Cannabis has many beneficial effects for those that use it regularly, however, we hear from many people that have tried cannabis but no longer partake of it due to the paranoid feelings they get while high.
The main reason why people experience paranoia while using cannabis is due to the THC content, which is the primary psychoactive ingredient in the plant. One of the MOST popular questions we get from our customers is, “what is the highest THC strain you have?” While we love talking about how high our strains test, we make a concerted effort to explain to our customers that if they’re suffering from anxiety, muscle spasms or sleeplessness, they should avoid the higher testing THC products altogether.
It’s important to remember how complex cannabis is. It’s not just the THC molecule that affects how the user feels. The quality and type of “high” depends on the cannabinoids and terpenes that are present. When shopping at Everest, your guest advisor can help you determine what type of effect you’re looking for and how to find the product that’s best for you.
Here are some basic guidelines to look for when shopping for the right cannabis product for you. Once you find the right product, learning how to properly consume it is imperative.
Ask about cannabinoids. Sure, the most popular cannabinoid is THC, it binds to receptors in the brain and causes psychoactive effects cannabis is famous for. Three other cannabinoids you should know about are CBD, CBN and CBG. These molecules bind with receptors in the body and help with inflammation, anxiety and pain. It’s helpful to know that CBD will help counteract the psychoactive effects of THC and can be helpful in situations where someone is feeling too high or paranoid.
Ask about terpenes. It’s important to note that the effects of terpenes can vary from person to person, and not all strains of cannabis contain the same terpene profile. At Everest, the best way to find strains with these terpenes is to consult with your guest advisor. It’s also helpful to do your own research on strain profiles before consumption. Limonene: This terpene is commonly found in citrus fruits and is known for its uplifting and relaxing properties. It may also help reduce stress and anxiety. Pinene: Pinene is found in many herbs, as well aspine trees, and is known for its mental clarity and energy-boosting effects. It may also help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Linalool: Linalool is found in lavender and other flowers and is known for its calming and sedative properties. It may help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of well-being.
If you are consuming edibles, start with a low dose and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable. It’s essential to keep in mind that it can take up to two hours for the effects of cannabis to fully kick in, so it’s crucial to be patient. If you want more control of your edible high, try the new Wana Quick gummies which are formulated to enter the bloodstream faster (2-15 minutes) and exit the bloodstream after a shorter duration (2-4 hours).
If you’re smoking or vaping cannabis, try taking small hits and spacing them out. As mentioned earlier, you can also try using a strain with higher CBD content, which can help mitigate some of the psychoactive effects of THC.
It’s also helpful to ensure that you’re in a comfortable and relaxed environment with people you trust. Try to avoid overthinking or fixating on negative thoughts, and remind yourself that the effects are temporary and will pass. Ultimately, cannabis has benefits for both recreational and medical use. The most important thing to do is educate yourself on its effects and how they apply specifically to you.
