Managing Your Tolerance

Cannabis Edible Products sold at Lightshade Dispensaries

Like any type of substance the human body does build up a tolerance to cannabis. Specifically, cannabis tolerance occurs when a person’s CB1 receptors temporarily vanish and due to the decrease in receptors THC is unable to bind and a person is unable to get “high”. This may sound like a serious problem however research has shown that that CB1 receptors are resilient and begin to replenish after two days and continue to replenish for 3-4 more weeks until they are ready to accept new THC visitors.Cannabis tolerance can be reversed by reducing the rate of consumption or abstaining completely for a set duration so that the more noticeable, psychoactive effects of cannabis can return at fuller potency.

A cannabis tolerance break can also consist of changing a patient’s regular routine, which can influence the effectiveness of cannabis and the way it interacts with the mind and body. For example, skipping consumption in the morning may encourage the onset of stronger effects during evening consumption. Ultimately, the length and severity of a tolerance break depends on the individual and his or her consumption patterns.Patients who opt to take a tolerance break should remember that when they make their return to the plant, it’s important to scale back the quantity that’s typically consumed. The longer the break taken, the further down the ladder one should start; otherwise, there’s a risk of feeling overwhelmed by the potency and effects that once seemed muted or manageable.

Research and education information courtesy of Holos Health | Dr. Joseph Cohen, D.O.