For many cannabis enthusiasts, the experience of getting high is a significant part of why they enjoy using the plant. The euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception that come with consuming cannabis can be a welcome escape from the stresses of daily life. However, some people find that over time, they are no longer able to achieve the same level of high they once did. This can be frustrating and confusing, leading to questions about what has changed and how to recapture that initial experience. In this blog, we’ll explore the possible reasons why you might no longer be able to get high and what you can do about it.

Navigating the Cannabis High Experience

Before diving into the reasons why you might no longer be able to get high, it’s important to understand what happens in your body and brain when you consume cannabis. The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis is delta-9 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). When you consume cannabis, THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in your brain, particularly the CB1 receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system. This binding triggers a series of chemical reactions that result in the effects we associate with being high, such as euphoria, relaxation, altered sensory perception, and sometimes even an increase in appetite.

The intensity of the high can vary depending on several factors, including the strain of cannabis, the method of consumption, and your individual tolerance. For most people, the first few times they use cannabis can result in a powerful high because their body is not yet accustomed to the effects of THC. However, with repeated use, the body begins to build a tolerance to THC, which can reduce the intensity of the high over time.

To explore more about how your body adapts to cannabis, you can check out our related blog post, How Quickly Does Your Body Get Used to Cannabis? This will provide deeper insights into the mechanisms behind cannabis tolerance and what you can do to manage it.

Here are some insights into why you might no longer be able to get high:

1. Increased Tolerance

One of the most common reasons why you might no longer be able to get high is increased tolerance. Tolerance occurs when your body becomes accustomed to the presence of THC, leading to a reduced response over time. Essentially, the more frequently you consume cannabis, the more your body adapts to it, requiring larger amounts to achieve the same cannabis effects.

Tolerance develops because the CB1 receptors in your brain become desensitized to THC with repeated use. In some cases, these receptors may even decrease in number, a process known as downregulation. As a result, the same amount of cannabis that used to get you high may no longer have the same effect, leaving you feeling like you’re not getting the desired experience.

How to Manage Tolerance:

• Tolerance Breaks: One of the most effective ways to reset your tolerance is to take a break from cannabis. Even a short break of a few days to a week can help your CB1 receptors recover and become more sensitive to THC again. After the break, you may find that you’re able to achieve a high with a smaller amount of cannabis.
• Switching Strains: Sometimes, switching to a different strain of cannabis can help you overcome tolerance. Different strains have varying levels of THC, as well as different profiles of other cannabinoids and terpenes, which can affect the overall experience.
• Moderation: Reducing the frequency and amount of cannabis you consume can help prevent tolerance from building up too quickly. By using cannabis less often, you can prolong the effectiveness of the high.

For additional reading about cannabis tolerance, you can check out this article from Healthline.

2. Changes in Brain Chemistry

In addition to tolerance, changes in brain chemistry over time can also affect your ability to get high. The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including mood, appetite, and pain perception. Chronic cannabis use can lead to changes in the balance of endocannabinoids in your brain, which can alter how you respond to THC.

For example, regular cannabis use may lead to an increase in the production of an enzyme called FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase), which breaks down anandamide, an endocannabinoid that produces effects similar to THC. Higher levels of FAAH can reduce the overall activity of the endocannabinoid system, making it more difficult to achieve a high.

How to Address Changes in Brain Chemistry:

• Diet and Supplements: Certain foods and supplements may support the endocannabinoid system and promote overall brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and flaxseed, are known to support endocannabinoid function. Additionally, foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries and dark chocolate, can help protect brain cells from oxidative stress.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to increase the production of endocannabinoids in the brain. Exercise can also help reduce stress and improve overall mental health, which may enhance your response to THC.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness and meditation can help you become more attuned to your body and mind, potentially enhancing your ability to experience the effects of cannabis. These practices can also reduce anxiety and stress, which can sometimes interfere with the cannabis high.

3. Psychological Factors

Your mental state and environment play a significant role in how you experience cannabis. If you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or distracted, you may find it harder to get high, even if you’re using the same amount of cannabis as before. Additionally, if you’re using cannabis as a coping mechanism for stress or other negative emotions, you may find that it becomes less effective over time.

The concept of “set and setting” is often discussed in relation to psychedelic experiences, but it also applies to cannabis. Your mindset (“set”) and physical environment (“setting”) can influence how you respond to cannabis. If you’re in a relaxed and comfortable environment, you’re more likely to have a positive experience.

How to Improve Your Set and Setting:

• Create a Relaxing Environment: Before consuming cannabis, take some time to set up a space where you feel comfortable and relaxed. This could include dimming the lights, playing soothing music, or spending time in nature.
• Mindful Consumption: Practice mindfulness while using cannabis. Pay attention to how you feel before, during, and after consumption. This can help you identify any factors that might be affecting your ability to get high.
• Addressing Stress and Anxiety: If you’re using cannabis to cope with stress or anxiety, consider exploring other methods of managing these feelings, such as therapy, exercise, or relaxation techniques. Reducing overall stress in your life may improve your ability to enjoy the effects of cannabis.

4. Product Quality and Potency

Another factor to consider is the quality and potency of the cannabis product you’re using. Not all cannabis is created equal, and the potency of THC can vary significantly between different strains and products. If you’ve recently switched to a lower-potency product, you may find that it’s not providing the same level of high as you’re used to.

Additionally, the method of consumption can affect how much THC enters your bloodstream and how quickly it takes effect. For example, smoking or vaping cannabis typically results in a faster and more intense high than consuming edibles, which take longer to metabolize and can produce a more gradual effect.

How to Ensure Product Quality:

• Check THC Content: When purchasing cannabis, check the label for the THC content to ensure you’re getting a product with the potency you’re looking for. Higher THC levels generally result in a stronger high.
• Buy from Reputable Sources: To ensure you’re getting a high-quality product, buy your cannabis from reputable dispensaries or sources. Look for products that have been tested for purity and potency.
• Experiment with Different Methods: If you’re not getting high from your usual method of cannabis consumption, try experimenting with different methods. For example, if you’ve been smoking, you might try vaping or using a tincture to see if it produces a different effect.

Conclusion

There are several reasons why you might no longer be able to get high from cannabis, including increased tolerance, changes in brain chemistry, psychological factors, and the quality of the product you’re using. The good news is that there are ways to address these issues and potentially recapture the experience of getting high. By taking a tolerance break, improving your mental state and environment, and ensuring you’re using a high-quality product, you can increase your chances of achieving the desired effects from cannabis. With a little patience and experimentation, you can rediscover the joy of the cannabis high.