Top 5 Factors Affecting Your Buzz

Have you ever wondered why cannabis affects everyone differently? Some users experience happy tranquility and restful sleep while others feel a crippling paranoia and anxiety, which make for an unpleasant trip. There are also those who experience the full spectrum of what the high has to offer. In this article, we will look at the five major factors that can affect your high experience.

1. The Golden Ratio

The cannabis sativa plant contains over 500 chemical constituents with varying effects on the body from immune modulating anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer properties to psychoactive sedating, pain relieving properties. Over 60 of those constituents fall under the cannabinoid system classification, the best known of which are THC and CBD. THC contributes to the euphoric and psychoactive effects while CBD has opposing, sedating properties. The ratio of each component will define the type of high you will experience.

2. Part Of The Plan(t)

Leaves, stems and flowers of the cannabis plant all contain THC properties. Leaves and stems of the plant contain less than 1% of the THC content and yield a low-grade preparation, sometimes triggering headaches. The flowering tops of the marijuana plant, cola, (no, not the soft drink ) are the main producers of THC-containing resins, mounting up to 20%. Cola buds yield a very potent buzz, which can trigger panic in unsuspecting users. Once again, quality of the high comes down to a fine-tuned ratio between the parts of the plant used.

3. The Route

Inhalation and ingestion (edibles) are the most common forms of intake. Smoking a joint or vaping is the quickest route, as the active ingredients are absorbed directly into the blood stream from the lungs. Edibles are absorbed through the small intestine and metabolized by the liver before they reach the blood stream. This route yields stronger and longer lasting effects. However, to achieve a predictable high, adequate time and titration are required due to each individual’s unique liver enzymatic capacity.

4. Less Is More

“The dose makes the poison” Paracelsus, 1538.  While there are no recorded deaths from THC, excessive use can increase heart rate, amplify state of mental confusion, and quickly turn hilarity into dread. CBD constituents have less adverse effects than THC. The biphasic properties of the CBD make it less therapeutic at high doses than when taken in moderation. When it comes to cannabis, less is more. Small quantities over a course of time will make for a more stable, pleasant buzz.

5. Mind Over Matter

Your state of mind can have a major impact on the tolerance and experience of the unwanted side effects of weed. An already stressed out mind can be more susceptible to the anxiety inducing effects of THC. Similarly, thoughts of low self-esteem or worry have the potential to aggravate paranoia. Some researchers believe that the susceptibility comes from the release of control, emotional and physical, that most users achieve when ingesting THC, allowing the suppressed subconscious thoughts to creep in to the foreground of consciousness with more intensity. In this case, it might be best to stay clear of a high concentration of THC and stick to CBD to better calm your mind. The importance of dealing with your inner demons lies beyond achieving a healthy and happy high, and best exposed with a registered health care provider to prevent the development of addiction and substance abuse.

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Let’s weed out your concerns. Feel free to message our resident Naturopath, Dr. Ana, ND with any questions!