Feeling a sudden chill after cannabis consumption is a common experience for many individuals. This sensation, often described as “weed chills,” can range from a mild coolness to a noticeable shiver. The physiological mechanisms involve the plant’s active compounds interacting with the body’s systems, particularly those responsible for maintaining a stable internal temperature. This article explains why cannabis can lead to a feeling of coldness.
Cannabis and Your Body’s Thermostat
The human body regulates its internal temperature through a process called thermoregulation. The hypothalamus, a region in the brain, functions as the body’s central thermostat, constantly adjusting responses to maintain a stable core temperature around 98.6°F (37°C). It receives signals and triggers mechanisms to either conserve or dissipate heat.
Cannabis, specifically its primary psychoactive compound delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a network of receptors and compounds that helps regulate numerous bodily functions, including temperature. THC primarily binds to CB1 receptors, which are abundant in the brain, including within the hypothalamus.
When THC activates these CB1 receptors in the hypothalamus, it can disrupt thermoregulatory processes. This interaction can lead to a perceived drop in body temperature or, in some cases, an actual mild decrease in core body temperature. Research suggests that higher doses of THC are more likely to induce a cooling effect, sometimes referred to as THC-induced hypothermia.
The Impact on Blood Circulation and Heat Loss
Beyond its effects on the brain’s thermostat, THC also influences peripheral responses that contribute to the sensation of cold. One notable effect is vasodilation, where blood vessels near the skin’s surface widen. This increases blood flow to the extremities and skin.
As warm blood flows closer to the skin, heat dissipates more rapidly into the surrounding environment. While this might initially create a temporary feeling of warmth, it ultimately pulls heat away from the body’s core, contributing to coldness. This process is a natural cooling mechanism the body uses to shed excess heat, but when triggered by THC, it can lead to feeling chilly even in a comfortable environment.
Cannabis may affect the body’s metabolic rate. Some research suggests that cannabis consumption can lead to a temporary reduction in oxygen use, meaning the body produces less internal heat. This metabolic shift, combined with increased heat loss through vasodilation, can further contribute to feeling cold after consuming cannabis.
Perception, Environment, and Individual Factors
The experience of feeling cold after cannabis consumption is not universally consistent and is influenced by several factors. THC’s psychoactive properties can alter how the brain interprets sensory input, including temperature. This means that even a minor physiological change in body temperature might be perceived as more pronounced due to the altered state of consciousness.
The external environment also plays a role in intensifying this sensation. Being in a cool room, exposed to drafts, or wearing insufficient clothing can intensify the feeling of coldness when the body’s thermoregulatory system is influenced by cannabis. A slight chill in the air can feel much colder than usual.
Individual differences impact the intensity of this sensation. Factors such as an individual’s metabolism, body fat percentage, and tolerance to cannabis affect how they respond. The dosage consumed, with higher doses being more likely to induce a cooling effect, and the specific strain of cannabis can influence the outcome.
Understanding and Managing the Sensation
Experiencing coldness after consuming cannabis is a common and generally harmless side effect. While “THC-induced hypothermia” might sound alarming, it typically refers to a mild decrease in body temperature, not a life-threatening medical condition. Most people do not need to worry about serious health effects.
For those who frequently experience this sensation, several simple measures can help manage the discomfort:
Wearing warmer clothing.
Wrapping oneself in a blanket.
Consuming warm beverages.
Moving to a warmer environment.
Staying well-hydrated before and after cannabis consumption may contribute to comfort. Being mindful of the dosage and avoiding excessive amounts of THC might help reduce the likelihood or intensity of feeling cold.