Cannabis Induced Hangovers And How To Prevent Them 

There are many debates over the validity of “weed hangovers” but anecdotal reports have found that individuals can experience hangover-like symptoms the day after having consumed cannabis. While more research becomes available on the effects of cannabis, it is clear that very little has been studied and understood about cannabis hangovers. Assuming that cannabis hangovers are a valid consequence of consuming cannabis, let’s explore what it might entail as well as how to prevent it. 

What Are “Weed Hangovers”?

A “weed hangover” can be described as experiencing symptoms associated with consuming cannabis, However, cannabis-induced hangovers are not simply when you are feeling a little off. It is when you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, with one or more of them being severe. It has been suggested that one may present with cannabis hangovers when:

• Having consumed cannabis in combination with alcohol or other drugs. 
• When you have not consumed cannabis for an extended period of time and then consumed a considerably potent quantity or quality. 
• Having consumed cannabis which has been contaminated by chemicals. 
• Consuming a potency that is too high for your tolerance.
• Having consumed significant amounts of cannabis without ensuring that the body is fueled with water and nutrition. 

A hangover brought on by cannabis is not exactly the same as that brought on by alcohol, although many assume they would be the same when you see the list of symptoms. They also go on to explain that hangovers from cannabis are said to be more tolerable than those induced by alcohol. Either way, some similar symptoms present between alcohol hangovers and cannabis hangovers. 

Symptoms include:

• Extreme Tiredness
• Sluggishness
• Brain fog
• Disorientation
• Dry eyes/mouth
• Headaches
• Mild nausea

Taking Preventative Measures

Even when taking measures to prevent a cannabis hangover, there are no guarantees. Despite that, let’s have a look at some things we can do to ensure that cannabis consumption will be least disruptive to the mind, body, and things to do during the following day.

• Avoid consuming cannabis the night before an important event. 
• Determine what is the least amount of cannabis for consumption for your desired effects- and then avoid consuming more. 
• Avoid combining cannabis consumption with alcohol and other drugs, including pharmaceutical medications and recreational drugs. 
• Consume cannabis which contains lower doses of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Lower doses can still be intoxicating but will be less risky. 
• Consume products whose safety and efficacy are known. You do not accidentally want to consume a product that contains residual chemicals, or has been laced. 
• Drink plenty of water before, during, and after having consumed cannabis to ensure that your body stays hydrated. 

How to Get Rid of Cannabis Hangovers

As with any other hangover, that of a cannabis one would go away on its own. However, waiting for that may be taxing. Therefore, one can take the following measures to assist with getting rid of the cannabis-induced hangover faster. 

• Hydration: It is important that you drink plenty of water which will assist with alleviating headaches, dry mouth, and dry eyes. 
• Nutrition: Decide on a breakfast that is stacked with goodness including whole-grain carbohydrates and lean sources of protein along with healthy fat.
• Shower: Taking a shower can help you feel more refreshed and using the shower’s hot water as steam can assist with opening airways.
• Ginger Tea: Ginger is notorious for assisting with symptoms such as nausea. So if your tummy is feeling upset, try some hot water, honey, lemon, and ginger in a mug. 
• Caffeine: If you do not usually start your day with a cup of coffee, make an exception this time.  Caffeine will assist with helping your body feel more alert and awake as opposed to lethargy and foggy. However, caffeine is said to also worsen dehydration so be sure to drink plenty of water along with the caffeine. 
• CBD: I know what you’re thinking, cannabis caused this so why consume more? Well, one can consume cannabidiol (CBD) without getting intoxicated while benefiting from its therapeutic properties which will be just as beneficial for a hangover caused by cannabis as it is for one caused by alcohol. 
• OTC Medication: If your symptoms are persistent and you have exhausted your options, then it is recommended that you consume over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or aspirin. As always, consult with a professional first before doing so to avoid adverse effects and potential medication interactions. 

One needs to be able to turn to clinical research and trials to have more certain data about the cause and treatment of “weed hangovers”. Unfortunately of the very few that are available, they are quite contradictory and may end up being more confusing than anything else. So for now, it is best to take preventative measures to avoid possibly presenting with a cannabis hangover. If you think you may have experienced a “weed hangover” in the past, let us know in the comment section below.