Understanding how different strains and cannabinoids interact with your body can help you gain more control over your cannabis high experience. Knowing the difference between a head high vs. a body can bring consistent, familiar benefits to cannabis use. 

Head High vs. Body High: Why There’s a Difference

According to recent estimates, there are over 700 different strains of cannabis. Each strain has its own potency, aroma, and purity. So, it’s not surprising that each experience using cannabis can be different.. 

While understanding the difference between head highs and body highs is important, you can discover which is the best experience for you.

Start with the Basics

The Endocannabinoid System

It might not sound basic, but the endocannabinoid system is a critical step in achieving your optimal cannabis high. So, how do cannabinoids in the cannabis plant interact with our bodies?

Whether you are a cannabis geek or a novice, you’ve probably heard of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – the compound in cannabis responsible for its psychoactive effects – and CBD (Cannabidiol). They are the two most common cannabinoids in the cannabis plant.

These substances interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) – a nerve cell-signaling system that regulates essential bodily functions such as mood, memory, sleep, reproduction, and appetite. 

Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD influence and enhance this essential system.

The Effects of Different Strains

Depending on your dosage and quality of strains, cannabinoids in those strains control the type of effect marijuana causes in your ECS.

THC and CBD content categorize three common strains of cannabis and the effects each might produce:

  • Sativa – Sativa plants originate from Europe and Eurasia and have a high THC content. Because of this, Sativa is known to produce a “mind high” and is often associated with feelings of creativity, productivity, energy, and excitement.
  • Indica – Indica strains are known to have higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC than Sativa plants. Because of this composition, they offer “body highs” and benefits such as relaxation and increased appetite. Indica strains can also help relieve migraines and nausea. 
  • Hybrid strains – Hybrid strains are a combination of Sativa and Indica plants. The effects you will see will depend on the THC to CBD ratio. 

A user’s experience will also vary depending on dosage, medical conditions, general physiology, and personality. 

Different Kinds Of Cannabis Highs

What Is a Head High?

A “head high” or “mind high” refers to the psychoactive effects of THC. During a “mind high,” you are likely to feel more alert, motivated, and energetic. 

Many people also experience a rush of creative thinking and enjoy the ability to make quicker, logical connections. Additionally, THC is considered a wake-promoting agent, meaning when consumed in the morning, it can make you feel more awake and productive. 

Furthermore, users experience head highs primarily when cannabis directly enters the lungs–thus, the bloodstream. You might not get the same effects through edibles because the psychoactive compounds will be filtered through the liver. 

What Is a Body High?

A “body high” refers to a feeling of physical relaxation and calm. Indica plants offer these feelings mainly with high levels of CBD and lower levels of THC. During a “body high,” you can enjoy muscle relaxation, reduced pain, and relief from conditions such as migraines.

When the CBD in these strains calms down your ECS and the nervous system’s signaling, you can enjoy a temporary feeling of deep relaxation and peace.

 New studies also show that the long-term use of high-CBD cannabis strains can help relieve anxiety and stress.

Which Is the Best High For You?

Once you know how different cannabis strains impact your body and mind, you can choose from strains according to various factors, such as:

  • The time of the day – While Sativa plants are wake agents and get you ready for your day, body highs can help you relax in the evenings and improve your sleep.
  • Your personality – Energetic and anxious people might benefit from the calming effects of a body high while head highs might result in unnecessary extra anxiety.
  • Your health goals – Moreover, body highs can help with pain management. On the other hand, the strain you consume will also influence your appetite and might not support your weight loss journey.
  • The way you consume cannabis – Don’t forget that the way you consume cannabis will influence your experience. For example, edibles and products filtered through the liver will aid a body high. Conversely, smoking or vaping cannabis can boost the effects of cannabinoids on the brain, producing a mind high.

Let a Professional Help You Choose

When it comes down to choosing your best cannabis experience and finding consistency, consulting a professional can help you forego the trial-and-error phase. 

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