Relieving pain is medical marijuana’s most popular purpose; however, it is also a powerful ally for fighting more nuanced diseases and disorders like depression. Depression is a serious illness that affects millions. In fact, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention has found that more than one in twenty Americans twelve years of age and older report moderate to severe depressive symptoms in the past two weeks. With a huge variety of strains available, many are well suited for treating and alleviating symptoms of depression. The key is finding the one that works best for you; Of course, everyone has their own preferences and a unique endocannabinoid system. While this list will be accurate for most, all of these strains will have a variety of effects on patients. As always, be aware of your disposition towards indica and sativa strains. Consult our guide if you are unsure or curious. Now, let’s take a look at the top five best strains to fight depression.
Strawberry banana is a 60/40 indica dominant hybrid that has a distinct fruity aroma. While you can taste notes of the Banana Kush, the Bubble Gum genetics shine through more with a sugariness reminiscent of saltwater taffy. Though indica dominant with very calming effects, this strain is also decently euphoric without bringing about the anxiety of some of the more cerebral hybrids. This makes it an ideal strain for rediscovering an old interest or hobby. Haven’t been enjoying reading or listening to music? Strawberry Banana will perk up your mood and have you seeing things in a new, brighter light.
Though it gives off a potent diesel fragrance, Motor Breath has a more nuanced, subtle taste. The genealogy comes across in the exhale with the sour fuel of Chemdawg and a mellow, darkly sweet taste of San Fernando Valley OG. Motor Breath offers the feeling of a mind clearing and relieving deep breath. After the first few puffs, you find yourself at peace like the placid surface of a lake. Though the effects of this strain are predominately body oriented, it isn’t necessarily a sedentary experience, which makes this a well suited strain for most times of day.
This indica heavy hitter is a fantastic evening strain perfect for unwinding after a long day. Purple OG produces thick clouds of smoke and tastes of an earthy-sweetness that soothes into a relaxing, mellow mindstate. Some find this OG to be particularly torpid, reporting early onset sleep or couch-lock effects. Others report Purple to be a “movie” strain: a strain that’s ideal for relaxing and sitting down to watch a movie or favorite show. In any case, Purple OG is the ultimate de-stresser. After a few puffs, you can feel the muscles throughout your body relax and a sense of calm wash over you. One of the most restorative strains around, Purple helps you get the rest you need to feel better.
The only sativa hybrid to make this list, Blue Dream is a cerebral delight keeping you cheerful and mellow. The two major effects to expect with this strain are a sense of happiness and calm, some even report the onset of giggles when first smoked. A cross of Blueberry and Haze, a sweet berry flavor accompanies each inhale as it relaxes your body and stimulates your mind. Ideal for those looking to get motivated, Blue Dream gives enough energy to keep you moving without any jittery accompaniment. If sadness is making it difficult to get out of the house, try smoking Blue Dream and taking a walk. Many patients find the sativa effects of this strain well suited for working through periods of stress and depression. Because Blue Dream is so uplifting, it pulls you into a new headspace better suited for new patterns of thought.
There’s a reason Cookies and Cream got top billing on this list: it is the perfect blend of potency, taste, and body/mind effects. The first thing you notice about this strain is a blanket of trichomes so thick it looks like a nug wrapped in a crystalline blanket. It smells like a sugar cookie and tastes like a smooth-sweet-vanilla combo that produces thick smoke clouds. A cross between Starfighter and a Girl Scout Cookies phenotype, Cookies and Cream produces some of the most calming, pleasant effects without keeping you down. A little goes a long way, which means the more you smoke the more sleepy you’ll get. Hands down one of the most cheerful and happy strains available, Cookies and Cream is the ideal strain for treating anxiety. It puts you in a peaceful place with a smile on your face, ready to handle whatever the day has in store.
Interested in learning more about using medical cannabis treatments? Schedule a consultation with an expert. If you’re in the Ann Arbor area, contact the team at Arbors Wellness for a free consultation.