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Top 5 weed strains for rheumatoid arthritis
Cannabis: Mother nature’s painkiller
Do you want to make the best edibles for rheumatoid arthritis (RA)? Are you looking to alleviate pain naturally? Maybe you’re wondering whether cannabis can help?
Arthritis affects over 50 million Americans. Two-thirds are under 65, and two million have RA.
It occurs because the body misinterprets healthy joint tissue as a foreign invader. The result is inflammation and a debilitating condition in multiple body areas.
With no cure for this autoimmune disease, you can only treat the symptoms. While some people turn to conventional painkillers, others find relief from using marijuana.
Let's examine how weed treats pain, whether it’s effective and popular consumption methods. You’ll also learn about the best cannabis for arthritis, with information on the top five strains.
Ready? Let’s jump in.
Cannabis use for pain relief
Most people with RA take medication. Treatments given to improve quality of life include:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Steroids
- Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
- Biologics
- Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors
Marijuana is gaining popularity as a remedy, and its use for arthritis treatment is rising.
But is weed good for RA?
The compounds in cannabis (cannabinoids) affect the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a cell-signaling system that regulates:
- Sleep
- Mood
- Appetite
- Pain sensation
- Memory
- Reproduction and fertility
- Immune system responses
The ECS consists of at least two types of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, naturally-occurring cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), and enzymes.
Cannabinoids modulate the immune system through various receptor targets beyond CB1 and CB2. Research shows they can reduce neurogenic inflammation, preventing further joint damage.
The best edibles for rheumatoid arthritis are packed with these weed-derived compounds. Evidence shows that cannabis can help relieve chronic pain, depression, and anxiety, aspects synonymous with this long-term health condition.
How do you know if marijuana is better than traditional methods? Is weed good for arthritis, or is it all just hype?
Painkillers or cannabis?
Effective pain relief is paramount when living with RA. The usual drugs used to reduce inflammation are painkillers (NSAIDs) like:
- Ibuprofen
- Diclofenac
- Naproxen
Painkillers relieve symptoms, but they don't prevent joint damage. They alleviate acute pain as a temporary treatment until disease-modifying drugs start to work.
The best cannabis for arthritis contains many active ingredients that could ease aches. Cannabinoids and terpenes have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.
While both compounds affect the body’s ECS, the latter is responsible for the plant's flavor and aroma.
The two main cannabinoids found in weed, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), can help relieve RA symptoms.
THC is the psychoactive component that produces the effect recreational users call the "high." It's known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-killing traits.
Conversely, CBD is a non-intoxicating component that counteracts THC. It helps to reduce the THC high and could contain anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
Both cannabinoids have purported healing qualities, so many believe a marijuana strain with THC and CBD is more effective.
A survey of patients who took weed for arthritis reported that 97% said it eased their aches. Indeed, the herb may be an excellent natural alternative to conventional options.
Are you considering using marijuana for chronic pain? Wondering how to consume it? Let’s look at some of the best ways.
The best ways to consume cannabis
If the law permits, you can grow cannabis seeds for arthritis, but how should you take weed for effective relief? It can be ingested, inhaled, or applied topically and comes in many forms, such as:
- Edibles
- Pills and capsules
- Patches
- Oils and tinctures
- Vapes
- Joints and blunts
- Creams and balms
Always consult your doctor about your physical and mental health status. Your medical condition may prohibit the use of certain products.
That said, the best cannabis for arthritis is often smoked or vaporized. Doing so typically provides fast-acting relief, but it’s not the only way to consume the herb.
While topicals, tinctures, pills, and patches are also popular, many RA patients prefer edibles, marijuana-infused treats. They’re a fun, convenient, and delicious way to enjoy the potential healing effects of weed, and come in various forms, including:
- Baked goods
- Beverages
- Chocolate
- Chewables and gummies
- Hard candies
- Savory snacks
Digestibles typically act slowly but can be potent with long-lasting effects. The best part? You can make your own at home. Not only can you save a ton of cash, but you also have the freedom to experiment in the kitchen.
Do you like weed-infused brownies, cookies, or cupcakes? Maybe you prefer CBD-rich pretzels or breakfast smoothies? How about THC-heavy teas, tacos, or pasta dishes? The options are endless!
Of course, you need the right weed to make the best edibles for rheumatoid arthritis. Let’s look at some of the most popular strains for RA.
