Best Strains for Social Anxiety
Living with social anxiety can be a curse, triggering overwhelming anxiety when faced with the unfamiliar, and it can even make it challenging to navigate life’s social landscape.
Reclaiming a sense of normalcy while living with social anxiety can be difficult, which is why many people turn to alternatives to help alleviate symptoms.
Cannabis might not cure social anxiety, but some consumers have turned to it as a potential ally in managing social anxiety. However, choosing the right strain isn’t one-size-fits-all: with different subspecies and strains to explore, we thought it might be time to dive deeper into the best strains for social anxiety.
Key Takeaways
- CBD may play a role in alleviating symptoms associated with social anxiety.
- Some might find indica strains with high amounts of CBD give relief from anxiety, while others prefer a hybrid or sativa.
- The best strains for anxiety are ACDC, Granddaddy Purple, and Jack Herer.
- Mellow Fellow’s Introverted Blend line is a great choice for those seeking anxiety relief.
The Role of Cannabis in Alleviating Anxiety
Cannabis has been used for its potential medicinal properties for thousands of years. As far back as 2800 BC, cannabis was listed in Emperor Shen Nung’s pharmacopeia, becoming a part of Western medicine in the late 19th century when Queen Victoria got some for her personal pharmacy.
Since then, it’s become a natural alternative for many looking for relief.
Surprisingly, although research has dug up some promising results, there’s still so much to explore. The potential benefits of CBD have been widely explored for its relaxing effects, with studies noting that cannabidiol could play a promising role as an alternative therapy for anxiety management.
One thing to note: CBD is best known for anxiety-relieving symptoms and non-psychoactive effects, while THC is highly psychoactive. Strains with high levels of CBD tend to be a better fit if you’re looking for anxiety-relieving effects.
The reason why cannabidiol and other cannabinoids may help alleviate anxiety symptoms is due to their interaction with the endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors that regulate a bunch of physiological processes.
When cannabinoids like CBD and THC interact with these receptors, they can influence bodily functions like mood, appetite, and sleep. The endocannabinoid system’s interaction with CBD may be able to provide relief from anxiety symptoms.
Picking the Right Strain: Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid?
Before using cannabis to treat social anxiety symptoms, it’s important to understand the fundamental distinctions between indica, sativa, and hybrid strains. With over 700 strains discovered or created so far, picking one that alleviates instead of aggravates the symptoms of anxiety.
Let’s learn the basics:
Indica
The indica subspecies of cannabis is often related to the effects of relaxation of sedation, making it more of a “nighttime strain” for many. They tend to be high in CBD, which makes indica a great choice for those seeking anxiety relief.
Sativa
More of a “daytime strain,” sativa tends to have higher levels of THC and lower levels of CBD, with effects characterized by a cerebral buzz, increased focus, creativity, and energy. Some sativa strains may be a helpful ally in improving lethargy, fatigue, and other anxiety symptoms.
Hybrids
Hybrids are the children of crossbreeding between indica and sativa strains, offering the best of both worlds. With a more nuanced spectrum, hybrid strains can lean into indica-dominating or sativa-dominating and be a balanced medium.
For those seeking effects associated with both subspecies, hybrids stand out as a novel choice.
It’s important to remember that each individual is as unique as each strain. Social anxiety can manifest in dozens of ways, as can the effects of certain strains. Individual experiences vary, so it’s important to explore and test to find your ideal strain.
We recommend exploring strains but taking it slow and going low. Starting with smaller doses can help you adjust to your perfect dosage and strain.
Key Terpenes to Note
Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis, which can account for their varying scents and flavors. However, terpenes also play a role in the overall effects of each strain. By identifying and exploring the terpenes associated with anxiety relief, the journey to comfort may be quick.
These are some of the best terpenes for social anxiety:
- Linalool
- Myrcene
- Caryophyllene
- Terpinene
- Humulene
- Pinene
Some strains high in these terpenes are Jack Herer, White Widow, OG Kush, Chemdawg, and Durban Poison.
Best Strains for Social Anxiety
With over 700 strains, it’s hard to boil down the three best. Here are our choices for the best strains of social anxiety:
Granddaddy Purple (Indica)
Granddaddy Purple is one of the most iconic indica strains, known for its Myrcene-heavy terpene profile that contributes to relaxing and tranquil effects. Tracing its roots to strains like Purple Urkle and Big Bud, the sedating effects of Indica are well-bred in this anxiety-relieving strain.
Users on Reddit praise Granddaddy Purple: “Granddaddy Purple is my favorite and I always migrate back.”
ACDC (Hybrid)
A true hybrid, ACDC is a rockstar for alleviating social anxiety symptoms thanks to its balanced fusion of THC and CBD. With a 20:1 CBD to THC ratio, this strain combines a light cerebral buzz, clear-headedness, and a relaxed body, making it the perfect ally for your next social outing. High in CBD, ACDC is a great beginner strain.
As the Redditors say: “Subtle. Non-paranoid. Chill. I like it A LOT.”
Jack Herer (Sativa)
For energizing effects that may counterbalance the uneasiness associated with anxiety, a true sativa like Jack Herer is an optimal option. Named after the legendary cannabis activist, this strain beacons feelings of energy, invigoration, and creativity. Dominated by terpenes like myrcene and pinene, Jack Herer’s prowess positions it as a potential ally.
A Redditor shares his experience after trying many unlucky strains: “I was feeling pretty demotivated, but then I tried Jack Herer. Holy fuck. The experience is exactly everything I love about weed (euphoria, productivity, alertness, clarity of thought, emotional awareness, etc.), and nothing of what I hate about weed (couch-lock effect, laziness, fatigue, sleepiness, etc.)”
Responsible Usage and Precautions
While many people turn to cannabis to manage symptoms of anxiety, it’s crucial to note the importance of responsible usage and precautions to be taken.
It’s recommended to start with lower doses when exploring cannabis, allowing your body and mind to acclimate to the effects before going overboard. Understanding your limits is key, especially when dealing with social anxiety.
Also, keep in mind potential side effects, which may even increase anxiety, bringing to the forefront the importance of precise and responsible dosage.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that the journey to finding the best strain for social anxiety is deeply personal. However, being informed about different strains, subspecies, and terpenes is invaluable as you discover which strains work best for you.
The diversity of cannabis experiences is humongous, with each strain presenting a unique blend that can help users curate an experience that resonates with them. When pursuing how personal well-being and cannabis can coexist in your experience, we suggest seeking guidance from cannabis-savvy health professionals before diving right in.
If you’re interested in discovering how cannabis plays a role in anxiety, Mellow Fellow’s got your back. Mellow Fellow’s Introvert Blend line features iconic strains like Blueberry OG, Ice Cream Cake, Gas Mask, King Louis, and Blue Dream.
Best Strain of Weed for Social Anxiety: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Main Differences Between Indica and Sativa Strains Regarding Anxiety Relief?
Indica strains are high in CBD, the cannabinoid most often associated with anxiety-relieving effects. Sativa strains have lower amounts of CBD, causing more energizing and euphoric effects.
How Do I Determine the Right Dosage for Me?
The best way to determine the right dosage is to start low and go slow, allowing your body and mind to acclimate to the effects before increasing the dose.
Can Using Cannabis for Social Anxiety Have Any Side Effects?
Cannabis may produce side effects like dry eyes, dry mouth, anxiety, and paranoia, among others.
Are There Any Strains I Should Avoid if I Have Social Anxiety?
Strains with low amounts of CBD aren’t the best choice if you’re looking for relief from social anxiety.
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