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Have you ever experienced uncontrollable shaking after smoking weed? If so, you’re not alone. Many cannabis users report experiencing “weed shakes” after consuming cannabis. But what causes these tremors, and how can you prevent and manage them? In this blog post, we will dive into the phenomenon of weed shaking, explore the science behind it, discuss prevention methods, and provide tips for managing cannabis-induced tremors if you find yourself “shaking” after a smoke session.
Short Summary
- Understand the contributing factors and science behind weed shaking to manage or prevent it effectively.
- Take measures such as mindful dosing, strain selection, staying warm & comfortable, practising relaxation techniques and considering CBD supplementation to mitigate chances of experiencing weed shakes.
- Seek medical help if experiencing persistent or severe shaking or have underlying health conditions affected by cannabis consumption.
Understanding Weed Shaking
Weed shaking is a relatively common but often misunderstood side effect of cannabis consumption. By understanding the factors contributing to weed shakes and the science behind them, you can better manage and even prevent this unsettling experience, often called “get the shakes.”
So let’s delve into the world of weed shaking and learn what triggers it and how it affects your nervous system.
What are Weed Shakes?
Weed shakes, also known as cannabis shakes, are involuntary muscle tremors that can occur shortly after consuming cannabis. These shakes are typically harmless and short-lived, but they can be quite uncomfortable and distressing for some users. One of the leading causes of weed shakes is anxiety resulting from excessive THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Consuming too much THC can cause overstimulation of the nervous system, leading to anxiety and involuntary muscle spasms.
The duration of weed shakes varies depending on the method of cannabis consumption. For instance, if you smoke or vape cannabis, the shakes may last approximately 20 minutes, whereas if you consume edibles, they can persist for up to an hour. While these tremors can be disconcerting, anecdotal reports suggest they are generally not harmful and will dissipate independently.
Common Triggers
Several factors can contribute to weed shakes, including cold environments, overstimulation, anxiety, and excessive THC consumption. The type of cannabis strain you consume can also play a role in triggering weed shakes, as strains with higher THC levels are more likely to cause anxiety and muscle tremors. In addition, combining cannabis with central nervous system stimulants such as caffeine or nicotine can exacerbate weed shaking.
Another potential explanation for weed shakes is low blood sugar, which can cause tremors after smoking cannabis. Consuming too much THC can also overstimulate the amygdala, a part of the brain responsible for fear and anxiety, leading to heightened fear responses and subsequent shaking.
In any case, understanding these common triggers can help you take steps to minimize your risk of experiencing weed shakes.
The Science Behind Cannabis-Induced Tremors
While the scientific reason behind cannabis-induced tremors remains unclear, we know that THC and other cannabinoids in cannabis can have both anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which may help alleviate muscle spasms, contractions, and cramps. However, these benefits seem to be counteracted by the anxiety-inducing effects of THC in some individuals, leading to the shaking phenomenon.
Let’s explore the behavioural and temperature effects of THC on the nervous system and body temperature, which can contribute to cannabis-induced tremors.
THC’s Impact on the Nervous System
THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, and it can significantly impact the nervous system. When you consume cannabis, THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and throughout the body, influencing various physiological processes, including mood, appetite, and pain perception. However, excessive THC consumption can lead to anxiety and muscle tremors.
One theory behind weed shakes is that excessive THC intake may overstimulate the nervous system, leading to increased anxiety and muscle tremors. This overstimulation can be particularly problematic for individuals prone to anxiety or with a sensitive nervous system. In such cases, the heightened fear response triggered by THC can manifest as involuntary muscle spasms or shaking.
Body Temperature and Hypothermia
Cannabis consumption can also lead to THC-induced hypothermia, a slight drop in body temperature that can cause shivering and shaking. When you smoke weed, THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the hypothalamus, a part of the brain responsible for regulating body temperature. This interaction can lead to a slight decrease in basal body temperature, which, while not hazardous or life-threatening, can cause discomfort and shivering.
To counteract this drop in body temperature, it’s essential to stay warm and comfortable when consuming cannabis. A blanket or a hot shower can help raise your body temperature and alleviate the coldness resulting from THC-induced hypothermia. By being aware of this potential side effect, you can take steps to minimize the risk of experiencing weed shakes due to hypothermia.
How to Prevent Weed Shaking
Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to prevent weed shaking and enjoy your cannabis experience without the discomfort of involuntary muscle tremors. By being mindful of your dosage, choosing strains wisely, and avoiding the combination of cannabis with stimulants, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing weed shakes.
Let’s explore these preventative measures in more detail.
Mind Your Dosage
One of the most critical factors in preventing weed shaking is being mindful of your cannabis dosage. Consuming too much THC can lead to overstimulation of the nervous system and the subsequent onset of anxiety and muscle tremors. To avoid excessive THC intake, start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you reach a comfortable level.
Remember that everyone’s tolerance for cannabis varies, so it’s essential to listen to your body and adjust your dosage accordingly.
Choose Strains Wisely
Selecting the right cannabis strain can also be crucial in preventing weed shakes. Strains with balanced THC and CBD levels are recommended, as CBD can help counteract the anxiety-inducing effects of THC. Avoid strains with excessively high THC levels, as these are more likely to cause anxiety and muscle tremors.
When in doubt, consult with a medical cannabis professional or a knowledgeable budtender for strain recommendations tailored to your needs and preferences, including suitable cannabis cultivars.
Avoid Mixing with Stimulants
Another essential preventative measure for cannabis users is to avoid mixing cannabis with stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, as well as avoiding smoking weed. Stimulants can exacerbate the anxiety and muscle tremors associated with too much cannabis consumption, making weed shakes more likely.
