Several types of research show that chronic stress can lead to depression.
Those who often feel stressed experience a drop in their endocannabinoid production which directly affects their emotion, cognition, and behavior.
Interesting, when cannabis was reintroduced to their system, the symptoms of depression was reduced.
In simple words, cannabis strains can help improve your mood – but only if the right strain is chosen.
Symptoms of depression and mood disorders
Depression or bad mood is one of those illnesses that are hard to define. It can manifest in many ways including:
- Bad mood most of the day, especially in the morning
- Lack of energy
- Feeling of worthlessness
- Lack of concentration and focus
- Insomnia
- Disinterest in daily activities
- Recurring thoughts of suicide and death
- Weight loss or weight gain
Unfortunately, depression and mood disorders are common and affect more than 300 million people globally.
The good news is that with the right protocol, depression and moodiness can be treated successfully.
Treatment of depression: Traditional medicine or Cannabis strains?
Can traditional anti-depressants be used to improve mood? Well, this has been an age-old question for centuries now and a topic of countless debates.
Truthfully, anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs certainly work, but for some people.
However, the horrific side effects and tales of reliance and addiction to these drugs have been well-documented which has led many individuals to search for a safer and natural form of treatment.
Fortunately, cannabis has shown to improve the symptoms in many individuals with mood disorders by offering a natural remedy for stress, fatigue, lethargy, loss of appetite, and insomnia.
Researchers have found that low doses of cannabis increased serotonin levels in the brain, which helps to improve mood.
When an individual smokes medical marijuana at low doses, the active ingredient in the plant, THC increases serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood.
The effect is similar to the one achieved when taking antidepressants like Prozac.
More recently, patient surveys show that many people to treat depression with good results are using cannabis.
Many studies also show that patients, who have depression as a result of diseases such as cancer, aids, multiple sclerosis, or chronic pain, report having less mood swings after using cannabis.
The Cannabis strains to help improve mood
There are many different cannabis strains that help improve user’s mood. To help you start on the right foot, here are some strains that are known for their anti-depressant effect.
1. Harlequin
Harlequin is a high CBD strain that can produce about a 5:2 ratio of CBD and THC.Harlequin is known to be a happy kind of strain that instantly clears your head and takes you out of the blue mood.The strain is perfect for the daytime as it is unlikely to cause any changes in cognition.
2. Jack Herer
Probably the most popular Sativa marijuana strain for depression treatment, the Jack Herer is usually used in low doses.However, its powerful effects improve the mood and increase the feelings of well-being with a single dose.In terms of flavor and aroma, the Jack Herer has an earthy pine look and feel while the taste resembles lemon.Users of the strain are often heard to comment that the Sativa strain has a sweet and spicy taste.
3. Laughing Buddha
As the name suggests, the Laughing Buddha strain will leave you giggling throughout the day.The strain is classified as a sativa and tends to be quite potent. Some samples can test as high as 18 percent THC or even more.It is ideal for those looking to lighten the mood or get into the party spirit.The Laughing Buddha is well-known in Europe and ranked third in the Amsterdam Cannabis Cup in 2013.In regards to taste, the strain tends to be juicy with a sweet and exotic fruit flavor.
4. Pineapple Express
The Pineapple Express is another sativa marijuana strain that is popular for giving the users a euphoric high as well as keeps them focused throughout the day.The sativa puts the users in a good mood instantly while increasing the happy feeling, energy levels, and contentment.
5. Cannatonic
Cannatonic offers instant relief. The high CBD strain helps users deal with panic attacks and produce a calm and pleasant mood.The strain offers an almost 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC with the CBD reaching as high as 15 percent.
6. Blue Magoo
Although Blue Magoo might not be the strongest bud available, the average of 16 percent THC makes the strain ideal for moderate to experienced users.Users who have used the strain often comment that the experience from this strain is mainly physical and apart from body relaxation, it does make them sleepy, which is most often much-needed for mood swings.
7. Sour Kush
Sour Kush is a powerful strain and is recommended for those who are already well-acquainted with cannabis and are able to tolerate the experience. Why?This is because Sour Kush has been known to produce up to 30 percent THC which can be too much for novice users to handle.Sour Kush can be used any time of the day and with the balanced mind-body effects it offers – we are sure you won’t be disappointed with the results.
8. Mango Kush
Calming and sleepy, the strain of Mango Kush is ideal for night time.Just a few puffs and you will be ready to leave all your troubles for a peaceful night’s sleep.The users are also recommended to breath in the punchy sweet tropical aroma of Mango Kush prior to consuming for enhanced effects.
9. Northern Lights
Another nighttime strain, the popular indicia is a hybrid blend of landrace cannabis strain.Northern light tends to kick in almost instantly and is highly recommended for those who require some fast sedation and relaxation.The cannabis strain produces THC levels between 16 and 18 percent, making it an ideal choice for moderate to advanced users.
10. Pennywise
Another popular strain that is high in CBD with a 1:1 ratio of CBD and THC.The indicia flower tends to produce a slight euphoric buzz making it ideal for consumption during the daytime.
Final Thoughts on Cannabis Strains For Mood
These were just some of the cannabis strains that have been known to be helpful in improving mood swings and depression.
Although research on cannabis and its effect on mood disorder are not yet definitive, early signs do show that if the proper dosage is consumed, consistent results can be achieved.
Have you used cannabis to improve your mood? Do share your experience with us!