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Mental health is a hot topic in current mainstream media, but we can’t help but wonder: What are the worst strains for anxiety?
In the United States, anxiety disorders are the most common concern in regard to mental health. In fact, over 40 million adults struggle with anxiety symptoms.
More often than not, we see stoners advocating for cannabis strains as a way to alleviate anxiety. But if you’ve ever found yourself feeling more anxious post-smoke session, you’re not alone.
While plenty of strains, especially those containing the terpene caryophyllene, offer promising anxiety relief, others exacerbate anxiety disorders. More than anything, it’s important to choose the right cannabis strains. Ideally choosing strains geared toward managing anxiety and being aware of those that may only make anxiety worse.
In this blog, we’re discussing everything you need to know about the worst strains for anxiety.
So whether you’re prone to anxious episodes or just trying to steer clear of anything that could trigger anxiety, keep reading for our expert opinion.
Understanding Anxiety and Cannabis
Cannabis can have complex and varied effects on anxiety levels, often depending on the specific strain, dosage, individual factors, and the balance between its two main compounds: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
THC vs. CBD for Anxiety
For example, while CBD-rich or balanced weed strains may potentially treat anxiety, high-THC strains could possibly worsen anxiety for some individuals.
It’s essential for those considering cannabis for anxiety management to conduct thorough research, start with low doses, and be mindful of strain selection to achieve the desired effects while minimizing the risk of exacerbating anxiety.
Consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended, especially for individuals with pre-existing anxiety disorders.
Factors Contributing to Anxiety from Weed
Here’s the thing about anxious thoughts: They don’t discriminate. Whether you’re prone to random bouts of anxiety or just dealing with outside stressors, anxiety can be caused by a multitude of factors – including cannabis consumption.
Anxiety experienced from consuming cannabis can be influenced by several interconnected factors, such as:
1. Strain Chemical Composition: Different strains have varying levels of THC and CBD, which can influence anxiety. Strains with a high THC content may lead to increased anxiety, while balanced or CBD-dominant strains may have more calming effects.
2. Individual Sensitivity: Personal sensitivity to THC and other cannabinoids varies. Some individuals are more prone to anxiety and may be more affected by the psychoactive properties of cannabis.
3. Entourage Effect: The combined effects of various cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds present in cannabis can impact anxiety levels. The entourage effect may enhance or mitigate anxiety-inducing effects.
4. Consumption Method: Inhalation methods like smoking or vaping pods, such as Left Coast Extracts, deliver cannabinoids rapidly, potentially intensifying anxiety. Edibles and tinctures, like those made by Yummi Karma, have a slower onset but can produce stronger and longer-lasting effects.
5. Dosage: Consuming too much cannabis, especially for those with low tolerance, can trigger or exacerbate anxiety.
6. Mindset and Environment: The user’s mindset and the setting in which cannabis is consumed play a role. Anxious thoughts or an unfamiliar environment can amplify anxiety.
Identifying the Worst Strains for Anxiety
As more individuals explore the diverse landscape of cannabis strains, it becomes evident that not all strains are created equal. Especially when it comes to their impact on anxiety levels.
The following list highlights five marijuana strains often considered the worst strains for anxiety.
1. Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel’s high THC levels and intense cerebral effects contribute to its status as one of the worst cannabis strains for anxiety.
For example, its powerful psychoactive properties may cause racing thoughts, heightened senses, and an overwhelming cognitive experience, especially for those prone to anxiety or with low tolerance.
These symptoms, paired with an increased heart rate, are often diagnosed as anxiety attacks.
Additionally, the strain’s energizing nature might also amplify restlessness. While individual responses vary, caution is advised, especially for those sensitive to THC or with anxiety histories.
2. Green Crack
If you’re prone to experiencing a panic attack every so often, you may want to reconsider packing a joint with Green Crack.
As if the name weren’t enough indication of its intense effects, Green Crack is known for its intense head rush, creating a range of potent cerebral effects that often lead to racing thoughts.
But that’s not all – the weed strain’s potent and energizing effects could contribute to its potential to increase anxiety in some individuals. These stimulating effects might lead to restlessness and a sense of unease, particularly for those prone to anxiety or sensitive to THC’s psychoactive properties.
3. Durban Poison
A rare pure sativa strain, Durban Poison is known to produce an energizing effect considered to be one of the most intense in both the recreational and medical cannabis scenes.
