Hydration is Key: Your First Priority
When consuming cannabis, one of the most common side effects is xerostomia, or 'cottonmouth,' caused by cannabinoids binding to receptors in your salivary glands, reducing saliva production. While this isn't true dehydration, staying properly hydrated is crucial for comfort. Water is your most important tool, especially before, during, and after your session.
- Plain Water: The simplest and most effective solution. Drinking plenty of water keeps your mouth moist and supports your body's overall balance. Sipping slowly and having a bottle on hand is a great strategy.
- Fruit-Infused Water: If plain water is boring, add fresh fruits like cucumber, lemon, or berries for a refreshing twist. This adds flavor without the dehydrating effects of sugar.
- Coconut Water: Packed with electrolytes, coconut water is an excellent hydrator and a great alternative to sugary sports drinks.
Drinks to Enhance Your High
For those looking to complement or enhance their cannabis experience, certain beverages can interact with cannabinoids or terpenes in interesting ways. Consuming these drinks about 45 minutes to an hour before your session is often recommended for maximum effect.
- Mango Juice: Mangoes contain myrcene, a terpene also found in some cannabis strains. Myrcene is believed to help THC cross the blood-brain barrier faster and more efficiently, potentially creating a quicker onset and more intense high.
- Tea: Black and green teas contain catechins, antioxidants that can promote a more relaxing and euphoric feeling by binding to your brain's CB1 receptors. Chamomile tea is another excellent option for its calming effects. Be mindful that some teas contain tannins that can worsen dry mouth.
- Chocolate Milk (Unsweetened): Unsweetened cocoa contains polyphenols, which are natural antioxidants, and can boost serotonin levels, helping to improve mood. Some believe the fats in milk can aid in the absorption of cannabinoids.
Drinks for Managing the Munchies
The post-consumption munchies are a well-known phenomenon, with cannabis stimulating appetite and making food more appealing. Choosing the right beverage can help satisfy cravings without overindulging.
- Smoothies: A great way to satisfy a sweet craving while getting nutrients. Blend fresh fruits, vegetables, and hydrating liquids like milk or coconut water.
- Herbal Teas: Soothing herbal teas like mint or ginger can be a satisfying, low-calorie way to address cravings and aid digestion.
Drinks to Avoid
To have the best possible experience, some drinks are best avoided or limited, as they can exacerbate common cannabis side effects.
- Alcohol: Mixing alcohol and cannabis can intensify the effects of both, leading to heightened sensations and potential discomfort. Alcohol is also a diuretic, which can contribute to dehydration.
- Sugary Sodas and Energy Drinks: High-sugar drinks can lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes, which might intensify feelings of anxiety or irritability. The high sugar and artificial additives are not beneficial for overall wellness.
- Caffeinated Beverages: Caffeinated drinks can worsen dry mouth and potentially heighten anxiety or paranoia in some users. Opt for decaf options if you need a warm beverage.
Comparison of Popular Drinks While High
| Feature | Water | Mango Juice | Herbal Tea | Sugary Soda | Alcohol |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hydration | Excellent | Good | Good | Poor | Poor |
| Cottonmouth Relief | High | Medium | High (Soothing) | Low (Aggravating) | Low (Aggravating) |
| Effect Enhancement | Low | High (Myrcene) | High (Catechins) | None | Risky (Potentiating) |
| Munchie Management | Low (Filler) | High (Satisfying) | High (Soothing) | High (Aggravating) | Low (Impulsive) |
| Calming Properties | High | Low | High | Low | Low (Anxiety-inducing) |
| Flavor | Neutral | Sweet/Fruity | Earthy/Floral | Sweet | Varies |
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best drink to have while high depends on your personal needs, whether it's hydrating to combat cottonmouth, enhancing the effects of your cannabis, or managing munchies. Water is always the safest and most effective baseline, providing essential hydration. For those seeking to elevate their experience, mango juice offers a natural boost via myrcene, while herbal teas can promote a more relaxed state of mind. By avoiding dehydrating and overly sugary or alcoholic beverages, you can cultivate a more positive, comfortable, and controlled high, enhancing your overall well-being. Always prioritize hydration and listen to your body's cues for the most enjoyable session. For further reading, consult authoritative sources on cannabinoid interactions and hydration.
The Role of Terpenes
For those curious about the synergistic effects of food and cannabis, exploring the role of terpenes is fascinating. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis, that contribute to their unique scents and flavors. Beyond smell, they interact with cannabinoids to modulate their effects. For example, the terpene limonene, found in citrus fruits, can have mood-elevating and anxiety-reducing properties, while pinene, found in pine nuts and herbs, may improve alertness. By pairing cannabis strains with beverages containing complementary terpenes, you can consciously tailor your high. For instance, pairing a strain rich in limonene with a lemon-infused water could amplify its uplifting effects. Similarly, combining a myrcene-dominant strain with mango juice aims to deepen the relaxed sensation. Understanding this interplay allows for a more personalized and intentional consumption experience.
Mindful Consumption and Hydration Habits
Being mindful of your hydration is a practice that benefits you whether or not you consume cannabis. For cannabis users, it’s an important aspect of managing common side effects. Make a habit of keeping a water bottle handy and regularly sipping from it. For a tasty and effective hydration strategy, consider making large batches of fruit-infused water or iced herbal tea to keep in the fridge. For a warm, soothing option, especially for winding down, a mug of chamomile or ginger tea is perfect. By focusing on responsible and mindful consumption, including your beverage choices, you can ensure a more pleasant and comfortable experience every time.
Seasonal Drinks for a High
Your ideal high-time drink can also be influenced by the weather. In cooler months, a warm beverage is comforting and can help with relaxation. A warm mug of chamomile or cinnamon tea can be very soothing. During warmer weather, cold drinks are best. A chilled glass of fruit-infused water, a refreshing mango smoothie, or a thirst-quenching coconut water are excellent choices for a cool-down. Regardless of the temperature, avoiding sugary and alcoholic drinks remains the best advice for a healthy and balanced experience.
