By: Jessica N. Todmann
Cannabis usage has been long thought of as a popular option for addressing mental health issues (amongst other ailments), with researchers suggesting its strong promise as an effective mode of treatment for anxiety related disorders- such as PTSD.
With this in mind, we wanted to explore some of the best cannabis strains for PTSD.
The experiences of those suffering from PTSD typically surround the memory of the specific event(s) that caused their trauma in the first place, manifesting itself in the form of disruptive flashbacks or nightmares.
This can lead to feelings of anxiety, headaches, insomnia, difficulties concentrating and becoming quick to anger.
RELATED: How Marijuana Helped Me Battle PTSD From An Abusive Relationship
In turn, these symptoms can lead PTSD sufferers into a state of emotional numbness, avoiding interactions with other people or places that trigger painful memories and mood swings.
The strains we decided to focus on have the potential to alleviate many of these symptoms.
Let’s dive into some of the best cannabis strains for PTSD in greater detail. We’ve gathered up eight possibilities for you to try!
Best cannabis strains for PTSD
Amnesia Haze
Cannabinoid Profile: This is a THC dominant strain (averaging around 20%) with no noticeable CBD presence (less than 1%); It’s a Sativa dominant hybrid (80%/20% Indica)
Main Terpenes: Myrcene, Limonene and Borneol
Description: Potent earthy undertones with a mixture of lemon and citrus; Amnesia Haze gives a jolt to the system that translates into a burst of energy and alertness.
This strain will kick your happiness level into high gear, helping to balance out your mood and any emotional distress associated with re-triggered memories.
Northern Berry
Cannabinoid Profile: The THC in this strain is about 16% with a 1% CBD level; It’s a true hybrid formulation sitting at an even 50/50 percentage between Sativa and Indica.
Main Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene
Description: Another selection with an earthy aroma, but one that’s equally met with a fruity distinction. Northern Berry is excellent for relaxation.
You might start off with a small hit of energy, but soon feel its soothing effects that could have you reaching for a pillow. Since insomnia is one of the main symptoms PTSD sufferers experience, this is a good choice for those who struggle with getting any shut eye.
Harlequin
Cannabinoid Profile: Harlequin has a higher CBD level, topping out at 15% and 10% for THC across measured samples ; It’s Sativa dominant with a 75% to 25% Indica ratio.
Main Terpenes: Pinene, Limonene, Myrcene
Description: Strains with a higher CBD count either lessen or null that “high affect” we often associate with smoking marijuana, which is actually attributed to THC levels.
The Harlequin strain is ideal for anyone who isn’t looking for psychotropic effects, wishing instead to take advantage of the therapeutic benefits of smoking cannabis.
This strain has a musky smell, but also on the tropical side with notes of pineapple and mango. Try Harlequin if you want relaxation from stress and relief from pain- and that alone.
Blue Dream
Cannabinoid Profile: While Blue Dream’s THC level can span anywhere between 16% – 24%, it has a fixed 2% CBD level; It’s slightly Sativa dominant at 60%, with a 40% Indica profile.
Main Terpenes: Pinene, Myrcene, Caryophyllene
Description: Whatever effects you do feel while smoking Blue Dream, they will usually come on right away. And since its borderline hybrid, you’ll get a stimulating mixture of both a head and body high.
Blue Dream is good for getting you up and running in the morning, helping to push your motivation levels and ease body aches.
Sometimes, PTSD characterizations are dissociative reactions where a sufferer physically relives whatever trauma they experienced. Blue Dream might ease the physical discomforts often associated with that symptom.
Durban Poison
Cannabinoid Profile: Durban Poison’s THC levels can reach rather high, ranging from 15% – 25% with a less than 1% CBD presence; This cannabis strain is also 100% Sativa.
Main Terpenes: Terpinolene, Myrcene
Description: Since this is 100% Sativa, expect a full on body high that makes you feel upbeat and ready to be productive.
You may have a sudden inclination for creative expression, or sparking up conversations with your neighbor! Its intensity might not be the choice for beginners, but if you’re used to smoking marijuana this could heighten your concentration and encourage your desire for interacting with others.
Cannatonic
Cannabinoid Profile: The THC content in this strain is known for being on the lesser side, with percentages from 7% – 15% and a CBD profile that can range from 6% – 17%; Cannatonic is another true hybrid formulation at 50% Sativa and 50% Indica.
Main Terpenes: Linalool, Myrcene, Humulene
Description: Apparently, this is the strain most used medicinally because of its high CBD content. The effects don’t last long and are pretty mild, with a woodsy flavor chased by a burst of citrus.
If you’ve been feeling as if the weight of the world is on your shoulders, this would be the strain to try and could help combat the painful memories that often replay itself in the psyche of PTSD sufferers.
OG Kush
Cannabinoid Profile: This might be the highest contender on our list for its THC percentage! It’s THC composition keeps to a range between 20% – 25% with its CBD content below 1%. While there’s been conflicting information as to whether or not OG Kush is more Sativa or Indica dominant, it’s still considered a hybrid!
Main Terpenes: Myrcene, Limonene, and caryophyllene
Description: OG Kush is an almost legendary cannabis strain with unknown origins, although some claim it rose out of Florida, while others believe it first came on the scene in California.
Either way, this strain might come at you full force with its outspoken layers of flavor and aroma. You’ll be hit hard and intensely when you smoke OG Kush, with a skunky smell that will keep you on your toes.
It’s said to be a good option if you suffer from any sort of pain, inflammation and more notably, depression. This might help address mood swings and feelings of detachment, both symptoms of PTSD.
Pineapple Express
Cannabinoid Profile: The THC usually lingers at around 20% (though it can go as low as 17% or up to 25%) it’s a hybrid strain with that’s 60% Sativa and 40% Indica.
Main Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Limonene
Description: Is it as good as Seth Rogan and James Franco made it out to be in their 2008 film of the same name? Try it out, and let us know your opinion!
We think it’s a rather mellow ride, one that offers subtle mental effects to improve your mood and make your body feel slightly relaxed.
Of course, it’s got that fruity aroma that makes us think of pineapple, which can be owed to one of its parent cannabis strains, Hawaiian.
This is helpful to use during the daytime when you need a clear head and positive mindset to get through your day.
RELATED: New Study Concludes That CBD Can Help Decrease The Severity Of PTSD Symptoms
Jessica Todmann is a writer who focuses on cannabis lifestyle and culture.