Cannabis is becoming increasingly popular as more states legalize marijuana for medical and recreational use. It is becoming increasingly popular with people suffering from anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Despite sparse scientific studies, anecdotal reports have been found that marijuana can help anxiety symptoms and depressive disorders.

Here is complete detail on medical marijuana for relieving anxiety disorders.

What Marijuana Can Do for Anxiety

In the case of a generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), the most common form of anxiety, people generally think about it when they hear about anxiety. Several symptoms are associated with GAD, including irritability, chronic apprehension, and a fear of situations that could trigger panic attacks in the future.

Several studies have shown that cannabis may be a more effective treatment for anxiety disorders such as PTSD, OCD, panic disorder, and social anxiety. 

PTSD

The use of cannabis can help people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to manage their symptoms by regulating their emotions. PTSD sufferers benefit from medical marijuana for various reasons, so why does it help them?

In patients with PTSD, anandamide, the neurotransmitter associated with the “runner’s high,” does not exist in their bodies. The phytocannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) readily substitutes for anandamide. 

In addition to cannabinoids, cannabigerol (CBG) is an effective antidepressant and anxiety reducer.

OCD

In a groundbreaking study published in 2021, researchers reported that cannabis might have a therapeutic benefit when treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In a study, the majority of patients who were treated with marijuana reported a reduction of symptoms of anxiety and compulsions after inhaling it. 

The benefits of cannabis on OCD, however, have been short-term and involve consuming a high level of CBD but are notably absent of THC. In a second study published in 2020, cannabis was found to be beneficial for people with OCD. 

Panic Disorder

A limited amount of research has been conducted on cannabis and panic disorders. Despite this, a clinical trial examining CBD oil’s effects on panic attacks is underway. 

A total of 90 people are participating in the University of Texas at Austin trial. Researchers hope the study will shed light on CBD oil’s effectiveness in preventing and treating panic attacks. 

Social Anxiety Disorder

Cannabis medicine may also be effective for people with a social anxiety disorder (SAD). A study found that CBD reduced anxiety in people tasked with public speaking. 

Many states’ medical marijuana programs qualify for medical anxiety disorder under their qualifying conditions, although there are very few studies on the topic.  

Using Medical Marijuana for Anxiety

Methods of consumption

When you are new to marijuana, you may want to try topical applications. There are usually fewer adverse reactions associated with topicals than with other methods of ingestion.

To alleviate anxiety, sublingual tinctures can be carefully measured under the tongue. Users of cannabis tinctures find significant relief from anxiety when they drop two drops under the tongue.

Another option for anxiety treatment is to smoke cannabis since the effects wear off quickly. As a result, if you are experiencing adverse side effects from THC, they will disappear pretty soon.

Best Strains for Anxiety

A strain high in THC that contains a good amount of CBD so that the effects of THC can be “toned down” while still giving the same euphoric effect may be the best choice. The best CBD strain or tincture for beginners (and many experts) is Cannatonic, an Indica-Sativa hybrid.

In addition, Blue Dream, a cross between Blueberry and Super Silver Haze, is also highly regarded. A popular Indica strain is Northern Lights, also known as Granddaddy Purple (GDP). 

Dosing

In terms of dosing, the most important thing is to avoid cannabis products containing only THC. CBD can mitigate the anxiety-provoking effects of THC. 

Using a microdosing strategy is a helpful way to dose cannabis. Anxiety can be effectively treated with cannabis when small amounts of THC are used in extreme concentrations.

A physician should determine the exact amount (usually measured in milligrams). Medical marijuana cards and prescriptions can reduce the risks associated with anxiety treatment while reducing side effects. 

Marijuana’s risks in treating anxiety disorders

Marijuana is still associated with risks even with careful dosing in treating anxiety disorders. Under 25-year-olds and people with little or no cannabis experience are at greater risk. 

Experiencing a “bad trip” is possible, but you can reduce it by avoiding marijuana edibles and using CBD alone. 

CBD for Anxiety

There are several benefits associated with CBD that go beyond its ability to treat anxiety, and CBD has been successfully used to treat pain and inflammation. As a result, CBD may help decrease anxiety levels by combating addictions to heroin and tobacco. 

CBD, however, carries specific warnings. CBD may interact with blood thinners. There are also possible interactions between CBD and other drugs, including those for treating seizures, thyroid disorders, and heart problems. 

As long as you aren’t taking any medications that may conflict with CBD, there are few side effects. There are also mild side effects associated with the consumption of CBD, such as drowsiness, diarrhea, dry mouth, and a mild feeling of sedation. 

Also Read Cbd Oil in New York

Conclusion

Anecdotal and scientific evidence suggests that cannabis can help treat anxiety, and THC has been linked to anxiety symptoms in individuals with certain conditions. An alternative to full-spectrum cannabis for treating anxiety may therefore be CBD isolate.

If you are looking to treat your anxiety with cannabis, medical marijuana can be an ideal choice. At NY Marijuana Card, you can get the best assistance to acquire a medical marijuana card. Schedule an appointment today and get started with the process.