Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022 | 2 a.m.
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Holiday feasts, festive cocktails and countless gatherings—this time of year is all about indulgence. While the jolly chaos of the season is part of the fun, giving yourself time to rest and recover is important too. Cannabis can help. Whether you’re nursing a hangover, quelling holiday-related anxieties, or you just want an excuse to relax by a fire, consider incorporating cannabis into your holiday festivities.
Easing a hangover?
While cannabis can’t truly cure a hangover, it can alleviate symptoms. Cannabis can help settle nausea, lessen anxiety and relieve pain. It can also help lull you into a peaceful daytime nap if you slept poorly from over imbibing. While both THC and CBD have pain-relieving properties, look to CBD options for easing hangover symptoms. Indica strains are especially good helpers—they are generally higher in CBD and other helpful cannabinoids and tend to promote relaxation.
An alcohol alternative?
Skip drinking entirely and opt for cannabis instead. Cannabis can increase social connectivity without hangover consequences and spiked blood sugar caused by alcohol. There are also THC-infused canned beverages on the market that are great for bringing to parties. You’ll have a drink to hold throughout the night without needing to excuse yourself for a cannabis break.
Cannabis for anxiety?
The holidays are notoriously stressful. A 2021 American Psychiatric Association survey reported that 41% of adults experience increased stress during the holiday season, with young adults more likely to report increases. That comes as no surprise when you consider the added costs of the season, gatherings, travel and more. But there may be a way to help combat those seasonal blues. A 2017 study by the University of Washington reported that THC in lower doses and CBD in all doses can decrease anxiety. Be thoughtful about your consumption, though. The study also reported that in higher doses, THC can increase anxiety, so if you’re using cannabis for relaxation from holiday stress, start with low-THC strains and/or utilize incremental edibles until you find your perfect dose.
Products to try this holiday season
Give yourself a treat and try something new at the dispensary. Here are some of our favorites.
HaHa Gummies
Welcome laughter and happiness to relieve the tension of the season. These chewy gummies come in multiple flavors, including fruit punch, watermelon, blueberry and grapefruit 1:1, which is perfect for any cold-weather aches or pains.
Medizin Blueberry Cookies
This indica hybrid is a sweet and calming strain—the perfect nightcap after a long day at the office or a tough workout. It’s also great for hangovers. Rich in myrcene, its rich berry flavor and dessert notes can leave you feeling relaxed and relieved.
Trendi Melon Fizz Cartridge
Bring a little bit of summer flavor to the holiday season with this melon fizz vape cartridge. This gentle strain is especially good after a busy day of holiday gift wrapping.
Dreamland Chocolate Peanut Butter Cubes
These hand-crafted chocolate cubes feature bold and whimsical flavors and a peanut butter crunch. They’re ideal for winding down and watching holiday movies.
