One of the major misconceptions about cannabis is that all strains have the same effect, that you’ll make you sink down onto the couch and laugh at nothing for hours. But cannabis is a complex plant with a range of effects. You may be surprised to learn that cannabis may provide a pep in your step. Here’s how to find THC for energy.
Understanding THC’s Effects on Energy and Focus
Who couldn’t use a little more energy in their day? Certain cannabis strains may provide a gentle jolt to your system that makes it easy for you to move through your to-do list and get things done.
Some people love cannabis for energy on mundane tasks like folding the laundry while others reach for it to boost energy during workouts. (One study from the University of Colorado found that participants enjoyed their workout more after consuming.)
Focus is another story. Cannabis consumers aren’t renowned for lengthy attention spans. There is little research on how THC may be able to help you focus, but there are plenty of anecdotal reports for cannabis lovers themselves. The right strains and doses can help you tap into a coveted flow state, where ideas and creativity feel effortless.
The Science Behind THC and Energy
Your endocannabinoid system (ECS), the master regulatory system in your body that interacts with cannabinoids, involves energy storage, balance, and regulation. There’s still lots of research to be done, though.
A self-reported study of cannabis consumers with over 1,200 participants found that 91% of people who smoked or vaped cannabis flower had “experienced decreased fatigue following consumption.”
While scientists are still learning exactly how our ECS manages energy regulation, you may be able to stimulate your ECS with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to feel more energized.
Factors Influencing The Energy Effects of Cannabis
Exactly how you can consume cannabis to increase energy levels is an art, not a science, and it may take some trial and error as you figure out what works for you. Since your endocannabinoid system is as unique as your fingerprint, what works for someone else may not work for you.
Consider the following factors:
- Potency. How strong is the product you’re consuming? THC has biphasic effects, so low doses produce opposite results of high doses. If you find yourself couch-locked or drifting off every time you consume, try something less potent.
- Tolerance. If you have a low THC tolerance, potent strains may not be energizing for you because of their intensity of effects. In that case, look for cannabis strains or cannabis products like edibles with a lower THC percentage.
- Cannabinoid ratio. Most strains are dominant in THC, but many have notable levels of CBD, CBG, or THCv as well. Having a balance of cannabinoids can create a more balanced, invigorating experience than a strain that has solely THC. Keep in mind: “notable” can be as little as 1% and still have an effect.
- Diet. Have you eaten today? Cannabinoids like THC are fat-based molecules, and work most effectively in your system when you have a balanced meal in your stomach. If your consumption makes you tired, try having a snack before your session.
- Terpenes. The terpene profile of your cannabis strain plays an important role in the effects of these strains. Terpenes have measurable biological effects, so look for strains with more uplifting terpenes, like pinene, limonene, terpinolene, and eucalyptol.
Top Cannabis Strains for Boosting Energy
Sativa strains are historically linked with being energizing, often due to their terpene profiles with limonene and pinene. This is less true today when there are more hybrid strains on the market, and “sativa” for energy is an old stoner myth that’s not universally true. But starting with Sativa-dominant strains still gives you a place to start while looking through a big dispensary menu.
Best Sativa Strains for Energy
- Green Crack. This strain takes its name from the mental buzz it delivers – quickly. A few puffs of GC and consumers report a burst of focus, energy, and creative inspiration.
- Durban Poison. One of the last pure sativa strains on the market, which means it’s been unaltered from its state in the wild, Durban Poison (sometimes called just Durban) is beloved by cannabis consumers for its energizing effects.
- Jack Herer. This iconic strain is renowned for its long-lasting energizing effects. Jack Herer is regularly named one of the best strains for energy and wake-and-bakes.
- Super Sour Diesel. A cross between Super Silver Haze and Sour Diesel, this strain is potent, energizing, and long-lasting, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. A few tokes of Super Sour Diesel may make you wonder if cannabis is actually an energy supplement after all.
Hybrid Strains With Energizing Effects
- J1. This child strain of Jack Herer combines the energizing effects of its parent strain with a euphoric yet relaxing burst.
- XJ-13. Another cross of Jack Herer, XJ-13 tends to be high in terpinolene, a terpene known for its energizing and focusing effects.
- Jet Fuel. This strain may smell like actual fuel, but the aroma hides a surprisingly high limonene content and an energizing burst.
How To Use THC for Focus and Energy
Consumption Methods and Their Impacts
Smoking and vaping
Smoking and vaping cannabis is the fastest way to get the energizing effects, as you’ll start to feel the high from THC within minutes. When you’re trying a new strain or energy, take one or two puffs of your bowl or vape.
Allow yourself at least 10 minutes to let the effects sink in before you go about your day. If you need a little more of a cannabis boost, you can take another toke, but you may be surprised at how far a little goes.
Edibles
Edibles can take between 20 and 90 minutes or longer to kick in depending on the product. Plan your schedule accordingly if you’re looking for an energetic boost. Look for fast-acting edibles or beverages if you want a quick burst of energy.
Many edibles are designed to help you slow down and relax, but there are a few products at Blue Oak specifically tailored for energy and daytime use, like Ozone Boosting Green Apple.
