While the old stereotype is that marijuana users are lazy, many modern cannabis fans are avid fitness enthusiasts. People are using cannabis pre and post-workout, and some even say they use it to improve their athletic performance. But can marijuana really help you work out?
Anecdotal and scientific evidence that suggests marijuana may help improve post-workout recovery and help you enjoy exercising more. Let’s go over five ways marijuana could help you work out.
Cannabis and Enjoying Exercise
Anecdotally speaking, many people say weed helps them focus and get in the zone for their workouts, and just generally makes the process more fun. When working out is more enjoyable, it creates a more positive relationship with fitness. In turn, that can make you want to work out again in the future.
There haven’t been many studies done on cannabis and working out, specifically. However, findings from other studies can give a clue as to why people say cannabis makes their workout routines more fun. Studies have shown that low doses of marijuana can be good for stress reduction and cognitive function, both of which could make working out more enjoyable.
With that said, high doses of THC aren’t ideal for heavy workouts, workouts requiring precise timing, or workouts requiring excellent motor skills. THC can slow reaction times and decrease stability. So while many enjoy using low-dose cannabis for lighter workouts, it’s not a great idea to consume a high dose of THC right before lifting weights or doing complex forms of exercise.
Cannabis and Reducing Inflammation
Cannabis’s ability to reduce inflammation has been intensely studied. Many studies show that marijuana appears to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may give it the ability to do things like ease chronic pain and reduce swelling.
After you exercise, you will experience some inflammation. Inflammation is a crucial part of building muscle mass, increasing blood flow, and recovering post-workout. However, while some inflammation is expected, you don’t want to experience intense inflammation after a workout. Intense inflammation can cause pain, soreness, and stiffness in the short-term. Long-term, it can lead to chronic inflammation and a wide range of health issues.
You can take steps to ensure you don’t experience excessive inflammation after a workout. Many things recommended by trainers–like stretching, massage, and taking rest days–can help keep inflammation levels down. Consuming things with anti-inflammatory effects, such as cannabis, may also help keep inflammation levels down.
Cannabis and Pain Relief
Numerous studies suggest that cannabis can ease pain. Medical marijuana studies have found that the compounds in marijuana plants can ease muscle pain, joint pain, and even nerve pain.
Some experts, such as psychology and neuroscience professor Angela Bryan, say that this may help people stay active, especially older people. “As we get older, exercise starts to hurt, and that is one reason older adults don’t exercise as much,” says Bryan. “If cannabis could ease pain and inflammation, helping older adults be more active, that could be a real benefit.”
Cannabis and Easing Muscle Spasms
While muscle spasms can be a normal part of the muscle recovery process, they’re uncomfortable to experience. Some studies show that marijuana may have medicinal properties that can help those experiencing spasms. Research has found that cannabis can help treat muscle spasms related to the diseases multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s, and animal studies suggest it could help reduce post-workout muscle spasms.
Cannabis and Sleep
Getting better sleep benefits not only your athletic performance, but also your overall wellness. And improved sleep happens to be one of the most studied benefits of marijuana. THC can induce sleep, while CBD may improve sleep quality and help reduce daytime fatigue. For athletes who struggle with sleep quality or duration, a CBD or cannabis product could be beneficial.
Final Thoughts
Many people enjoy incorporating marijuana into their fitness plan, but only you can decide if that would be right for your health. If you’re considering using cannabis as a part of your workout regiment, experts typically recommend starting with a low dose and gentle exercise. Start low and slow, then see how you feel from there.
Microdosing is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to consume cannabis. But what is microdosing and how do you start if you’re a beginner? We’re answering these questions and more in this cannabis microdosing guide. We’ll explain what microdosing is, why people do it, and how to start, then share some recommendations for easy-to-use microdosing products for beginners.
What is Cannabis Microdosing?
Microdosing is the act of consuming small amounts of cannabis. The idea behind microdosing is that consuming tiny amounts of marijuana can give you the benefits of cannabis while reducing the risk of unwanted side effects. Some people take microdoses of cannabis as needed or desired, while others consume a daily dose like a supplement.
What Counts as a Microdose?
Anything below 10 mg of THC can be considered a microdose, but microdose products typically range from 1 mg to 5 mg of THC per dose.
What’s the Point of Microdosing?
The point of microdosing is to get the beneficial effects of cannabis without experiencing other effects. People may want to avoid feeling strong psychoactive effects or the adverse side effects associated with potent doses of marijuana, such as dry mouth or fatigue.
Microdosing is also a great option for beginner consumers who are new to cannabis. Microdosing offers an excellent entrypoint into using marijuana, as it allows you to easily experiment and find your ideal dose.
What Are the Benefits of Microdosing?
