Exploring the Effects of Mixing Cannabis and Caffeine

Research on the interaction between caffeine and cannabis is currently lacking, but what is known suggests that combining the two may produce a different experience than using them separately. When combined with caffeine, it’s possible that the chill of marijuana use will lessen the jitters. However, as of yet, no solid evidence has been found to support a counteraction. It is always advised to consult with an MMJ doctor before you start consuming marijuana or mixing it with caffeine. 

Cannabis may, however, have different effects when combined with tea or coffee, two botanical preparations that contain a complex array of compounds, than when combined with caffeine pills.

For example, L-theanine, which has calming qualities and partially counteracts the effects of caffeine, is found in tea. L-theanine may also mitigate the negative effects of THC on cognition and memory. Conversely, coffee contains a compound called trigonelline, which has anti-tumor, anti-migraine, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective properties. Another ingredient in cannabis is trigonelline, which may amplify some of the effects of coffee.

What Is Caffeine?

Caffeine is a psychoactive stimulant used by people worldwide to enhance cognitive performance. Approximately 85% of Americans, according to a 2014 study, drink at least one caffeinated beverage daily, such as coffee, energy drinks, or Guayana tea. In addition to beverages, chocolate, supplements, and even some flavoring plants contain caffeine.

Understanding the Impact of Caffeine on the Body

Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, increasing wakefulness and alertness. It works by binding to receptors and preventing the absorption of adenosine, the chemical that accumulates throughout the day and makes you feel drowsy.

Caffeine can also increase dopamine, norepinephrine, and adrenaline levels in the blood, which can help you feel focused, alert, and joyful. In as little as twenty minutes, a single cup of coffee can have an effect on the body.

Over time, regular caffeine consumption can enhance focus and memory. Studies have also connected long-term caffeine consumption to a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease. Some of these neuroprotective effects may also be attributed to chlorogenic acid, an antioxidant and neuroprotective substance found in tea and coffee.

However, there are several drawbacks to consuming excessive amounts of caffeine, including:

• Anxiety
• Increased heart rate
• Shakes
• Nausea or heartburn
• High blood pressure (only in the short term)
• Lack of sleep
• Headaches

The Pros and Cons of Combining Cannabis and Caffeine

The Pros

Overall, the potential benefits of marijuana’s effects when combined with caffeine have not been thoroughly studied. Some evidence suggests that when adenosine and the endocannabinoid system are combined, the interaction between the two chemicals may produce noticeable effects.

The cognitive impairment caused by THC in cannabis may be lessened by caffeine, enabling users to focus more effectively while still enjoying the other health advantages of marijuana use.

How stimulant or depressant a certain strain (cultivar) is depends on how much CBD is present in the product. As a result, cannabis may or may not increase or decrease the stimulant effects of caffeine.

A 2011 animal study looked at the relationship between cannabis access and monkeys’ reactions to a very small (one milligram) dose of caffeine. They found that monkeys given caffeine were less likely to use marijuana, even though they had unrestricted access to the drug.

Caffeine and cannabis both increase dopamine levels in the brain, but through different mechanisms, according to another 2017 study. The authors claim that combining cannabis and caffeine may increase feelings of euphoria and happiness.

Additionally, CBD may eliminate shakiness after high caffeine doses. A 2020 animal study found that mice given CBD moved more slowly and were less sensitive to locomotor stimuli than mice fed caffeine.

The Cons

While THC impairs memory and caffeine improves short-term memory, combining the two at low dosages resulted in the same memory impairments as high THC levels, according to an earlier study.

Additionally, it is well known that both marijuana and caffeine raise heart rates, which may exacerbate arrhythmia or heart disease in those who already have it.

Conclusion

Science still doesn’t fully understand how marijuana and caffeine interact in the body. The way each substance interacts will probably depend on your unique experience and tolerance, producing highly personalized effects.

We don’t know as much about the risks of combining cannabis and caffeine as we do about its benefits, so if you’re not sure, you might want to proceed cautiously until you know how it affects your system.

Apply for your medical marijuana card online and speak with a licensed physician from Pennsylvania MMJ Card Doctor in a matter of minutes.