12 High-CBD Cannabis Strains To Ease Anxiety

[420 Warrior]

Cannabis is a go-to remedy for some folks living with anxiety. But not all cannabis is created equal. Some strains can actually bring on or worsen anxiety.

The key is to choose a strain with a high CBD-to-THC ratio.

Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the main active compounds in cannabis. They’re both similar in structure, but there’s one very big difference.

THC is a psychoactive compound, and CBD is not. It’s THC that causes the “high” associated with cannabis, including the anxiety and paranoia that some people experience.

While not a treatment for anxiety, using high-CBD strains might help ease certain symptoms, especially when combined with other tools, like therapy.

We combed through Leafly’s strain explorer to find 12 CBD-dominant strains worth trying if you’re looking for something on the mellower side.

Keep in mind that strains aren’t an exact science. The effects aren’t always consistent, even among products of the same strain.

1. Remedy​

Remedy is a 14 percent CBD strain that produces little to no psychoactive effects.

It’s got a lemon-pine scent. Most users recommend it for its ability to mellow you out without the intense head and body effects of high-THC strains.

2. ACDC​

This is another 14 percent CBD strain preferred by people looking to relieve stress, anxiety, and pain without feeling stoned.

It contains no relevant amount of THC. The two most common words used to describe its effects are “relaxed” and “happy,” according to reviews on Leafly.

3. Lifter​

Lifter is a newer player in the cannabis game. It averages around 16 percent CBD with next to no THC.

Its aroma is described as “funky cheese with a hint of fuel” (weird flex, but OK). It’s uber-relaxing effects won’t put a damper on your focus or function.

4. Charlotte’s Web​

This is one of the best-known high-CBD strains. It contains around 13 percent CBD with little to no THC.

It’s used in several health and wellness products to help ease anxiety, pain, and depression without any psychoactive effects.

5. Cherry Wine​

If you like the smell of wine and cheese, Cherry Wine’s your strain.

It averages around 17 percent CBD with less than 1 percent THC. According to user reviews, it relaxes your brain and muscles without mind-altering effects.

6. Ringo’s Gift​

This CBD strain has an average CBD-to-THC ratio of 13:1, but strains as high as 20:1 can be found.

Ringo’s Gift is a cross of two high-CBD strains: ACDC and Harle-Tsu, which is actually next on our list.

Users report a big improvement in anxiety and stress levels after using this strain. Improved sleep is another effect users rave about.

7. Harle-Tsu​

This award-winning strain averages around 13 percent CBD but often tests much higher.

It was named best CBD flower at the 2014 Emerald Cup. Lab tests found it to contain 21.05 percent CBD and 0.86 percent THC.

This ratio makes it a favorite for people looking to lower anxiety and boost their mood and focus.

8. Sour Tsunami​

This was one of the first high-CBD strains ever bred and remains a fan favorite.

It has an average CBD:THC ratio of 13:1 or even lower THC. Users report feeling relaxed and happy without that “heavy body” feeling.

9. Elektra​

Elektra averages around 16 percent CBD with less than 1 percent THC. Some user reviews say it’s tested as high as around 20 percent CBD.

Its pungent smoke and aroma get mixed reviews, but people love it for its relaxing effect that doesn’t totally wipe you out.

10. Sour Space Candy​

This high-CBD strain has some sour notes as far as aroma, but it gets props from people who use it to relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Sour Space Candy has an average of 17 percent CBD and only a trace amount of THC.

11. Suzy Q​

Suzy Q isn’t as high in CBD as some other strains. It comes in at about 11 percent CBD with little to no THC.

It’s considered a good choice for helping to relax an anxious mind and tense muscles without getting you high or knocking you out.

12. Critical Mass​

This strain contains more THC than the others we’ve listed, making it a good option if you’re still looking for a light buzz. It can contain anywhere from 4 to 7 percent THC and 8 to 10 percent CBD.

According to user reviews, people who don’t generally do well with THC find that this strain relaxes and calms without causing a green out.

Safety tips​

Even if you’re going with a high-CBD strain, most still contain some THC, even if just a trace amount. Still, since it’s hard to predict exactly how any amount of THC will affect someone, a little caution is always a good idea.

Here are some tips that can help make your experience a little safer when trying a new strain:

• Go low and slow by choosing a strain with the lowest THC you can find. Give it ample time to work before considering having more.
• Consider non smoking methods, like CBD oils, to protect your lungs. Cannabis smoke contains a lot of the same toxins and carcinogens as tobacco smoke.
• If you do smoke, avoid deep inhalation or holding your breath to limit exposure to smoke’s harmful byproducts.
• Don’t drive for at least 6 hours after use, or longer if you’re still feeling any effects.
• Avoid cannabis entirely if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Also keep in mind that individual states have their own legislation regarding legal levels of CBD and THC. Check your state’s legislation for specific information. Be mindful of other state laws when traveling with cannabis.

The bottom line​

Research continues into cannabis, specifically CBD, as a potential way to manage anxiety. While it isn’t a tried-and-true remedy, some people do find it helpful for easing some of their symptoms.

If you want to give high-CBD strains a try, just be sure to keep up with any anxiety treatments prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Healthline
Adrienne Santos-Longhurst
May 12, 2020

 

[420 Warrior]

I know most of you probably don't care much for these CBD Hemp flowers, but these are what's being sold all over the place here in Georgia now...There are a few more they didn't mention here, but you get the idea.

I've tried a few of these myself, just to see if it was worth getting in to, and I have to say, most of them aren't a bad smoke, if your not really looking to get high but more relaxed, kind of a settle in for the night and watch a little TV, kind of thing.

