Can Marijuana Boost Your Energy Level?

The longest day is one when you feel like staying in bed. Chronic fatigue or feelings of low energy are common. According to a 2024 survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1.4% of 60,000 adults reported having chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), translating to approximately 4.6 million Americans.

What is the big deal about feeling a little tired? Chronic fatigue syndrome is also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), and the CDC estimated that it costs the US economy $18B to $51B annually. That includes medical bills, lost income, sick days, and more.

It is well known that some strains of cannabis plants can provide a temporary boost in alertness, improve focus, and may provide an uplifted mood and other health benefits. Does weed give you more energy, though? Let’s find out!

What Impacts Your Natural Energy Levels?

Multiple factors could be at play if you’ve noticed a recent drop in your natural energy. Insufficient sleep can make us cranky and reduce the alertness and drive needed to get through the day. However, there are many other reasons why you might feel tired most of the time.

Here are the common reasons why people experience transient or chronic fatigue:

Poor Sleep Quality

Sleep is necessary to maintain your energy. Sleep is essential for the body and brain to repair and rejuvenate. Without adequate rest, both cognitive function and physical performance decline, leading to feelings of exhaustion.

During sleep, the body goes through various stages, including REM and deep sleep, which are essential for brain function and physical health. REM sleep is vital for cognitive processes such as memory consolidation, learning, and emotional regulation, while deep sleep is essential for physical recovery, including muscle repair and growth.

Health Conditions That Can Disrupt Your Sleep

Conditions like insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome (RLS) can disrupt your sleep cycle and contribute to chronic fatigue. Insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep, can lead to insufficient sleep duration and poor quality of sleep.

Sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, can cause frequent awakenings and prevent the individual from reaching the deeper, restorative stages of sleep. Restless legs syndrome, marked by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, particularly at night, can also severely disrupt sleep.

Lifestyle Factors That Can Impact Sleep Quality

Moreover, lifestyle factors such as excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, irregular sleep schedules, and high levels of stress can further exacerbate sleep problems. Electronic devices that emit blue light before bedtime can interfere with the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, making it harder to fall asleep.

Addressing these issues often involves lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and reducing stress through techniques like mindfulness or meditation.

For more severe sleep disorders, medical intervention may be required. Treatments such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for sleep apnea or medications for insomnia and restless legs syndrome can be effective. Enhancing sleep quality is crucial for sustaining vitality and overall well-being.

Chronic Diseases

Several chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease, COPD, kidney disease, and multiple sclerosis, are associated with persistent fatigue. These diseases often require the body to expend extra energy to maintain basic functions, leading to constant tiredness and lack of energy.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). When blood sugar levels are too high or too low, it can lead to various symptoms that disrupt sleep. High blood sugar levels can cause frequent urination, making you wake up multiple times during the night. Low blood sugar levels can cause night sweats, headaches, and a general feeling of unease, making it hard to fall or stay asleep.

Heart Disease

Heart disease includes conditions like heart failure, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and coronary artery disease. These conditions can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations. When these symptoms occur at night, they can make falling or staying asleep difficult. Additionally, people with heart disease often experience anxiety and stress, which can further disrupt sleep patterns.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe. Symptoms like chronic cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath are more severe at night. This can lead to frequent awakenings and difficulty sleeping. The struggle to breathe can also cause anxiety, making it even harder to relax and get a good night’s rest.

Kidney Disease

This disease affects the body’s ability to filter the body from the blood. This can cause a buildup of toxins in the body, leading to symptoms like nausea, muscle cramps, and restless legs. These symptoms are often worse at night, making it difficult to fall asleep. Additionally, kidney disease can cause frequent urination, leading to multiple trips to the bathroom during the night.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis is a condition impacting the central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as muscle spasms, pain, and fatigue. These symptoms can be particularly disruptive at night, with muscle spasms and pain often interrupting sleep and constant fatigue, making it difficult to achieve restful sleep. Additionally, anxiety and depression, common in people with multiple sclerosis, can further exacerbate sleep problems.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Even those with seemingly perfect diets may only obtain some of the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for optimal health. Daily vitamin supplements are crucial for filling the gaps between dietary intake and body needs.

