Cannabis can be useful for those who suffer from stress, anxiety and social anxiety. Particularly, strains with high CBD (cannabidiol) can help bring down cortisol levels for a person, therefore easing their stress levels. A research study from Vanderbilt University discovered that cannabinoid receptors are present in mice brains, just like human brains. This week we will discuss how the strain Harlequin helps with social anxiety and more.
These receptors are found in the area of the brain that regulates the fight or flight response, known as the amygdala. Another study from 2011 exemplified that CBD is extremely beneficial for people who suffer from social anxiety. The study was done with 24 people with social anxiety disorder, as well as a control group of 12 individuals without social anxiety. Half of the subjects with social anxiety were given CBD while the other half was given a placebo. After the administration, all participants then had to partake in a public speaking test. Physiological measures were taken before, during and after the public speaking test. The results exhibited a significant decrease in anxiety levels in the subjects who were given CBD.
There are countless strains of Cannabis available, but if you are dealing with anxiety or stress, it is important to choose a strain that contains sufficient levels of CBD. I suffer from General Anxiety Disorder and Social Anxiety Disorder myself, and something I look for when I am deciding on a strain is the CBD levels being either close to equal the amounts of THC, or higher than the amount of THC. This is can be beneficial since THC can sometimes increase the sensation of anxiety. The CBD counteracts unwanted effects from THC, but still allows the good feels to come through! Here are some of the best strains available on the market to help you control your stress and anxiety:
Harlequin
This is my all-time favorite strain of choice. Harlequin is a Sativa-dominant strain, that descends from Colombian Gold (a Nepali Indica) and Swiss landrace and Thai strains. I personally love this strain because the Sativa helps boost alertness, concentration, and general happiness, while the CBD relaxes tension, stress, and anxiety. The CBD also counteracts the THC’s paranoia effect, while amplifying its painkilling properties. It truly can help you stay relaxed, but without sedation. It’s a perfect balance! Remember how I described that it is good to find a strain that is either balanced or higher than the levels of THC? This strain’s ratio for CBD to THC is 5:2! Because of this, do not expect a heavy high from this strain. Harlequin has won multiple Cannabis Cup awards for its CBD content both bud and concentration form.
Harlequin is also known to relieve pain from mild to chronic conditions. It contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it a benefit for people who suffer from fibromyalgia and neuralgic pain. It also has been shown to help alleviate mild to moderate nausea. Because of its CBD to THC ratio, this strain can be used during the day, or at night without having any issues falling asleep, despite it being Sativa-dominant.
When cured properly, the buds will smell pungent with a tropical fruit trace. While combusted, the flower will have an earthy scent and a taste of citrus-mango when inhaled. The toke is smooth and isn’t known to induce coughing, while finished with a rich, tangy aftertaste.
Over the coming weeks, I will be writing about other strains like:
- Harle-Tsu
- ACDC
- CBD Shark
- CannaTsu
- Haoma
- Cannatonic
- Trident
- Sour Tsunami
- Valentine X
Sources:
http://www.cell.com/neuron/abstract/S0896-62731400017-8
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21307846
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