For some people with mild to moderate depression, cannabis may be a useful adjunctive treatment. About 280 million people worldwide suffer from depression, the most prevalent mental health condition. Some people use medical cannabis instead of prescription antidepressants, according to research.
Before using marijuana for medical purposes, it is always advisable to speak with an MMJ physician. He will give you a medical card, which is the legal way to obtain marijuana in your state. Additionally, you can apply online from the comfort of your home for the cheapest medical marijuana card.
The Impact of Cannabis on Depression
According to research on cannabis and depression, the plant may help raise important hormone levels in the brain. For instance, cannabidiol (CBD) may aid in raising serotonin levels, which are frequently referred to as the “happy hormone.” Chronic depression episodes are often linked to serotonin deficiency.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the other main cannabinoid in cannabis, has been demonstrated to benefit those whose depression is associated with pain. The therapeutic effects of THC may alleviate even difficult-to-manage pain, which could result in decreased depression levels.
Despite the prevalence of clinical depression, millions of people use cannabis and cannabinoids like CBD for emotional reasons. As a result, using cannabis may make you feel better even if you haven’t been given a formal diagnosis of depression.
Effective Ways to Use Cannabis for Managing Depression
Although some research has suggested otherwise, cannabis may be directly helpful in reducing the chronic low mood linked to depression. Depending on the strain you use, the plant may also help treat related conditions like anxiety and insomnia.
For those suffering from depression, certain consumption techniques might be more effective than others. Edibles with high THC dosages should be avoided by people who also suffer from anxiety because they are more likely to have detrimental mental side effects because of dosage issues.
Some people find that applying cannabis topically is the most effective way to treat their depression. Direct application of cannabis products to the skin may produce calming effects right away. For instance, heated CBD oils or cooling CBD gels may inherently boost feelings of wellbeing. Additionally, aromatherapy may also help with depression, and many topical cannabis products have scents.
Top Marijuana Strains for Easing Depression
Your mild to moderate depression may be better managed with different strains. Before using medical marijuana, people who have been diagnosed with a major psychiatric disorder or who are suffering from severe depression should see a doctor.
- Cannatonic
People who want to control their depression symptoms love this CBD-rich strain. Low levels of THC help prevent the anxiety that frequently accompanies depression, while a balance of invigorating pinene and relaxing myrcene counteracts the sedative effects of myrcene.
- Jack Herer
The antidepressant effects of this THC-dominant strain are facilitated by the uplifting terpenes of pinene and caryophyllene. With scents of a pine forest in the north and freshly cut firewood, Jack Herer awakens the senses. Some claim that this strain gives them a reassuring feeling and helps them feel less depressed.
- Harlequin
While CBD is abundant in Cannatonic, Harlequin effectively balances CBD with THC, the other main cannabinoid in cannabis. The equal or nearly equal ratio of CBD:THC in Harlequin may be the reason why some users report feeling more focused after taking it.
- Charlotte’s Web
A perennial favorite among those looking to reduce the symptoms of depression is this CBD-dominant strain. Charlotte’s Web is a good option for those who are prone to anxiety and panic attacks because it has a low THC content.
- Cinex
In addition to revitalizing your senses, Cinex’s citrus-scented limonene can improve your mood. Additionally, some people find that high doses of THC stimulate their creativity and encourage them to pursue passions that depression may impede.
- Northern Lights
The pure indica Northern Lights is one of the most calming strains, causing some users to feel completely relaxed. Some people also claim that the peaceful atmosphere that Northern Lights evokes improves their quality of sleep, which is advantageous because insomnia has been connected to depression.
- Laughing Buddha
Laughing Buddha can make you feel euphoric and even giggly, as the name suggests. With this strain, people report feeling more relaxed and interacting with others and being more productive.
- Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)
Some cannabis users find that Girl Scout Cookies, which taste like the baked good they are named for, help them deal with depression. GSC is a potent strain that is also said to help with pain, headaches, and appetite loss.
- Cherry Punch
Cherry Punch is a strong strain that is loaded with medicinal terpenes such as myrcene, humulene, and linalool. The cherry vanilla flavor profile of this hybrid, which is a cross between AK-47 and Purple Punch, has been reported to have uplifting effects.
Keep in mind that there is no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to these nine strains, and you might experience better outcomes for depression with a strain that wasn’t on our list. Trying a variety of cannabis strains and observing how your body and brain react is the best way to determine which one is best for you.
With a medical marijuana card, find out how cannabis can help with depression and other mental health conditions. The medical marijuana doctors in Riverside at California Online Clinic is available to assist you with the simple online application process.