Though Durban Poison’s uplifting nature may offer a plethora of medical benefits, its intoxicating effects aren’t ideal for people managing anxiety.
While Durban Poison offers a euphoric experience for many, it could lead to discomfort or anxiety for others, especially if consumed in high doses. As with any cannabis strain, individual reactions vary, and cautious consumption is advised, particularly for those seeking to relieve anxiety.
4. Super Silver Haze
Thanks to the high THC content of the Super Silver Haze strain, certain individuals may experience heightened anxiety. Overall, the strain’s strong psychoactivity might amplify anxious feelings, as the mind becomes more active and alert.
Additionally, the energizing nature of Super Silver Haze could exacerbate feelings of restlessness and unease, making it difficult for individuals with anxious tendencies to experience any physically relaxing effects.
While the strain’s euphoric and creative effects can be enjoyable for many users, those sensitive to its potency should approach consumption with caution, especially if seeking anxiety treatment.
5. Girl Scout Cookies
And finally, we have Girl Scout Cookies. It may be surprising to see Girl Scout Cookies on our list of the worst strains for anxiety, especially since this popular indica-dominant strain is known to offer waves of relaxing effects.
However, its strong sense of euphoria could produce borderline psychedelic effects, which could easily trigger anxiety. And with that being said, some stoners don’t like the physically relaxing yet mentally stimulating effects of hybrid strains because of the massive imbalance.
Note that many of these weed strains are not only popular in the cannabis industry, but actually celebrated for their diverse flavor profiles and highly potent effects. However, it’s important to consider that some individuals may experience adverse effects as with anything that disrupts normal mental processes.
Safer Alternatives for Anxiety Relief
When it comes to harnessing the potential benefits of cannabis while minimizing the risk of anxiety-inducing effects, exploring safer alternatives becomes essential.
Marijuana strains with balanced ratios of CBD to THC and THCa, such as those specially bred by West Coast Cure, are gaining popularity for their ability to provide a harmonious experience. These strains aim to offer the therapeutic benefits of both cannabinoids—THC, the psychoactive compound, and THCa, its non-psychoactive precursor—while avoiding the overwhelming effects often associated with high-THC strains.
CBD Strains for Anxiety
CBD-dominant strains, on the other hand, deserve a spotlight for their calming and anxiety-reducing properties. These strains provide the relaxation and stress relief associated with CBD, offering a gentler and more soothing experience focused on wellness.
Indica Strains for Anxiety
Additionally, the growing popularity of indica strains opens a gateway to relaxation and anxiety reduction, especially when consumed in low doses. Indica-dominant strains are renowned for their sedative effects, making them potential allies for individuals seeking a peaceful and tranquil cannabis experience.
By embracing these safer alternatives, individuals can approach cannabis with a focus on anxiety relief, informed by the potential benefits of specific strains and their unique effects.
Summary
In the journey toward anxiety management, the importance of thoughtful strain selection continues to remain at the forefront.
By choosing strains with balanced CBD and THC ratios, embracing CBD-dominant options, or exploring the soothing embrace of indica strains, individuals can navigate the realm of cannabis with a heightened awareness of their anxiety-related needs.
And while the worst strains for anxiety remain popular in the legal cannabis market, it is crucial, above all, to prioritize personal well-being and adjust cannabis consumption in alignment with one’s individual comfort level.
Cannabis holds great potential as a tool to reduce anxiety when approached responsibly. Therefore, we must foster an informed and mindful relationship with cannabis plants in order to harness their benefits to increase personal health and wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What strain is worse for anxiety?
The impact of weed strains on anxiety varies. High-THC strains with limited CBD can potentially worsen anxiety, especially in sensitive individuals. Strains with strong psychoactive effects or stimulation might trigger anxiety. Caution is advised when trying any new cannabis strain, especially if you’re prone to anxiety.
What strains make you feel paranoid?
Certain high-THC strains can induce paranoia, especially in sensitive individuals. Strains like Sour Diesel, Green Crack, and Girl Scout Cookies are often associated with heightened feelings of paranoia. Opting for balanced CBD/THC or CBD-dominant strains may be a safer choice for those with anxious tendencies.
Does OG Kush cause anxiety?
OG Kush, a high-THC strain, can potentially induce anxiety in some due to its strong psychoactive effects. However, individual reactions vary, and some users might not experience anxiety with this strain. As with any cannabis strain, caution and self-awareness are important, especially if you have a history of anxiety or are prone to anxious feelings.
