We’ve all been there: you take a huge hit and can’t… stop… coughing. But don’t worry! Someone in the sesh reminds you that coughing makes you high.
But, is that true? Does coughing make you higher when smoking weed, or is this just another cannabis myth?
Let’s find out.
Coughing After Smoking Cannabis
No matter how long you’ve been smoking weed, it’s normal to have a few coughs once in a while. Both brand-new smokers and beginners cough after taking hits of weed, as this is just your lungs’ reaction to having these new substances in the body.
Coughing after smoking weed can also be due to the strain you’re puffing on. Some strains are harsher than others, offering terpenes that may leave you coughing more than usual.
Also, low-quality weed is notorious for making someone cough extra. This is due to the potential lack of purity and any additives in the flower.
And, finally, if you typically smoke out of pipes or smoke from joints, you’re more likely to cough more frequently. These smoking methods are harsh on the lungs, irritating your throat and airways.
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Does Coughing Make You Higher When Smoking Weed?
Despite what you’ve been told, no, coughing doesn’t make you higher when smoking weed.
This popular myth likely comes from the sensation of lightheadedness that can follow a strong coughing fit. Let’s explain.
When you cough, your body temporarily experiences a drop in oxygen levels; this can cause dizziness or a rush of blood to the head, mimicking an intensified high.
However, THC absorption happens in the lungs almost immediately after inhalation, meaning the coughing itself doesn’t contribute to a stronger effect. In fact, excessive coughing can be a sign that the smoke is too harsh, potentially leading to lung irritation.
So, while coughing won’t make you higher, a comfortable smoking experience can help you enjoy your session without the discomfort.
Other Common Cannabis Myths
While we’re here, we figured we’d cover some other common cannabis myths that may have misguided you during your stoner years.
Myth: Holding in smoke gets you higher.
Reality: THC is absorbed within seconds of inhaling. Holding your breath only increases lung irritation and oxygen deprivation, not the high.
Myth: Eating raw cannabis will get you high.
Reality: THC must be activated through heat (decarboxylation) before it becomes psychoactive. Raw cannabis contains THCA, which won’t produce a high.
Myth: You can overdose on weed.
Reality: While consuming too much can lead to unpleasant effects like paranoia or nausea, cannabis does not cause fatal overdoses.
Myth: All cannabis makes you sleepy.
Reality: Indica strains tend to be more sedative, but sativas can be energizing. Effects vary based on terpenes and cannabinoid content.
Myth: Secondhand cannabis smoke can get you high.
Reality: It’s highly unlikely unless you’re in an unventilated space with excessive smoke for an extended period.
Myth: More THC always means a stronger high.
Reality: Other cannabinoids and terpenes influence the effects. A well-balanced strain can be more potent than one with just high THC.
How to Stop Coughing After Smoking
While you may not be able to prevent yourself from ever coughing after smoking again, there are plenty of ways you can reduce how much you cough after a smoke sesh.
First and foremost, try taking smaller, controlled hits instead of large inhales. A big rip might seem tempting, but it overwhelms your lungs, triggering a stronger cough reflex.
Inhaling slowly and steadily allows the smoke to enter your lungs more gently, reducing irritation.
Also, if you’re smoking a joint or blunt, consider switching to a bong or bubbler and using extra filters. These devices filter the smoke through water, cooling it down before it reaches your lungs.
A dry, harsh hit is more likely to cause a coughing fit, so smoother delivery methods can make a noticeable difference.
Mooselabs is a brand that creates carbon filters for bongs and joints. These filters help to prevent you from inhaling resin and other chemicals, making your hits smoother and more pure. Thus, using these will help you drastically reduce the amount you cough.
Finally, you can practice better breathing techniques. Instead of forcefully inhaling and holding the smoke in your lungs for too long, take a gentle inhale and exhale naturally.
If you want to learn more about keeping your lungs healthy while smoking weed, check out our blog post!
Getting the Best Canna-Advice With Elevate Holistics
All in all, Elevate Holistics is here to ensure that all of our patients get the best cannabis-related advice possible.
Not only will we help you get your medical card, but we can register you with the state, help you find your ideal strain, and answer any questions you might have.
Our telemedicine appointments only last around 15 minutes, and you can do them right from the comfort of your home.
Then, with your medical card, you can start buying the highest-quality cannabis products possible — and coughing a whole lot less.
Book your appointment using the button below and use the code BLOG5 at checkout for an exclusive discount.
