8 Ways to Boost Your Cannabis High

Over time, the effects of cannabis can start to wane, but they don’t have to! Whether it’s going for a run, taking a break, or eating some dark chocolate, there are plenty of ways to rekindle that high. Let’s dive in and explore these tips.

1. Choose Strains Wisely

One of the simplest ways to boost your high is by choosing the right strain. If you’re growing your own, look for strains that are known for high THC or THCA levels. Remember, though, that optimal growing conditions are key to maximizing potency. A lower-THC strain grown perfectly can be more potent than a higher-THC strain grown poorly.

When selecting strains, consider the terpenes too. If you want an energetic high, go for strains high in limonene. For a more relaxed experience, look for myrcene-rich strains. Use tools like our Seedfinder to help you choose and our growing guides to get the best results.

But why stop there? Here are some other important factors to consider when choosing the right strain:

• Genetics and Breeding: The genetics of a cannabis strain determine its overall potential. High-quality seeds from reputable breeders are more likely to produce potent and flavorful plants. Research the lineage and breeding practices behind a strain to ensure you’re getting the best.
• Cannabinoid Profile: While THC is often the focus, other cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and CBN can influence the overall experience. Strains with a balanced cannabinoid profile can provide a more nuanced and enjoyable high.
• Lab Testing: When purchasing cannabis, look for lab-tested products. Lab reports provide detailed information about the cannabinoid and terpene content, helping you make an informed decision.
• Personal Preferences: Everyone’s body chemistry is different. What works for one person might not work for another. Experiment with different strains and take note of how they affect you to find your perfect match.

2. Store Weed Well

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining potency. Use airtight glass or steel containers to keep your weed fresh. Air exchange can dry out your buds or introduce too much moisture, so airtightness is essential. Humidity packs (58–62% RH) can help maintain the right balance. Keep your buds in the dark, as light degrades THC, and store them in a cool place to prevent heat damage.

For added flavor, store your weed with orange or lemon peels to infuse terpenes from the fruit.

To delve deeper, let’s discuss the science behind proper storage:

• Oxidation: Exposure to air causes oxidation, which can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes, reducing potency and flavor. Airtight containers prevent this.
• Humidity Control: Cannabis needs to be stored at the right humidity level to prevent mold and mildew while keeping the buds from drying out. Humidity packs help maintain this balance.
• Light Exposure: UV light can break down cannabinoids, especially THC. Keeping your cannabis in a dark place preserves its potency.
• Temperature Control: High temperatures accelerate the degradation of cannabinoids and terpenes. Store your cannabis in a cool, stable environment to extend its shelf life.
• Terpene Infusion: Using fruit peels to infuse terpenes adds a unique flavor to your buds, enhancing the overall smoking experience. Just be sure to check for mold and change the peels regularly.

3. Change Up Your Routine

If your regular stash isn’t doing the trick, consider changing your routine. Overuse can build tolerance, diminishing the effects. Try smoking at different times of the day, or reduce your frequency to keep your body guessing.

Let’s explore some specific ways to shake up your routine:

• Timing: If you’re used to smoking in the evening, try waking and baking. Alternatively, if you’re a morning smoker, wait until later in the day. Changing the timing of your sessions can make a big difference.
• Dosage: Experiment with different dosages. Sometimes, consuming less can actually produce a more intense high. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you find the sweet spot.
• Environment: Change your surroundings. Smoke in a different room, go outside, or create a new smoking space with comfortable seating and ambient lighting. A fresh environment can enhance your experience.
• Company: Who you smoke with can impact your high. Try smoking alone for a more introspective experience or with friends for a more social and lively high.
• Mindset: Your mental state plays a significant role in your high. Practice mindfulness and set intentions before smoking to create a more meaningful experience.

4. Change Up Your Methods

Varying how you consume cannabis can alter your experience. Try different methods like vaping or using a bong. Edibles and concentrates offer more potent effects, but proceed with caution as they are much stronger than smoking. Always start with low doses until you know how they affect you.

Here’s a breakdown of different consumption methods and their effects:

• Smoking: The most traditional method, smoking provides a quick onset of effects but can be harsh on the lungs. Joints, blunts, and pipes are common choices.
• Vaping: Vaping heats cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes without combustion. It’s smoother on the lungs and can offer more flavor than smoking.
• Edibles: Edibles take longer to kick in (30 minutes to 2 hours) but provide a more intense and long-lasting high. Start with a low dose (5-10 mg of THC) and wait to see how it affects you before consuming more.
• Tinctures: These liquid extracts are taken sublingually (under the tongue) and provide a quicker onset than edibles. They allow for precise dosing and can be added to food or drinks.
• Topicals: Cannabis-infused creams, balms, and lotions are applied to the skin for localized relief without psychoactive effects. They’re great for pain and inflammation.
• Dabbing: Dabbing involves flash vaporizing concentrates (wax, shatter, rosin) using a dab rig. It’s potent and provides an intense high, so it’s best for experienced users.
• Capsules: Cannabis capsules are easy to dose and provide a smoke-free option. They work similarly to edibles but are more discreet.

