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The Best Weed Strains for Anxiety, Pain & Sleep Management

This post is part of our Best Dispensaries Around the Bay Area series, sponsored by Project Cannabis.

We don’t have to tell you that life gets lifey, and it’s a foregone conclusion that nobody gets through life untouched by that nefarious “silent killer” known as stress.  Thankfully, you don’t have to put up with being an unwilling victim of the anxiety blues.  When the anvil of stress starts to weigh you down, cannabis can be your salvation for relaxation, improved mood, and relief.  But what is the best strain for anxiety? What about strains for pain or the best weed for a solid night’s sleep?  We’ve got answers.  Get the full download on the most primo cannabis strains that will naturally soothe and ease what ails you.   

Does Cannabis Have a Relaxing Effect?

You bet it does, and it works like this: When consumed, cannabinoids such as THC and CBD bind to a network of receptors and neurotransmitters in your body’s endocannabinoid system. By interacting with these receptors, cannabinoids can modulate the release of neurotransmitters and influence various physiological functions. 

Consequently, the relaxing effects of cannabis on both body and mind make it an appealing choice for anybody seeking respite from stressors in life. And if you pick the best strain for anxiety, all of these factors work together, resulting in an overall blissy, balmy, balanced boon to your mood and mind. 

Which Strain is the Best for Anxiety, Pain and Sleep Management?

Whether you are on the hunt for the best strain for menstrual pain, sleep, or stress management, your options are virtually limitless.  But how do you know which is the right strain for your needs?  We have the rundown on three common types of strains: Indica, sativa, and hybrids.

Indica

Indica is a sweet strain for smoothing out the edginess tension can cause. It is hailed as the best strain for anxiety because indica typically has higher levels of CBD (cannabidiol) than THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. Because this strain produces such an effective feeling of calm and serenity, it can also be a great option for sleep.  People with nausea or chronic pain may also want to try an indica for its pain-quelling qualities.

Sativa

On the other hand, sativa strains tend to be more energizing and uplifting. They contain higher levels of THC, which can produce a lovely euphoric high. These strains are known for their cerebral effects that can stimulate creativity and enhance focus and motivation.  Sativa might help ease social anxiety, but it might not be your go-to strain to aid in restful sleep;  it tends to be more suitable for landing an elevated, energized mood rather than getting totally chill, relaxing vibes.  Sativas are often described as providing a “head high” that can promote happiness and well-being without the sensation of intoxication.

Hybrid

As you might assume, a hybrid strain posits the best of both worlds in that it is typically a blend of sativa and indica with other ingredients in the mix.  Hybrids can offer powerful analgesic properties from their indica lineage combined with the uplifting or invigorating qualities of sativa strains. Therefore, a hybrid strain can provide an effective balance that alleviates discomfort without leaving you feeling overly lethargic or wasted.

All that being said, picking the best strain for sleep, pain, or stress relief is a highly personalized proposition.  You’ve got to try and experiment with the high.  Not to mention, everybody is different.  You might respond to a stimulating sativa or calming indica completely differently than someone else.  All the more reason to sample, dabble, and fiddle with different strains, dosages, and applications.

Best Strains for Anxiety

Now that we’ve unpacked the different kinds of basic strains – be prepared to have your mind blown – because there’s a whole universe of hybrid blends available from which to choose.  Check out these specially developed weed strains that, according to consumer feedback, are the best customized hybrid blends for anxiety.

Granddaddy Purple

Known as GDP for short, this is a blend of indica and other types of cannabis, such as Mendo Purps, Afghanistan, and Skunk. If that makes no sense to you, then all you need to know is that Granddaddy packs a punch for anyone wanting a smooth high that cuts through tension like butter. Just be warned. Along with its euphoria-producing qualities, Granddaddy can also relax the body to where you are more inclined to hold the couch down than do anything else – not a bad thing if you need a stash to smash your stress.

ACDC

This peppy blend is derived from a phenotype known as Cannatonic and delivers a wave of relief from anxiety while also producing an elevated mood state.  This is a 15% CBD strain with an inconsequential amount of THC, so it’s great for people who need to take the edge off after a super-stressy day without feeling zombified.

Blue Dream

A sativa-forward hybrid that is made from a thoughtful blend of Blueberry and Haze cannabis strains. Blue Dream is often recommended for first-timers and newbies to marijuana because its effects are super-mild, leaving you feeling more chill than stoned.  It’s got an 18% THC content with very little CBD, producing a balanced high without conking you out.  Its calming effects, sweet aroma, and flavor make it the best strain for anxiety if you want a smooth, elevated experience.

Harlequin

This is a trusted sativa-based hybrid for anxiety sufferers because it renders a reliable high without feeling wasted. It gets its effective elevating properties from heritage blends of Nepali indica, Swiss landrace, Colombian Gold, and Thai.  Consumers applaud Harlequin’s relaxing yet clear-headed high for melting away stress.  This hybrid is also an ideal solution for pain management.

OG Kush

“Original Gangster” is what OG stands for, and this THC-packed hybrid earns that respected title because it’s been around since the 1990s.  Over time, OG Kush has been improved, and today the strain is a luscious, punchy blend of Hindu Kush, Chemdawg, and Lemon Thai.  Make preparations before using because your high can be pretty intense. Enjoy when you can afford to do some serious recuperation from a high-stress day and simply let the Gangster whisk your anxiety away.   

Best Strains for Sleep

We all know that sleep is paramount to looking, feeling, and performing at our best.  Unfortunately for many folks, restorative sleep is elusive and hard to come by.  If you can relate, check out these highly coveted strains for getting the slumber-bliss you need and deserve.

