Medicinal marijuana is currently being used for a wide variety of disorders and mental health issues. One that I can give some personal anecdotal evidence on is which strains are the best for people suffering from bipolar. Since this particular disorder is widely varied, confusing and unpredictable we might not always know exactly which strains will work. Personally, I believe that keeping a variety on hand for those ups, downs, rages, paranoid episodes and of course many other aspects of bipolar is the best way to go. Creating a stable emotional base is important, which means not only are there strains to look for but also strains to avoid. Anything that could cause anxiety, excess paranoia, couch-lock or exhaustion is best missed as they can exacerbate symptoms.
This is my favourite strain for severe depressive or down episodes. For the days when sufferers wake up and simply can’t bring together the mental wherewithal to get out of bed. This strain is uplifting and euphoric without triggering mania, which is rare in a Sativa. This could be due to the high CBD content of 1 – 5%. This strain has also been around since the 60s, so we can trust that it’s effects are stable and consistent from smoker to smoker. The only potential issue with this strain is that after a while it can cause mild couch-lock, so bipolar smokers should take that into consideration before use incase that tends to trigger anxiety. The THC content only sits at 10% which is why it is unlikely to cause paranoia. Overall it’s just an enjoyable smoke with its deliciously fruity flavour and comforting high. This strain has a flowering time of 9 – 11 weeks and can be grown indoors or outdoors.
Blue Dream is one of the first strains considered when talking about bipolar disorder. It started life as a medicinal strain recommended to those suffering from depression, pain, anxiety and stress. The effect is uplifting, energetic and long-lasting which means it may help sufferers ride out significant chunks of depressive episodes. This strain does have a high THC level of 25% so is not a great strain for beginners. However, the CBD is also 1 – 5% meaning it is sitting at therapeutic levels. The genetic background of this strain is extremely impressive. It is a combination of Blueberry, Super Silver Haze, Afghani, Thai and Mexican. Currently, Blue Dream is considered one of the top 10 strains of all time in the US. Blue Dream takes 9 – 10 weeks to flower and can be grown indoors or outdoors.
Jack Herer often ends up on these lists, but only because it is a literal wonder strain. She was originally born in the Netherlands and was named after the famous activist and author Jack Herer. She has won multiple awards over the years and is a popular medicinal strain. The effect is cerebral yet relaxing throughout the body and brain. It was created by combining Haze and Red Skunk, so it’s hardly surprising that it’s such a top-quality strain. This strain can be perfect for calming mania or for emotionally lifting from depression. It is also used to improve appetite and reduce pain. The THC level on this one sits at around 20% with a low level of CBD, so perhaps not ideal for anyone suffering through a prolonged depressive period. Jack Herer will take 8 weeks to flower and can be grown indoors, outdoors or in a greenhouse.
Another cannabis cup winner and all-round extremely popular and well-known strain. Sour Diesel is known for her powerfully cerebral and relaxing effect whilst also being uplifting and comfortable. Ideal for those skin tingling manic episodes that just won’t shift. It is also used as relief from depression and stress. Sour Diesel has a THC level of 19% and a CBD level of 1 – 5%, so it’s an excellent medicinal strain if a little on the strong side. Depending on the plant this strain can exceed expected potency to sensitive smokers should be wary. Sour Diesel was born in California and was created by combining Original Diesel, Northern Lights, Shiva and Hawaiian. It also has a delightfully sweet and sour flavour with an equally enjoyable aroma. She has a flowering time of 10 – 11 weeks and can be grown indoors or outdoors.
This is a perfect anti-depressant strain for anyone who struggles with tolerance. Even for some of the heavier smokers, having a lower THC and higher CBD when medicating can be beneficial. The CBD to THC ratio is 2:1 meaning that it’s a great strain for daytime use. Bipolar can be debilitating during the day, especially when there is anything important to be done. Whether you are up or down it is difficult to focus, hard to remain motivated and almost impossible to carry out tasks to completion. This strain is excellent for balancing the brain allowing bipolar sufferers to get on with life as usual. Well, what is considered usual for most people. This strain also works extremely well as a potent painkiller. Blueberry Headband CBD has a flowering time of 9 weeks and can be grown indoors or outdoors.
Our last strain today is Sapphire OG, a combination of a backcrossed OG and Afghan. She is often used as a medicinal strain by those suffering from pain or a loss of appetite. However, this strain is also excellent for reducing manic anxiety as its effects are relaxing, bodily and cerebral. For those moments when you just need your brain to be quiet and your body to stop buzzing, this is the strain. Her THC level ranges from 18 – 24% and she is a combination of Indica and Sativa. It is also well known for the stunning combination of colours that it develops as it flowers. It has a flowering time of 8 – 9 weeks and can be grown indoors or outdoors.
Remember: It is illegal to germinate cannabis seeds in many countries including the UK. It is our duty to inform you of this fact and to urge you to obey all of your local laws to the letter. The Vault only ever sells or sends out seeds for souvenir, collection or novelty purposes.
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