Eight Best Cannabis Strains for Anxiety

The best cannabis strains for anxiety might sound like an oxymoron. Those with anxiety, from minor discomfort to a crippling condition, usually don’t find THC all that welcoming.

And indeed, even in people who aren’t overly anxious, high-potency THC can trigger some paranoia. 

So it’s clear when looking at the best cannabis strains for anxiety we’re going to look at many CBD strains. This is because we have some solid research that CBD has anti-anxiety properties. 

Whereas THC “expands the mind,” so to speak, it can also cause paranoia. But if an inaccurate perspective is causing your anxiety, a little THC can help put a new spin on things.

As well there’s more to cannabis than CBD and THC. A full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes work together to provide an “entourage effect.” This effect gives cannabis its holistic healing powers.

Anti-anxiety terpenes include: 

Alpha-pinene

Caryophyllene

Limonene 

Linalool

Myrcene

So let’s discuss our picks for the eight best cannabis strains for anxiety.

Eighth Best Cannabis Strain for Anxiety: Kosher Kush

Kosher Kush is an indica-dominant strain with high levels of THC. Not exactly a top choice among those cautious of THC. But, what Kosher Kush has going for it is its high levels of beta-caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene terpenes. All of which help anxiety.

Kosher Kush also has above-average levels of trans-nerolidol. This terpene exists in other plants like jasmine, ginger, lavender, and lemongrass. People have been using trans-nerolidol aromatherapy for ages.

So if the high THC content scares you, try using this strain as a fragrance while you enjoy one of the more CBD-heavy strains listed below.

Seventh Best: Lemon Garlic OG

From Humboldt, California, Lemon Grass OG is one best cannabis strains for anxiety you don’t want to miss out on. Full of terpenes for stress relief and reducing anxiety, you’ll find high levels of limonene, beta-caryophyllene, and myrcene if grown right.

You’ll feel relief without the paranoia with a balanced THC: CBD ratio. And, as the name suggests, its flavour is unique. A mix of citrus and garlic might turn some off, but it adds to the strain’s appeal to others.

Sixth Best: Jack Herer

Jack Herer is a THC-dominant strain. But with terpenes such as terpinolene, linalool, caryophyllene, and alpha-pinene, its effects are relaxing rather than intoxicating.

Jack Herer is a good choice for those with anxiety in the morning. A wake-n-bake will provide a caffeine-like boost right away. But then, the entourage effect will work with you throughout the day to ensure your anxiety remains manageable.

Jack Herer is great for those with anxiety that still need their THC-dominant cannabis. 

Fifth Best Cannabis Strain for Anxiety: ACDC

ACDC is a CBD-rich cannabis strain popular among those who like a bit of THC in their bud. Its 20:1 CBD-to-THC ratio produces almost no high. Still, with all the terpenes and cannabinoids at your fingertips, you’ll find relief from anxiety and inflammation. As well you’ll feel a general sense of well-being. 

Fourth Best: Cannatonic

Cannatonic might sound like a strain that’ll leave you comatose. But this balanced CBD:THC is a perfect cannabis strain for anxiety. Its ratio provides a mellow buzz that lets you finish your work without hampering your mood. Cannatonic is high in myrcene, which is great anxiety-reducing effects.

Third Best Cannabis Strain for Anxiety: Critical Mass 

Critical Mass almost took the top spot with its high amount of myrcene and caryophyllene terpenes. Critical Mass is an indica-dominant strain bred for higher CBD concentrations and excellent for those who still want some THC in their cannabis.

Second Best: Valentine X 

Technically, Valentine X is a phenotype of our #5 best cannabis strain for anxiety pick, ACDC. But what makes Valentine superior is that it was bred to produce an anxiety-reducing strain. It’s like ACDC except with higher concentrations of CBD and anxiety-reducing terpenes. Valentine X is the way to go if you liked ACDC but wanted something a little more substantial.

The Best Cannabis Strain for Anxiety: Elektra

The best cannabis strain for anxiety, in our opinion, is Elektra. There are a few reasons for this.

One, Elektra, was bred by crossing Early Resin Berry and an ACDC strain (which we know is already good for anxiety).

Two, Elektra is a CBD strain with high levels of beta-caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene, which all provide anti-anxiety effects and help you relax.

Third, it’s delicious. While we’ve been focusing on cannabis compounds to relieve anxiety, the taste is just as important. 

And that’s why Elektra takes the top spot. With hints of dark chocolate and red wine, this is a strain you won’t want to miss out on, even if anxiety isn’t a big issue for you.