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Learn | 11.25.2022

Does Smoking Weed Give You The Shakes?

Has cannabis ever made your legs shake? Here’s why some people might experience tremors after smoking and how you can them if you experience

You may have experienced this yourself. You’ve smoked a nice joint or two, and all of a sudden your legs become twitchy. They start to tremble, and in your intoxicated state, you’re not quite sure what to make of this. Are these tremors from the cannabis, or are you just feeling a little nervous? This article will get to the bottom of a very important question: does smoking weed give you the shakes?

Cannabis and “The Shakes”

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The short answer is yes, under some conditions. “The shakes” refers to involuntary muscle tremors and twitching while high. No formal studies have been conducted on this phenomenon, though. Rather, a wealth of anecdotal reports identified the shakes as a fairly common experience among cannabis users- new and experienced alike. Here’s an example from a BlueLight forum:

At first legs would start to twitch. Then, on enough weed, the whole body would begin to twitch. At any one time, I could stop the twitching if I wanted to, but it felt more comfortable to move around and twitch than to stay still. It was pretty annoying, but not terribly so. In order to prevent it, I used to take hot baths before/while smoking. It relaxes the muscles a lot and pretty much prevents twitching. After a while it went away by itself. Not sure why. Don’t get it anymore. Maybe one of the two types of weed? Maybe body just got used to dealing with it. – TokyoHigh

Another user in a Marijuana.com forum explains:

I got the twitching for the first time a while back (after getting very, very high), and it kinda scared me. Really quite bad in my legs and arms, for about 15 minutes. Uncontrollable. Very strange. Can’t say much more besides I’ve been there before, but if anyone has an explination for that, I’m all ears… – Bear

Not everyone will experience this, but it’s typically a sign that you’ve consumed a little too much THC. The herb is non-toxic, and an “overdose” is not going to cause serious damage. However, smoking a little too much does have some odd short-term side effects in some people. Muscle twitching is one of them.

Fortunately, these spasms are only temporary. They often last for just seconds, yet you can experience them for up to half an hour or so.

Potential Causes of The Shakes

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Though no research has been done on what actually causes these tremors, we can make some educated guesses. These types of tremors are often correlated with anxiety. For those prone to anxiety while using cannabis, THC can be very stimulating. A little too much stimulation of the central nervous system may be the culprit.

THC’s impact on dopamine may also contribute, though this is speculative at best. Tremors are associated with low dopamine levels, and THC increases dopamine.

However, some research has shown that high THC exposure over time may blunt the brain’s ability to process dopamine. Perhaps consuming excessively large quantities of THC in a very short period of time causes temporary imbalances in the dopamine signaling system. Who knows! Maybe all we need is a good THC detox kit

It’s important to mention that cannabis actually reduces tremors and muscle spasms in those with certain medical conditions. Symptoms of Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis, for example, can be greatly reduced with cannabis treatment.

Cannabis-induced tremors are short-lived. So, things seem to balance themselves out pretty quickly. Besides, there are a few other factors to consider…

What Factors Contribute to The Shakes?

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You’re more likely to experience the shakes in certain situations. For example, if you’re smoking with some new people and you’re feeling a little nervous, there’s a good chance that you might become a little shaky. Large amounts of THC can increase an anxiety response in some people. This anxiety response is heightened if you’re already in an anxious state.

Social anxiety or paranoia + increased central nervous system stimulation = greater likelihood of twitching and tremor.

Mixing cannabis with tobacco or excessive amounts of caffeine can also trigger muscle tremors. Both substances are also central nervous system stimulants. When your nervous system is too stimulated, you may experience uncomfortable, anxiety symptoms.

Cold weather or feeling chilly might be to blame as well. Cannabis lowers your body temperature. When you’re cold, you’re more likely to feel colder and begin to tremble after smoking cannabis.

Using CBD to Stop The Shakes

Most people who experience the shakes ore those that use products with high THC, which is a brain-stimulating cannabinoid. One of the best ways to either counteract or avoid experiencing the shakes is to use CBD products. CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, which means that it won’t stimulate your brain, potentially causing the shakes. Instead, CBD mellows you out and lets you relax.

Best CBD Products for The Shakes

CBD Hemp Flower: Sour Space Candy Hybrid by Botany Farms

This hybrid is highly recognized for its sticky, dense buds filled with astringent berry smells and pink stigmas. Get some and experience the fruity aromas and earthy undertones of this premium hemp flower. The best thing about it, it’s gonna leave you calm and relaxed. Hemp flower has the same uses as regular marijuana flower but has virtually no THC. So you can roll up a joint, light up your bong, or bake it into an edible and get the amazing soothing sensations without worrying about the shakes.

CBD Oil: Full-Spectrum Tincture by CBDistillery

CBDistillery’s Full-Spectrum Tinctures bring together the powers of CBD oil with other naturally occurring plant proteins, minerals, and vitamins so you can reap all of the benefits of cannabis without any intoxicating THC-induced effects. CBDistillery products are made from U.S. Hemp Authority-certified non-GMO industrial hemp grown in the USA using natural farming practices and third-party lab-tested to ensure the highest quality and consistent dosing. Carry this tincture around for fast and easy relief whenever you’re experiencing the shakes and see how it helps you relax and chill out.

CBD Gummies: five™ Full-Spectrum CBD + THC Gummies

CBD gummies are a delicious way to get your CBD dose and fight off the shakes and get into a chill mood. If you want the best ones out there, go with these full-spectrum gummies from five™. They not only feature CBD, they are also packed with other minor cannabinoids and terpenes that enhance their relaxing effects and provide a way more enjoyable and chill experience.

What Do I Do If I Get The Shakes?

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There are a few simple things you can do to help ease tremors once they get going. Here are a few of them:

  • Stand up and move your body
  • Go outside for some fresh air, and focus your attention on your new environment
  • Warm up with a blanket, a hot shower, or bath
  • Move to a more comfortable environment

Though the shakes may be concerning when you first experience them, they’re nothing to be frightened about. They will go away on their own. Experimenting with cannabis in a safe, comforting environment can help you avoid the uncomfortable twitches. Know that if you consumed a lot of stimulants beforehand, you’re more likely to feel shaky.

Have you ever experienced the shakes? Share your story with us on social media or in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!

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