Sativa varieties are usually associated with energizing and uplifting effects. Popular among both recreational cannabis customers and medical marijuana patients, sativas are often preferred for daytime use. For example, many enthusiasts enjoy sativa varieties while hiking, exercising, or socializing. The sativa side effects are often referred to as a “head high” because many users report feeling creative cerebral effects after consumption. However, individual experiences vary, and some users may encounter discomfort for various reasons.
What Are the Side Effects of Sativa?
Many of the premium sativa products found in Colorado dispensaries have incredibly high levels of THC. While this is what some people want from their cannabis experience, too much THC can cause negative side effects for others. It’s easy to overdo it with cannabis products, especially for those who have a high sensitivity to THC. Some people also report experiencing negative side effects after consuming indica and hybrid strains, but these issues are more common for those who use sativa products.
Anxiety
For many consumers, cannabis is the answer when they want to relax and unwind, but some people report having the opposite experience. According to the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute, smaller doses of THC appear to decrease anxiety, while larger doses appear to increase it. Consequently, sativa products—which tend to contain more THC than their indica counterparts—can provoke feelings of anxiety and paranoia and, in some cases, can even prompt panic attacks. This side effect is especially common among new users who aren’t well-versed in the effects of cannabis or haven’t determined their ideal dosage yet. People who have a pre-existing anxiety disorder also appear to be more prone to experiencing anxiety while using sativa products.
Thankfully, there are steps you can take to try to reduce any anxiety after consuming cannabis. These include:
- Don’t overdo it. If you’re not sure about your limits with cannabis, start slowly and proceed with caution. It’s always possible to have more when you feel ready.
- Don’t try cannabis in an environment where you’re not comfortable. If you’re with people you don’t know or trust, it might not be the time to have a lot of THC. Make sure you’re comfortable with your surroundings and your group.
- If you start to feel like you’re becoming anxious, see if you can do anything that normally calms you down. Examples of soothing activities could be getting under a comfortable blanket on the couch, going to a quiet room, taking a shower, or going on a short walk. It really depends on what would make you feel the most comfortable.
Insomnia
Many indica strains have the reputation of making people fall asleep, but sativas are designed to do the opposite. While you might welcome the creative effects of sativas, this probably isn’t what you want when it’s time for bed. If you find yourself getting frustrated because you have trouble sleeping after smoking cannabis, consider giving yourself more time between your cannabis session and your bedtime. Many people also like to choose other strains and completely avoid sativas at night.
It’s also worth noting that researchers suspect there may be a link between long-term cannabis use and insomnia. That means if changing your habits or switching out the strains doesn’t help, it may be worth trying a cannabis-free lifestyle to see if your sleep improves.
Lightheadedness
Orthostatic hypotension, commonly known as a head rush or dizziness upon standing, can be a potential side effect of marijuana use, increasing the risk of fainting and falls. This is because using cannabis, especially through smoking, can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure. This might be more noticeable when you get up suddenly after a period of relaxation.
If you experience lightheadedness, it's important to find a safe place to sit down and avoid any activities that could pose a risk. Thankfully, over time, many users develop a tolerance to these cardiovascular effects with repeated exposure.
The Munchies
The munchies are more commonly associated with indica strains, but they can sneak up on you any time you’ve had a lot of cannabis. Some people actually use cannabis to induce their appetites, while others hate getting the munchies because it makes it harder to stick to a healthy diet. The best way to avoid unwanted snacking is to only surround yourself with healthy options or distract yourself with other activities.
What To Do If the Effects Are Too Strong
Even experienced cannabis connoisseurs might get uncomfortable from time to time. If you start to feel like you’ve had too much THC, here is some popular advice from avid users that you might want to try:
- Try Some Pepper – This sounds bizarre, but Neil Young swears by this trick. Sniff some black pepper or chew on a few of the peppercorns. It might have something to do with the caryophyllene terpene, which is found in both cannabis and pepper and consequently might help users ground themselves.
- Distract Yourself – Try to focus on a different activity. Get creative, work out, or play a video game to distract yourself until the feeling passes.
- Try CBD – Some people say that adding some CBD or choosing high-CBD strains can help them feel better than strains that are all THC. Fast-acting CBD tinctures are often a good answer for too much THC. This may be because CBD can mitigate the neuropsychiatric side effects of THC.
- Rest – Sometimes, lying down can help people relax. Even a short nap can make you feel better if the effects of cannabis are too strong in the moment.
- Move Around – If you’re feeling too wound up to lie down, it may be helpful to go for a walk. Just avoid walking anywhere that will make you feel less safe. When feeling uncomfortable, it is not the time to go on an ambitious hike.
- Have a Snack – Many people say that drinking a big glass of cold water and eating a healthy snack can help them feel better if they’re too high after smoking a sativa strain. Remember to stay hydrated and feed yourself regularly when consuming cannabis.
Other Sativa Effects
When reading the side effects listed above, it might not make sativas sound very appealing. The good news is that most people report that those unintended effects are rare for them. More commonly, people say they feel happy, uplifted, and inspired after smoking a sativa strain. Cannabis is a personal experience, though, as it is largely based around each individual’s brain chemistry. It is encouraged by industry professionals to focus on the cannabis strains that appeal to you instead of following others. Know your own limits and stay within them rather than trying to catch up to someone with a higher tolerance.
Understanding the Terpene Profiles of Sativas
One of the factors that contribute to the unique effects of sativa strains is their terpene profile. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis and other plants that not only influence the plant's aroma but also interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to shape the overall experience. In sativa strains, terpenes like limonene, pinene, and terpinolene are often more dominant. Here’s a breakdown of some common sativa-associated terpenes and their effects:
Limonene: Known for its citrusy scent, limonene is associated with mood elevation and stress relief. It can contribute to the energizing effects of sativas, making them ideal for daytime activities. However, in high doses, limonene may also heighten sensitivity in those prone to anxiety.
