Relaxing is an essential part of maintaining your overall well-being. Getting too stressed out or anxious can have some rather negative consequences, especially if you experience these feelings long-term. Not only do they impact your mental health, but they can affect your physical health as well. Cannabis can help you to relax at the end of the day. Several chemicals in weed provide the desired effects, helping you to unwind and recharge.
CBD
CBD and THC are the two most well-known cannabinoids in weed. CBD is the non-psychoactive compound, where THC is the one that gets you high. CBD is also the cannabinoid many people associate with relaxation. While it doesn’t interact directly with the CB receptors in your endocannabinoid system, it does interact indirectly. It can keep certain receptors from getting activated by blocking them. For instance, it can keep THC from binding with CB receptors, which can counteract the psychoactive effects as well as the euphoric ones, allowing you to relax rather than get high or mentally stimulated.
CBD also interacts with other receptors in your body that aren’t related to the endocannabinoid system, including serotonin and vanilloid receptors. In regards to your serotonin receptors, CBD doesn’t boost serotonin levels. Instead, it mimics the natural chemical to activate the receptors, which can then help to reduce anxiety and help you to relax.
CBD also binds with vanilloid receptors. These receptors play a role in your perception of pain. By interacting with the receptors, CBD can help to dampen pain, allowing you to relax more completely.
THC
CBD might be associated with relaxation, but THC can help, too. For those with anxiety connected to depression, the cannabinoid can help to lift your spirits. When you’re in a better mood, it’s easier to relax. The thing to keep in mind with THC, however, is that too much can have the opposite effect. Getting too much can make your anxiety worse, making relaxation much more difficult.
A well-balanced CBD to THC strain can help. CBD counteracts the psychoactive effects of THC, which can prevent unwanted effects. Another important thing to keep in mind is your dose. If you’re new to using cannabis for relaxation and choose a THC-dominant strain, start with a very low dose and gradually work your way up to find the smallest amount that works best for you.
Terpenes to Promote Relaxation
Cannabinoids aren’t the only chemicals in weed that promote relaxation. The plant is full of compounds called terpenes. Their main job is to provide cannabis with its smell and taste. They also play a part in the effects you feel.
Some terpenes are known to boost your mood or energize you. Others can help you to relax. Some of the ones to keep an eye out for when choosing a strain for relaxation include:
- Linalool
- Limonene
- Myrcene
- Caryophyllene
Everyone deserves some time to kick back and relax. If you’re finding it difficult, cannabis may be able to help. Visit your local dispensary and speak with a budtender for some helpful tips and insights that can help you to unwind and reach a full state of zen.
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