For many people who suffer from depression, there is a serotonin deficiency. And as it turns out, serotonin and the endocannabinoid system (ECS) are pretty closely linked.

It appears that the myriad symptoms caused by serotonin deficient depression may be the result of it disengaging the ECS.

Making the Connection with Gut Bacteria

Without going into too much detail, the ECS is a network of messenger molecules and receptors (of the CB1 and CB2 variety) that interact with cannabinoids from the cannabis plant.

Meanwhile, serotonin is an important chemical produced by nerve cells. It’s connected with a sense of peace and feeling happy and serves to send signals between nerve cells. Strangely enough, serotonin is not so much found in the brain, but rather predominantly in the digestive system. Yes, the gut.

In fact, there exists a feedback loop that’s maintained by cannabinoid receptors in the ECS, gut bacteria, and serotonin receptors. The loop is impacted both positively and negatively by external factors. And these can easily affect one’s mental health.

So the more healthy bacteria that’s living in the microbiome, the bigger an asset it is to both serotonin production and the ECS.

Depression and the Endocannabinoid System

As mentioned above, the ECS is primed to receive constituents from the marijuana plant. But serotonin receptors are also tied directly to the ECS.

Folks with a serotonin deficiency typically experience various forms of mental distress, including major depression. They likely also experience a  deficiency in ECS function.

In a “normally” functioning ECS, the presence of an endocannabinoid known as 2-AG is partially driven by a specific serotonin receptor. Another potent endocannabinoid known as AA-5-HT is built from serotonin and it helps to regulate mood and sleep by activating CB1 receptors.

No one is certain as to whether deficient serotonin receptors cause poor endocannabinoid tone, or vice versa. On the one hand, serotonin helps promote 2-AG. Yet if serotonin levels are low, it can cause a depletion of 2-AG. Even so, if the CB2 receptors in the ECS are deficient, this could also cause an episode of depression through an interconnected loop of effects.

Then there is the other issue of poor microbiome health that can also drive down serotonin.

Could Marijuana Be the Answer to Treating Depression?

Well, it’s just not that simple.

Many doctors prescribe select serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for their patients with depression in an attempt to increase serotonin absorption. And for many, these are incredibly helpful.

It’s possible, however, that encouraging an endocannabinoid positive lifestyle and a diverse diet may have serious contributions. For example, eating foods rich in probiotics to help the microbiome thrive could be a good place to start. It’s impossible to say that this would be a cure though. Especially in cases where deficiencies in serotonin and the ECS are genetic.

If nothing else, focusing on an endocannabinoid positive lifestyle may help to shift the body closer to homeostasis and reduce other health problems caused by a deficient ECS. But given that the research is lacking as a result of cannabis STILL being federally prohibited, the jury will continue to be out on that one.

For a while, at least.

Looking For More Bang For Your Marketing Buck?

Regardless of the relationship between depression and the endocannabinoid system, you can’t afford to get lost in the shuffle when it comes to advertising your cannabis business.

Because THAT’S depressing!

So if you’re looking for better and more experienced cannabis marketing strategies for your business, contact us today. And take advantage of our expertise.

The post Depression and the Endocannabinoid System appeared first on GROW Cannabis Marketing.

But now that many of us have grown accustomed to this new normal, we’re hearing from folks that being hunkered down at home for so long is is killing the motivation needed to pull out the laptop and get to work.

Apparently, Netflix is more enticing.

So even though you may still have some of that calming weed, now may be time to shift to cannabis strains for motivation.

Let’s take a look at those that place in the top 8 slots.

1. Cinex

We all get that feeling that we’ve woken up on the wrong side of the bed. It might be happening a lot more frequently these days than we like.

Cinex is a sativa hybrid that’s well known for it’s ability to elevate energy and stabilize mood. So melt away that early morning heaviness with this strain.

2. Green Crack

This strain that was created on the east coast was once known as Cush. Now it’s more of a west coast strain that’s taken on the moniker Green Crack.

If you’re looking for a kick in the butt that will shoot a buzz all the way from there to your brain, Green Crack is your strain.

This high potency strain will leave you happy, energetic, and ready to take on what’s next. Plus, it smells of mangoes.

3. Chocolope

Chocolope is a lot less likely to scream in your ear like Green Crack and serves instead as the perfect wake and bake strain.

It possesses aromas remarkably similar to chocolate and coffee and gives you a smooth high. Behind that smoothness though is just enough energy to ease away your stress and get you up and running.

4. Jack Herer

Jack Herer was a well-known cannabis activist and famous grower. This sativa dominant hybrid was named in homage to him.

This strain can be enjoyed in the mornings to provide an immediate uplifting high, without the anxiety or paranoia that can sometimes creep up in sativa heavy strains.

The effect of this strain can be more clearly described as blissful, clear-headed, and creative.

5. Durban Poison

Durban Poison is often referred to as the espresso of cannabis.

This South African strain is 100% sativa and contains high levels of the energizing cannabinoid THCV. In other words, it delivers a real punch.

So you may want to take that into consideration depending on the sort of work you have to do. Tackling a project, maybe. Leading a Zoom meeting, maybe not.

6. CBD Mango Haze

This strain has a completely different profile from Durban Poison.

Bred to have an even content of CBD and THC, it offers medicinal benefits while counteracting the sleepy effects of THC.

Although CBD is also used for relaxation, CBD Mango Haze will wake you up and get your brain moving.

In fact, it’s downright ideal for when you need that cerebral motivational buzz.

7. Super Silver Haze

This strain has won all sorts of awards and is a favorite among medical and recreational users alike.

Super Silver Haze is a terribly dynamic sativa blend strain with a sweet skunk smell that blends with floral haze.

It has a strong and spicy flavor and its energetic effect is long-lasting and has true staying power.

8. Sour Diesel

Known by its street name Sour D, this is a popular sativa dominant hybrid strain.

It was named for its diesel like aroma. And while this may not sound inviting, there are also hints of lemon to balance it.

Sour Diesel will jumpstart your brain by delivering energizing cerebral effects right off the bat.

It’s also good for stress and depression – in case you’re sad that you already finished binge-watching all your favorite series.

Secure Those Cannabis Strains for Motivation Now!

Even if you have the most understanding boss on the planet, at some point he or she is going to notice you haven’t been putting in the hours.

Here in Michigan, you’ll find plenty of cannabis strains for motivation that you can purchase and pick up curbside at your favorite dispensary.

So don’t hesitate. And get back to work.

(Then when you’re ready to take a break, be sure to check back in with our blog to say up to date on all things cannabis.)

The post 8 Cannabis Strains for Motivation During COVID-19 appeared first on GROW Cannabis Marketing.