Indica or Sativa for High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is extremely common. In fact, it is estimated that 1 out of 2 adults will have this condition (Million Hearts). High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood in your blood vessels is too high. It happens over a period of time and can result in heart problems if not resolved. This condition can be managed with lifestyle changes and sometimes, medication. However, there is an alternative way of treating high blood pressure—by using cannabis.
Cannabis can soothe some root causes of high blood pressure. In addition, it can reduce your heart rate. Although cannabis cannot cure high blood pressure, it can be used to help reduce its severity.
In this article, we will detail how cannabis can help treat the symptoms of this condition. Then, we will explain whether to use indica or sativa for high blood pressure. Lastly, we will explore the best strains to use.
How Does Cannabis Reduce High Blood Pressure
Cannabis can lower heart rate and blood pressure. It reduces some of the symptoms of blood pressure, such as anxiety and stress. However, it works through a process. Immediately after use, some people, particularly novice users, will have a minor increase in blood pressure and heart rate. It typically lasts between 10-15 minutes. Then most people experience a decrease in blood pressure that lasts for an average of 24 hours (PubMed). Those who use cannabis often usually do not experience an increase in blood pressure or heart rate. Instead, they immediately benefit from lowered heart rate and blood pressure.
Additionally, CBD can help improve vasodilation by widening blood vessels (Medical News Today). Choosing strains with CBD can be an important part of your lifestyle change.
More research is needed about cannabis and high blood pressure. However, initial studies are promising.
Indica or Sativa for High Blood Pressure
Should you use indica or sativa for high blood pressure? While sativa strains tend to offer uplifting and cerebral effects, indica strains are more relaxing. They also tend to have higher levels of CBD. Consequently, indica or indica hybrid strains are generally best for reducing blood pressure.
Many strains can help reduce hypertension. However, here are our 3 top strains for reducing high blood pressure:
Cherry Pie
This strain is an indica-dominant dominant hybrid (80/20) with relaxing effects. It has 16% THC and 1% CBD and smells like sour cherries. Cherry Pie is the offspring of award-winning Grandaddy Purple and Durban Poison. It’s a popular medical strain that offers an uplifting mood, deep relaxation, and stress relief. This strain also soothes muscle spasms, chronic pain, and loss of appetite. It can also treat depression, migraines, and bipolar disorder. People with high blood pressure will enjoy this versatile and relaxing strain.
Ice Cream Cake
This delicious strain was named for its parents, Gelato 33 and Wedding Cake. It is an indica-dominant hybrid with 20-25% THC and low CBD. After use, people experience euphoria and a warm body buzz. Some people also experience couch lock. This strain tends to leave people happy and relaxed. Other common uses for this strain include the treatment of chronic pain, nausea, and insomnia. For ultimate relaxation, try Ice Cream Cake.
Ringo’s Gift
Ringo’s Gift is one of the best CBD strains. It’s an almost perfectly balanced hybrid, but leans slightly sativa (60/40). However, it contains 10% CBD and only 7% THC. As a result, this is a relaxing strain without strong psychoactive effects. Many people enjoy this strain for its body buzz, soothing calm, and euphoric qualities. It can lower blood pressure as well as treat autoimmune conditions, anxiety, and PTSD. Make sure to try this strain on your next trip to the dispensary.
There are many other strains that can help lower blood pressure. Some other high contenders include OG Kush, Pennywise, Purple Kush, and Sour Tsunami. Cannabis cannot cure hypertension, but it can help reduce it with lifestyle changes. Please reach out to your doctor before starting cannabis for high blood pressure.
JANE Dispensary has a Santa Rosa Dispensary and a Cotati Dispensary. Our knowledgeable cannabis consultants can answer all of your questions about CBD and cannabis strains, including whether to use indica or sativa for high blood pressure. Shop our online dispensary with pickup and delivery options.
This article is for informational purposes and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a doctor.
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Sources:
Allbud, Leafly, Medical News Today, Million Hearts, PubMed, Strain Cares
