD), from their Schedule I status under the Controlled Substances Act. However, CBD generally remains a Schedule I substance under federal law, though there are exceptions to this status in certain situations.

Can CBD Treat Anxiety?

Some research suggests that CBD may have the ability to reduce anxiety by decreasing the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, in the body. Additionally, CBD may help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety, such as racing thoughts and a rapid heartbeat, as it has a calming and relaxing effect. However, it is important to note that the use of CBD to treat anxiety should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it may not be suitable for everyone.

Can Marijuana Show On A Drug Test?

Yes, marijuana can show up on a drug test. THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, is the compound that drug tests detect. CBN is a degradation product of THC and can also be detected on a drug test, although it does not have the same psychoactive effects. Furthermore, drug tests can detect THC metabolites up to several weeks after marijuana use, depending on the frequency of marijuana use.

How Do Marijuana And CBN Differ?

CBN is a chemical compound found in cannabis plants, just like THC and CBD. It is believed to have mild sedative effects and is known to be non-psychoactive. While both marijuana and CBN have similar effects, the THC metabolite that is detected in drug tests is significantly more potent in marijuana than in CBN. Therefore, CBN is a less detectable form of THC, which makes it a preferable choice for those wanting to avoid a positive drug test.