As the weather heats up, many people look for natural ways to stay cool. Interestingly enough, research and science are increasingly revealing that cannabis and heat relief may go hand in hand.
Here, we’ll learn more about a unique effect called THC-induced hypothermia, where THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), a compound in cannabis, can actually lower body temperature. Let’s explore this fascinating phenomenon and see what the science shows about the relationship between cannabis and keeping cool.
According to modern research, cannabis is made up of over 750 compounds, which include roughly 150 different cannabinoids and more than 200 different terpenes. Cannabinoids, like THC and CBD (cannabidiol), are the main active ingredients in cannabis. Terpenes are what give cannabis much of its smell and taste.
Some cannabis terpenes, such as camphene, eucalyptol, and menthol, also have cooling effects of their own. As a result, when these compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), they can produce various effects, including cooling sensations. All of us possess this innate and awesome body system, which helps regulate many body functions, including temperature.
Early research published in the journal Brain Research notes that THC-induced hypothermia occurs when the body’s temperature drops because of the effects of THC. This dose-dependent phenomenon happens because THC interacts with the brain’s temperature regulation system, which helps control body heat. This result could be particularly helpful during hot weather or for those who experience frequent overheating.
Since this effect is typically experienced with higher doses of THC, it is crucial to use cannabis responsibly and be aware of how your body reacts to THC. Therefore, it’s highly advised to start with small doses and see how you feel before using more. Note that THC-induced hypothermia can occur with overdose, but isn’t fatal in and of itself.
The ability of THC to lower body temperature was first noted by scientists in the 1970s. Likewise, studies on rodents conducted in the 1980s further confirmed that cannabis could lead to a drop in body temperature.
This is because cannabis impacts body temperature through several mechanisms. One of these involves the TRPM8 receptor, also known as the cold and menthol receptor (CMR1) because of the cooling sensation it gives. Interestingly, this receptor is activated by menthol but antagonized by endocannabinoids and almost all cannabinoids except cannabichromene (CBC).
The main key player then is the hypothalamus, the brain’s thermostat, which maintains the body’s temperature balance. Cannabinoid receptors, particularly the CB1 receptors, are found throughout the brain, including the hypothalamus. When THC interacts with these receptors, it influences the hypothalamus’s ability to regulate body temperature, leading to a cooling effect.
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Hypothermia is now well-established as a hallmark of CB1 activation by THC and other CB1 agonists. In fact, modern research now cements hypothermia as one of the four key characteristics to look for in the “tetrad test.” This is one of the measurable ways scientists can tell they just gave a CB1 agent like THC to mice who can’t talk about getting high.
Scientific research has consistently shown that CBD does not lower body temperature. Unlike THC, which can cause a cooling effect by interacting with temperature-regulating areas in the brain, CBD does not seem to impact the body’s thermoregulation. Over 130 studies indicate that CBD maintains a neutral effect on core body temperature, making it unlikely to cause any significant cooling or heating.
The key difference between THC and CBD in terms of thermoregulation lies in how they interact with the ECS. THC binds directly to the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain that influence temperature control, while CBD’s interaction is more indirect and does not involve activating these specific receptors.
Can cannabis help with fever? The answer is nuanced. For starters, fever is a natural response of the body to infection or illness and is aimed at boosting the immune system. While traditional medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are commonly used to reduce fever, some believe that cannabis might offer a natural alternative.
Since the ECS plays a role in regulating various physiological processes, including the immune response, it’s believed that THC’s dose-dependent ability to lower body temperature might theoretically help reduce fever. However, scientific evidence directly supporting the use of cannabis to lower fever is limited.
However, cannabis and endocannabinoids (e.g. AEA, 2-AG) may still provide heat relief during a fever. For instance, its anti-inflammatory properties could help reduce inflammation and pain associated with infections. Additionally, cannabis is known to promote relaxation and improve sleep, which are beneficial when dealing with a fever.
With that said, it’s a good idea to approach this potential remedy with caution. While cannabis might offer some relief, it should not replace conventional fever treatments without consulting a healthcare professional.
The relationship between cannabis and heat relief highlights just one more reason why this versatile plant is gaining recognition in the realm of natural health solutions. From its ability to lower body temperature through THC-induced hypothermia, to cooling and calming terpenes, to the absence of such effects with CBD, cannabis presents a fascinating option for staying cool. Additionally, its potential to provide symptomatic relief during a fever adds another layer to its benefits.
As we continue to explore and understand cannabis, it’s clear that this plant holds many attributes that can promote health and well-being. And while more research is needed, the current findings suggest that cannabis could be a valuable natural remedy for cooling down and managing heat-related discomfort.
Note: The content on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be professional medical advice. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or prescribe treatment based on the information provided. Always consult a physician before making any decision on the treatment of a medical condition.
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