With their energizing, mood-boosting and creative-inducing effects, sativas can help combat feelings of lethargy and apathy. Similarly, some people report that cannabis sativa strains can relieve anxiety with calming and uplifting effects. Research suggests that Sativa has the same effects on depression as a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are used to treat mild to moderate forms of depression and their mechanism of action is to prevent serotonin from being reabsorbed too quickly in the brain.
Depending on the nature of your anxiety and whether it coexists with depression, this could mean that Sativa is useful. As research from the pharmaceutical world shows, SSRIs can treat OCD and generalized anxiety disorder. However, they also take a few weeks to act. If Sativa is similar in terms of time to act, you may find that it doesn't provide immediate relief.
Sativa strains have higher amounts of THC and lower amounts of CBD than Indica strains. However, the high associated with sativas can reduce anxiety in many users, as well as increase energy. Anxiety reduction is not necessarily synonymous with feeling lethargic. While the increased amount of CBD found in indica results in a relaxing rather than energizing experience for most, it may not be an option when anxiety plagues you during the workday.
As you can see, things get confusing. On the one hand, sativa generally performs better for people looking to relieve depression. This is especially true for people who have depression related to their serotonin levels. However, sativa also tends to have more THC, which is less desirable for people who don't want side effects.
In addition to more traditional treatments, research now shows that medical marijuana may be beneficial for people with anxiety disorders. The main ingredient in cannabis that helps reduce anxiety is the compound cannabidiol or CBD. Unlike the better-known compound tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use, CBD produces no psychoactive effects. Both compounds are thought to work by binding to the interaction with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system.
In any case, both strains we call sativa and the strains we call indica can be useful for depression. Energetic and Euphoric Sativa Strains May Help with Motivation, Anhedonia, and Fatigue Symptoms. Relaxing and Sleepy Indica Strains May Help with Restlessness, Stress, and Insomnia. Each can play a role in a person's individual treatment plan.
Northern Lights is an Indica-dominant strain. This powerful strain is known to make the body feel numb and instantly puts users in “lazy mode”. In addition to this feeling, people often feel a sense of well-being and happiness, which can certainly alleviate anxiety symptoms. The two main types of cannabis, Sativa and Indica, are used for a variety of medicinal and recreational purposes.
As you begin to research more about medical marijuana, you'll discover that there's even more to the story than Sativa vs. Although the terms “indica” and “sativa” are scientifically controversial, they have become short for different effects. While Indica is excellent for generating a calm and serene effect, Sativa can make your mind more active. Understanding the differences between Indica and Sativa is the best way to choose the right type to combat your anxiety.
You may have heard that indica has better calming properties, while sativa fuels energy and creativity, but it's not that simple. It is also worth mentioning that it is one of the purest indicas in existence, with 95% Indica and 5% Sativa. So-called sativa strains are described as euphoric and energetic, with a “high”, while so-called indica strains are described as more sedative, with a “body high”. If you're interested in the best cannabis strains for anxiety, you need to learn more about Indica and Sativa.
Sativa, the best cannabis for anxiety depends on several factors, and is largely an individual decision. Since Sativa contains more THC and has a lower ratio of CBD to THC, there are arguments to say that this means that Indica is the best strain for anxiety. . .
