Cultivating Calm: Managing Anxiety with Regeneratively Farmed Cannabis

Authored by

Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D., CTC, CNHP, NHC

Dual Board Certified and Award-Winning Holistic Health Practitioner

The holiday season, while joyous, often leaves many feeling drained, anxious, and overwhelmed as the new year begins. As we step into 2025, it’s an opportune time to embrace holistic approaches to anxiety management. Organic, regeneratively farmed local cannabis offers a natural remedy that not only supports personal well-being but also sustains small outdoor farms committed to environmentally conscious practices.

Regenerative farming prioritizes soil health, biodiversity, and sustainability, producing cannabis rich in therapeutic compounds while preserving the environment. Local, small-scale farms often provide cannabis that is fresher, more transparent in its cultivation methods, and tailored to the community’s needs.

For anxiety relief, outdoor-grown cannabis can be particularly beneficial. Sunlight encourages the development of a broader terpene and cannabinoid profile, enhancing the plant’s therapeutic potential.

Cannabis Cultivars for Anxiety

Not all cannabis is created equal, and specific cultivars are better suited to alleviate anxiety. Research suggest the following cultivars are particularly effective:

1. ACDC: A high-CBD, low-THC strain known for its calming effects without intoxication.

2. Harlequin: With a balanced CBD-to-THC ratio, Harlequin offers mild euphoria and relaxation.

3. Cannatonic: Rich in CBD, Cannatonic is prized for reducing stress and fostering mental clarity.

4. Granddaddy Purple: A classic indica, it’s favored for its ability to soothe both mind and body.

5. Lifter: A CBD-dominant cultivar with uplifting and calming effects.

   
   

The Role of Terpenes and Cannabinoids in Anxiety Relief

The therapeutic properties of cannabis extend beyond THC and CBD to include its terpene profile. Terpenes are aromatic compounds that influence cannabis’ effects. For anxiety relief, the following terpenes and cannabinoids are key:

Terpenes:

• Linalool: Found in lavender, linalool has sedative and anti-anxiety properties.

• Myrcene: Known for its earthy aroma, myrcene promotes relaxation.

• Beta-Caryophyllene: This peppery terpene interacts with CB2 receptors, reducing stress and inflammation.

  
  

Cannabinoids:

• CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-psychoactive, CBD is extensively studied for its anxiolytic effects. A 2020 study in Frontiers in Pharmacology showed significant reductions in anxiety symptoms among participants using CBD.

• CBG (Cannabigerol): Emerging research highlights CBG’s potential in reducing anxiety through its interaction with GABA receptors.

  
  

Complementary Remedies for Anxiety

To maximize the benefits of cannabis, pair it with other natural remedies. As a holistic health practitioner and naturopath, I often recommend a synergistic approach:

Herbs:

• Ashwagandha: An adaptogen that helps regulate cortisol levels and reduce stress.

• Passionflower: Known for its calming effects and ability to ease restlessness.

• Lemon Balm: A soothing herb that pairs well with CBD for anxiety relief.

  
  

Vitamins and Minerals:

• Magnesium: Supports nervous system health and reduces physical symptoms of anxiety.

• Vitamin B Complex: Essential for neurotransmitter function and stress resilience.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, omega-3s support brain health and mood stability.

  
  

Essential Oils:

• Lavender Oil: Diffusing or applying lavender oil promotes relaxation.

• Chamomile Oil: Offers calming properties that complement cannabis therapy.

• Frankincense Oil: Enhances mindfulness and emotional grounding.

  
  

Recent studies underscore the efficacy of cannabis in managing anxiety. A 2021 study published in The Journal of Clinical Psychology found that cannabis with balanced CBD and THC ratios significantly reduced anxiety symptoms. Another 2022 review in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research highlighted the importance of terpenes like linalool and beta-caryophyllene in enhancing the anxiolytic properties of cannabis. In addition, a 2023 study in Nature Medicinedemonstrated the synergistic effects of cannabinoids and terpenes in promoting mental well-being.

When selecting cannabis, prioritize products from local, regeneratively farmed sources. Not only does this choice support small businesses, but it also ensures access to cleaner, higher-quality cannabis with a reduced environmental impact. Many small farms offer transparency in their cultivation practices, allowing you to choose products that align with your values.

As we recover from the hustle and bustle of the holidays and plan for a successful new year, integrating organic, regeneratively farmed cannabis into your wellness plan can be a transformative step. By choosing the right cultivars, leveraging therapeutic terpenes and cannabinoids, and complementing cannabis with supportive herbs, vitamins, and oils, you can cultivate calm and resilience for the year ahead. Always consult with a healthcare professional to tailor this approach to your unique needs.

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All information in this article is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources. Please check with your Cannabis Educated Primary Health Care Physician or Educated & Trained Cannabis Therapy Consultant before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change.

Written by Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D., CTC, CNHP in ECS & Naturopathic Medicine, Cannabis Therapy Consultant, The Founder and Education Director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute. To find out more about her Telemedicine Consultations, Educational Programs, YouTube videos, and other creative content, you can find her on the massive inter-webs on all platforms or at drpepperhernandez.com. 

Go forth, Go Cannabis...