Anxiety and stress happens to us all on a certain degree. We are all complex beings with different backgrounds, beliefs, upbringings, and come with different variables of traumas and triumphs. For many people, cannabis is used as an ally for healing and rejuvenation. For others, they may be stuck to particular belief systems or already know that cannabis tends to provoke more anxiety rather than help ease it. All of those instances are perfectly ok. For those who want to look for holistic and compassionate forms for healing with cannabis, this article is for you.
On my previous post about navigating stress, Hannah talks about different forms of holistic and healthy ways to maneuver through stressful situations. Many people turn to cannabis as they seek out a plant form to help ease their anxiety. For me personally, I have been navigating through my therapy and PTSD, along with medicating holistically with cannabis, medicinal mushrooms, and several other forms of plant medicine. I’ve worked with prayer, meditation, medication and amazing therapists. Through this journey I have been able to successfully navigate through my emotions and day to day life.
What Is Anxiety?
Fear, stress, and anxiety are “normal feelings and experiences” that affect us all. However, once these feelings become more and more intense or seem to linger longer than normal, it may be time to look into finding some solutions to help ease your anxiety. Knowing the difference between normal feelings of anxiety and an anxiety disorder requiring medical attention can help a person identify and treat the condition.
Dr. Ethan Russo, who is the author of the book, Cannabinoids as Therapeutics , notes the potential effects of cannabis to ease anxiety and depression. In his book, Dr. Ethan Russo mentioned the healing properties of the cannabis plant that was used all the way back in 1500 B.C in India. The Chinese have used the cannabis plant to help with mental illnesses and pain management for hundreds of years. There are several forms of healing that this plant can offer due to the anti-inflammatory properties of the plant.
It’s important to note that cannabis affects us all differently. Over the course of the past few years as medical marijuana has become more readily available to patients, anxiety has been one of the top three reasons why patients seek out this medicine. Although there are plenty of studies on the medical use for cannabis, there still is not enough scientific evidence to prove that specific strains can ease specific ailments. Within the components of the cannabis plant, there are several hundred healing properties, cannabinoids, and terpenes. Within every strain of cannabis there are also several different components that make every strain unique and different. Below are my top three favorite strains I personally use that help with my anxiety.
Cannatonic
Cannatonic is a strain that’s great for those who are THC – sensitive. This cannabis strain typically has a higher percentage of CBD than THC which can aid in many healing properties. Cannatonic tends to also boast high levels of the terpene myrcene, which contributes to this strain’s deeply relaxing attributes. People that use cannatonic to help ease anxiety note that they feel a great sense of relaxation with happy and uplifted feelings. This strain has been noted to deeply enhance the mood. Increased optimism and feelings of positivity, tied together with boosts of energy have been noted as some of the effects from this strain, which makes it very desirable to help with anxiety.
Granddaddy Purple
Grand Daddy Purple has been noted to help with stress and anxiety. This strain helps ease you into a peaceful mindset while urging your body to release stress and tension. Like most heavy indica strains, Granddaddy Purple is typically suggested for consumers looking to combat pain, stress, insomnia, appetite loss, and muscle spasms. When consuming Granddaddy Purple, many patients note the blissful, relaxed body high.
Northern Lights
Northern Lights is a fairly easily-accessible strain you can find in almost any dispensary. This is one of the most popular indica-dominant cannabis strains. A sense of happiness and well-being also accompanies this effect. Many people notice the ultra relaxing and drowsy affects of this strain which is important to note that you do not make plans after consuming Northern Lights. Some users also use it to increase focus and creativity. This specific strain is used to help alleviate pain, help with acute and chronic insomnia, loss of appetite and anxiety.
Cannabis is a plant which has been used as a medicine for thousands of years. For those who are looking to help ease their anxiety in a holistic and natural form and incorporate plants as their medicine, these particular strains of cannabis may be the right strains for you. As with any plant used as medicine, be sure to listen to your body. You may find it helpful to experiment with different strains with variable concentrations and ratios until you find a strain that produces the effects you’re seeking.
Disclaimer:
Although I am speaking about my own personal experience, I am not a licensed therapist, doctor, or nutritionist. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your mental or physical health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.
