Best Marijuana Strains for ADHD/ADD

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a common condition that affects many people worldwide. With this condition, people can have difficulty focusing, sitting still, or controlling their energy levels. While conventional remedies like therapy and medications help manage these symptoms, the potential of cannabis strains for ADHD management is also an emerging discussion.

However, there are not enough studies to support marijuana’s use for this purpose. Nevertheless, that has not stopped ADHD patients from self-medicating with cannabis flowers – there is plenty of word-of-mouth evidence and numerous stories of patients benefiting from weed.

In this article, we’ll talk about the different marijuana strains that can help you with ADHD, along with a few basic pointers that can help you make the most of this herb.

What is attention deficit disorder?

ADHD is more than just a fleeting inability to focus. It is a medical condition rooted in the brain’s chemistry and function. People with ADHD don’t just face the usual distractions we all experience; they deal with a consistent pattern of attention difficulties, impulsive actions, and, for some, hyperactivity that’s more intense than most people.

The most common symptoms of ADHD are:

• Daydreaming frequently
• Forgetfulness
• Fidgeting and restlessness
• Overthinking
• Talking excessively
• Making careless mistakes
• Difficulty focusing
• Being hyperactive
• Trouble getting along with others

These issues make everyday tasks and social interactions a unique challenge for them, often requiring a blend of strategies and interventions to navigate.

Indica vs. Sativa: Which strains are good for ADHD?

When talking about cannabis, it’s important to note that different types of strains might impact people in unique ways.

For example, Indica strains of cannabis are often linked with calming effects. Some people with ADHD, who find their minds buzzing with thoughts when they’re trying to sleep or feel too hyper, might use Indicas to help them relax and unwind. But it can also slow you down too much to be able to work.

On the other side, Sativa strains tend to be associated with energy and mood-boosting properties. These strains might be chosen by those who are feeling down or need help focusing on tasks. That said, Sativas can enhance your symptoms and cause anxiety, so you must be careful not to overdo it.

Hence, an ideal way here is hybrids. While they tend to lean on one side more than the other, they do deliver a balanced mix of effects.

Indica-dominant hybrids for ADHD

Indica varieties are recommended when you want to be more calm and have less energy. The following strains are best suited to achieve this:

• OG Kush: This strain is known for relaxing the mind and can help calm hyperactivity.
• White Widow: Known for lifting mood and also bringing calm, it’s chosen by some for a peaceful evening.
• Blue Cheese: Popular for its strong relaxing effects, it might help quieten a busy mind and promote a sense of calmness.
• Northern Light: A tranquil and sleep-inducing strain, it could help those whose ADHD keeps them awake.

Sativa-dominant hybrids for ADHD

Sativas are recommended when you need a burst of energy, focus, and creativity.

• Sour Diesel: Valued for increasing energy and focus, it’s chosen by some seeking a mental boost.
• Jack Herer: Known to enhance mood and creativity without too much physical energy boost.
• Green Crack: Offering alertness and energy, it’s often chosen for tasks needing focus.
• Zkittlez: This strain can elevate mood and offer a fun, sensory experience.

Remember, using cannabis to manage ADHD symptoms is a personal journey. People can respond differently to each strain. Some might find relief and better focus, while others might not notice these benefits. If anything, it can lead to opposing effects – making your symptoms worse.

It’s key to be careful and start with small amounts to see how it affects you. You should also speak to your doctor for the best advice.

ADHD and medical marijuana: What does the research say?

Research on ADHD and medical marijuana is still in the very early stages. Some people say cannabis helps manage their symptoms, but scientists agree more studies are needed to understand how it works and how it might help. It’s tricky because everyone’s brain is different, and what helps one person might not help another.

A 2023 review paper titled ‘Cannabis use in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A scoping review’ has best summarised the existing trends:

• There is a lack of clinical trials and studies examining the link between marijuana use and ADHD.
• Only a handful of existing studies indicated that cannabis can improve ADHD symptoms.
• Most of the other studies concluded that marijuana had no impact on ADHD symptoms or it had worsened the condition.

The most glaring trend, however, is the high prevalence of cannabis use disorder in ADHD patients. If anything, this is a serious side effect that people with attention deficit disorder must consider when dabbing into marijuana.

Side effects of using cannabis for ADHD

People with ADHD have to be extra careful because studies show they can be more likely to get very into using cannabis. Sometimes, it can be to a point where it’s not healthy, leading to dependence. It means they might depend on it too much, and it gets in the way of their daily life.

The Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) organisation states that cannabis use disorder is far more common in adults with ADHD than those without the condition. They also state that having ADHD can make it a bit more likely that someone will use substances, including marijuana, alcohol, and narcotics.

Other possible side effects of using weed for ADHD include:

• Memory problems: Weed can sometimes make it hard to remember things.
• Trouble thinking clearly: Sometimes, it can make thinking and making decisions a bit foggy.
• Lack of motivation: Some people feel less like getting stuff done when they use cannabis.
• Increased anxiety: Even though some use it to relax, weed can also make some people feel more anxious or paranoid.
• Drug interaction: Cannabis can interact with ADHD medications like Ritalin and Adderall, which can impact how these medications function.

Remember, it’s important to talk to your doctor if you’re thinking about using cannabis to help manage ADHD. They can help you figure out what might work best for you and help you do it safely without letting it impact the working of your existing medicines.

Conclusion

People with ADHD might use Indica and Sativa strains of cannabis to help with their symptoms. Indica can help calm you down, and Sativa can lift your energy. But remember, using cannabis for ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all solution and might work differently for everyone.

Moreover, research and studies do not support the anecdotal claims that weed can help with the condition. Many studies have noted that cannabis did not improve the symptoms, and in some cases, it only worsened the signs. ADHD patients are also at great risk of developing cannabis use disorder – they may become too dependent on marijuana, leading to addiction problems.

If you are planning to use marijuana for your attention deficit disorder, you should speak to a doctor beforehand.