Cannabis can help to reduce Social Anxiety Disorders (SADs) mainly due to the working of the cannabinoid CBD (cannabidiol). CBD does this by targeting the cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R) and the serotonin receptor (5-HT1A) in the brain, which regulate fear- and anxiety-related behaviours. One of the main benefits of using CBD to reduce SADs is that it has no side effects (e.g. substance dependency), compared with currently available pharmacological medication.
The terpenes Limonene and Linalool seem to assist in speeding up and strengthen the effectiveness of CBD through the Entourage Effect. High THC levels, on the contrary, can increase feelings of anxiety or even paranoia for some cannabis users. For that reason, we recommend an Indica dominant strain with high CBD levels, but low to moderate in THC, that has a floral, spicy, citrus and lavender smell (indicating a high linalool-/limonene content).
We all know the feeling of being nervous in intimidating or nerve-inducing social situations. While it is perfectly reasonable to suffer a few butterflies before a big event, for others, those feelings of anxiety can go much further than a few knots in your belly.
For those who live with social phobia or social anxiety disorder, simple or common interactions can provoke severe anxiety. Regular events or tasks like going to work or even something simple like popping down to the bakery can cause anxiety, embarrassment, or self-consciousness from an overwhelming fear of being judged and scrutinised by others.
A social anxiety disorder typically leads to generalised anxiety and can completely disrupt the overall quality of life. Sadly, anxiety attacks can become a painfully regular part of a person´s life.
However, while several conventional treatments come hand in hand with a litany of unwanted side-effects, a new answer to the growing issue of social anxiety could lie in the form of medical marijuana. Through the working of the various compounds such as CBD (cannabidiol), cannabis use could help to reduce the symptoms of social anxiety and panic attacks.
CBD is a cannabinoid that is part of a larger group of over 200 compounds that make up the cannabis plant. Others include terpenoids that give different cannabis strains their distinctive flavour and smell. These compounds bind to create a synergy known as the entourage effect, responsible for the various therapeutic benefits associated with marijuana.
We already know that cannabis and CBD can be used as a treatment for several conditions. However, it is now understood by scientists that the cannabis plant may offer refuge from the scourge of social anxiety.
Through cannabis remarkable interaction with the ECS (Endocannabinoid System), people living with social anxiety could finally benefit from the therapeutic qualities presented by the marijuana plant. The unique synergy of various cannabis compounds with the ECS has the potential to facilitate pain relief, mood improvement and several other potential health benefits.
Additionally, it is thought that some of these cannabis compounds could inhibit memories associated with present experiences and help reduce social anxiety.
And thanks to medical marijuana’s dramatic rise in legality across the planet, more and more people are increasingly using medical cannabis and CBD to treat various conditions like chronic pain, anxiety and depression.
If you’re considering using cannabis to treat anxiety or a social anxiety disorder, It is generally thought that strains with low THC and CBD levels of a higher nature could help to reduce symptoms of the condition. And what about the terpenes you might ask?
Well, it is said that cannabis strains with a terpene profile including limonene and linalool are ideal in the treatment of social anxiety.
Here are what we consider to be some of the best strains to treat social anxiety.
This marijuana strain is thought to be particularly beneficial for use as an anxiety and stress reliever. This sativa dominant hybrid has a high THC ratio between 18 and 22%. The high level of THC helps to release endorphins or feel-good hormones and can provide a feeling of utter relaxation.
The Truth produces a delightful cerebral high that can help you to deal with a social anxiety disorder and other psychological problems such as depression and stress. The Truth is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties.
The primary terpenes found in this medicinally potent sativa strain include caryophyllene (thought to be useful in pain relief) pinene and linalool, which combine to generate this strains classic earthy and woody taste. The therapeutic potential of terpenes is thought to be vast as they can synergise with cannabinoids to create powerful medical effects. With an impressive terpene and cannabinoid profile, The Truth could potentially provide some honest relief from social anxiety disorders.
This sativa dominant hybrid CBD strain has high levels of CBD which, as we have discussed, is said to promote happiness and relaxation and makes for an excellent choice for reducing anxiety.
This unusually high in CBD strain (around 10-15%) with less than 1% THC is particularly favoured by medical patients looking to reap the medicinal properties of cannabis without feeling any psychoactive effects.
Indeed, this sweet and earthy CBD packed strain is one of the best medicinal strains available today and with its low THC content could be ideal for those suffering from social anxiety. With a high CBD content, ACDC can provide a calming effect that allows you to feel relaxed, and less anxious.
This marijuana strain for anxiety´s terpene profile includes myrcene, linalool, caryophyllene oxide, and beta-pinene. These terpenes help to give ACDC its rich flavour while the combination of cannabinoids and terpenes aids the strength of this strains medicinal potential.
A Sativa dominant hybrid, White Fire OG (also known as WIFI OG) is the child of Fire OG and The White, and offers an intense, uplifting effect. This famed strain from the U.S is, perhaps, a surprising choice for this list, given its intense THC ratio which can reach as high as 30%.
While the high levels of THC found in this sativa strain are not typically recommended for social anxiety, this sativa strain has received rave reviews for its ability to engage the mind as well as potentially reducing anxiety.
However, this potent sativa strain is undoubtedly powerful and considered a connoisseurs choice amongst regular cannabis smokers. For those with less smoking experience, this super strain could prove to be a little too intense. However, for those who use it sensibly, it is said to offer an energy boost while also uplifting mood. As such, It could prove particularly beneficial for people living with mental health concerns like depression, social anxiety or stress disorders.
This deliciously fruity strains terpene make-up includes limonene, myrcene and caryophyllene, which is thought to be an excellent combination to treat social anxiety and stress.
Granddaddy Purple or GDP was first developed as a pain-relieving, stress fighter for California’s medical cannabis patients and could be an ideal strain for those living with social anxiety. This deliciously fruity strain is known for helping to steer the mind clear of uncomfortable thoughts and excessive worrying.
A Californian indica dominant hybrid strain, GDP inherited its fruity berry aroma from its Purple Urkle parent while its compact bud structure is a trait of its Big Bud lineage.
The sedating effects and relaxation that users report when using GDP could help you to deal with social situations that trigger severe anxiety. Granddaddy purple urges your mind to release all tension and stress, allowing a peaceful mindset to reign supreme. With a THC ratio averaging 17%, this powerful indica strains potent effects are evident in both body and mind as this delicious strain delivers a beautiful blend of cerebral euphoria and physical relaxation.
GDP’s primary terpenes include myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene, which are said to synergise with significant effect when used for social anxiety disorders and reducing anxiety levels.
While these are some of the most popular strains for social anxiety, there are several other cannabis strains that could help in the treatment of mental health issues.
if you are one of the millions of people with social anxiety, and you want more information on the most effective cannabis strains for social anxiety.
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