Best Weed Strains for Pain Relief
Residents in Washington, D.C., looking for therapies to combat painful medical conditions may want to explore the vast benefits of the best weed strains for pain relief. Humans have long used medicinal herbs and plants to treat inflammation and pain. China has some of the earliest accounts of cannabis used medicinally. Records from ancient Assyrian tablets and Egyptian papyrus also show how early people used cannabis medicinally to treat inflammation, pain, and depression.
As more states continue to legalize cannabis for medicinal and recreational use, researchers can finally start conducting deep dives. They can investigate the properties that make marijuana a potent pain relief tool for those struggling to control the symptoms of numerous medical conditions and illnesses.
What are the best weed strains for pain relief? This guide will help you pick the perfect strain for your pain relief needs in the Washington, D.C., area.
How Does Marijuana Reduce Pain?
Pain is the body’s natural mechanism for signaling there is a problem. Although pain serves an important function, it can interfere with daily life. Pain can keep people from enjoying life. It can limit physical activity, and chronic pain can cause mental health issues like anxiety and depression. For many, opioids and other potent drugs are the only means of controlling pain. However, promising research indicates that some weed strains may also provide pain-relieving benefits while lowering a person’s reliance on opioids and limiting undesirable side effects associated with other pain-relieving treatments.
How does weed treat pain and inflammation? Some studies suggest that the psychoactive compound in marijuana, THC, relieves pain by interacting with the body’s cannabinoid receptors. When THC binds to these receptors, it may help relieve pain by reducing pain signals and the perception of pain by the brain. CBD compounds in marijuana may also help reduce pain and inflammation by stimulating an immune response and reducing cytokines.
Cytokines are proteins that serve as chemical messengers for the immune system. These proteins are instrumental in regulating inflammation in the body. Some research suggests that individuals using cannabis strains with certain levels of THC and CBD compounds had lower levels of circulating cytokines, meaning CBD and THC may work together to fight pain and inflammation in the body.
Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid: Which Is Best for Chronic Pain?
There are two main strains of cannabis: indica and sativa. Cannabis indica plants are native to Afghanistan, India, Turkey, and Pakistan. These regions are known for their harsh and dry climates, making indica plants short and stocky, helping them conserve water. They are typically fast-growing and produce more buds than other cannabis strains. Indica strains of cannabis often have higher levels of CBD and are known for their relaxing effects. These strains reduce nausea, relieve pain, and help increase appetite. They are best suited for nighttime use because of their calming effects.
Sativa strains of cannabis are typically native to areas with hot, dry climates. The long sunny days of Africa, Central America, and Southwest Asia make the perfect growing conditions for cannabis sativa. These plants are taller and thinner than their indica relatives and take longer to mature. Sativa strains have lower levels of CBD and higher levels of THC. Due to the higher levels of THC, these strains are best for daytime use because of their stimulating effects.
In addition to indica and sativa, cannabis cultivators have crossed these two plants to create hybrid strains of weed with varying properties of both plants.
Best Strains for Chronic Pain
OG Kush
OG Kush is one of the OGs of pain relief. It is an Indica-dominant strain of weed, meaning it has therapeutic, relaxing, and calming effects on the body and mind. The unique terpenes in OG Kush give it a complex aroma and flavor profile reminiscent of lemon. Many use this strain of weed to help manage depression and anxiety. It is also a popular choice for those suffering from chronic pain.
ACDC
ACDC is one of the best cannabis strains for individuals with chronic pain. With low levels of THC and very high concentrations of CBD, it does not generate the intense psychoactive effect present in THC-dominant weed strains. Instead, the high levels of CHB promote relaxation and pain-relieving effects. ACDC strains also include high levels of a terpene called myrcene. This compound can help reduce pain and inflammation in the body.
Blueberry
The Indica-dominant strain of cannabis called blueberry is also a powerhouse pain reliever. Named for its fresh blueberry scent, it boasts a slight psychoactive effect, inducing euphoria. This strain helps combat pain and stress. It also contains significant concentrations of myrcene.
Harlequin
Another impressive pain-relieving weed strain is known as harlequin. Harlequin is a sativa hybrid. Its unique combination of CBD and THC offers pain relief with mild psychotropic effects. It also has an impressive terpene profile with beneficial compounds like myrcene, pinene, and beta-caryophyllene. Many harlequin strains feature notes of mango with a sometimes-earthy undertone.
Northern Lights
Northern Lights has a spicy aroma and flavor profile, accented by citrus notes. This hybrid strain is known for helping people cope with depression, stress, anxiety, insomnia, and pain. High levels of THC in the strain offer a euphoric effect and muscle-relaxing benefits. It is an excellent pain-relieving choice for those suffering from painful injuries and musculoskeletal conditions.
White Widow
White Widow boasts an incredibly high concentration of THC and a low presence of CBD, making this strain an excellent pain-relieving and stimulating option. The high THC levels offer powerful euphoria and psychoactive effects on the mind and body. Earthy and woody, it is a good option for those suffering chronic pain, stress, and anxiety.
Is It Safe to Combine Cannabis with Other Medications?
Combining herbal supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter drugs, and prescription medications is never a good idea without first consulting with your medical provider. Studies suggest mixing opioids, cannabis, and other drugs can cause undesirable side effects in some cases.
Use Fast Slice for Your Pain-Relieving Needs in Washington, D.C.
Depending on your unique situation, there is a pain-relieving cannabis strain out there that is perfect for your needs. The team at Fast Slice wants to help you locate the perfect strain. Located in DuPont Circle, we offer high-quality cannabis products for delivery or pickup. Browse our large selection of carefully curated weed strains, edibles, and concentrates, and let us help you find the pain relief options you’ve been searching for. For any questions or assistance regarding our cannabis selection, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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