In one of his specials, comedian Katt Williams mentions that one of the effects of cannabis is hunger or munchies. Have you ever experienced an urgent need to eat something after consuming cannabis? Hunger or munchies is a common effect of cannabis, which results from THC interacting with the human system. In this piece, we shall explore everything you need to know about the munchies, including what causes them, strains that induces hunger, and how to manage them.
What causes marijuana munchies?
THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol, the intoxicating compound found in cannabis plants, is one of the many compounds that interacts with the Endocannabinoid system. The ECS comprises a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids and is responsible for maintaining optimum body functioning (homeostasis).
Through this interaction, THC binds to the receptors in the hypothalamus, an area in the brain that regulates mood, appetite, and temperature. THC triggers the release of certain neurotransmitters, including ghrelin, also known as the “hunger hormone.” High levels of ghrelin results in increased appetite, which causes a person to have a deep desire to eat, aka munchies.
Popular strains that induce munchies
While THC is the primary compound that induces the munchies, other compounds (terpenes, cannabinoids) play a role in how intense the craving for food will be and how long it takes. Examples of these terpenes include Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene, Pinene, and Linalool. Below is a highlight of three strains known for their ability to induce the munchies;
Girl Scout Cookies: This Indica strain is renowned for its potent effects and often leads to intense munchies cravings.
OG Kush: A strain that doesn’t need an introduction, OG Kush is known to heighten appetite and enhance food enjoyment.
Green Crack: besides its ability to elevate energy levels, Green Crack has been reported to stimulate appetite and increase the desire for snacks.
Experiences with these strains will vary, depending on multiple factors, such as dosage, previous experience with cannabis, and method of consumption.
The potential benefits of marijuana munchies
Cannabis’s ability to induce the munchies plays a vital role in improving the quality of life of cancer and HIV/AIDS patients. Most of these patient experience appetite and weight loss and the munchies provide a solution to both. The restoration of appetite improves the quality of life of the patients.
Take away
Understanding the munchies is quite simple: THC interacts with the neurotransmitters in the hypothalamus, leading to the release of the hunger hormone. Although the munchies are often associated with indulgent eating, there are multiple benefits, including the restoration of the quality of life of patients with medical conditions, such as cancer and HIV/AIDS. To avoid overindulgence, approach cannabis-induced munchies mindfully to maintain your overall well-being
Where to purchase munchies-inducing cannabis strains
You can purchase munchies-inducing cannabis strains, such as OG Kush, Green Crack, and Girl Scout Cookies from Canada Cannabis Dispensary. We stock top-tier strains at the best prices. Besides flowers, we also sell edibles, vapes, and accessories.
Visit the site and enjoy multiple deals and discounts.
