People have self-reported using cannabis as a way to alter their mood for a long time—upward of 4,000 years1. Given the euphoric effects of THC, this isn't surprising—it can temporarily give some people a lift. However, there's more to cannabis than the THC "high." The cannabinoid and terpene mix in different strains can elicit different responses in people—they can make you feel giddy, giggly, sleepy, relaxed or energized. Cannabis can also offer more positive, long-term benefits, including mood enhancement and stabilization.
Cannabis can also offer more positive, long-term benefits, including mood enhancement and stabilization.
The Endocannabinoid System
When we talk about using cannabis for wellness, we're really talking about cannabinoids—chemical compounds that occur naturally in cannabis and, when consumed, interact with the human endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system helps regulate how you process different physical and mental sensations, including pain, emotions, stress and so on. Homeostasis is maintained in part through the cannabinoid receptors that monitor your body's metabolic activities and response to different stimuli. The cannabinoids inhaled or ingested from cannabis naturally supplements your endocannabinoid system in a way that can help you modulate and process emotions, trauma and more.