Top 5 weed strains for rheumatoid arthritis
Countless marijuana cultivars exist, some better for turning into RA edibles than others. So what weed strain is good for arthritis and ideal for marijuana-infused goodies?
Indica and sativa are two common classifications of cannabis plants. Both varieties contain different THC and CBD concentrations, depending on the strain.
Many people prefer indica cultivars for pain management, relaxation, and sleep. Sativa cultivars are known to improve energy and mood.
If you’re considering growing some medical seeds for your garden, CBD-dominant strains are an excellent choice. They’re not usually intoxicating and can soothe sore joints.
THC-rich strains, on the other hand, have psychoactive effects. They’re known to ease stress and positively affect one’s mood (although it depends on personal experience).
Both CBD and THC strains typically have analgesic properties, so a combination of the two may be your best bet.
Below you’ll find some of what could be the best weed strains for arthritis pain, perfect for creating soothing homemade edibles.
CBD Harlequin Feminized
CBD Harlequin Feminized is sativa-dominant with a CBD:THC ratio of 5:2. Its low THC content and 18% CBD could make it one of the best weed strains for rheumatoid arthritis and chronic pain.
It’s a popular choice for edibles thanks to its potential anti-inflammatory properties and mild psychoactive effects.
CBD Harlequin feminized invigorates your mind and allows you to relax. With low THC, it’s a suitable daytime choice for when you want to get things done.
White Widow Feminized
A popular cultivar for relaxation, White Widow feminized is an indica-dominant hybrid. It has a whopping 25% THC content and a low CBD content of less than 1%.
Its calming, mood-enhancing effects make it a highly sought-after medicinal strain. For many, it's also a powerful pain reliever with anti-stress and anti-anxiety properties.
The cannabinoids and terpenes synergize to create the entourage effect. As a result, it could ease symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis, making it perfect for edibles.
The psychoactive effects can be intense due to the high THC content. Novices and individuals sensitive to tetrahydrocannabinol may want to opt for a milder strain.
Jack Herer Autoflower
Bred initially as a medicinal strain; Jack Herer autoflower could possibly be one of the best cultivars for arthritis pain. It offers the perfect balance between indica and sativa traits and grows much faster than its photoperiodic counterparts.
With a high THC content of 15–20% and less than 1% CBD, it’s commonly added to baked goods like brownies and cookies. This strain may effectively relieve chronic pain while easing depression, anxiety, and stress.
The soothing, relaxing sensations make Jack Herer Autoflower a compelling choice for those managing RA symptoms. As a beginner-friendly strain, these weed seeds are also popular among newbie growers.
Cannatonic Feminized
Cannatonic Feminized is one of the most successful medical marijuana strains of all time. It’s a balanced hybrid with a 1:1 CBD:THC ratio and indica and sativa genetics.
In some cases, it’s more CBD-leaning, with levels averaging 7–15%. As such, it’s an ideal option for those who don't want to experience strong psychoactive effects.
Cannatonic feminized has potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, so it’s often used to make cannabis-infused treats.
Thanks to its soothing and long-lasting effects, it may be the perfect weed strain for arthritis pain.
Sour Diesel Autoflower
Sour Diesel is a fast-acting sativa-dominant strain that could relieve chronic RA symptoms. It contains some of the best terpenes for rheumatoid arthritis, evident in its citrusy flavor and unmistakable aroma.
It has around 20–25% THC and a lower CBD content of 1%, so the psychoactive properties are quite robust.
Sour Diesel autoflower has strong stimulating effects that may give an energy boost to those with chronic fatigue. It’s perfect for edibles like baked goods and weed-infused beverages.
It also flowers automatically, ideal for a fuss-free and easy grow.
Cannabis: Mother nature’s painkiller
What a collection of potent ‘painkillers’ from Mother Nature! As you’ve seen, cannabis may be one of the most effective remedies for RA patients. Use this article as a guide the next time you want to make the best edibles for rheumatoid arthritis.
In the US, more than half the states have legalized marijuana for medical use. Over a dozen other states allow limited medical use of CBD.
Ready to grow the best cannabis for arthritis (if your state allows it)?
Home cultivation is an affordable and convenient way to produce your own high-quality bud, and SeedSupreme has all the weed seeds you need. Visit our seed bank today and get growing!
