Cannabis and Anxiety

Anxiety is a feeling of worry, fear, or nervousness, a common problem among people suffering from chronic pain and other illnesses. Many people are not aware that they suffer from anxiety, and when they finally discover it, it’s difficult to deal with.

Anxiety-related disorders are the most common mental health disorder in the United States, affecting 40 million adults. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. While various factors, including genetics and stress, can cause anxiety, cannabis use can also trigger it.

The cannabis plant contains properties beneficial in treating pain and has been widely accepted throughout history for its therapeutic benefits. Still, it was made illegal in the United States due to fears and old stereotypes about cannabis users being lazy drug addicts who were dangerous criminals.

However, cannabis became even more popular when it was legalized for medical use by California voters in November 1996 with Proposition 215 (Compassionate Use Act). It is called by various names such as marijuana, hemp, weed, pot, ganja, Mary Jane, grass, chronic, etc.

Studies on plant-based medicines for anxiety suggest cannabis is an alternative treatment for chronic pain. It has also been reported as an effective alternative treatment for anxiety, and there is some scientific evidence to support this claim.

The Link Between Cannabis and Anxiety:

The association between cannabis use and anxiety is controversial. Research has not been conclusive and consistent. Some studies have shown that the relationship is not definitively causal, while others have concluded the opposite.

There are two main active components in Cannabis: Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Both act on the brain’s cannabinoid receptors. The debate regarding the effects of cannabis stems largely from a disagreement regarding which compound is responsible for the effects.

How Cannabis Can Help with Anxiety

Cannabis has been shown to help with anxiety and anxiety disorders. The plant contains over 80 different compounds responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis called cannabinoids.

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the primary active ingredients in cannabis.

THC and CBD are known for reducing feelings of anxiety and stress. THC binds to receptors in the brain, whereas CBD reduces anxiety by anti-inflammatory.

The endocannabinoid system, expressed in all brain regions involved in processing anxiety, fear, and stress, controls how one reacts to cannabis. The system helps to maintain a healthy balance between discomfort and happiness.

As with any substance consumed for medicinal purposes, we cannot ignore side effects such as intoxication.

Cannabis intoxication helps with anxiety because it induces the desired state of calmness or contentment, mediated by the anxiolytic effects of enhanced activation of cannabinoid receptors, as well as the rewarding benefits of an increased level of dopamine.

According to scientific studies, THC and CBD appear to have different impacts on anxiety. Pure THC appears to reduce anxiety at smaller dosages, but it increases anxiety at higher concentrations. On the other hand, Pure CBD appears to reduce anxiety in all doses studied.

Why Cannabis is the Best Treatment for Anxiety

Cannabis has been proven to be the most effective alternative treatment for anxiety. It is non-addictive and has minimal side effects when used correctly. Although cannabis is not a cure for anxiety, it is the most effective alternative treatment for people who do not respond well to prescription medications.

How to find the right strain and dosage of cannabis for you

Cannabis strains can be found with various cannabinoid concentrations; cannabis breeders are now creating new strains high in CBD or low in THC to meet the needs of consumers who want medicines that won’t make them high.

Medical Cannabis Doctors are your one-stop-shop for information on medical cannabis. We have something for you, no matter your comfort level or knowledge of medical or recreational cannabis. We have researched and carefully curated an online catalog of medical cannabis strains for different ailments, which you can explore.

Cannabis strain reviews can also help you find the right strain for your condition.

How to Use Cannabis for Anxiety Relief

There are many ways to use medical cannabis for anxiety relief; however, the best way to use cannabis for anxiety relief is to find what works best for you and stick with it!

Cannabis can be consumed in various forms, including smoking, vaping, tinctures, edibles, topicals, and oils.

Smoking cannabis is one of the fastest ways to feel its effects; research shows that smoking marijuana can relieve pain and discomfort by increasing activity in some regions of the brain. This effect can last up to 4 hours after smoking. Vaporizing is another fast way to consume cannabis.

Edible forms take longer to feel the effects because they go through the digestive system. Cannabis oils and tinctures are also effective, but the effects may take longer to be felt. Cannabis topicals don’t have a psychological effect, but they can help reduce inflammation in certain body areas, such as skin.

Tips for using cannabis to treat anxiety

To treat anxiety with cannabis, it is important to consider several things

• Cannabis strains high in CBD and low to no THC are best used for anxiety as they do not make a user feel “stoned” or “high.”
• It is best to start with cannabis and slowly build up from very low doses to increase the desired tolerance level, but do not consume large amounts.
• Cannabis does not have to be consumed so often to work for someone with anxiety.
• Take it at the right time. Cannabis should be taken in small doses before bedtime when a person plans to stay home all day.
• It is very important to eat before or during cannabis consumption because it induces hunger.
• It is also very important to hydrate because it makes the mouth dry
• Cannabis induces dizziness; it is advisable not to drive during treatment

The Takeaway:

Medical cannabis has proven to be an effective treatment for anxiety and can be an alternative treatment for those who do not respond to traditional treatment options.

At Medical Cannabis Doctors, we provide safe and legal access to medical cannabis for those who suffer from anxiety. Click here to see recommended strains by ailments for medical cannabis cardholders.

Are you looking to get a medical cannabis card for anxiety? We can help you!

Get your medical cannabis card today from Medical Cannabis Doctors and start enjoying the benefits of medical cannabis!