Quite naturally, I still love my stronger Cannabis strains, as I am a lifer smoker from WAY back, but I'll continue to buy this flower as well, to help with stress as well as pain and when I'm just not in the mood to get baked.

Right now I'm holding some "Lifter" and TBH I'm really liking it. It really has a great sweet smell to it and has a decent palet as well, kind of earthy with spice notes. The effects are very relaxing and stress relieving, maybe even a little creative at times, but not over the top like the "Jack Strains"...Still not bad though...

My next venture, I'm going to start looking around for some Critical Mass, mainly because from what this review is saying, it's got more THC than others, and like I said, I'm a head from way back, so...

The place I've found really close to me to get these buds from isn't over priced either, it ranges from $4 to $7 a gram, so it's cheaper than normal bud you find around here.

As I try more and more of these Hemp Flowers, I'll figure out which one I like the best and stick with it, until then it'll be fun test driving them all from a research standpoint.

 

[Dwight Monk]

If anxiety an issue with you best to avoid Landrace Sativa or a hybrid that is heavy on the Sativa side, as those real "upbeat/racey high" or what my Son calls a "gamer high" can kick anxiety into another gear if you are prone to that (kind I like but don't have that issue) . Problem is with all the phenotypes a certain Strain may not give you issues normally but a different pheno might.

 

[420 Warrior]

If anxiety an issue with you best to avoid Landrace Sativa or a hybrid that is heavy on the Sativa side, as those real "upbeat/racey high" or what my Son calls a "gamer high" can kick anxiety into another gear if you are prone to that (kind I like but don't have that issue) . Problem is with all the phenotypes a certain Strain may not give you issues normally but a different pheno might.

Yea man, I don't have constant stress to where I can't do Sativas like that but my stress is more localized from being in management and especially when I was truck driving, but in general I can usually shrug off most stress with a one hitter or two of most any Cannabis strain...I love them all brother

That being said, focus and creative strains will always be my true love and will certainly be my go-to when GA finally legalizes rec.

 

[Pat Puffer]

I am a strong proponent for the CBD strains. I personally run AC/DC and Harley-Tsu and i use them with my THC to get a 1:1 effect with my edibles. Cherry Wine is coming next year.

 

[420 Warrior]

I am a strong proponent for the CBD strains. I personally run AC/DC and Harley-Tsu and i use them with my THC to get a 1:1 effect with my edibles. Cherry Wine is coming next year.

Very cool, so I can certainly see us talking more about these CBD strains in the near future.

Next time I go to my local shop, I'll get a list of all the ones they carry so we can discuss them. I'm still on the hunt for something that offers a creative profile.

I'd like to find that Critical Mass strain, if it's even legally available here in GA? 4-7% THC sounds like a better fit for what I'm looking for.

On a side note:
It's funny, when I was in my local CBD store the other day, the owner's wife was in their and said they're talking about opening up a 4th shop somewhere in the area, and she all but offered me a job managing it when I told here about me being a part of 420 Mag and learning so much about Cannabis all these years...Not that I know everything by any means, but she could certainly tell I knew my shit when we talked about the health benefits of Cannabis and the Cannabis activism side of things....Yet another reason to thank 420 Magazine for being a part of my life

TBH, I've also been trying to get them to come here and be a sponsor, but their still working on revamping their website ATM...But I do see potential there. I told her I'd do some writing about them if they become a sponsor..

I've always tried to sell the 420 Magazine message to people I meet when I'm out and about, We should all do that every chance we get when we meet people that are cool...Spreading the word outside of here is just as much of an important part of "Creating Cannabis Awareness" as teaching/learning while your here. We can't just count on people stumbling on to this place through a Google search...Word of mouth can be a powerful tool as well.

 

[Tgun]

I know most of you probably don't care much for these CBD Hemp flowers, but these are what's being sold all over the place here in Georgia now...There are a few more they didn't mention here, but you get the idea.

I've tried a few of these myself, just to see if it was worth getting in to, and I have to say, most of them aren't a bad smoke, if your not really looking to get high but more relaxed, kind of a settle in for the night and watch a little TV, kind of thing.

Quite naturally, I still love my stronger Cannabis strains, as I am a lifer smoker from WAY back, but I'll continue to buy this flower as well, to help with stress as well as pain and when I'm just not in the mood to get baked.

Right now I'm holding some "Lifter" and TBH I'm really liking it. It really has a great sweet smell to it and has a decent palet as well, kind of earthy with spice notes. The effects are very relaxing and stress relieving, maybe even a little creative at times, but not over the top like the "Jack Strains"...Still not bad though...

My next venture, I'm going to start looking around for some Critical Mass, mainly because from what this review is saying, it's got more THC than others, and like I said, I'm a head from way back, so...

The place I've found really close to me to get these buds from isn't over priced either, it ranges from $4 to $7 a gram, so it's cheaper than normal bud you find around here.

As I try more and more of these Hemp Flowers, I'll figure out which one I like the best and stick with it, until then it'll be fun test driving them all from a research standpoint.

Alot like you, I have been buying or trying cbd flowers over the last year. I have tried quite a few of these. Lifter, frosted lime and their Bubba kush are my faves to relieve am pain and function. I didn't like cherry wine much but it is a personal search to find what you need or enjoy. The place where I get the flowers cure the mostly outdoor grown (Vermont and oregon) flowers for 2 month before sale and are very nicely trimmed. You would be hard pressed to tell the difference in the buds from your other well treated cannabis flowers. Ill be growing more of my own this year just so I can get the amounts I need for my and others medical use.