Research from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America suggests that 18.1% of the US population currently suffers from an anxiety disorder. That amounts to roughly 40 million people.
While the clinical research on anxiety and cannabis is still developing, initial research suggests that medical cannabis does positively affect anxiety. As medical cannabis is now legal in 36 states, that naturally leaves many people with an important question: what are the best strains for anxiety? In this article, we’ll answer that question.
Charlotte’s Web
Charlotte’s Web is a High-CBD strain known to make users feel relaxed, calm, and focused. Charlotte’s Web contains minimal THC, with just 1% in most crops (for reference, anything with 0.03% or less THC is considered hemp). It also has a high CBD content of 13% and contains the calming terpene myrcene. Charlotte’s Web is suitable for new users, as its effects are non-intoxicating and mild. The famous Stanley Brothers of Colorado were the first ones to breed Charlotte’s Web.
Pros:
- It won’t make you sleepy (as it has a THC content of 1%)
- Contains myrcene
- High CBD percentage
Cons:
- It gives some users a dry mouth
Ringo’s Gift
Ringo’s Gift is another CBD-dominant hybrid strain with calming and uplifting effects. Ringo’s Gift is a crossbreed that combines popular strains Harle-Tsu and ACDC. It contains 12% CBD, 1% CBG and a minute percentage of THC. Most crops of Ringo’s Gift have a CBD/THC ratio that spans 1:1 to 24:1. Ringo’s Gift is suitable for most new cannabis users as its effects are pretty mild. It also contains myrcene, which many users find helpful for feelings of stress and panic.
Pros:
- Suitable for new users
- Contains CBG
- Known to uplift people and reduce stress
Cons:
- The ratio of CBD/THC varies greatly across crops
Remedy
Remedy is a fruity and floral high-CBD strain with a summery feel. This strain is a cross between Afghan Skunk and Cannatonis. It contains 13% CBD and 1% THC, giving it a very energizing effect in most users. It’s also used as a medical strain globally. Remedy is a popular home-grow crop in places with legal recreational cannabis, as it flowers within 6 – 8 weeks. It contains the terpene myrcene, which many users say reduces panic and promotes feelings of calm.
Pros:
- Contains myrcene
- High CBD content
- Flowers quickly
- Suitable for new users
Cons:
- Some users report getting a dry mouth after using this strain
Jack Herer
Jack Herer is a crossbreed strain initially developed in the Netherlands. Since the 1990s, it’s been used as a medical-grade cannabis strain distributed by Dutch pharmacies. Jack Herer is a hybrid strain that combines a Haze hybrid, Shiva Skunk, and Northern Lights #5. While this strain does have a THC content of 17%, it’s known to make users feel energized, calmed, and creative rather than sleepy. It also contains 1% CBG and has terpinolene as its dominant terpene.
Pros:
- Used as a medical-grade strain in the Netherlands
- It has calming effects but does not invoke sleepiness
Cons:
- THC content may be too high for novice users
- Challenging to grow outside a Mediterranean climate
Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) is a hybrid strain that mixes OG Kush with Durban Poison. GSC is a very popular cannabis strain that’s available nationwide. It’s also a common choice for garden cultivation as it flowers in 9 – 10 weeks. GSC has a very high THC percentage, as some crops have a THC content of 19% – 28%. This makes it great for relaxation, though it also makes some smokers very sleepy and tired. So while this strain will calm feelings of anxiety, it’s best suited for when you don’t have to be productive.
Pros:
- Easy to grow
- High THC content
Cons:
- It may be overwhelming for some users
- Produces feelings of tiredness
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is CBD or THC better for anxiety?
While the research on anxiety and cannabis is still ongoing, strains with a high CBD (cannabidiol) content are generally better for anxiety. CBD-dominant strains are believed to have a calming effect, while many THC-dominant strains evoke curiosity, liveliness, and curiosity. However, some users may prefer to use a high-THC strain to relieve stress.
What CBD strain is best for anxiety?
Remedy, Charlotte’s Web, and Ringo’s Gift are all known to have calming effects that can be helpful for people with anxiety. However, as everyone’s experience with CBD is deeply personal, you should experiment to find the best strain for you.
Which terpenes are best for anxiety?
Research and expert opinion suggest that the terpenes myrcene, limonene, pinene, and caryophyllene are all great for anxiety. Myrcene is present in strains like Remedy, Charlotte’s Web, and Ringo’s Gift.
Takeaway
The research we have on strain composition suggests that the best strains for anxiety are CBD-dominant (though each person’s experience is subjective). So if you are looking for a strain with calming effects, your best choices are Ringo’s Gift and Jack Herer.
However, please keep in mind that you should always consult your doctor or advanced practice provider for anxiety.
