Please note: This post was originally published March 2019.
There’s no denying the support for cannabis use has increased dramatically the past decade. With only four states still prohibiting marijuana use, we know our country favors alternative medicines to treat health issues. The cannabis stigma is changing and it’s about time!
This change in mindset is pivotal, especially for our military veterans.
In 2017 alone, more than 17,000 people died overdosing on prescription opioids (think morphine, oxycodone, methadone) — and veterans are twice as likely to die from opioids than non-veterans.
The cocktail of drugs the VA prescribes to the military community is astounding and it’s killing them. Yet the government continues to ignore these dangers.
Cannabis has never directly killed anyone. Marijuana has proven to have many medical benefits. Veterans prefer to take healthier alternatives for their medical needs. So why not help them get easier access to the best cannabis strains to treat their conditions including PTSD?
What are the best cannabis strains for veterans?
There’s a lot of discussions on what the best cannabis strains are for veterans partly because marijuana use is an individual experience. Cannabis affects each person differently so it makes it difficult to suggest a one size fits all approach. However, we’ve put together a our top five list based on our research.
Jack Herer
Jack Herer was a legend in the industry and the cannabis strain named after him exceeds expectations. This strain is Sativa dominant and provides an uplifting, clear-headed and blissful experience. It’s great for anxiety, depression, headaches, and general stress.
Blue Dream
Known for its calming effects, Blue Dream is a strain that promises a relaxed body with an upbeat high — ideal for those who struggle in social settings due to anxiety or depression. This must be why it’s the most popular strain of legal weed around. I personally use and love it in cannabis and CBD form.
American Kush
American Kush is an Indica strain that gives a relaxing, euphoric body high often used to treat chronic pain, migraines, and muscle spasms. For veterans suffering PTSD as well as physical injuries, this is the perfect strain to combat both. No wonder it’s considered High Times’ No. 1 cannabis strains for veterans.
Cannatonic
Cannatonic is high in CBD, which is perfect for those looking for the medical benefits of weed without as many of the psychoactive effects. Medical Jane recommends using this strain in the daytime, stating: “You will likely be able to medicate throughout the day without feeling bogged down.”
Pineapple Express
Pineapple Express is a hybrid that blends 60% sativa and 40% indica for an amazing experience. As Marijuana Break states, “Its THC levels typically range in the 16-26% range, so its high bringing effects are quite strong and powerful. You definitely won’t be left disappointed if a steady blaze is what you are desiring.”
AC/DC
AC/DC is one of the best cannabis strains for veterans. It’s THC to CBD ration is 20:1 so you won’t get wasted. AC/DC often has a CBD percentage of 19% and is excellent for anxiety, focus, pain, and the negative effects of chemotherapy.
There are many cannabis strains so research is critical.
While we have our favorite cannabis strains and other veterans have theirs, we recommend you do some research to find the right fit for your needs. As we stated, using marijuana is an individual experience. What works for you might not work for others.
Connect with people in the military community who are using cannabis to treat their symptoms. Ask their opinions and preferences. You can also read a lot online.
Ultimately you will have to experiment to find the best cannabis strain for you. Just remember to go slow and prepared for an unpleasant high because it can happen.
Have questions? Feel free to contact us anytime.