Everyone experiences anxiety differently—thankfully, there are many different types of cannabis strains to match this diversity of anxiety symptoms. Whether you’re looking to alleviate PTSD, OCD, or generalized anxiety disorder, there is likely a strain that can help.
Before using cannabis to take the edge off anxiety, it’s worth first familiarizing yourself with the different types of strains available to determine which sounds best for you.
THC vs CBD strains for anxiety
- THC strains are the most common. They produce the euphoric high associated with cannabis. While some find THC’s intoxicating effects to be relaxing, others may be sensitive to them and find that they actually worsen anxiety.
- CBD strains are less common, but they’re highly recommended for anxiety relief—especially if you’re new to cannabis or seeking little to no euphoric high.
After determining whether you prefer THC, CBD, or a mix of the two, you can take your strain search to the next level by exploring different terpenes—the aromatic compounds in cannabis that imbue each strain with its unique scent and possibly, to some extent, effects.
What to keep in mind when trying marijuana strains for anxiety
As you go through this list and experiment with different strains, take note of which cannabinoids and terpenes your body gravitates towards for anxiety relief. That will make it easier to identify the types of strains you should (or shouldn’t) try going forward.
And last of all, we encourage you to keep your doctor in the loop if you choose to use cannabis therapeutically, especially if there are treatment or medication interactions to consider.
Best weed strains for anxiety
Blue Dream
Patients have used this 50-50 hybrid on anxiety since the ’90s. The Blueberry calms down the Haze genetics, resulting in something pleasant and functional.
Girl Scout Cookies
We think the terpene caryophyllene plays a role in capping the anxious effects of this popular high-THC strain. About 29% of reviewers report GSC works for anxiety.
OG Kush
This popular indica hybrid has long-been a go-to for relaxing after a long day’s work.
Bubba Kush
A relative of OG Kush, Bubba Kush has long brought relaxing relief to fans of indica hybrids.
Wedding Cake
One of the most popular cultivars in America for a reason—Wedding Cake offers afternoon and evening relaxation in a high-THC, vanilla cake format.
Blueberry
DJ Short’s blueberry-smelling and tasting classic is another popular option to calm down a bit. A full third of reviewers find it helpful for anxiety.
Skywalker OG
This popular, more indica relative of OG Kush works on anxiety for 35% of reviewers.
ACDC
Primary terpenes: Myrcene, pinene, caryophyllene
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Showing you dispensaries nearCannabinoid profile: CBD-dominant
CBD takes the wheel with ACDC, guiding you toward a calm and centered headspace without that strong cannabis high. Find space to relax and breathe and as you inhale and exhale the soothing gifts ACDC has to offer.
Granddaddy Purple
Primary terpenes: Myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene
Cannabinoid profile: THC-dominant
Granddaddy Purple eases you into a peaceful mindset while urging your body to release all that stress and tension. Sink in and let a blissful mindset take over.
Canna-Tsu
Primary terpenes: Myrcene, pinene, caryophyllene
Cannabinoid profile: Balanced THC/CBD
Not everyone wants to get stoned out of their gourd every time their anxiety symptoms flare up. Luckily, there are strains like Canna-Tsu that offer gentle effects that are easier to manage. Find that peaceful mindset without the worry of overdoing it with too much THC.
Remedy
Primary terpenes: Myrcene, pinene, caryophyllene
Cannabinoid profile: CBD-dominant
Remedy is a no-frills cannabis strain with one purpose: to walk you calmly through your anxiety toward a more peaceful mindset. A few puffs of this aptly named CBD strain can help you reach a sense of lightness in your mind as the burden of worry lifts.
So there’s some strains helping folks with their anxiety. Of course, your mileage may vary, and there’s nothing wrong with a little trial and error. Always start with just a little bit and see how it feels after 60 minutes in.
