With so many different marijuana strains, being capable of treating so many varied conditions…it can be hard to choose the one for you. Especially when you’re choosing for a specific disorder, and not just choosing what tastes the best, or gets you the most elevated.
For those suffering from depression and depressive type disorders, cannabis can be a great source of relief. Considering that one in five Canadians suffer from the condition, with marijuana now legalized many are turning to the natural plant remedy. So, how can medical marijuana be used to treat depression and what are the best strains to turn to? Let’s learn more, now.
How does Medical Marijuana Help Depression?
Cannabis is a complex plant with a plethora of beneficial effects, that many in the research community are still trying to figure out completely. From early studies, they’re finding that medical marijuana for depression is proving to be a viable treatment option. To understand how weed can help alleviate depressive symptoms, first, you have to understand the endocannabinoid system.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is also in its infancy of research, after only being discovered in the late 80’s. But according to what we already know the system is vital in keeping our bodies in ‘homeostasis’ or a general feeling of overall well-being.
You know, when you feel good and optimally healthy. The ECS is a system of neurotransmitters and receptors that send messages throughout the body regulating processes like immune response, cell communication, appetite, memory, mood, metabolism and more.
When you consume medical marijuana, CBD, THC and other cannabinoids bind to these receptors and neurotransmitters, allowing their effects to be felt and communicated internally. Marijuana also interacts with compounds like dopamine, and serotonin, which are often related to depression. Here are a few examples of recent trials that show a positive connection of cannabis for depression.
- In regards to serotonin, CBD binds to the receptor known widely as the ‘happy chemical’. CBD can strengthen the receptor’s power and increase overall levels.
- Since Inflammation of the brain is a cause of depression, CBD as a natural anti-inflammatory is proving to be a helpful aid.
- In 2007, THC was noted as an antidepressant from a study conducted by McGill University in Montreal.
- A study conducted in the Netherlands found that THC can positively affect the mind’s reaction when negative emotions arise.
The Best Strains for Depression
The differing compounds and effects from strain to strain only adds to the complexity of cannabis. Luckily, through real-time use and research on the levels of CBD, THC, and terpenes that are beneficial, we have some idea of what strains are better for depression than others. If you’re looking to improve your mood, or relieve depressive type symptoms, these strains can help.
- Headband
- Northern Lights
- Grandaddy Purple
- Pineapple Express
- Blackberry Kush
- Blue Dream
- Sour OG
- Amnesia Haze
- XJ-13
- Harlequin
Through cross-breeding these strains are often crossed with others to produce new or hybrid strains. Meaning, you can seek any genetic that has been crossed with these for therapeutic relief for depression. Which leads us to specific traits our top medical marijuana strains for depression have in common. Next, we’ll cover what unique cannabis compounds or combinations can help mood affecting disorders the most.
What to Look For
The majority of the best strains for depression are sativa or sativa dominant hybrids. The cannabis classification for genetics generally delivers effects that are more upbeat, or euphoric. They also provide uplifting energy that depression sufferers find to be helpful. Another common trait amongst these helpful strains, are similar terpene profiles.
Terpenes are the aromatic centers of the cannabis flower which produces each strain’s unique and individual aroma spectrum. It’s being found that a few terpenes can relieve mood-affecting disorders like depression, more than others. Those terpenes and the scents to smell for include –
- Caryophyllene – Peppery, spicy, clove and cinnamon
- Limonene – Zesty, citrusy, lemon and orange
- Linalool – Floral, herbal, woody and spicy
A study at Washington State University showed patients had a reduction in stress or anxiety when consuming differing ratios of CBD to THC, and doses. The research reported the following results –
- 1 puff of medical marijuana high in CBD, and low in THC reduced depressive symptoms.
- 10+ puffs of medical marijuana high in CBD and high in THC reduced stress.
- 2 puffs of any CBD:THC ratio reduced anxiety.
Natural Plant Healing for Elevated Moods
While research is still new into the endocannabinoid system and medical marijuana effects for depression, you can see how many consumers are using it for a viable treatment. If you’re seeking cannabis that is beneficial for mood disorders and depressive symptoms, our top strains for depression is a good place to start.
From there, you can use the information gained on terpenes, CBD, THC and ideal ratios to elevate your moods naturally. Check out our current collection of high-quality cannabis goods to begin natural plan healing, today.