Cannabis Strains For Schizophrenia

Cannabis Strains For Schizophrenia

Cannabis Strains for Schizophrenia - Do Indicas or Sativas Help? from CannabisNet on Vimeo.

One of prohibitionists’ favorite things to say about cannabis is that it causes mental illness. “Smoke cannabis,” they said. “It will fry your brain,” they said.

Although studies in the area of cannabis for schizophrenia are still in its infancy, the findings of scientists have been promising so far. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, has been found to be effective in reducing the effects of schizophrenia while mitigating anxiety. However, tetrahydrocannabidiol (THC), is psychoactive and may worsen the symptoms of schizophrenia.

CBD works in the brain by nullifying psychotic activities in the brain, as well as in THC-like molecules. This is why CBD naturally works to reduce the symptoms of schizophrenia especially anxiety, which can make the symptoms worse. CBD can naturally induce calmness and stress in an individual without a psychoactive high.

A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry assessed 88 patients with schizophrenia. The patients were divided into 2 groups – one was treated with 1,000mg of CBD while the other received a placebo. Over the course of six weeks, all patients were told to continue the medication they were prescribed and the researchers measured their condition and symptoms once the trial period was over. They found that the patients who took CBD were showed improvements in their symptoms based on evaluations done by their psychiatrists, they also reported reduced levels of psychotic symptoms. “While it is still unclear how CBD works, we know that it acts in a different way to antipsychotic medication, so it could represent a new class of treatment,” says lead researcher Philip McGuire, Ph.D. The study is one more in a growing body of evidence that CBD is beneficial for anxiety and paranoia.

These are the 5 best high CBD strains for schizophrenia:

Charlotte’s Web: A sativa well-known for its medicinal properties, Charlotte’s Web only contains 0.3% or less THC and high levels of CBD, making it ideal for schizophrenia patients. Originally bred to treat epilepsy, Charlotte’s Web is extremely effective for anxiety as well as numerous mental illnesses. While all its benefits sound amazing, patients are recommended to experiment with Charlotte’s Web with caution as it may cause a headband-like pain especially if you consume too much. Other than that, this is a terrific strain for schizophrenia patients.

Cannatonic: Cannatonic is a legendary strain, best known for its high CBD and low CBD content. Cannatonic is a hybrid that can suit the needs of any patient, especially one with schizophrenia. Its properties are more indica-like, which makes Cannatonic an excellent evening or nighttime medication. However, its effects are short-lived which means that you may need to medicate a few times a day in order to maximize its health benefits.

Pennywise may remind you of a horror character out of a Stephen King book, but don’t let that scare you off. Pennywise, the result of crossing Jack the Ripper and Harlequin, offers tremendous medicinal benefits especially for those suffering from schizophrenia. This strain is known for the amazing mental clarity it offers combined with mild euphoria, allowing you to function productively thanks to its even 1:1 CBD:THC ratio. Pennywise is a versatile strain that can be enjoyed both day and night.

AC/DC is a sativa-dominant variety of Cannatonic. AC/DC is renowned for its medicinal properties, and has a 1:20 ratio of THC:CBD, which offers terrific healing benefits for individuals with mental illness including schizophrenia. AC/DC is widely used for the treatment of epilepsy, as well as pain, anxiety, tension, and much more without a psychoactive high.

Harlequin is a rare strain with far-reaching medicinal benefits. Harlequin is the result of cross breeding a Nepali Indica, Swiss landrace, and Colombian Gold. The THC levels test around 5-10%, but CBD often tests as much as 11%. Individuals with schizophrenia will appreciate the calming properties of Harlequin. It’s also highly recommended for creative people since Harlequin enhances that side of the brain, while allowing you to enjoy greater focus and concentration with artistic pursuits. Some users report experiencing cotton mouth with Harlequin, but it’s nothing that can’t be fixed by staying hydrated after medicating. Harlequin is best used during the day, as it’s energizing and uplifting. It’s also extremely beneficial for fatigue, depression, stress, pain, and inflammation.

Have you used cannabis for schizophrenia? What was your experience like?