If you are struggling with insomnia and chronic fatigue, a nutritional deficiency might be the underlying cause. Many people are unaware that lacking essential nutrients can lead to feelings of weakness or tiredness. Here are some important nutrients and how their deficiencies can impact your health:

• Vitamin D: Disrupts circadian rhythm, affecting sleep cycles.
• Magnesium: Causes muscle cramps and restlessness.
• Calcium: Inhibits melatonin production, disrupting sleep.
• Vitamin B6: Reduces serotonin, impacting the quality of sleep.
• Iron: Leads to restless leg syndrome symptoms.
• Zinc: Affects neurotransmitters, causing insomnia.
• Tryptophan: Low serotonin levels, leading to poor sleep.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduces melatonin, disrupting sleep patterns.
• Vitamin C: Increases stress hormones, affecting sleep.
• Potassium: Causes muscle cramps and discomfort.

Could you schedule an annual blood test to check your levels and ensure you do not suffer from a nutritional deficiency? If a deficiency is found to be the cause of your chronic fatigue, it can often be remedied with supplements and a balanced diet.

Sedentary Lifestyle

A lack of physical activity can lead to decreased energy. Regular exercise boosts cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and improves sleep, contributing to higher levels. Conversely, a sedentary lifestyle can make you feel more tired and sluggish.

Stress and Anxiety

Chronic stress and anxiety can sap your energy. The body’s response to reduce stress consumes a lot of energy, leading to feelings of fatigue. Over time, this can contribute to burnout and chronic tiredness.

Depression

Depression is a common cause of chronic fatigue. It often results in a lack of motivation and significant energy depletion. Depression can disrupt sleep patterns and reduce interest in activities, exacerbating feelings of tiredness.

Prescription Medications

Some medications have side effects that include fatigue. Medications for conditions such as high blood pressure, allergies, depression, and anxiety, as well as certain cancer treatments, can cause drowsiness and low energy. Regular consultation with a healthcare provider can help manage these side effects.

Poor Diet

A diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can lead to energy crashes. Such foods cause rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, which can result in fatigue. A balanced diet with whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports sustained daily energy.

Dehydration

Even mild dehydration can impact energy levels. Dehydration affects physical and cognitive performance, causing tiredness and reduced concentration. Drinking adequate fluids is essential for maintaining energy and overall bodily functions.

Overexertion

Excessive physical activity without proper rest can lead to fatigue. It’s crucial to balance it with adequate recovery time to prevent energy depletion. Overexertion can strain your body and reduce your overall energy levels.

Recognizing and addressing these factors can help improve your natural energy levels and lead a more active, productive life.

How Does The Endocannabinoid System Affect Your Energy Levels?

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates various physiological processes, including energy levels. The ECS comprises endocannabinoids, receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes that synthesize and degrade these endocannabinoids. This system is crucial for maintaining homeostasis, the body’s internal balance, including energy balance and metabolism.

Endocannabinoids, such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors are predominantly found in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. CB1 receptors, in particular, are abundant in areas of the brain that regulate energy and appetite, such as the hypothalamus.

Activation of CB1 receptors in the hypothalamus can stimulate appetite and promote food intake, which impacts energy levels. This is part of the reason why cannabis use is often associated with increased hunger, known as “the munchies.” Conversely, blocking CB receptors has been shown to reduce appetite and food intake, which has led to the exploration of CB1 antagonists as potential treatments for obesity.

Beyond appetite regulation, the ECS also influences energy storage and expenditure. It affects the metabolism of fats and sugars, influencing how the body stores energy. For instance, activation of CB1 receptors in adipose (fat) tissue can promote lipogenesis, converting carbohydrates into fatty acids for storage. This mechanism ensures the body has adequate energy reserves but can contribute to weight gain if overactivated.

Moreover, the ECS modulates mitochondrial activity. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of cells that generate ATP, the cell’s primary energy currency. Endocannabinoids can influence mitochondrial function and production, affecting overall energy levels and physical endurance.

Because the ECS significantly affects energy levels through its roles in appetite regulation, energy storage, and mitochondrial function, it can substantially impact your energy levels. Whether you are smoking cannabis or taking an edible or tincture, cannabis research suggests that the cannabinoids you ingest from medical marijuana can also have a positive (or negative) impact on your energy levels.

