The Best Cannabis Strains for Treating DepressionThroughout history, cannabis has been used to treat depression. In fact an English clergyman named Robert Burton recommended it’s use back in 1621 in his book “The Anatomy of Melancholy”. During the same time period, doctors in India were actively using cannabis to treat patients suffering from depression.

While most doctors are indoctrinated into recommending pharmaceuticals such as anti-depressants, studies have shown that cannabis is a fast-acting alternative which also effectively works to stimulate the endocannabinoid system and speed up the development of nervous tissue.

Cannabis can offer suffering patients peace of mind, mood enhancement, help battle stress and anxiety, induce appetite and improve energy &  focus.

A 2006 study at McGill University in Montreal has found that regular cannabis users typically have lower levels of depression than non-users. A low dosage of THC can act as an anti-depressant and produce seratonin in the body. However they have also found that extremely high doses can have the opposite effect and worsen symptoms. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) are two of the most well known compounds in cannabis which are known to exert anti-depressant, anti-psychotic and sedative effects.

The Univrsity Medical Center Ultrect located in the Netherlands has also supported the argument concluding cannabis as an effective cure for depression and other mental illnesses. They have concluded that THC can activate the endocannabinoid system while altering negative emotions and images in the mind. Cannabis has also been known to improve cognitive function for those suffering from bipolar disorder.

Scientists at the University of Buffalo have found marijuana as an effective treatment for chronic stress and depression. The studies were performed on animals and found that stress can supress the production of endocannabinoids in the brain which can lead to depression. Cannabis restores the system to normal levels and funtion.

Weed List has a long list of strains available which can improve your mood and help those suffering from depression and anxiety. The following strains below are to known to have rich profiles containing cannabinoids and terpenes which are the compounds known for their therapeutic properties.

1. Jack Herer

Named after the Emperor of Hemp, it known as one of the top strains for fighting depression. This sativa-dominant strain contains THC levels as high as 24%. Patients can expect to have their mood elevated, feeling uplifted and sparks creativity. Jack Herer is a popular and ideal strain for those who work in the arts such as musicians, artists, writers and others.

2. Blue Dream

Blue Dream is a great choice for those who are looking to boost their mood and reduce stress. This sativa-dominant strain offers cannabis users two amazing benefits: the body relaxing that is typical among indica strains and the uplifting euphoric feeling that is common among sativa strains. The high levels of THC in this strain is known to exhibit creativity while treating depression.

3. Harlequin

This is one of the best strains for fighting depression. It contains a high CBD to THC ratio of 5:2. It may not be the best strain for getting high as it isn’t very psychoactive, it provides can help elevate your mood. Harlequin is ideal for daytime use and is well known for boosting energy levels, fight stress and make your workday productive.

4. Pineapple Express

You may have heard about this strain from the famous Seth Rogan movie. This strain will certainly bring you to your happy place. This sativa domninant strain will leave you energized and uplifted. This is why this strain has become a popular choice for those looking to relieve stress and treat depression.

5. Northern Lights

This indica-dominant strain will relax your whole body while removing any negative thoughts while relaxing the muscles in your body. Northern Lights is a great strain after a rough day as its psychoactive effects will cause you to relieve stress and sleeplessness. It’s THC levels can be as high as 21% and makes for a perfect medical strain to treat anxiety, depression and pain.

Conclusion

There isn’t one single strain that is perfect for fighting depression. When taking any of these strains it would be wise to consider the time of the day. For instance you don’t want to take a high THC strain before a work day or you may become more anxious and insecure.

Secondly you don’t want to take a sativa before bed as it may keep you up at night or take an indica dominant strain in the morning.

If it’s your first time consuming cannabis and you’re taking a high THC strain then it would be advised to have a high CBD strain handy in case you get too anxious and need to calm down.

Find all the cannabis strains for treating depression and hundreds more right here on Weed List.