The Most Useful Weed Strains for Depression

Research and testing on cannabis is still a lively topic in the scientific community, showing dedication to furthering cannabis understanding and the claims surrounding it.

Much of it involves cannabis strains' therapeutic benefits, which range from its anxiety-reducing effects to its chronic pain-relieving properties.

The same effort has also been put into testing the usefulness of cannabis in treating depression symptoms, with CBD showing some promising results in current studies. Researchers believe this particular cannabinoid induces antidepressant-like effects after binding to specific receptors in the body (more on that later).

In addition to CBD, specific terpenes found in cannabis have also shown antidepressant effects. One such terpene is linalool, which is also in lavender, a plant known for its use in aromatherapy to reduce depressive symptoms and stress. Another terpene said to help with depression symptoms is pinene, which binds to the same receptors as CBD to induce antidepressant-like effects. Lastly, the same study that claimed pinene produced antidepressant-like effects listed caryophyllene as another terpene that regulates depressive feelings by binding to a specific receptor in our central nervous system.

Blueberry CBD

This version of Blueberry has a high CBD concentration, reaching up to 16%, and low THC levels, which are less than 1%. And while this medical cannabis strain may lack the high that its THC variant offers, it may provide relief to those suffering from depression symptoms.

Blueberry CBD Feminized Seeds

Blueberry CBD is a potent high-CBD indica-dominant Cannabis strain. It delivers a unique euphoria while also providing relief. It's very popular due to its tantalizing blueberry flavor and fruity aroma.

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Clinical tests have been made surrounding the usefulness of CBD against mood disorders such as depression, as well as anxiety, and psychosis. Based on the results of these studies, CBD has shown promise in treating various mental health conditions. However, it is unclear which receptor CBD binds to that plays a more relevant role in producing its anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects. Some tests have implied that the 5-HT1A receptor is the most significant (this is the same receptor that most antidepressant drugs target when treating depression), while others say that it's the CB1 receptor (despite CBD showing only partial affinity to it and the CB2 receptor).

The long and short of it is the scientific community doesn't know how CBD can induce effects that help treat depression. What they do know is that CBD possesses antidepressant-like qualities on top of various therapeutic benefits.

The CBD content isn’t the only beneficial quality. Blueberry CBD has the same terpenes as its high THC variant, which means that it possesses the same blueberry taste and aroma that many connoisseurs have come to love about it. More importantly, it contains pinene and caryophyllene, terpenes that are said to have antidepressant-like effects.

Blueberry CBD cultivar profile

CBD Kush

CBD Kush is a balanced hybrid weed strain in every sense of the word. Not only is the strain a 50/50 indica and sativa split, it also contains equal amounts of THC as it does CBD. Its 8% CBD and THC concentration may provide depression relief, and a short-lived mellow high that will make you feel relaxed.

CBD Kush Feminized Seeds

Our feminized CBD Kush marijuana is an indica-dominant strain of hemp that gives off a delightfully earthy aroma. Because of its nearly nonexistent THC levels, users experience very little to no high.

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But CBD isn't the only thing that this balanced-hybrid has. It also contains pinene, which is said to produce antidepressant and anxiolytic properties through 5-HT1A and D1 receptors. Moreover, the study heavily implied that the effectiveness of pinene as a terpene in treating depressive symptoms and reducing anxiety is enhanced when administered through inhalation.

That said, CBD Kush, even in autoflower, is no lavender. Instead, when smoked, it produces a subtle aroma of wood and spice mixed with its earthy and herbal flavors.

CBD Kush cultivar profile

White Widow CBD

If the relaxing and uplifting high that CBD Kush has isn't your cup of tea, then maybe the invigorating buzz of White Widow CBD is. Just like its high THC variant, White Widow CBD also provides an energizing high, although mellow and short-lived. But it's enough of a buzz to make it an excellent strain for those needing a teeny-tiny nudge in the morning.

White Widow CBD feminized seeds

White Widow CBD seeds grow an indica-dominant marijuana strain that's been popular in Amsterdam coffee houses for decades.

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Outside of its mellow high, its high CBD content of up to 16% may also be noticeable more than any invigorating buzz. It's especially potent on days when you feel so depressed that getting out of bed is a challenge in itself.

But on top of having high CBD levels, this version of White Widow also contains pinene and caryophyllene. These two terpenes have antidepressant-like properties through binding with the 5HT1A receptor and the CB2 receptor.

