It’s a common refrain in smoke circles: “Coughing will get you higher!” But is there any truth to this age-old cannabis myth, or is it just something people say after a particularly harsh hit? Let’s get into the science and separate fact from fiction.

Breaking Down the Myth: Why Do We Cough?

Coughing while smoking or vaping cannabis is usually caused by irritation of the throat and lungs. When you inhale smoke, especially from a strong strain or a large hit, your respiratory system reacts by trying to expel it—hence the coughing.

Some believe that the act of coughing opens up your lungs, allowing more THC (the main psychoactive compound in cannabis) to enter your bloodstream, intensifying your high. However, scientifically speaking, there’s no evidence to support the idea that coughing directly increases THC absorption.

See also: Does CBD Get You High?

The Reality: Does Coughing Get You Higher?

In reality, coughing itself does not cause you to absorb more THC. The majority of THC is absorbed within the first few seconds of inhalation. So if you’re coughing after taking a hit, your body has already absorbed most of the cannabinoids it’s going to get.

However, the act of coughing can cause lightheadedness due to temporary oxygen deprivation. This feeling of dizziness or euphoria might be mistaken for an enhanced high, but it’s actually just your body reacting to the lack of oxygen. So, while coughing may feel like it will get you higher, it’s more about how your body is responding to the stress of coughing.

Other Factors That Impact Your High

While coughing doesn’t get you higher, other factors do affect how high you feel:

THC potency: THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for the characteristic “high” sensation. It’s the key player in determining the intensity and overall effects of your cannabis experience. Simply put, the higher the THC content in your chosen strain or product, the more potent the effects will be.  

Inhalation technique: How you inhale cannabis smoke or vapor plays a significant role in how much THC you absorb and, ultimately, how intense your high becomes. Mastering the right inhalation technique can make a noticeable difference in your overall experience.

The Ideal Inhalation is Deep and Steady: Take a slow, deep inhale, filling your lungs with the smoke or vapor. This allows the cannabinoids to reach a larger surface area in your lungs, maximizing absorption.

Hold Briefly: Hold the inhale for a few seconds (no more than 5) to allow the THC to be absorbed into your bloodstream. Contrary to popular belief, holding your breath for extended periods does not significantly increase the high and can lead to more coughing and discomfort.

Also, the idea that holding your breath for a long time will get you higher is a common misconception. THC is absorbed very quickly into your bloodstream through the alveoli in your lungs. This absorption happens within the first few seconds of inhalation. Holding your breath longer doesn’t get you higher, it simply deprives your brain of oxygen, potentially leading to lightheadedness or dizziness, which can be mistaken for a stronger high.

Tips for Optimal Inhalation

• Start with small hits: If you’re new to cannabis or trying a new strain, start with small hits to gauge your tolerance and avoid coughing fits.
• Use a quality device: Whether you’re smoking or vaping, using a well-designed piece can improve your inhalation experience and ensure efficient cannabinoid delivery.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking water before, during, and after your session can help prevent dry mouth and throat irritation, making inhalation more comfortable.
• Listen to your body: If you start to feel uncomfortable or lightheaded, stop and take a break. Don’t force yourself to take larger hits or hold your breath for extended periods.
• Exhale Slowly: Exhale gently and completely, ensuring that you’ve expelled all the smoke or vapor from your lungs.
• Tolerance level: If you have a low tolerance, even small amounts of THC can feel much more potent.
• Set and setting: Your environment, mood, and state of mind can influence how cannabis affects you.

The OJ Myth: Can Orange Juice Get You Higher?

There’s another myth in cannabis circles: drinking orange juice (OJ) can get you higher. Some believe that vitamin C in the juice amplifies THC’s effects, while others suggest that the terpenes in oranges (such as limonene) might interact with cannabinoids to enhance the experience.

Though OJ is refreshing after a smoke session, there’s no scientific evidence to support the claim that it will get you higher. What’s more likely is that the sugar content in OJ can provide a quick burst of energy, which might make you feel more awake or alert during your high.

So, Coughing & OJ? Here’s the Final Verdict

Coughing doesn’t get you higher, though it might make you feel like it due to lightheadedness. Similarly, while orange juice can be a tasty drink to enjoy with cannabis, it won’t get you higher in any significant way. The true key to a stronger high lies in the quality and potency of the cannabis, not the act of coughing or sipping OJ. Oh, and since we’re playing with the idea of “Kush & OJ,” let’s consider strains that would complement the flavor and experience of orange juice. Here are a few ideas:

Strains with Citrusy Terpenes:

• Agent Orange: This Sativa-dominant hybrid boasts a strong citrus aroma with notes of orange and lemon, making it a natural pairing for OJ. Its uplifting effects can also enhance the refreshing qualities of the juice.
• Tangie: Another citrus-forward strain with a distinct tangerine aroma. Its energizing and creative effects can make for a vibrant and flavorful experience when paired with OJ.  
• Lemon Haze: As the name suggests, this Sativa-dominant strain has a prominent lemon aroma and flavor. Its uplifting and cerebral effects can complement the refreshing nature of orange juice.

Strains with Complementary Flavors:

• Strawberry Cough: This Sativa strain has a sweet strawberry aroma that can create a delightful fruity combination with OJ. Its uplifting and euphoric effects can also enhance the enjoyment of the juice.  
• Blueberry Muffin: This Indica-dominant hybrid has a sweet blueberry aroma that can blend nicely with the citrus notes of OJ. Its relaxing and calming effects can create a balanced experience.

Strains for a Balanced Experience:

• Harlequin: This CBD-rich strain with a balanced THC:CBD ratio offers a clear-headed and relaxed experience. Its subtle earthy and sweet notes won’t overpower the taste of OJ, making it a good choice for those seeking a more mellow pairing.  
• Cannatonic: Another CBD-rich strain known for its calming and anxiety-reducing effects. Its mild flavor profile allows the taste of OJ to shine while providing a relaxing backdrop.

Ultimately, the best strain to pair with OJ depends on your personal preferences and desired effects. Just remember, the juice won’t get you higher! Experiment with different strains and see what combinations you enjoy most.

Don’t forget to consume responsibly and be mindful of your dosage, especially when combining cannabis with sugary drinks like orange juice.

Cheers to a delicious and refreshing experience! 🍹💨