Sativa vs. Indica: Which is Better for Energy?

Most cannabis strains available in the United States are hybridized or cultivated plants with genetic characteristics of both Sativa and Indica strains. Depending on where you live, finding a strain that is purely Indica or purely Sativa can be a challenge.

What Are Indica Cannabis Plants or Strains Good For?

Indica cannabis plants, known for their short, bushy appearance and broad leaves, are often favored for their relaxing and soothing effects. These strains are typically higher in CBD and lower in THC compared to Sativa strains, making them popular for both medicinal and recreational use. Using cannabis, precisely Indica strains, can promote relaxation and reduce stress. Many users find that Indica helps them unwind after a long day, reducing anxiety and creating a sense of calm. This makes Indica strains particularly useful for those dealing with chronic stress or anxiety disorders.

Using Indica Strains for Pain and Insomnia

Using cannabis, particularly Indica strains, is renowned for its effectiveness in managing pain. The high CBD content in these plants can provide significant relief from various types of pain, including chronic pain, muscle spasms, and inflammation. This makes them a popular choice for patients with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis. Sleep aid is another significant benefit of Indica cannabis strains. Due to their soothing properties, these strains can help individuals who struggle with insomnia or other sleep disorders. The calming effects of using Indica can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night, promoting a more restful and restorative sleep cycle. Additionally, Indica strains can stimulate appetite, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy, where loss of appetite is a common side effect. This property, often called “the munchies,” can help patients maintain proper nutrition and body weight during treatment.

Are Sativa Strains Better for Boosting Your Energy?

Using cannabis, especially Sativa strains, is often praised for its uplifting and energizing effects. Unlike Indica strains, which are typically more relaxing, Sativas are known for their ability to boost energy levels, enhance focus, and stimulate creativity. These characteristics make Sativa strains a popular choice for daytime use and for people looking to stay active and engaged. One of the critical reasons using Sativa strains can boost energy is their higher THC content and lower CBD levels. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that creates the “high.” Cannabidiol (CBD) can counteract some of the psychoactive effects of cannabis.

Improved Mood and Energy from Sativa Cannabis Plants

Sativa strains tend to have a more cerebral, head-focused effect, which can lead to increased alertness and a sense of euphoria. This makes them ideal for activities that require mental sharpness and physical energy. Using cannabis, particularly Sativa strains, can also enhance creativity. Many users report that these strains help them think more freely and develop innovative ideas. This makes Sativa a favorite among artists, writers, and other creative professionals who need a boost in imagination and inspiration. In addition to boosting energy and creativity, using Sativa strains can improve mood and reduce depression. Their uplifting effects can help combat fatigue and lethargy, making staying motivated and positive throughout the day easier. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with depression or chronic fatigue syndrome.

Moreover, using Sativa strains can aid in social interactions. The increased energy and positive mood can make users more talkative and friendly, enhancing social experiences and reducing social anxiety. Sativa strains (or Sativa-dominant hybrid varieties) are often better for boosting energy, enhancing creativity, improving mood, and aiding social interactions. Their stimulating effects make them an excellent choice for daytime use and anyone looking to stay active and mentally engaged.

How Does The Sativa Cannabis Plant Increase Your Energy?

Many people know that Sativa strains can rapidly increase your energy levels, even if you are tired or have a low or depressed mood. But not many understand what is happening inside your body that causes that energy boost after consuming a Sativa.

Increased Dopamine Release

When you consume a Sativa medical cannabis product, one of the first things that happens in your brain is an increase in dopamine release. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, motivation, and reward. Sativa strains, which are typically higher in THC, stimulate the brain’s reward system, which causes a surge in dopamine levels. This increase in dopamine can enhance mood, making you feel more motivated and energetic.

Enhanced Serotonin Activity

Sativa strains also affect serotonin levels, another crucial neurotransmitter influencing mood, appetite, and sleep. By boosting serotonin activity, Sativa cannabis can help improve your overall sense of well-being. Higher serotonin levels can increase happiness and reduce anxiety, contributing to a more energized and positive state of mind.

Stimulation of the Central Nervous System

THC in Sativa strains stimulates the central nervous system, leading to increased brain activity and alertness. This stimulation can enhance cognitive functions such as attention, focus, and creativity. As a result, you may feel more mentally sharp and capable of tackling tasks that require concentration and critical thinking.

