Research

Weed Hangovers And How To Prevent Them

July 26, 2023 10:03 am ET Estimated Read Time: 5 Minutes

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”?

When consuming medical cannabis, the last thing chronic pain patients want are more negative effects.

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 the next day after consuming cannabis, 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, particularly when ingesting edibles
Having consumed cannabis products that have been contaminated by chemicals.
Consuming a potency that is too high for your tolerance.
Having consumed significant amounts of cannabis without drinking water

The symptoms of a weed hangover are not exactly the same as alcohol-induced hangovers, although many assume they would be the same when you see the list of side effects. They also go on to explain that the after-effects of cannabis use are said to be more tolerable than those induced by alcohol. Either way, some similar symptoms present between alcohol hangovers and cannabis hangovers.

Hangover Symptoms include:

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

Taking Preventative Measures against Cannabis Hangovers

Even when taking measures to prevent a marijuana hangover, there are no guarantees. Despite that, let’s have a look at some things cannabis users 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 to avoid overconsumption
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 cannabis consumption to avoid residual effects from dehydration

How to Get Rid of Weed 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 enough 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 pain, 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 feeling hungover. If you think you may have experienced a “weed hangover” in the past, let us know in the comment section below.

Note: The content on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be professional medical advice. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or prescribe treatment based on the information provided. Always consult a physician before making any decision on the treatment of a medical condition.

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Posted by Chane Leigh

Chane Leigh, aka The Bud Fairy, is a South African cannabis advocate and enthusiast with a firey personality and a thirst for travel. She loves to educate people and to question the norms.

Post Your Comments

RUE says:

February 26, 2021 at 6:50 am
Say BF, how’s it , just wondering what are some of the name of weed over there?
Reply
- Chane Leigh says:
  
  March 5, 2021 at 5:37 am
  Hi RUE,
  In South Africa we have much of a strain called Durban Poison, which has won awards at the Cannabis Cup. However, you can also find a lot of Malawi strains such as Malawi Gold as well as Swaziland cannabis including Swazi Gold and African Buddha.
  Reply