Hemp Hangover

  • Cannabis hangover can cause headaches, mental fog, nausea, and red eyes
  • Some users still deny this phenomenon, while others admit experiencing the symptoms
  • Hangover with medical cannabis occurs only when consuming excessively large doses

For some a well-known fact, for others still a very dubious mystery - the "cannabis hangover" is becoming increasingly mentioned and can manifest with a range of symptoms, from headaches to mental fog.

To better understand the phenomenon of the cannabis hangover, we must look at the limited number of studies conducted on this topic and the experiences of users themselves. We will also attempt to dispel some of the common misconceptions that still exist among users.

Research on "Cannabis Hangover"

Understandably, due to decades of prohibition, there are not yet sufficient studies on this topic. However, some data is available and can serve at least as an informational starting point, which we can connect with unofficial experiences and insights of medical cannabis users and their subjective view of the "cannabis hangover".

The most famous study on this topic is a research published in 1985. In this experiment, researchers used only a small number of test subjects, a total of just 13 participants. All subjects (notably, they were exclusively men) were given either a placebo or a joint containing cannabis with THC strength of 2.9%.

After administration, they were given various behavioral tasks, such as card sorting, recalling a previous event, or time perception tests. The next day, the tests were repeated after all participants had a good night's sleep. Researchers then noted a residual effect only in those who received actual cannabis and noted that "the results suggest that marijuana application may cause residual hangover-like effects the following day. The exact nature and extent of these residual effects and their practical implications remain undetermined."

Another study from 1998, again using only a small number of subjects, this time 10 men. The study's finding was that "the residual effect of one cannabis cigarette is minimal". While the results of this study are considered sufficiently significant, there is still room for doubt, especially due to the small number of people studied and observation of the effect of only one joint.

Confessions of Cannabis Users

Most unofficial data confirming the existence of a cannabis hangover comes from users who tend to consume much larger amounts of cannabis than just one joint. These are especially those who not only smoke or vaporize cannabis but also consume very potent cannabis edibles. While some available data support these unofficial claims, researchers are still not entirely sure and call for further, more thorough research.

What Cannabis or Cannabis Products Cause a Hangover?

Most data suggests that a cannabis hangover is caused, as with most substances, by excessive use. However, since medical cannabis is such a unique and flexible herb that affects everyone differently, we must consider factors such as tolerance, THC content, individual health status, and so on. What is little for one person can be too much for another. (More in the article "Cannabis Dosage - Less is More")

As mentioned, the most common cause is excessive consumption of cannabis concentrates or edibles. The cannabis hangover phenomenon is less common among users who only smoke cannabis.

"Regardless of the method of consumption, in case of a hangover, it might be enough to reduce the dose and find a more balanced state without noticeable prolonged negative effects."

Does Cannabis Cause Dehydration?

Many sources claim that medical cannabis directly causes dehydration, which can result in hangover-like symptoms. Some sources even go so far as to claim that cannabis is more dehydrating than alcohol. However, this "well-known fact" is not supported by any scientific research.

In fact, with cannabis, it's only a dry mouth effect that is considered dehydration. In reality, it's not dehydration, but simply a lack of saliva in the mouth.

Why does cannabis cause dry mouth? Studies show that THC molecules also bind to glands responsible for saliva production (submandibular glands). When this binding occurs, there is a temporary cessation of saliva production and a subsequent unpleasant dry mouth sensation.

However, proper hydration is very important when using cannabis or not. Many people today forget about proper fluid intake, which can ultimately lead to a whole spectrum of health issues that not even medical cannabis will likely resolve if you don't start maintaining proper hydration.

While cannabis does not directly cause dehydration, neglecting adequate fluid intake can certainly cause hangover-like symptoms.

Cannabis Hangover Symptoms

The vast majority of reported cannabis hangover symptoms include headaches, concentration problems, nausea, or dry eyes. Since the previously mentioned studies did not address any of these symptoms, we must rely on users' claims. There are enough common characteristics, so it's possible to count on at least some validity of these unofficial data.

1. Lack of Concentration and Mental Fog

If you've ever woken up feeling lethargic, unfocused, and generally dazed, you've encountered the familiar mental fog. This symptom can quite complicate a smooth start to the day. Mental fog is not pleasant, but there are a few ways to get out of it and reignite your battery:

  • Start moving. Staring at a monitor in the morning won't help much. Try starting with a short walk or jog instead.
  • Take a cold shower. Cold or even icy showers have been proven to refresh the senses. The shock of cold water boosts your cardiovascular system and forces you to take a deep breath, which ultimately results in increased alertness.
  • Adjust your diet. Ensure you're eating quality foods and staying sufficiently hydrated.
  • Try a stimulant. Those who need a more intense boost can try caffeine or guarana.

These methods are not guaranteed mental fog killers, but they might help you get your day started in some way.

2. How to Deal with Headaches

Headache is another most frequently mentioned cannabis hangover symptom. Dehydration is, as we mentioned, possibly the most common cause. So if you consume large doses of medicinal cannabis, remember to drink plenty of water.

However, if you wake up with a headache, it's best to follow classic treatment methods:

  • Cold compresses
  • Temple massages
  • Medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, etc. (ensure you follow dosage instructions)

3. Treating Nausea

Although nausea is not as common as headaches or mental fog, it does occur in some users. If you're one of them, try to start your morning slowly - stay well-hydrated and consume only light foods. If the problem persists, see your doctor.

4. Help for Dry, Red Eyes

Medical cannabis causes dilation of eye capillaries, which results in noticeable eye redness. For most users, this effect quickly dissipates, but if you wake up with still red eyes, try some gentle, hydrating eye drops.

Cannabis hangover remains a controversial topic for many. Until sufficient data is available to confirm or refute this phenomenon, it is recommended to pay attention to proper dosage. The saying "everything in moderation" obviously applies to medical cannabis as well.