THC intoxication is also linked to the stimulation of the brain’s reward circuitry which is connected to the processing of emotions and memories. Increased activity in this region of the brain can activate heightened senses of pleasure and emotion that can lead to those familiar feelings of elation, happiness, giggles and even cravings for your favorite comfort food. Remember that late night Taco Bell that was the best thing you ever tasted? That is cannabis stimulating your brain’s reward system.

Bloodshot eyes:

• Cannabis consumption causes a decrease in blood pressure which causes blood vessels and capillaries to dilate. The ocular capillaries also dilate which reduces fluid pressure in and increases blood flow to the eyes … which makes them red! 
• This can happen with any method of cannabis consumption.  The amount of THC consumed, how potent that THC was, and each unique person’s cannabinoid system will affect how red your eyes may get.
• Other than it being a little obvious that you’ve enjoyed some potent cannabis, there is no reason to be concerned if your eyes get red! 
  

Dry Mouth

• Two cannabinoid receptors found in the brain (CB1 and CB2) are also found in glands at the bottom of the mouth that are responsible for creating saliva. When THC binds to these receptors, these glands stop receiving messages from the parasympathetic nervous system which reduces saliva production
• Avoid this by staying hydrated before and during cannabis consumption. Gum, cough drops or hard candies can also help alleviate this side effect.

“Couch-lock”

• Ahh that familiar feeling of heaviness that slowly takes over after a big hit or a heavy edible kicks in. This sensation of relaxation and sedation creates the feeling of being literally locked to your couch. While many cannabis users will associate this with a heavy indica strain, there is currently not enough research to specifically identify if and what combination of cannabinoids, terpenes or even consumption methods cause this sensation. However, the more cannabis that is consumed in one sitting, the more likely couch lock will happen.