Northern Lights

Since this indica strain started cropping up in Seattle in the 80s, Northern Lights has become a long-time favorite for its spicy, sweet flavor and smooth mood-producing qualities. Along with indica, strains of Thai and Afghani marijuana are artfully blended together to render an elevated experience that gives stress the boot and says “howdy” to richly relaxed states.  

Bubba Kush

When you have major stress, Bubba Kush is the cannabis cannon you need to annihilate it.  This indica-based strain is well-known for delivering a mind-body-numbing experience that promises to stop anxiety in its tracks. Bubba Kush is a favorite for anyone who wants a totally tranquilizing high that banishes stress and wholly relaxes the body.

Purple Kush

A native of California, Purple Kush is a 0% CBD, 19% THC strain that became a true cannabis contender for squashing stress and anxiety.  It’s a magical mashup of Afghani, and Hindu Kush blends, producing a rapturous, long-lasting high that will kick the teeth out of any tension you may be experiencing.  

Skywalker OG

If your anxiety takes you to the “dark side,” Skywalker OG will have you feeling the positivity of The Force once again.  This best strain for anxiety boasts anywhere from 20% – 30% THC and gets its earthy flavor and euphoric effects from a blend of Blueberry OG and Mazar with feisty terpenes of limonene, myrcene, and caryophyllene in the mix.  Consumers craving a soothing orbit out of anxiety will appreciate Skywalker’s powerful and effective calming outcomes.

Tahoe OG Kush

A phenotype of OG Kush, Tahoe will take you for a ride on a river of relaxation. It is a fast-acting, strong full-mind-body high that is perfect for chilling on the weekend when all you have to do is veg out. Fans of Tahoe OG Kush love the intense high that comes from a toke, and while it is hailed as the best strain for anxiety, it’s also heralded for putting the kibosh on insomnia and pain.

Best Strains for Pain Management

Pain is an undeniable killjoy, and relief is often the first objective for those grappling with constant, chronic pain.  Thankfully, reduced pain is one of the greatest benefits of weed, especially for folks sensitive to prescription painkillers. You can choose the best strain for pain by checking out these blends that are assured to soothe your physical woes and ailments. 

White Widow

This is a true hybrid of 60% sativa and 40% indica with 15% THC content and 1% CBD.  It’s recommended for more regular users who expect a fully-loaded experience. White Widow is a powerful hybrid that effectively squashes pain without that logy, sluggishness that often accompanies a hit.   

Blackberry Kush

An indica-forward blend of Afghani and blackberry, this hybrid is well-known for penetrating the entire body with relaxing vibes.  Weighing in at 17% THC, Blackberry Kush is considered the best strain for pain because it staunches aches and helps consumers stay productive in spite of chronic pain issues.  

Jack Herer

Also known as just “The Jack” or JH, this hybrid is sativa dominant (by 55%), with 18% THC. It boasts a blend of Skunk, Shiva Skunk, and Northern Lights. This miracle mix renders a crystal-clear high so your mind is still focused while effectively managing your pain. 

Sour Diesel

Although the name might be a little put-offish, Sour Diesel is an ace contender for eradicating pain while still staying alert and energized.  This is a sativa-focused hybrid with a thoughtful blend of Super Skunk and Chemdawg in the mix. The flavor (as the name suggests) is pretty punchy, but the effects on pain are profoundly positive. 

Blueberry

What do you get when you cross Thai and Purple Thai strains? An indica-based hybrid known as Blueberry, also known as “Blueberry Blue.”  It’s enjoyed a meteoric rise in popularity among users wanting a fast-acting, reliable product that crushes pain without feeling blitzed.  Blueberry has also enjoyed a long history of being a staple for pain management since the 70s.

Tips on How to Use for Calming Effect

Remember that THC is the psychoactive, stimulating compound in cannabis that is typically mentally stimulating and encourages creativity. Alternatively, CBD is the cannabis compound that produces that glorious relaxation that imbues legit chill and tranquility.  So, opt for CBD-rich strains for that no-stress, calming vibe.  You should also explore strains that are more indica-dominant (as opposed to sativa), as indica is more CBD concentrated.  

If you’re a first-timer, be sure to pace yourself.  Take small doses at first (known as microdosing) and take it easy as you experiment with different cannabis strains.  You might also want to try different types of cannabis, such as edibles, concentrates, pre-rolls, and more.  There are also topical CBD-based products that can alleviate muscle pain – making your experience with marijuana all the more relaxing.  

Lastly, be sure to prepare yourself and your area before you try a new strain.  Get comfy, settle in, reduce distractions, and have everything ready when you’re exploring cannabis.  This will allow you to have a far more enjoyable experience.

Get the Best Weed Strains in San Francisco

We’ve given you a lot to think about, and we hope this guide to the best strain for anxiety, pain, or improved sleep has helped you narrow down your choices.  If you’re still a bit hazy (put intended) about which strain ticks all your boxes – you’re in luck.  Simply head on over to your friendly San Francisco Cannabis Dispensary or a reputable, trustworthy dispensary in your area.  The best dispensaries have knowledgeable budtenders who will take the time to assess your needs and find you the best strain for pain, insomnia, stress, or whatever ails you.  

Conclusion

Marijuana has been used for centuries to heal, relax, and restore.  However, with today’s advanced chemistry and innovations in cultivation, you have a lot more options from which to choose than ever before.  That said, we urge you to explore different weed strains to maximize your experience and better define your desired results.  As mentioned,  using cannabis for the purposes cited here is a highly personal and individualized experience.  It also requires you to be mindful and responsible while consuming cannabis to achieve optimal results.