White Widow CBD cultivar profile

Orange Bud

Orange Bud is a Sativa-dominant strain that's widely popular in Holland for its rich orange flavor and aroma. However, it is also a Skunk #1 phenotype, which means it has an equally strong skunky smell. But while Orange Bud was a phenotype, the quality of this strain was no accident.

Orange Bud Feminized Seeds

When it comes to all-time classic flavors, Orange Bud seeds has to be at the top of the list. Its taste and aroma are truly distinct, touching people's lives everywhere.

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The Dutch Passion team who created this sativa-hybrid cannabis plant perfected its genetics before bringing it out to the public to enjoy. And boy, did they, as Orange Bud remains popular.  

The secret behind Orange Bud’s strong citrusy flavor and aroma lies in its dominant terpene limonene. But we also can’t discount its other terpenes, which impart their taste and smell and enhance Orange Bud. One is ocimene, a sweet and herbal scent that helps cut the tang from limonene. The other is linalool, which contains a light flowery and herbaceous flavor but is more known for its lavender taste.

The flavor profile of Orange Bud isn't the only thing it has going for it. With THC levels of up to 16%, this sativa-hybrid provides an invigorating buzz that can induce feelings of happiness. On top of that, because of its linalool, it's suitable as medical marijuana since its antidepressant-like effects can lift your spirits.

Orange Bud cultivar profile

Do-si-dos

Do-si-dos also contains linalool, which may give this indica-dominant strain antidepressant-like qualities that address depressive symptoms. But what many consumers appreciate about Do-si-dos is its high THC level, which ranges from 26% to 30%, and its potent effects. It's also a fast-acting strain; almost immediately, you'll feel deeply relaxed and euphoric.

Do-si-dos Feminized Seeds

Do-si-dos is a newer strain, hitting the market around 2016. In a short time, though, the strain has built a large fanbase thanks to its high THC content, which can reach levels of 30%.

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Going back to its potential as medicinal cannabis, Do-si-dos flowers also have caryophyllene, which produces antidepressant-like effects by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, particularly with the CB2 receptor.

That said, caryophyllene isn't the dominant terpene found in Do-si-dos flowers, nor is it linalool. The most abundant terpene found in this indica strain is limonene, which is said to have anxiolytic properties. So, on top of having antidepressant-like effects, Do-si-dos may also help reduce stress and anxiety and comes in two variants, an photoperiod and an autoflower version.

Do-si-dos cultivar profile

Disco Bizkit

Disco Bizkit has the potential to help fight off the blues, thanks to the presence of caryophyllene and linalool. These terpenes are said to relieve symptoms of depression by binding to the CB2 and 5-HT1A receptors in our brain to produce antidepressant-like effects.

Disco Bizkit

Love growing our Do-Si-Dos and Girl Scout Cookies hybrid for high THC, sweet caramel flavor, and easy cultivation. Also called Disco Bizkit, it delivers old-school disco vibes. Ideal for beginners with our feminized seeds and a staple for experienced growers due to reliable yields.

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Disco Bizkit also has an uplifting and soothing effect thanks to its potent high. And with its high THC concentration of up to 22%, even recreational smokers can enjoy the effects of this potent indica-hybrid.

But the real appeal of this strain lies in its flavor profile. Every exhale reminds you of cinnamon biscuits drizzled with caramel. It’s a treat from the moment it touches your tongue. 

Disco Bizkit cultivar profile

LA Confidential

With high concentrations of THC that range from 17% to 25%, LA Confidential is an indica-dominant hybrid that promises a euphoric effects and relaxing high. It leaves you happy and sleepy, making it the perfect end-of-day marijuana strain for a mental health break or when you need to kick back and relax.

LA Confidential Feminized Seeds

You'll find this popular West Coast hybrid to be in high demand, especially around the Los Angeles area. This is a super-strain that delivers a powerful euphoria and psychedelic high.

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Outside of its high THC levels, LA Confidential also has terpenes that can provide therapeutic benefits. Take its dominant terpene, pinene, for example; it’s the perfect alternative treatment for depression because of the antidepressant-like effects it produces.

Moreover, the caryophyllene in LA Confidential’s flowers may also add to its alleviating qualities. Not only does caryophyllene produce antidepressant-like effects, but it does so by binding to a different receptor than pinene, which means the two cannabis terpenes don't compete. And on top of that, caryophyllene is said to produce antinociceptive effects that can help with muscle pain and soreness.

LA Confidential cultivar profile

Bruce Banner

If you're tired of the taste of espresso in the morning, why not switch things up by trying Bruce Banner? This sativa-dominant strain delivers a highly potent buzz that boosts energy better than any cup of coffee. It even has an uplifting effect that puts you in a good mood.

