Anxiety disorders come in many different forms.
They are pervasive, sometimes debilitating mental health issues that affect millions of people. In the UK, anxiety is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health conditions, with studies suggesting that around 60% of people will experience at least mild symptoms at some stage in their lives.
The effects of anxiety can be wide-ranging. You might struggle with a constant sense of unease or feel stuck in cycles of overthinking. For others, symptoms can be more severe, including panic attacks, disrupted sleep, or difficulty leaving the house. These challenges often interfere with daily life, making it harder to function.
Some patients now explore medical cannabis as a treatment option when conventional approaches have not worked or have caused unpleasant side effects. In the UK, prescriptions must come from a licensed specialist, and smoking cannabis is not permitted. Legal products include oral oils, capsules, THC vapes, and medical cannabis flower, which is used with a medical-grade dry herb vaporiser to deliver precise doses.
This guide walks through which cannabis strains might offer relief for anxiety symptoms, how they differ in effect and timing, and what to consider when choosing a daytime or night-time option within the UK’s legal prescribing framework.
Key Takeaways
- Anxiety disorders are common, affecting millions of people worldwide.
- Symptoms can range from mild unease to debilitating panic attacks.
- Many factors, including genetics and environment, contribute to anxiety disorders.
- Traditional medications may not be effective for everyone and can have negative side effects.
- Cannabis has been shown to offer relief from anxiety symptoms, with different strains providing varying levels of effectiveness.
Treating anxiety is a complex process that requires individualised care.
Fortunately, there are a bunch of pharmaceutical and natural treatments available that, when combined with therapy, may provide relief from anxiety symptoms.
Medicinal cannabis became a reality back in November 2018 here in the UK, and the preceding years have seen a huge number of anxiety sufferers turning to the plant, in conjunction with traditional treatments, as a means of managing their condition.
Best Strains for Anxiety in the UK
Cannabis strains are broken up into three main categories – Indica, Sativa and Hybrid. Each offers certain effects, and it is good to understand the differences. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to cannabis and its effects – what works for one person may not for another, so before you dive head first into medical cannabis for anxiety, you should always seek professional advice.
Indica and Indica-dominant strains (better for evening or night-time anxiety)
| Strain name (Brand) | THC / CBD | Dominant Terpenes | Day or Night? |
| MAC-3 (Releaf / Glass Pharms) | 22% / 1% | Limonene, Farnesene, Caryophyllene | Best for evening use |
| Green Kush (Releaf / Glass Pharms) | 25% / 1% | Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Linalool | Strongly sedating, night-time use preferred |
| Northern Lights (Adven No 9) | 19% / 1% | Myrcene, Pinene | Mild and calming, night use |
| Four SGV T22 (SafriCanna / 4C) | 22% / <1% | Myrcene, Limonene (assumed) | Evening use for tension and sleep |
| Ultra Sour (4C Labs) | 21% / 1% | Caryophyllene, Terpinolene | Evening wind-down, not too sedating |
| Pink Kush (Tilray T18 / T21) | 18–21% / <1% | Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene | Strong physical relaxation, night use |
| Sourdough (Aurora Pedanios T29) | 29% / 1% | Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene | Sedating, better in the evening |
| Black Cookies (Oceanic BC T23) | 23% / <1% | Myrcene major, Pinene minor | Night-time calming strain |
| Strawberry Guava (Four / SGV T22) | 22% / <1% | Myrcene, Limonene | Evening to night recommended |
Sativa and Sativa-dominant strains (better for daytime or social anxiety)
| Strain name (Brand) | THC / CBD | Dominant Terpenes | Day or Night? |
| Tangerine Boost (Glass Pharms TB T20) | 20% / <1% | Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene | Uplifting and focusing, daytime use |
| Moby Dick (4C Labs / MDK T21) | 21% / <1% | Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene | Energising, good for social anxiety |
| Gorilla Glue #4 (Tilray T18) | 18% / <1% | Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene | Best for late afternoon to early evening |
| Electric Honeydew (Aurora EHD T26) | 26% / <1% | Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene | Mild uplift, often balanced |
Balanced Hybrids (moderate relief, flexible use)
| Strain name (Brand) | THC / CBD | Dominant Terpenes | Day or Night? |
| Blackberry Balanced (Glass Pharms BB T7) | 7% / 10% | Myrcene, Limonene, Ocimene | Mild calming without intoxication, day or night |
| Lemon Diesel (Glass Pharms LD T23) | 23% / <1% | Myrcene, α-Pinene, β-Pinene | Balanced, suitable for late afternoon |
| Rainbow Amnesia (Cookies T25) | 25% / <1% | Not listed (likely uplifting) | Daytime use suggested |
| Hawaiian Rain (Cookies C-HRT T31) | 31% / <1% | Not listed (likely mood-enhancing) | Daytime use, more energising |
Factors To Consider
While there are a ridiculous number of UK medical cannabis strains to choose from these days, it’s important to remember that they can all be different in terms of effects.
Keep in mind that no two strains will act the same for everyone, so it’s essential to try out a few different options and work closely with your specialist doctor to find the right fit for you.
Also, while medicinal cannabis can be an excellent tool in managing anxiety symptoms, high levels of THC can have the opposite effect. It is essential to start slow and build up your dosage gradually, as this can help avoid any adverse effects.
Another factor to consider when choosing a strain for anxiety is the terpene profile. As mentioned before, certain terpenes have been linked to anti-anxiety effects, so it’s worth doing some research on the strains you are considering and their dominant terpenes
Dosage, the way you decide to consume your chosen strain, and individual tolerance are all things that need to be considered before attempting to use cannabis as a way of treating anxiety, and a qualified specialist will be able to guide you in the right direction.
FAQs
Is it safe to use medical cannabis for anxiety?
While research on the safety and effectiveness of medicinal cannabis is still ongoing, many people have found relief from anxiety symptoms with its use. As with any medication, it’s essential to work closely with a specialist doctor to determine whether medicinal cannabis is the right choice for you.
How do I know which strain is best for my anxiety?
This comes down to personal preference, as well as the individual effects of each strain. It’s crucial to try out a few options and consult with your specialist doctor to find the right fit for you. Keep in mind factors such as THC potency, CBD levels, terpene profile, and mode of consumption when making your decision.
How can I consume medical cannabis for anxiety?
There are many ways to consume medical cannabis. Smoking prescribed medical cannabis is illegal in the UK, but vaporising, edibles, and tinctures are all above board. The method of consumption can affect the speed and intensity of the effects, so it’s essential to discuss with your specialist doctor to determine which option may be best for you.
Conclusion
Finding the right strain for you and your symptoms of anxiety can be a daunting process. But with the right research and professional advice, you can use cannabis to help manage your symptoms effectively.
Remember the factors mentioned above, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different strains until you find the perfect fit. With time and patience, you can use medicinal cannabis as a natural alternative for treating your anxiety.
Looking for the best UK medical cannabis clinic for your needs?
You’ve come to the right place here at Cannabis Access Clinics. You’ll find detailed reviews of the top UK medical cannabis clinics to help you make the most informed decision about your care.
