Nausea. It is a miserable feeling. Many patients use cannabis to relieve nausea, but could it contribute to your nausea? The cannabis nurses at 2 Leaf Nurses want to help you achieve symptom relief without unpleasant side effects. So, let’s explore possible reasons for your cannabis queasiness.
If you become nauseated after smoking cannabis, you need to evaluate your dosing. Everyone has an individual optimal dose, and you may be overdoing it. Cannabis is biphasic, meaning that you may experience different effects depending on the dose. Higher doses may lead to anxiety, paranoia, and even nausea, while lower amounts may alleviate those symptoms. More is not always better. Optimal dosing will provide the most benefits with the least amount of unwanted side effects. If cannabis queasiness strikes, decrease your dose by 50%. If needed, you can slowly increase the dose for symptom management. Some patients find it helpful to mix CBD flower with their THC-rich flower – the CBD may minimize unwanted THC aftereffects. CBD and THC are cannabinoids that work together (along with other cannabinoids and terpenes) to provide optimal whole plant therapy.
Since we mentioned terpenes, let’s look at how they affect your experience. Terpenes are compounds that contribute to a particular cultivar’s overall aroma and taste. There are over 200 terpenes in cannabis! However, what smells enchanting to one nose may make another nose crinkle in disgust. If you find the aroma disagreeable, inhaling its smoke will intensify the unpleasantness, possibly leading to nausea. Your nose knows what you need. When visiting your favorite medical marijuana dispensaries, take the time to sniff a few flowers. Let your nose be your guide. Take time to explore. Find a flower type that makes you go in for a second sniff.
Medical marijuana labels do not always list terpenes. It may be beneficial to “train” your nose to become familiar with specific terpenes’ aromas. How you smoke your cannabis may also contribute to nausea triggers. If joints are your jam, try using rolling papers that are unbleached, unflavored, and not “fast-burning.” Additives in these products may trigger individual sensitivities. Or skip the papers altogether and try blunts rolled in tobacco leaves (be mindful that the leaves contain nicotine.) Pipes and bongs are popular choices as well. Water pipes or bongs offer a cool and smooth toke, but be aware that they may enable you to take a more significant dose than usual (remember, optimal dosing…). Clean your pipes and bongs often to prevent resin and residue build-up, which may interfere with the smell and taste of those incredible terpenes.
Lastly, you may have a bad flower. Cannabis, like all plants and crops, can harbor mold, mildew, and other contaminants. Cannabis purchased from a licensed medical marijuana dispensary is screened for microbial growth, heavy metals, and other harmful chemical residues. Like additives in papers, these contaminants may trigger unwanted symptoms when inhaled into your lungs. Those that use patient–cultivated cannabis may also want to check into having it screened or tested for contaminants.
As impressive as cannabis is, all medicines carry the risk of undesired outcomes, even whole plant therapy. Adverse side effects can be a temporary nuisance or may need further exploration with an experienced cannabis nurse. Remember, keep your dosing low and slow as a new patient or if you are experiencing unwanted side effects. Use your nose – it knows what you need. A whiff of flower should bring you happiness, not a gag reflex. Keep your smoking method additive-free if you find yourself sensitive to certain products. Pipes and bongs should be kept sparkling clean! Minimize exposure to potentially harmful contaminants by purchasing from a medical marijuana dispensary or having patient cultivated cannabis lab tested. You do not have to navigate medical marijuana alone! The compassionate and experienced cannabis nurses at 2 Leaf Nurses are available to support you on your medical marijuana journey. Every medical marijuana patient deserves a nurse that cares. Book your consultation today through our website.
Disclaimer: The information provided by 2 Leaf Nurses is for educational purposes only. Nothing contained within this website should be construed as nor intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. This information should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health care provider before embarking on a new treatment, diet, or fitness program. You should never disregard medical advice or delay seeking it because of any information on this website.
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