Bruce Banner Feminized Seeds

Based on the original prize-winning Bruce Banner, our signature strain is a perfectly bred blend of OG Kush and Strawberry Diesel. Bruce Banner is a mostly sativa hybrid.

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This sativa-hybrid strain, for the autoflower growers also available in that variant, may even help clear the clouds over your head. Because it has caryophyllene as its dominant terpene, Bruce Banner has the potential to produce antidepressant-like effects that can heighten your mood. You’ll feel like you're getting a physical boost from this strain's sativa effects, but the caryophyllene could also give you the mental boost you need to tackle the day.

Outside of its stimulating effects and potential therapeutic benefits, Bruce Banner also has a great flavor profile. Like I said before, if you're tired of the taste of espresso, try this cannabis strain. It has a unique taste that combines the flavor of strawberries with hints of diesel and earthiness. And if you happen to find out that you've got an adventurous palate, stock up on Bruce Banner and similar diesel-tasting strains like Sour Diesel and Chemdawg.

Bruce Banner cultivar profile

Sunset Sherbet

Another high-caryophyllene strain is Sunset Sherbet, making it another potential cannabis strain to help treat symptoms of depression by producing antidepressant-like effects when interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, particularly with the CB2 receptors.

Sunset Sherbet Feminized Seeds

Sunset Sherbet is an indica dominant hybrid that will spark your creativity. Sweet like a scoop of sherbet while watching the sunset, this strain is a tasty descendant of Girl Scout Cookies.

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But Sunset Sherbet is more than a cannabis strain with supposed therapeutic benefits. It's an indica-hybrid with THC levels that range from 18% to 21% and delivers a relaxing and happy-inducing high. This only complements the antidepressant-like properties of caryophyllene if the studies surrounding it hold true.

Keep in mind that terpenes' appeal isn't limited to their potential health benefits. These compounds also contribute to a strain's enjoyable flavors and aroma. Sunset Sherbet wouldn't have its sweet tropical fruit flavors and citrus fruit taste without the presence of its other terpenes, myrcene, and limonene.

Sunset Sherbert cultivar profile

Maui Wowie

If you're looking for a strain that's jam-packed with flavor, then there's no better one than Maui Wowie. Of all the marijuana strains on this list, this sativa-dominant strain is a treat for connoisseurs who enjoy the taste of the tropics. Its taste and aroma blend tropical fruits; think pineapple, mangoes, and citrus fruits. The experience is packed into Maui Wowie's nugs, waiting for release.

Maui Wowie Feminized Seeds

Maui Wowie seeds come straight from the Hawaiian Islands and is widely used as a stress reliever that sends its users' minds to the imaginary beaches of its native land.

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Besides having one of the most refreshing flavors, Maui Wowie also provides an energizing and uplifting high. So, even if you're nowhere near a beach, you'll still catch waves (of euphoria) when enjoying this sativa-hybrid.

And to top it off, Maui Wowie may have therapeutic benefits that complement its invigorating effects. With the presence of caryophyllene and pinene, you may have already guessed, based on how many times I've said it, it has shown potential to produce antidepressant-like effects by binding to the receptors in our body. So if you want to shake off the dark clouds hanging over your head and start skipping to the tune of Walking on Sunshine,  give Maui Wowie a try.

Maui Wowie cultivar profile

Sources used in this article

• Wieckiewicz, G. et al. (2022) Cannabidiol (CBD) in the Self-Treatment of Depression-Exploratory Study and a New Phenomenon of Concern for Psychiatrists [PubMed Central]⁽¹⁾
• Garcia-Gutierrez, M. et al. (2020) Cannabidiol: A Potential New Alternative for the Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Psychotic Disorders [PubMed Central]⁽²⁾
• Santos, E. et al (2022) Linalool as a Therapeutic and Medicinal Tool in Depression Treatment: A Review [PubMed Central]⁽³⁾
• Basu, C. et al. (2019) Therapeutic and Medicinal Uses of Terpenes [PubMed Central]⁽⁴⁾
• Song, Y. et al. (2021) Limonene has anti-anxiety activity via adenosine A2A receptor-mediated regulation of dopaminergic and GABAergic neuronal function in the striatum [ScienceDirect]⁽⁵⁾
• Eeswara, A. et al. (2023) Combined non-psychoactive Cannabis components cannabidiol and β-caryophyllene reduce chronic pain via CB1 interaction in a rat spinal cord injury model [PubMed Central]⁽⁶⁾