Whether you’re a regular or not-so-regular cannabis user, the question of, “If I smoke more, will I get higher?” has probably crossed your mind before. After the pandemic, a lot of cannabis consumers took time to analyze their consumption of this government-deemed essential good. So, if you’re wondering whether more is more when it comes to smoking weed, the answer isn’t quite so simple. In this article, we’ll cover how THC affects the body, the role tobacco plays, and finally answer the question: does smoking more get you higher?
THC and the body
Last year, we took a look at how cannabis affects the brain and can influence your weed tolerance. Simply put, when you smoke cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) interacts with CB1 receptors in the brain, giving cannabis users the feeling of being high. This interaction is quick, with the high reaching your brain in seconds. Furthermore, according to research, after approximately 8 minutes THC levels peak in your blood. While consuming more THC after this can make you higher, it may not be a pleasant or pain-free experience.
Negative effects of consuming large amounts of THC
Just ask anyone who’s eaten too many edibles in one sitting; it is possible to consume too much cannabis at once. While studies have shown that low doses of THC can ease anxiety, high doses are believed to do the opposite, increase it. This can lead to heightened levels of nervousness and anxiety, as well as paranoia. Not to mention, some cannabis consumers report feeling nauseous when consuming large amounts of weed. In turn, this can cause stomach pain, vomiting or other digestive issues.
Will my high last longer?
Have you ever heard of a “weed hangover”? Grogginess and drowsiness? Yes, well, that is what many interpret as the cannabis high lasting longer than intended. Excess THC is not excreted through the body, instead, it is stored in our fat cells. So, as you burn fat, THC can be re-released into the bloodstream, according to research. Essentially, the more cannabis you smoke, the more of a reserve of THC you will build up in your fat and the more of it you will continue to have in your bloodstream days and even weeks after.
How does tobacco factor in?
Although plenty of people prefer to smoke pure flower, there are some folks who like to mix it up with tobacco. Cannabis users who blend their herb with tobacco should know that it won't increase their high. Nonetheless, there is another side effect they should be more concerned about, and that’s heart health. A study from the UCL Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit found that smoking cannabis and tobacco together can speed up the heart rate, which could add to the risk of cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, the study showed that it reduced memory impairment, as nicotine has been shown to aid focus.
Time to Enjoy
All in all, yes smoking more does get you higher and keeps you high longer. However, what is still up for debate is whether that is a high most people would enjoy, as it might be marred by anxiety, paranoia and physical pain! At Parkdale Brass, we recommend that you be mindful of your cannabis consumption and avoid biting off more than you can chew, buds! If you are looking for more cannabis education or history, hop on over to our Instagram. For cleaning tips or cannabis accessories recommendations, check out the Parkdale Brass blog. While you’re there, stop by our shop to peruse our high-quality metal smoking accessories!