Tinctures
Tinctures are a great way to build a consistent dosing routine with cannabis. You may not notice an immediate burst of energy from a tincture, particularly one with a balance of THC and CBD, but give it time and you may start to feel like you have a better baseline of energy in the morning, a clearer mind, and an easier time sleeping at night.
If you’re looking for a THC-free cannabis product for energy, consider the Healing Rose Uplift Oil. This product blends CBG, THCV, and CBD to bring you energy without any intoxication.
Topicals
Topicals may be helpful if you lack energy or focus due to ongoing pain, but these products will not get you high.
Dosage Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
The exact dose of THC that will help you achieve focus and get more energy is subjective and depends on many factors. If you’re new to trying cannabis, you’ll need less. Long-time smokers may need large doses of potent products.
The key to dosing THC effectively for energy and focus is to not overdo it. Less it more.
For edibles and tinctures, start with a small dose of THC, around 2.5 milligrams. If this feels like too much, start with a single milligram and see how you feel. Most edibles can be cut into smaller pieces to create these tiny doses.
If the lower dose doesn’t provide the effects you’re seeking, try increasing the THC milligrams slowly (by 1 to 2.5 milligrams) until you find your optimal amount.
Tinctures work best when used consistently, so monitor the effects of your dose for a week to see how you feel before adjusting it.
It can be challenging to measure the dosage of cannabis flower when smoking or vaping. Instead, count your puffs. Take a single toke of a bowl or a puff of your vape and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. Head off on your tasks and see how you feel. You may want a larger dose, or you may be content with how you feel.
Combining THC with Other Energizers
THC and Caffeine: A Power Duo?
So how does THC pair with America’s favorite energizer, coffee? For now, any interactions are anecdotal and hypothetical, since there is almost no research on THC and caffeine interaction.
Ask a cannabis consumer and they may tell you that a morning joint counters the caffeine jitters and provides a balance. However, both caffeine and THC may increase anxiety if you take too much, so take it easy if you mix your morning cup of joe with a morning toke.
Natural Ways to Enhance THC’s Energizing Effects
If THC isn’t doing enough and you’re still looking for an additional energy boost, consider:
- Getting enough sleep. It’s not just about how much you sleep — the quality of your sleep also depends on cycling through all three stages: light, deep, and REM sleep. If you’re spending too much time in light sleep and not enough in deep or REM sleep, you may still feel lethargic or tired when you wake up.
- Energy supplements. Fatigue can be caused by hormone and nutrient deficiencies, which supplements can help.
- Vitamin D. Sunlight contains Vitamin D, which is essential for energy. But in New Jersey, it’s easy to feel fatigued during the fall and winter months when we’re not outside as much. Talk to a medical professional about adding a Vitamin D supplement to your routine to keep energy levels up.
- Move your body. If you’re stressed or tense, your body holds onto that energy and it can drag your energy levels down. Whether it’s a quick walk outside during your break or running the dog after work, moving your body for a few minutes every day can help improve energy levels.
- Adaoptgens. Functional herbs like ashwagandha, cordyceps, and reishi may help your day-to-day energy levels.
- Hydrate: Dehydration can make you feel sluggish and fatigued. That’s because it slows circulation, reduces the flow of oxygen to your brain, and impacts mood. Stay hydrated all day, not just during your sesh, to help you feel even more focused and energized.
User Experiences: How THC Boosts Focus and Energy
These reviews from around the internet help illustrate how THC may provide that caffeine-like boost.
“I’m typically prone to anxiety with strong sativas… however, I smoked half a joint and suddenly I was overcome with optimism. I had incredible motivation to prioritize my life. I wanted to clean, listen to new music, exercise, cook a b*tchin’ meal, etc.” – Leafly review of Green Crack
“Oddly enough, weed helps me manage symptoms of fatigue. For some reason, it doesn’t make me drowsy or tired, but just more alert. Whenever I smoke, it’s not like I get a burst of energy, my body/muscles are certainly relaxing, but it’s like my brain & eyes “turned itself back on” for a little bit. It usually lasts me about a good 20-30 minutes, it’s been a great relief from the fatigue I’ve been dealing with.” – u/afternostalgia on Reddit
“Durban Poison is like the “espresso” of cannabis. The raciest sativa I know of, it’s a stimulating and clear-headed high with no trace of numbing or “stoning.” It wakes you up, cuts through the bleary fog and leaves you clear-headed and bright, gives you energy to go and seize the day. Gives tons of energy and also an intense emotional euphoria… where everything is vibrating and you can’t take the smile off your face…Recommended for mountain biking, jogging, driving, studying, reading, and partying/socializing with smart people.” Leafly review of Durban Poison
Finding THC for Energy at Blue Oak
Despite the misconceptions, THC can have energizing effects that lead well into finding focus. It’s about finding the right products with the right terpene profile and consuming the proper dose.
Explore how THC may boost your energy levels with Blue Oak. Our Bloomfield dispensary has a wide selection of products that may support that energizing experience you’re seeking. If you’re not sure where to start, or overwhelmed by the options, we’re here to help. Stop in today to find your next favorite cannabis product!
