Edibles are a popular way to consume cannabis, especially for those who do not prefer smoking. Edibles are available in various forms, such as gummies, chocolates, brownies, and more. One of the common side effects of consuming edibles is dry mouth or cottonmouth. In this blog post, we will discuss why edibles cause dry mouth and how to alleviate this uncomfortable side effect.
How Edibles Work
Before we dive into why edibles cause dry mouth, let’s first understand how edibles work. When you consume an edible, the THC is absorbed through your digestive system and processed by your liver. Your liver converts THC into a more potent form, 11-hydroxy-THC, which produces a stronger and longer-lasting high than smoking. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the individual and their metabolism.
Why Do Edibles Cause Dry Mouth?
Now that we understand how edibles work, let’s discuss why they cause dry mouth. Edibles contain THC, which is known to reduce saliva production in the mouth. Saliva plays a crucial role in keeping your mouth moist and preventing dry mouth. When you consume edibles, THC binds to the cannabinoid receptors in your salivary glands, reducing saliva production and causing dry mouth.
A dry mouth is a common side effect of consuming cannabis, whether through smoking or edibles. However, edibles can cause more severe dry mouth than smoking because of the prolonged and potent high they produce. A dry mouth from edibles can last for several hours, which can be uncomfortable and unpleasant.
How to Alleviate Dry Mouth from Edibles
Fortunately, there are several ways to alleviate dry mouth from edibles. Here are some tips to help you manage this uncomfortable side effect:
Stay hydrated – Drinking water or other hydrating fluids can help alleviate dry mouth. Avoid sugary drinks, as they can exacerbate dry mouth.
Chew gum or suck on candy – Chewing gum or sucking on candy can help stimulate saliva production, alleviating dry mouth.
Use a humidifier – Using a humidifier in your home can help add moisture to the air, reducing dry mouth.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine – Alcohol and caffeine can exacerbate dry mouth, so it’s best to avoid them when consuming edibles.
Use mouthwash – Using an alcohol-free mouthwash can help freshen your breath and alleviate dry mouth.
Consume edibles in moderation – Consuming edibles in moderation can help reduce the severity of dry mouth. Start with a low dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more.
Conclusion
In conclusion, edibles can cause dry mouth because of the THC content, which reduces saliva production in the mouth. A dry mouth from edibles can last for several hours, which can be uncomfortable and unpleasant. However, there are several ways to alleviate dry mouth, such as staying hydrated, chewing gum or sucking on candy, using a humidifier, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, using mouthwash, and consuming edibles in moderation. By following these tips, you can manage a dry mouth and enjoy the benefits of edibles without discomfort.