Cannabis: If You’re Trying to Relieve Stress Less is More. Here’s How Much You Need.

Cannabis is often used for its stress-relieving effects, but recent studies suggest that the dose is crucial. While low doses of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the active ingredient in cannabis, can reduce stress, higher doses may actually increase anxiety and tension.¹ So, how much do you really need to relieve stress effectively?

The Science Behind Stress and Cannabis

Research from the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of Chicago examined how THC affects stress response. The study revealed that THC’s impact on stress relief is highly dose-dependent. While small doses help reduce stress, slightly higher amounts can have the opposite effect.² This finding is significant, especially as more people use cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes.

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Low THC Levels: Stress Relief Sweet Spot

In the study, participants who took 7.5 milligrams of THC—equivalent to just a few puffs of a cannabis cigarette—experienced lower stress levels compared to a placebo group. Their stress dissipated faster after completing stressful tasks like a mock job interview and mental math exercises.³ This low-dose group demonstrated that a small amount of THC might be enough for stress relief without the risk of anxiety.

Too Much THC Increases Anxiety

On the flip side, participants who received 12.5 milligrams of THC reported more negative emotions and higher anxiety throughout the same tasks. They described the situations as more challenging and threatening, indicating that a higher dose of THC might exacerbate stress rather than relieve it. “Our findings show that THC can have both positive and negative effects depending on the dose,” explains lead researcher Emma Childs.

No Change in Heart Rate or Blood Pressure

Interestingly, despite the changes in perceived stress levels, the study did not find any significant differences in participants’ heart rate, blood pressure, or cortisol (a key stress hormone) between the groups. This indicates that while the THC in cannabis can influence how we feel about stress, it may not necessarily impact our physiological stress markers.

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The Importance of Moderation

While cannabis can be a useful tool for managing stress, it’s essential to use it in moderation. According to the research, keeping THC doses low is the key to achieving stress relief without the risk of increased anxiety. “It’s important to recognize that more isn’t always better when it comes to using cannabis for stress management,” says Childs.

Practical Takeaways for Cannabis Use

For those considering cannabis to relieve stress, experts recommend starting with the lowest effective dose and increasing gradually if needed. Keeping THC levels under 7.5 milligrams may help reduce stress without triggering anxiety. As more research emerges, these findings offer valuable insights into the complex relationship between cannabis, stress, and overall well-being.

Finding Balance in Stress Relief

In conclusion, if you’re turning to cannabis to relieve stress, less is more. Low doses of THC can help ease tension and promote relaxation, but higher doses may do more harm than good. As cannabis use continues to rise, understanding the importance of dosage could be the key to effective stress management.

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