Some research has shown that lower doses of THC may have more benefits when used in lower doses. A 2017 study on the effects of marijuana on mental health found that while THC causes anxiety in high-dose conditions, it decreases anxiety at low-dose conditions. A 2012 study found that cancer patients in clinical settings who took the lowest doses of nabiximols, a THC/CBD compound, had less pain than those who took higher doses. A 2014 study found that low doses of Nabilone, a synthetic form of the active compounds in cannabis, reduced symptoms of PTSD, including insomnia, nightmares, and chronic pain.
Who Uses Low-Dose Cannabis Products?
People microdose for a variety of reasons, so a wide variety of people use low dose cannabis products. We’ve already mentioned that microdosing is popular with beginner cannabis consumers. Then, it’s also popular with medical marijuana patients and a range of more experienced recreational consumers.
Microdosing is common among cannabis patients who use marijuana for medical benefits like pain relief. Consuming small doses of cannabis allows patients to get relief for their condition, while also allowing them to go about their day without experiencing psychoactive or negative effects.
Experienced cannabis consumers sometimes use microdosing as a way to get the benefits of cannabis more regularly or as a way to reset their tolerance. Over time, the body can develop a tolerance to the cannabinoids in cannabis, but microdosing can help heavy smokers reset their system.
It’s worth noting that microdosing has been a very popular trend among workers in certain industries, including creative industries and tech workers in the Silicon Valley community. Some workers consider microdoses of various psychoactive and psychedelic substances to be a tool for productivity, creativity, and general cognitive enhancement. In those communities, it’s popular to microdose with both magic mushrooms and cannabis.
How Do You Microdose Cannabis?
The easiest way to microdose cannabis is by using low-dose cannabis edibles. Microdosing with other methods requires investing in a high quality scale and still having to rely on guesswork. But pre-packaged edible products from a dispensary allow you to easily take the exact mg dose you desire.
How Do You Find Your Optimal Dose?
When you first start microdosing, it’s best to start low and go slow. Anything under the standard dose of THC (10 mg) is considered microdosing, but beginners should usually start much lower than that. A general rule of thumb is to start by taking 2.5 milligrams a day for three days. Then, if you don’t feel your desired effect, go up a couple of milligrams for the next few days. Repeat as needed until you find your ideal normal dose.
Microdosing Products For Beginners
With precisely 2.5 mg of THC in each mint, these refreshing mints are perfect for microdosing beginners.
These low-dose gummies feature indica-like terpenes for a relaxing effect.
For those who want to microdose without having a snack, these THC soft gels are an ideal choice.
Break off a piece of this delicious milk chocolate bar for a customized THC microdose.
Final Thoughts
Need help finding the right microdosing product for you? Stop by one of our dispensary locations or contact us by phone or email.
Chronic pain is a common symptom experienced by millions of people around the world. It can affect daily life and lead to decreased quality of life. However, medical cannabis may offer potential benefits for chronic pain patients. Cananabis-based medicines contain active compounds, such as THC and CBD, that interact with the body's cannabinoid receptors, which may help reduce pain severity and improve other symptoms. In this blog, we will explore the potential benefits of THC and CBD for chronic pain management, the medical conditions that cannabis-derived products may help with, and the adverse effects and legal concerns surrounding their use. We will also discuss the different forms of medicinal cannabis available, the starting dose, and the daily dose of THC and CBD ratio for pain relief.
THC and CBD are both cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, and they have gained a lot of attention for their potential therapeutic benefits, particularly for pain relief. Both compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body, which is responsible for regulating various functions such as pain, inflammation, and immune response.
THC is known for its psychoactive effects, and it has been found to offer pain relief by binding to CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system. When THC binds to these receptors, it can produce feelings of euphoria or relaxation, which can help alleviate body pain symptoms. This mechanism of action makes THC particularly useful for pain caused by conditions such as neuropathic pain, which can be difficult to manage with traditional pain medications.
CBD, on the other hand, may offer pain relief by interacting with the TRPV1 receptor, which is involved in pain signaling. This receptor plays a crucial role in the perception of pain and inflammation, and when CBD interacts with it, it can help reduce pain and inflammation. CBD has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be particularly useful in managing pain caused by conditions such as people with arthritis.
Another important aspect of THC and CBD for pain relief is their different ratios and doses. The right combination of THC and CBD, as well as the right dosage, can have a significant impact on the effectiveness of pain relief. Additionally, the way that THC and CBD are consumed can also have an impact on their pain-relieving properties. For example, smoking or vaporizing cannabis may produce more immediate effects, while ingesting cannabis-based products may produce longer-lasting effects.
It's important to note that while THC and CBD have shown promise for pain relief, more research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms of action and potential benefits. Additionally, cannabis-based medicines may not be suitable for everyone and may have adverse effects, particularly when used in high doses or with other medications such as blood thinners.
