Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a severe ailment that develops after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. The disorder causes severe anxiety, depression, and insomnia. PTSD is common among veterans, and it often goes undiagnosed, untreated or ineffectively treated. Medical marijuana is one of the treatments for PTSD that has shown promising results. Marijuana contains cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s Endocannabinoid system, reducing symptoms of PTSD. This essay explores the best medical marijuana strains and consumption methods for PTSD.
Understanding PTSD and Medical Marijuana
What is PTSD?
PTSD is a mental disorder that arises from exposure to traumatic events such as natural disasters, sexual assault, war, and violent crimes. Individuals who experience or witness such events are likely to develop chronic anxiety, depression, and other related symptoms. PTSD affects the brain’s functioning, making the individual emotionally numb, irritable, and hyper-vigilant.
How Medical Marijuana Helps PTSD
Medical marijuana has shown to be effective in reducing PTSD symptoms. The marijuana plant contains over 100 active cannabinoids, and two of the most crucial are Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). The presence of these cannabinoids in marijuana means that it can interact with the brain’s Endocannabinoid System, leading to reduced anxiety, depression, and fear.
Best Medical Marijuana Strains for PTSD
Indica vs. Sativa
When it comes to treating PTSD, Indica and Sativa strains have different effects on the body. Indica strains are known for their calming and sedative effects, while Sativa strains are known for their energizing and uplifting effects. Therefore, Indica strains are more effective in treating symptoms such as insomnia and anxiety, while Sativa strains are more effective in treating depression and fatigue.
Best Indica Strains
- Afghan Kush – Afghan Kush is a potent Indica strain known for its relaxing and calming effects. It is ideal for treating anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
- Northern Light – Northern Light is also an Indica strain that provides a relaxing and calming effect, making it ideal for treating insomnia.
Best Sativa Strains
- Green Crack – Green Crack is a Sativa dominant strain that provides an energetic and uplifting effect, making it ideal for treating depression.
- Sour Diesel – Sour Diesel is a Sativa strain that provides an energizing and uplifting effect, making it ideal for treating fatigue.
Consumption Methods for PTSD
Smoking
Smoking is the most common method of consuming marijuana. It is fast-acting and has the most significant impact on the body. Smoking marijuana is ideal for individuals who require immediate relief from their PTSD symptoms. However, smoking marijuana has its drawbacks, as it can cause respiratory problems and lung damage.
Edibles
Edibles are an excellent alternative to smoking marijuana. They are discreet and easy to consume, making them an ideal choice for individuals who do not want to smoke. Edibles are also more potent than smoking marijuana, and their effects last longer. However, edibles are harder to dose, and it can take up to 2 hours for their effects to kick in.
Topicals
Topicals are marijuana-infused products such as creams, balms, and lotions, which are applied to the skin. They are ideal for treating localized pain and inflammation caused by PTSD. Topicals do not have psychoactive effects, making them an ideal choice for individuals who want relief without feeling high.
Conclusion
PTSD is a severe mental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, and it often goes undiagnosed or ineffectively treated. Medical marijuana has shown promising results in treating PTSD symptoms, and it provides a safer and more natural alternative to traditional medication. The best medical marijuana strains for PTSD are Indica strains such as Afghan Kush and Northern Light for treating anxiety and depression, and Sativa strains such as Green Crack and Sour Diesel for treating fatigue and depression. The consumption method for PTSD depends on the individual’s preference, and the available options include smoking, edibles, and topicals.
