3 Ways to Consume Cannabis Without Getting High
At Hempster, we believe it won’t be long until many cannabis products are consumed like vitamins and other daily-dose nutraceuticals. For most people, that will mean using products that offer therapeutic benefits without an intoxicating high.
Here are our three favourite ways to consume cannabis and still feel clear-headed enough for a day of work and parenting.
CBD
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp. In studies, it has been shown to reduce inflammation, pain, nausea and anxiety.
In 2017, the World Health Organization declared that CBD is neither harmful nor habit-forming. As such, the organization recommended that CBD should not be classified as a scheduled or controlled substance.
CBD can be an effective treatment for various forms of epilepsy, and may also provide therapeutic benefits for conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, depression, cancer, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, IBS and Crohn’s and anxiety, among others.
Currently, the only legal CBD products in Canada are derived from cannabis, and available from licensed producers by prescription. The legal CBD market is expected to expand significantly once the Cannabis Act is enacted.
Cannabis topicals
Researchers are still studying exactly how CBD and THC-infused topicals work, and why even high-THC topicals don’t typically cause psychoactive highs. But early studies and early adopters alike say the creams, bath salts and balms can reduce pain, inflammation, muscle tension and itchy skin.
It’s worthing noting that transdermal patches offer a topical delivery designed to penetrate into the bloodstream, and can cause a psychoactive high. However, these products are not currently legal in Canada.
Microdosing
Although CBD can do quite a lot on its own, many cannabis researchers believe it works better in combination with other cannabinoids and terpenes than it does in isolation. This phenomenon is known as the entourage effect.
Microdosing is the practice of consuming the lowest dose necessary for the desired effect. The technique is increasingly popular with patients seeking to harness THC’s proven analgesic effects while minimizing its psychoactive impact.
The takeaway
Whether consuming cannabis for strictly medicinal reasons or for fun, it’s generally accepted wisdom to start low and go slow. Every individual experiences cannabis differently and the best way to avoid negative side effects is to approach it conscientiously. Track dosages and effects, and wait for a new session before gradually increasing the dose.
Interested in exploring your medical cannabis options? Book a free consultation with a Natural Care prescriber today, or call 1-888-671-8022 with your questions.