Overall, the potential benefits of THC and CBD for chronic pain management are promising, and many medical professionals see them as a potential alternative to opioids. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before using cannabis-based products for body pain relief and to carefully consider the potential benefits and risks.
Cannabidiol (CBD) has been gaining attention in recent years for its potential therapeutic effects on various health conditions, including chronic pain. Several studies have suggested that CBD may help reduce pain and inflammation by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system and other receptors, such as the serotonin and vanilloid receptors.
One study published in the European Journal of Pain found that CBD applied topically to the skin could help reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Another study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine suggested that CBD may help reduce chronic pain and neuropathic pain by targeting the alpha-3 glycine receptors.
CBD may also be effective in managing symptoms of multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia, which are two conditions that are known to cause chronic pain. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, researchers found that CBD reduced pain and spasticity in people with multiple sclerosis. In another study published in the Journal of Pain Research, researchers found that CBD may improve the quality of life in people with fibromyalgia.
While these studies provide promising results, more research is needed to fully understand the potential therapeutic effects of CBD on chronic pain and related conditions. It's also important to note that CBD may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and should be used with caution. As always, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD or other cannabis-based medicines for chronic pain management.
CBD has emerged as a potential alternative treatment for chronic pain, particularly in cases where conventional pain management methods are ineffective or have adverse side effects. Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce pain and inflammation by interacting with various receptors in the body, including the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating pain and inflammation.
Research has also shown that CBD may be effective in managing pain associated with conditions such as multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that CBD, when combined with THC, could significantly reduce pain intensity and improve sleep quality in patients with multiple sclerosis. Similarly, a review of existing literature found that CBD may be beneficial in managing pain and improving quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia.
Overall, while more research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of CBD for chronic pain, the existing evidence suggests that it may be a promising option for those seeking alternative forms of pain management.
When it comes to choosing between THC and CBD for pain relief, it's important to consider your individual preferences and needs. Both compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which can help regulate pain and inflammation. However, THC is known for its psychoactive effects, which can cause altered perception and mood changes, making it less tolerable for some individuals. On the other hand, CBD is non-intoxicating and may be more suitable for individuals who want to avoid psychoactive effects or who have conditions that cause inflammation.
It's also important to note that THC may be more effective for certain types of pain, such as nerve pain. In a clinical study, patients with neuropathic pain who used cannabis-based medicines containing THC experienced significant improvement in pain severity compared to those who used a placebo. However, the study also reported adverse effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness.
CBD, on the other hand, has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects on various pain conditions, including multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia. Some human studies have reported moderate improvements in pain symptoms with the use of CBD oil for pain management. Additionally, CBD has been investigated as an alternative to opioids for chronic pain management, with some research suggesting that it may have fewer adverse effects and lower risk of addiction compared to opioids.
Ultimately, the choice between THC and CBD for pain relief should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, taking into account the potential beneficial effects and adverse effects of each compound, as well as any legal concerns and individual medical conditions.
Both THC and CBD may cause side effects, such as dry mouth, dizziness, and changes in appetite. THC may also cause psychoactive effects, such as altered perception and mood changes. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before using cannabis products for pain relief. Additionally, the legality of cannabis products may vary depending on the state or country.
When it comes to choosing a THC or CBD product for pain relief, it's important to consider your individual needs and preferences. There are a wide variety of products available, each with their own unique benefits and drawbacks. For example, THC may be more effective for certain types of pain, such as nerve pain, but it can also cause psychoactive effects that some individuals may not tolerate. On the other hand, CBD may be more suitable for individuals who want to avoid psychoactive effects or who have conditions that cause inflammation.
It's also important to consider the form of the product. Tinctures, topicals, and edibles are just a few of the many options available. Topical CBD products may be more suitable for localized pain, while edibles may be more convenient for individuals who want a long-lasting effect.
Ultimately, the choice of THC or CBD product will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for managing your chronic pain.
In conclusion, the potential therapeutic effects of THC and CBD for chronic pain have been extensively studied and show promise in providing relief for individuals suffering from this debilitating condition. However, it's crucial to approach the use of cannabis products with caution and responsibility. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any cannabis product, and choosing the right product that suits your needs and preferences is also important.
Furthermore, it's important to be mindful of the potential side effects associated with the use of medical cannabis products, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and impaired cognitive function. It's also crucial to be aware of the legal status of cannabis products in your region and ensure that you are purchasing products from reputable sources.
If you're interested in exploring the potential benefits of cannabis products for pain relief, we encourage you to visit DC Collective, a trusted and reputable dispensary that offers a wide range of high-quality cannabis products. Their knowledgeable staff can help guide you in selecting the right product to suit your needs and answer any questions you may have. Take the first step towards finding relief today by visiting DC Collective.
⚠️WARNING: Products sold on this site can expose you to chemicals including marijuana smoke, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information, go to http://www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
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