When consuming cannabis whether it is through smoking or having an edible, there are many different factors which can affect how you feel when the compounds start to kick in. The high from cannabis is the result of the interaction between the active compounds in the plant and the human body. It is important to make sure you are comfortable in your environment and in a good mindset before using THC as that will give you the best chances of having an enjoyable high. Many factors can influence the intensity, duration, and effects of the high. Below are some of the most significant factors:
- Genetics: Not all cannabis users experience the same effects, and one reason for this variability is genetics. Some people may metabolize THC more quickly, leading to a shorter, less intense high, while others may metabolize it more slowly, leading to a longer, more intense high.
- Tolerance: Regular cannabis use can lead to the development of a tolerance, meaning that it takes a higher dose to achieve the same effects. Over time, frequent users may need to use more cannabis to feel the same high, which can reduce its overall potency.
- Delivery method: The way cannabis is consumed can also affect the high. Smoking or vaporizing cannabis delivers THC to the bloodstream quickly, leading to a fast-acting, intense high. Edibles, on the other hand, are absorbed more slowly and may take longer to take effect, but the high is often more intense and long-lasting.
- Dosage: The amount of cannabis consumed can have a significant impact on the high. Higher doses can result in a more intense, longer-lasting high, while lower doses may produce a milder, shorter high.
- Quality and potency of the cannabis: The potency of cannabis refers to the concentration of THC in the plant. High-potency strains of cannabis can produce a more intense, long-lasting high than lower-potency strains. The quality of the cannabis can also affect the high, as contaminants such as mold, pesticides, or heavy metals can produce negative side effects.
- Environment: The environment in which cannabis is consumed can also influence the high. A calm, relaxed environment can enhance the effects of the high, while a stressful or distracting environment can detract from it.
- Mood and mindset: The user’s mood and mindset can also play a role in the high from cannabis. A positive, relaxed mindset can enhance the effects of the high, while anxiety, stress, or negative thoughts can detract from it.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or insomnia, can affect the way an individual responds to cannabis. For example, people with anxiety may find that the high from cannabis increases their anxiety, while those with depression may find it improves their mood.
- Other medications: The use of other medications or substances, such as alcohol, can also influence the high from cannabis. For example, combining alcohol with cannabis can increase the intensity of the high and also increase the risk of negative side effects.
In conclusion, the high from cannabis is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, tolerance, delivery method, dosage, quality and potency of the cannabis, environment, mood and mindset, medical conditions, and other medications. Understanding these factors can help individuals make informed decisions about how and when to use cannabis to achieve the desired effects.