Pinene: Found in pine needles and many sativa strains, pinene can promote alertness and memory retention. While it can help counteract some of the short-term memory effects of THC, it might also make users feel a bit more mentally active, which can be either a positive or overwhelming experience depending on the setting.
Terpinolene: Present in various herbs and spices, terpinolene is known for its uplifting effects and is commonly found in many sativa strains. Its unique flavor profile, ranging from floral to citrus, complements the creative, cerebral high typical of sativas. However, terpinolene may also amplify the energizing effects, potentially contributing to restlessness if consumed in excess.
Understanding the terpene profile of a sativa strain can help users better predict their experience and select products that align with their desired effects. For those who have experienced negative effects with certain sativas, exploring strains with different terpene combinations may offer a more suitable option.
Daytime Productivity with Sativas
Many users turn to sativa strains to boost productivity and focus during the day. These strains are commonly used as a natural alternative to caffeine or energy supplements. For some, sativas can enhance concentration, spark creativity, and provide the motivation needed to tackle complex tasks or engage in social activities. Here are some tips for using sativas to improve daytime productivity:
Microdosing: Consuming cannabis in small doses, or microdosing, can help achieve the desired effects without feeling overwhelmed. This method allows users to enjoy a mild uplift in mood and creativity without experiencing the stronger psychoactive effects that can lead to anxiety or distraction.
Choosing the Right Strain: For daytime use, select sativa strains known for their balanced effects. Strains like Jack Herer, Green Crack, and Super Lemon Haze are popular choices among users who seek an energizing yet manageable experience. These strains are often praised for their ability to provide a clear-headed high, which is crucial when engaging in tasks that require focus.
Pairing with Activities: Some users find that pairing sativas with specific activities enhances their benefits. For example, using sativa strains during creative tasks like writing, painting, or brainstorming can amplify inspiration. Similarly, sativas can be a great companion for physical activities like hiking or yoga, where an uplifted mood and increased sensory perception enhance the experience.
Balancing with Other Cannabinoids
THC is the primary psychoactive component in sativa strains, but it’s not the only cannabinoid at play. Other cannabinoids, such as CBD, CBG (cannabigerol), and CBC (cannabichromene), also interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to modulate the effects of cannabis. For those who find pure sativa strains too intense, considering strains with a more balanced THC-to-CBD ratio can offer a gentler experience.
CBD-Rich Sativas: Incorporating CBD into your cannabis regimen can help balance the effects of THC, reducing the likelihood of anxiety or paranoia. Strains like Harlequin or Sour Tsunami have higher CBD levels, which can mitigate some of the cerebral effects of sativas while still providing the energizing properties users seek.
Exploring CBG and CBC: While less prevalent in commercial strains, cannabinoids like CBG and CBC offer potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and mood-enhancing properties. Some users opt for products that include these minor cannabinoids to create a more well-rounded cannabis experience. At Options, we test our in-house grown flower for their full cannabinoid profile and can tell you if our flower has any of these other compounds in them.
Creative Exploration and Self-Expression
Sativa strains have long been associated with enhancing creativity and promoting self-expression. Artists, writers, musicians, and other creatives often turn to sativas to unlock new perspectives, overcome creative blocks, and dive deeper into their work. Here’s how sativas can enhance the creative process:
Boosting Idea Generation: The cerebral stimulation from sativas can help users think more abstractly and make connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. This can be particularly beneficial during brainstorming sessions, allowing new ideas to flow more freely.
Overcoming Mental Barriers: Many users report that sativas help them let go of self-doubt and embrace spontaneity. This can be crucial in creative pursuits where fear of judgment or overanalyzing can stifle progress.
Enhancing Sensory Experience: The heightened sensory perception associated with sativas can deepen one’s appreciation of music, art, and nature, offering a richer experience that fuels inspiration. For those involved in visual arts, the enhanced perception of colors and patterns can lead to innovative artistic expression.
Customizing Your Sativa Experience
Cannabis is a deeply personal experience, and the effects of sativa strains can vary significantly from person to person. Finding the right approach to sativa use involves understanding your body’s unique chemistry, experimenting with different strains, and adjusting your consumption methods. Here are some advanced tips for customizing your sativa experience:
Keeping a Cannabis Journal: Documenting your experiences with different strains can help you identify which sativas work best for you. Record details such as the strain, dosage, setting, and effects to fine-tune your future sessions.
Mixing Strains: For more seasoned users, blending different strains (a process known as "strain-stacking") can create a tailored effect. Combining a sativa with a milder hybrid or indica can smooth out the high, offering the best of both worlds.
Incorporating Terpene Supplements: Some users choose to enhance their cannabis experience by adding terpene supplements. These products allow you to amplify specific effects by introducing additional terpenes that complement your chosen strain.
Buy Sativa Strains in Wheat Ridge and Boulder
If the positive aspects of a sativa experience sound like the type of high you’re looking for, Options has a wide variety of premium sativa strains available. If you’re looking to stay awake but you want to avoid feelings of anxiety, the budtenders at Options can walk through what strains might be right for you. Visit either of our dispensaries in Wheat Ridge or Boulder to find fresh strains from the best growers in Colorado. Our Wheat Ridge dispensary serves both recreational cannabis customers and medical marijuana patients, while our Boulder dispensary is only for recreational cannabis. Come visit either location today or place an order online for maximum convenience!
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