Has this ever happened to you? You take a few hits of your favorite strain, enjoy an edible, or even consume a dose of a tincture, and the next thing you know, your mouth starts feeling a little tacky and uncomfortable. You’ve got a classic case of cottonmouth.
Also called xerostomia or dry mouth, cottonmouth is a common side effect of consuming cannabis. For a long time, users believed inhalation to be the culprit, but as it turns out, you can experience it with nearly any cannabis product.
Why Do You Get Cottonmouth?
There isn’t a lot of research, but a 2006 study discovered that salivary glands contain localized cannabinoid receptors. When cannabinoids bind to these receptors, the signals that indicate your mouth needs saliva are disrupted. As such, the brain doesn’t tell the glands to secrete any saliva. The result? Your mouth becomes dry and uncomfortable, and you feel pretty miserable.
What Is the Best Way to Get Rid of Cottonmouth?
Generally speaking, cottonmouth isn’t a significant issue if you’re only consuming small amounts of weed. However, the more you ingest, the greater your likelihood of experiencing it (and its intensity) becomes. While there is no surefire cure for weed cottonmouth, there are a few things you can do to lessen the effects.
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
When you have cottonmouth, your mouth and throat are dehydrated. You can combat the issue by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your cannabis sessions. Avoid chugging it, though — simply take small sips through a straw. It gives your mouth time to rehydrate little by little and can help stimulate saliva production.
Also, avoid coffee and anything that contains caffeine.
2. Sip Some Herbal Tea
Cottonmouth is often accompanied by a sore and irritated throat. Sipping herbal tea (not green or black tea) can help alleviate those unpleasant symptoms. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some honey may help, too.
3. Keep a Pack of Chewing Gum Nearby
The act of chewing also helps stimulate saliva production. The key here is to use sugar-free chewing gum, preferably with xylitol. The natural sweetener may help your mouth maintain a neutral pH, which can help combat the risk of tooth decay (which increases when you have cottonmouth).
4. Pop Something Sour
Nothing gets saliva flowing quite like something sour! Sucking on an orange or lemon slice may provide you with some much-needed relief. A piece of sour candy can be effective, too.
5. Invest in a Humidifier
If you regularly use cannabis and frequently wake up with a sore throat, you might find a humidifier a worthwhile investment. The machine reduces dryness in the air, which can help you avoid the uncomfortable side effects of cottonmouth.
Helpful Tips and Quality Products from Your Local Cannabis Shop
Cottonmouth might not be a significant issue in the grand scheme of things, but it’s certainly unenjoyable. With these tips in mind, you’ll reduce cottonmouth’s impact and enjoy your favorite weed products much more.
At Campfire Cannabis, your enjoyment is one of our top priorities. Along with selling you only the highest quality products, we’re also here to offer helpful advice, tips, and tricks so that you can get the most out of every session. Feel free to check us out for all of your cannabis needs!