Increased Blood Flow to the Brain

Consuming Sativa cannabis can also lead to increased blood flow to the brain. This enhanced circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients to brain cells, promoting better brain function and higher energy levels. Improved blood flow can also strengthen your ability to think clearly and stay alert.

Activation of the Endocannabinoid System

The (ECS) plays a vital role in maintaining balance in the body. Sativa strains interact with the ECS, particularly the CB1 receptors found in the brain. Activation of these receptors can lead to euphoria and increased energy. The ECS helps regulate energy balance, mood, and overall vitality by modulating various physiological processes.

Reduction of Fatigue and Lethargy

Sativa cannabis products can help combat fatigue and lethargy by promoting wakefulness. The stimulating effects of THC can counteract feelings of tiredness, making you feel more awake and energized. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome or other conditions that cause persistent tiredness.

Enhancement of Physical Activity

Sativa strains can provide an extra boost of energy and motivation for those who engage in physical activities. The combined effects of increased dopamine, serotonin, and central nervous system stimulation can make physical exercise more enjoyable and less strenuous. This can lead to improved endurance and performance in athletic or exercise-related activities.

Consuming a Sativa medical cannabis product leads to several physiological changes that boost energy levels. These include increased dopamine and serotonin release, stimulation of the central nervous system, enhanced blood flow to the brain, activation of the ECS, reduction of fatigue, and enhancement of physical activity. These combined effects contribute to a more energized, alert, and motivated state.

How Long Does It Take To Feel An Energy Boost From Cannabis?

Smoking cannabis or using cannabis vape are the top-selling for both recreational drug and medicinal purposes. When inhaled, the cannabis effects can be felt very quickly. THC appears to be rapidly absorbed through the lungs into the bloodstream.

The onset of high energy effects after smoking or vaping cannabis can vary depending on several factors, including the strain, THC content, individual tolerance, and method of consumption. Typically, users may begin to feel the effects within minutes to around half an hour after inhalation.

1. Immediate Effects (Within Minutes): Inhalation methods like smoking or vaping deliver cannabinoids directly into the bloodstream through the lungs. This allows for rapid absorption, and users may feel the initial effects almost immediately, typically within minutes of inhalation.
2. Peak Effects (Around 10-30 Minutes): The peak of the high energy effects usually occurs within 10 to 30 minutes after smoking or vaping. This is when the THC levels in the bloodstream are at their highest concentration, leading to the most pronounced effects on mood, energy levels, and perception.
3. Duration of Effects (1-3 Hours): The high-energy effects can vary but generally lasts about 1 to 3 hours. This timeframe can be influenced by the amount consumed, individual metabolism, and tolerance levels. Some users may experience lingering effects for several hours after the initial peak.

Clinical research suggests that cannabis smoke presents a risk to lung health, similar to the effects of tobacco smoke. Cannabis users smoking weed regularly may also be inhaling harmful chemicals that are known carcinogens, placing them at a higher risk of developing problems with respiratory function and cancer.

There are, however, other ways to ingest cannabinoids that may be less harmful than smoked marijuana with fewer potentially adverse long-term effects on human health. Patients who are cannabis users have a variety of other intake methods to choose from as well.

Sublingual Uptake With Cannabis Tinctures

The onset of high energy effects after taking a cannabis tincture can vary based on several factors, including the individual’s metabolism, the type of the tincture, and how it’s consumed.

Onset (15-45 Minutes): When consuming a cannabis tincture orally (under the tongue or mixed with food/drink), it typically takes around 15 to 45 minutes for the effects to begin. This delay is due to the tincture needing to be absorbed through the digestive system and metabolized by the liver before entering the bloodstream.

1. Peak Effects (1-2 Hours): The peak of the high energy effects from a cannabis tincture usually occurs about 1 to 2 hours after ingestion. This is when the cannabinoids, mainly THC and CBD, reach their highest levels in the bloodstream, producing the most noticeable effects on mood, energy levels, and cognitive function.
2. Duration of Effects (3-6 Hours): The duration of the high energy effects from a cannabis tincture can last anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, depending on factors such as dosage, individual tolerance, and the specific formulation of the tincture. Some individuals may experience prolonged effects that last even longer.

