Taking just one drag of a cannabis joint can ease symptoms of depression, a study suggests.
Scientists also discovered that inhaling two puffs of weed can alleviate anxiety, while 10 can help to combat stress.
However, the Washington State University researchers warned long-term use of cannabis could worsen symptoms of depression.
Washington State University researchers warned long-term use of cannabis could worsen symptoms of depression
The team of scientists used a Canadian app called Strainprint, designed to track medical cannabis use and severity of symptoms.
How was the study carried out?
Data was assessed from around 12,000 volunteers, who were asked to record their signs of stress, anxiety and depression.
They were also asked about their method of using cannabis and how much they consumed, such as puffs when smoking it.
Researchers, led by Dr Carrie Cuttler, found symptoms of depression were halved as a result of the medical cannabis use.
Symptoms of anxiety and stress were reduced by 58 per cent, according to the study in the Journal of Affective Disorders.
The researchers wrote: ‘Acute cannabis intoxication temporarily alleviates perceived states of depression, anxiety, and stress.’
What else did the study show?
A further analysis delved into the effects of different strains of cannabis and their cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
It showed just one puff of a high-CBD, low-THC strain of medical cannabis was enough to slash signs of depression.
The same analysis showed 10 puffs of a high-CBD, high-THC strain proved the most beneficial for tackling stress.
Two puffs of any form of cannabis, regardless of its content, was enough to alleviate symptoms of anxiety.
Dr Cuttler said: ‘A lot of consumers seem to be under the false assumption that more THC is always better.
‘Our study shows that CBD is also a very important ingredient in cannabis and may augment some of the positive effects of THC.’
Promising compound
An array of trials already show CBD – available in supplement form on British high streets – has mental health benefits.
The compound is also showing signs of promise as a treatment for psychosis – despite the drug being considered a cause.
But concerns are growing over THC, which causes the ‘high’, which studies have suggested can lead to the mental health condition.
Campaigners warn that strains of super-strength skunk, abundant in THC, have flooded the illegal market in recent years.
Researchers believe CBD, which doesn’t cause a high, has the opposite effect, and has been touted as a cure for various conditions.
Dr Cuttler and colleagues argued ‘the repeated use of cannabis does not appear’ to curb stress, anxiety and depression.
Medical marijuana is already legal in 30 US states, Canada, Spain, South Africa, Uruguay and Argentina – but not in the UK.