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Cannabis Tolerance Breaks: How to Reset Without the Myths
Cannabis Tolerance Breaks: How to Reset Without the Myths
Cannabis Tolerance Breaks: How to Reset Without the Myths
Does your medical marijuana seem to lack its usual therapeutic effects? It may be time for a THC tolerance break, commonly called a T-break.
Why do people develop cannabis tolerance?
Cannabis mimics natural molecules that interact with receptors in our body’s endocannabinoid system. Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive compound in cannabis. THC works by binding to type CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the brain. Unfortunately, daily cannabis use can saturate the receptors and reduce medical marijuana’s effects.
The good news is that cannabis tolerance isn’t a permanent condition. The idea that a person can build endless tolerance to cannabis is a myth. The truth is that CB1 receptors will reset after about 3-4 weeks of abstinence.
Ways to slow down cannabis tolerance
Factors like genetics, gender, and metabolism determine how the body processes medical marijuana. However, lifestyle also has an impact on cannabis tolerance. For example, a person who takes Rick Simpson Oil daily will develop tolerance faster than someone who smokes or vapes on weekends.
Fortunately, you can make adjustments to your routine to slow the development of tolerance.
Taking short T-breaks
One technique is to skip cannabis on days when your symptoms are less severe. A 2016 study found that CB1 receptors become more available after breaks as short as two days.
Control your dosage
Consume the lowest dose necessary to relieve your symptoms. Once you feel better, stop smoking, vaping, or consuming edibles.
Microdosing
If you can’t take a day off, you may want to practice microdosing cannabis. Microdosing can give you symptom relief while reducing tolerance. This practice involves consuming doses as low as 1-2 milligrams, depending on the potency of the cannabis product.
Strain Rotation
Cannabis strain rotation is another approach that medical marijuana (MMJ) doctors recommend. For example, someone taking cannabis for chronic pain may save high-THC concentrates for difficult days. When body aches are less intense, they may try products with less THC or take pure cannabidiol (CBD).
CBD and THC balance each other somewhat. This is because CBD can block THC molecules when they try to bind to CB1 receptors.
Another reason to rotate your strains is “strain fatigue.” The body gets used to the cannabinoid and terpene profiles in specific cannabis varieties. When this happens, you may feel changes in how your usual strain affects you.
Change Consumption Methods
Another way to slow tolerance development is to change your consumption methods. Instead of taking high-THC edibles every morning, you could try vaping only when your symptoms are strongest. Or if you’re used to smoking throughout the day, switch to a tincture or lower-dose edibles. The body processes edibles and smokable cannabis in different ways.
Changing your habits can help slow tolerance development. But most people can benefit from a cannabis tolerance reset from time to time.
How to manage cannabis withdrawal
Managing cannabis withdrawal can be challenging. Taking a break from THC often comes with uncomfortable symptoms like irritability, insomnia, and loss of appetite. Some heavy consumers also experience nausea, restlessness, headaches, and brain fog.
You can use CBD tinctures, gummies, or topicals to manage THC withdrawal symptoms. Other supplements, such as Omega-3 oil and black pepper extract, will also help your cannabinoid receptors recover.
You’ll also want to get plenty of rest. CBD sleep tinctures that contain cannabinol (CBN) and melatonin can help with sleep disturbances.
Relaxing activities such as light exercise, meditation, and nature walks can help reduce stress during your T-break. If mobility is an issue, try relaxing with creative hobbies or even binge-watching Netflix.
The good news is that the most severe cannabis withdrawal symptoms usually peak during the first week. The grumpy moods and sleepless nights should be over within two weeks.
Debunking common myths about tolerance breaks
Some sources consider the need for a tolerance break as a sign of addiction. However, MMJ patients who take regular T-breaks are practicing moderation to enhance the effectiveness of their treatment.
Another common myth is that drinking large quantities of water will “flush” your system and reduce T-break time. Cannabinoids like THC are actually fat-soluble molecules that take up residence in fatty tissues. While it’s important to stay hydrated, gulping excess water won’t help you reduce THC’s effects or rid cannabis from your system faster.
Patients should speak to a qualified physician before starting a cannabis tolerance break. If you would like more information or to get your medical cannabis card, please contact us.