It’s essential to start with a low dose of a cannabis tincture, especially if you’re new to cannabis or you’ve not used tinctures before, and gradually increase as needed. This approach helps minimize the risk of overconsumption and allows you to gauge how your body responds to cannabis products.

Medical Marijuana Edibles

The onset of effects from consuming a Sativa cannabis edible can vary depending on several factors, including your metabolism, tolerance, and the specific product’s potency. Edible effects can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in, as they need to be digested and metabolized before entering the bloodstream. Once the effects begin, they typically peak within 2 to 3 hours after consumption.

For Sativa strains specifically, the effects often include a more energizing and uplifting experience compared to Indica strains, which are known for their relaxing and soothing effects. If you’re looking for a quick energy boost, consider the onset time and plan accordingly to avoid consuming too much before the effects fully set in.

Cannabis Capsules and Tablets

Consuming a Sativa cannabis tablet or capsule generally follows a similar timeline to edibles in terms of onset and duration of effects. It typically takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours to start feeling the effects after consuming a cannabis tablet or capsule. This delay is due to the time required for digestion and absorption into the bloodstream.

1. Peak Effects: Once the effects begin, they usually peak within 2 to 3 hours after consumption. You’ll likely experience Sativa strains’ full energizing and uplifting effects during this peak period.
2. Duration: The effects of cannabis tablets or capsules can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on factors such as dosage and individual metabolism.

To optimize the energizing effects and manage fatigue effectively, it’s important to start with a moderate dose and allow enough time for the effects to manifest fully. This approach helps avoid consuming too much before the onset of physical and psychoactive effects.

Popular Energy Boosting Medical Cannabis Strains

Here are some cannabis strains known for providing a boost to energy and combating fatigue:

1. Green Crack

Green Crack is a Sativa-dominant strain renowned for its stimulating effects and citrusy aroma. It uplifts mood and enhances focus, making it ideal for daytime use.

• THC potency %: Typically around 15-25%
• CBD content: Usually low, less than 1%
• Terpenes: Limonene (citrus), Myrcene (earthy), Caryophyllene (spicy)
• Minor cannabinoids: May contain trace amounts of THCV

2. Durban Poison

Durban Poison is a pure Sativa strain originating from South Africa. It’s known for its sweet It’s and potent, uplifting effects that can boost energy and creativity.

• THC potency %: Typically around 15-25%
• CBD content: Generally low, less than 1%
• Terpenes: Terpinolene (floral), Ocimene (sweet), Myrcene (earthy)
• Minor cannabinoids: May have trace amounts of THCV

3. Super Lemon Haze

Super Lemon Haze is a Sativa-dominant hybrid known for its lemony citrus aroma and potent cerebral effects. Its energizing and mood-lifting sensations make it a popular choice for combating fatigue.

• THC potency %: Usually around 18-25%
• CBD content: Low, typically less than 1%
• Terpenes: Limonene (citrus), Beta-Caryophyllene (spicy), Myrcene (earthy)
• Minor cannabinoids: May contain trace amounts of CBG

4. Jack Herer

Jack Herer is a Sativa-dominant hybrid named after the renowned cannabis activist. It offers a blissful, clear-headed high with energizing effects, making it great for daytime use.

• THC potency %: Typically around 18-24%
• CBD content: Generally low, less than 1%
• Terpenes: Terpinolene (floral), Pinene (pine), Myrcene (earthy)
• Other cannabinoids: May have trace amounts of THCV

5. Harlequin

Description: Harlequin is a Sativa-dominant hybrid known for its high CBD content, which can counteract some of the psychoactive effects of THC. It offers a gentle, clear-headed buzz that can help with fatigue without the intense high.

• THC potency %: Usually low, around 5-10%
• CBD content: High, often 5-15%
• Terpenes: Myrcene (earthy), Pinene (pine), Caryophyllene (spicy)
• Other cannabinoids: Significant CBD presence, potential for minor amounts of CBG

If you need help finding the right strain to boost your energy, Medwell Health can help. To learn more, follow us on Facebook and watch for helpful educational blogs and links to explore different strains of medical cannabis you can try.