By abstaining from stimulants when using cannabis, you can help maintain a calm and stable nervous system, reducing the risk of experiencing weed shakes.
Managing Cannabis-Induced Tremors
If you do experience weed shakes despite your best efforts, don’t panic. You can employ several strategies to manage cannabis-induced tremors and alleviate your discomfort. By staying warm and comfortable, practising relaxation techniques, and considering CBD supplementation, you can effectively reduce the intensity of your shakes and continue to enjoy your cannabis experience.
Stay Warm and Comfortable
As mentioned earlier, cannabis consumption can slightly drop body temperature, contributing to shivering and shaking, especially in a cold environment. To counteract this effect, stay warm and comfortable when using cannabis. Dress in layers, use a space heater or take a hot shower or bath to help raise your body temperature.
Staying warm and cosy can help alleviate the discomfort caused by THC-induced hypothermia and minimize the intensity of your weed shakes.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques can effectively manage cannabis-induced tremors by calming your anxiety and reducing muscle tension. Taking deep breaths, meditation, and yoga are all excellent ways to help calm your nervous system and alleviate the shaking associated with weed shakes.
Find a relaxation technique that works best for you and practice it regularly, especially when consuming cannabis, to help manage anxiety-induced tremors.
Consider CBD Supplementation
Finally, consider supplementing with CBD to counteract the effects of THC and reduce shaking. CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and calming properties, which can help alleviate anxiety and muscle tremors associated with cannabis consumption. Ingesting CBD oil or using a CBD tincture with rapid delivery methods can help mitigate the overwhelming effects of excessive THC intake and lessen shaking.
Consult with a medical professional or knowledgeable budtender for CBD supplementation and dosage guidance.
When to Seek Medical Help
While weed shakes are typically harmless and short-lived, there are instances when seeking medical help is essential. If you experience persistent or severe shaking or if you have underlying health conditions that could be exacerbated by cannabis consumption, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional.
Let’s discuss the circumstances under which you should seek medical assistance for weed shaking.
Persistent or Severe Shaking
If your shaking is persistent or severe, it may indicate an underlying issue, and you should consult a doctor. Persistent or intense shaking could indicate a neurological disorder or a more profound fundamental issue, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or essential tremor.
When seeking medical assistance, describe your alarming symptoms comprehensively, including the onset, duration, and any accompanying symptoms. Additionally, furnish a thorough medical history, including any medications or supplements you are taking.
Underlying Health Conditions
Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or cardiovascular disease, may be more likely to experience cannabis-induced tremors. Furthermore, those with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy may be more prone to cannabis-induced shaking.
If you have an underlying health condition and are concerned about the impact of cannabis consumption on your health, it’s essential to seek medical advice. By discussing your symptoms and concerns with a healthcare professional, you can receive guidance on managing your condition and safely consuming cannabis.
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult with a doctor if you’re unsure whether your shaking is related to an underlying health issue or simply a side effect of cannabis consumption.
Summary
Weed shaking can be an uncomfortable and distressing side effect of cannabis consumption for some users. However, by understanding the factors contributing to weed shakes and implementing preventative strategies, you can minimize the likelihood of experiencing these tremors. Whether it’s being mindful of your dosage, choosing strains wisely, avoiding stimulants, or managing your shaking with relaxation techniques and CBD supplementation, you can enjoy your cannabis experience without the discomfort of weed shakes. So, the next time you light up, keep these tips in mind and shake off those tremors confidently.cle tremors and shaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
[/vc_column_text][vc_accordion gutter_simple=”0″ active_tab=”0″ uncode_shortcode_id=”877638″][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”What is a weed shake mean?” tab_id=”d21d5937-3bb0-21555678914001ce56-249c1704314188316170431953726317043207789651704321719635170602828485217060500579181706051098652170614315276917062081371941706209231345″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”583604″]Shake is the small, dried pieces of marijuana that have broken off larger buds. It’s the tiny pieces left over in the bag or container after all the buds have been used.
Shake is still potent, and many people smoke it, making it a great budget option for cannabis users.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”Is it bad to smoke shaked weed?” tab_id=”6dad8f3c-7309-81555678914001ce56-249c1704314188316170431953726317043207789651704321719635170602828485217060500579181706051098652170614315276917062081371941706209231345″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”186978″]In general, it is not recommended to shake weed as the practice can lead to a loss of potency and terpenes compared to whole flowers.
Shaking for short periods or when necessary, however, can help improve the consistency of joints or bowls.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”Is shake stronger than nugs?” tab_id=”1706209279362-2-4″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”142397″]From what we can ascertain, the general consensus is that well-trimmed nugs will generally be of a higher quality and have a greater potency than shakes.
Therefore, it can be concluded that nugs are likely to be stronger than shake.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”Why am I shaking and vomiting after weed?” tab_id=”1706209298068-3-8″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”572023″]You appear to be experiencing symptoms of cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a rare condition in people who use cannabis. Symptoms include recurrent, severe vomiting and nausea, as well as compulsive bathing or showering to relieve the symptoms.
Certain medications may help alleviate nausea, but ultimately the only way to cure CHS is to stop using marijuana.25 Jul 2021.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”What causes weed shaking?” tab_id=”1706209317182-4-3″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”126194″]Weed shaking is generally caused by an imbalance in the brain’s neurotransmitters due to high THC levels in marijuana. This can lead to the body becoming overly stimulated, resulting in muscle tremors and shaking.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][/vc_accordion][/vc_column][/vc_row]
