A Weed Hangover can be Rough
But there are ways to mitigate the side effects and alleviate symptoms.
Talk to enough stoners and you're going to hear the hangover argument. You know, weed is better than alcohol because you don't get a hangover from it. The effects of alcohol consumption CAN produce some truly unwelcome, occasionally serious consequences, but weed can't claim to be devoid of hangovers. At least, that’s what some people say.
The symptoms associated with a cannabis-induced hangover range from mental haziness and a physical sluggish feeling, to a pounding headache. Though arguably minor when compared with the possible outcomes of drinking, there are consumers who swear that weed hangovers are real. So, are weed hangovers a thing? Let's discuss.
Part of the problem is establishing scientific merit, or if "hippie hangovers" are just “in our heads” . There are two credible studies that provide proof on this subject. The first was done back in 1985, with researchers publishing their findings in the academic journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence.
Case Study
The 1985 study, which included only 13 participants (all men), found that cannabis consumption — in this case, joints, specifically — could produce residual effects the following day. Unable to definitely state whether such effects were negative in nature, this (limited) study would stand alone until 1998. That year, Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior published a NIDA study conducted on a group of 10 men. Researchers ultimately concluded that upon consuming one joint, the residual effects were “minimal.”
In both cases, woefully inadequate sample sizes, as well as a gender bias, undercuts the gravity of these findings, but it’s readily apparent that a weed hangover is, at best, not something to be terribly concerned about. That said, read on for tips on how to heal your hippie hangover.
How Long Does a Hippie Hangover Last?
You feel awful, and you’re looking for answers that work. One thing to bear in mind: A hangover from cannabis has no specific definition, so the best way to alleviate your symptoms depends on what you’re feeling. Some of the most common complaints are:
- Grogginess / inability to focus
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Dry eyes
Given weed hangovers often result from overconsumption, especially when it comes to edibles, being careful with your dosages in the first place is a key piece of advice. Starting low and going slow is always the best approach.
But Can We, Like, Shorten It, Man?
Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, here are some quick remedies to get you back in fighting shape.
For mental haziness and fatigue, have a cup of coffee. A piping hot or slightly chill shower can also work wonders to snap your brain out of a fog.
Research hasn’t shown that cannabis causes headaches, but if you have one in conjunction with recent weed usage, simply treat it as you normally would. If you're experiencing dry eyes, don't rub them. Instead, use eye drops. They feel great and they work.
Finally: Give your brain some time to rest before you consume more cannabis. It will only enhance your next experience.
Source: MerryJane