The holiday season can give way to a range of emotional states. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, less restful sleep or general feelings of malaise, cannabis as well as hemp can provide incredibly effective relief.
According to a report by Health Canada, “Evidence from pre-clinical and clinical studies suggests that THC exhibits biphasic effects on mood, with low doses of THC having anxiolytic and mood-elevating effects and high doses of THC having anxiogenic and mood-lowering effects. Additionally, evidence from pre-clinical studies indicates CBD “exhibits anxiolytic effects in various animal models of anxiety, while limited evidence from clinical studies suggest CBD may have anxiolytic effects in an experimental model of social anxiety.”
Furthermore, those who often feel stressed or anxious experience a drop in endocannabinoid production, which effects emotion and behavior. This is why supplemental cannabinoids, when reintroduced into the system, can have positive effects and decrease symptoms of stress and depression. A natural solution that makes us feel better? Many are now realizing that kind of benefit is worth a try.
Here are our top 5 tips for combating the holiday blues with Cannabis & Hemp:
Remember to keep in mind a strain’s terpene profile. Strains containing limonene (citrus flavor) are generally uplifting whereas high myrcene strains (musky flavor) tend towards the sleepy end. Additionally, pinene terpenes (woody, piney flavors) combat fatigue and promote focus while linalool (sweet and flowery) helps fight anxiety.
If you don’t like feeling ‘high’, opt for CBD derived from hemp, such as CBD hemp tea. Teas offer a way to consume discreetly, they taste great, and offer a nice ritual to aid in relaxation. Gummies are also a fantastic alternative with many CBD/THC hybrid options.
Choose strains that provide a higher CBD to THC ratio. You can find this in edibles, flower, vape pens, and more. Keep in mind that high doses of THC have the potential to exacerbate depressive symptoms like paranoia and hyper-activity, so more is not always better. Be strategic in your cannabis use for the most beneficial effects. Generally, strains with low to moderate levels of THC, or strains with a good amount of CBD to provide a calming kick are the way to go.
Buy small amounts of strains you have never tried before in order to test-drive and then either tweak your strain preference or return for more! You may find the best relief for your symptoms is switching between a few, or perhaps you’ll find one magical strain that does exactly what you need.
If it’s mental and muscle relaxation you are going for, shoot for Indica dominant strains. Some Indica’s are more ‘sleepy’ than others, so chat with your local experts on what you prefer. Alternatively, Sativa strains will be more energizing and provide greater focus.
We hope these tips offer some help in your search to curb the holiday blues. Keep in mind, our experts at Gorge Greenery are always happy to offer more advice and guidance on this topic.