If you’re a fan of recreational cannabis, you’ve probably seen the vast array of effects THC products can have on different people. The same joint you share with a friend might relax you, but energize them. But why? In today’s blog, we’re taking a deep dive into one of the most frequent questions we get from Cloud City customers: Why does THC affect people differently? The short answer is, it’s complicated.
How THC interacts with your endocannabinoid system
Previously, we’ve explained that cannabis extracts function by interacting with your body’s endocannabinoid system, which is made up of a network of CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are located in your central nervous system, meaning cannabinoid interaction impacts the physiological functions the central nervous system controls. For example, mood, cognition, pain perception, and movement. In short, your CB1 receptors facilitate the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids like THC, taking credit for that euphoric feeling it’s notoriously known for.
On the contrary, your CB2 receptors are located in your peripheral nervous system, and thereby facilitate a different effect when interacting with cannabinoids. The primary functions of the peripheral nervous system include gastrointestinal wellness, inflammation, immune response, and pain perception. Importantly, cannabis products have become such a popular natural remedy for pain because they interact with both CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Yet, because cannabinoid interaction impacts the functionality of your central and peripheral nervous systems, the variation in THC’s effects on different people relies on factors such as health, genetics, and your body’s unique chemical patterns.
Why THC affects people differently
Ultimately, everyone’s body contains a different density of CB1 receptors. Because your endocannabinoid system is genetically determined, it makes sense why two people might have completely different reactions to sharing the same THC products.
Body chemistry
While fatal overdoses from THC products are nearly non-existent (as in there are zero documented cases of death solely from cannabis), depending on the makeup of your endocannabinoid system, consuming enormous amounts of THC can have some pretty undesirable effects. Highly concentrated THC products, especially those consumed in edible form (which have a delayed onset), can make some people feel paranoid, nauseous, uncontrollably tired, or anxious. Yet, these same products can make others feel elated, euphoric, and calm.
Factors that make a difference:
- Tolerance level
- Brain chemistry
- Metabolism
- Nervous system sensitivity
To that end, the better care you take of yourself, the more likely you are to experience positive effects.
Hydration & nutrition
Another factor that impacts how your body reacts to cannabis is whether or not you’ve eaten before consuming it. Not to mention (drumroll, please!) your hydration level.
There should be no surprises here. Dehydration intensifies cannabis-induced effects like cottonmouth, dizziness, and nausea, as does consuming THC on an empty stomach. For these reasons, always make sure you’re properly hydrated and have something solid in your tummy before consuming cannabis. High-fat meals enhance THC absorption and thus strengthen its effects.
In addition to diet and genetics, these factors also play a role in how your endocannabinoid system reacts to THC:
- Emotional state: Your body’s production of hormones like serotonin (the stress hormone) and dopamine (the bliss molecule) can alter your THC experience. Thus, consumption during times of high versus low stress can make a significant difference in your experience.
- Product format: THC may bind to your CB1 and CB2 receptors differently depending on how it’s ingested. For example, some people report more substantial effects from edibles compared to smoking or vaping. When edibles are consumed, your body converts the THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which increases its potency.
- Strain: There are many different strains and profiles of cannabinoids. Often, the result of cannabis consumption is a combination of complementary variables. Products that contain THC and other cannabinoids produce what’s known as the entourage effect. Commonly, these complementary compounds include CBD, CBG, CBN, terpenes, and flavonoids, all of which contribute to their overall impact.
How to find your THC sweet spot
Finding your sweet spot with THC is undoubtedly an experimental process. At Cloud City, our motto is “start low and go slow.” For the most enjoyable and practical experience, THC newbies should slowly build THC tolerance over time. Before consuming THC products, always make sure you’re properly hydrated, emotionally stable, and well-fed.
Because no two endocannabinoid systems are the same, your cannabis experience will inevitably differ from the next person’s. Stay mindful of your diet, hydration, tolerance, mood, and body chemistry. “Starting low and going slow” will allow you to safely explore the wondrous magic of cannabis products.
Visit us at our downtown Campbell store for a one-on-one consultation with one of our friendly budtenders who can provide detailed guidance and personalized recommendations tailored to your needs and biology.