5. Eat the Right Foods

Certain foods can enhance your high. Black or green tea contains catechin, an antioxidant that binds to CB1 receptors in your brain, enhancing the effects of cannabis. Dark chocolate (72% cacao or more) slows down the breakdown of anandamide, extending your high. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids help synthesize endocannabinoids. Look for terpenes in foods like mangoes (myrcene) and sage (pinene) to boost THC effects.

Let’s explore more about how these foods interact with cannabis:

• Catechin: Found in tea, catechin boosts the body’s ability to process and utilize cannabinoids. Drinking tea before or after consuming cannabis can enhance and prolong your high.
• Dark Chocolate: Cacao contains anandamide, a compound similar to THC. Consuming dark chocolate slows the breakdown of anandamide, sustaining the euphoria and relaxation associated with cannabis.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats are critical for brain health and play a role in the endocannabinoid system. Foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts can help your body better utilize cannabinoids.
• Terpenes in Food: Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. Consuming foods high in terpenes can amplify the effects of cannabis. For example, myrcene (found in mangoes) enhances THC’s effects, while pinene (found in herbs) can boost alertness and memory.
• Peppercorn: If you ever feel too high, chewing on a few peppercorns can help counteract the anxiety and paranoia that sometimes accompany a strong high. The terpene beta-caryophyllene in peppercorns has a grounding effect.
• Spicy Foods: Capsaicin, the compound that makes chili peppers hot, can enhance the effects of cannabis by increasing blood flow and potentially amplifying the psychoactive effects.

6. Exercise

A healthy lifestyle can improve your cannabis experience. Exercise reduces body fat where THC is stored, releasing it more effectively. Studies suggest cardio sessions can raise blood-THC levels by 15%. Plus, exercise boosts your mood and overall health, complementing the effects of cannabis.

Here’s a deeper look at the connection between exercise and cannabis:

• Endocannabinoid System: Exercise stimulates the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in mood, pain, and appetite regulation. This natural boost can enhance the effects of cannabis.
• THC Release: THC is stored in fat cells and released during exercise. This can lead to a mild high or enhance the effects of cannabis consumed before or after a workout.
• Runner’s High: The euphoria felt after a good workout is similar to a cannabis high. Combining the two can create a powerful sense of well-being and relaxation.
• Mind-Body Connection: Activities like yoga, tai chi, and meditation can deepen the connection between mind and body, making your cannabis experience more holistic and fulfilling.
• Social Benefits: Group activities like team sports or fitness classes can enhance the social aspects of cannabis use, making it a more enjoyable and connected experience.

7. Take a Tolerance Break

If all else fails, consider a tolerance break. Taking a break for a month or more allows cannabinoids to leave your system, making your next high more potent. This can be challenging, but it’s a healthy way to reset your body’s response to cannabis.

Here’s how to approach a tolerance break effectively:

• Plan Ahead: Set a start and end date for your tolerance break. Choose a time when you don’t have significant social or work obligations that might tempt you to consume cannabis.
• Stay Occupied: Find activities to keep you busy during your break. Exercise, hobbies, and spending time with friends can help distract you from cravings.
• Healthy Habits: Focus on building healthy habits during your break. Eat well, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep to support your body and mind.
• Support System: Let friends and family know about your break so they can support you. Consider joining online forums or support groups for additional encouragement.
• Mindfulness and Reflection: Use this time to reflect on your cannabis use. Think about why you consume cannabis and how it fits into your life. This can help you develop a healthier relationship with it when you resume.
• Gradual Reintroduction: When your break is over, reintroduce cannabis gradually. Start with small doses to see how your body reacts, and adjust accordingly.

8. Incorporate Natural Highs

Sometimes, it’s not about consuming more but about enhancing your environment. Try these activities to boost your high:

• Gardening or Being in Nature: Nature enhances your senses and mood, complementing your cannabis experience. Gardening can be a meditative activity, and being outdoors can make your high more enjoyable.
• Breathing Exercises and Yoga: These practices can elevate your mind and soothe your body, deepening your high. Controlled breathing and mindful movements can enhance the relaxation and euphoria from cannabis.
• Listening to Music: Music can make your high more powerful than watching TV, providing a more active and immersive experience. Create playlists that match your mood and enjoy the synergy between music and cannabis.
• Art and Creativity: Engage in creative activities like painting, drawing, or writing. Cannabis can enhance your imagination and help you tap into a more creative mindset.
• Socializing: Spend time with friends and loved ones. Social interactions can enhance your mood and make your cannabis experience more enjoyable.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness or meditation while high. This can help you connect more deeply with your thoughts and emotions, making your cannabis experience more introspective and meaningful.

Enhancing Your High: There Are Many Possibilities

If your cannabis high isn’t hitting the same spot, consider taking a tolerance break first. Afterward, experiment with these methods to find what works for you. Sometimes, it’s not the high but how you’re spending your time that’s the issue. Try new activities and rekindle your love for cannabis.

Conclusion

Enhancing your cannabis high is all about exploring different approaches and finding what works best for you. From choosing the right strains and storing your weed properly to changing your consumption methods and incorporating natural highs, there are countless ways to elevate your experience. Remember to prioritize your health and well-being, and don’t be afraid to take a break if needed. With these tips, you can rediscover the magic of cannabis and enjoy a more fulfilling relationship with this remarkable plant.