Mitigating Cotton Mouth During Cannabis Consumption: Effective Strains and Preventive Measures

 

Introduction:

One of the most common side effects of smoking marijuana is the dreaded cotton mouth, characterized by a dry and parched sensation in the mouth. While cotton mouth can be uncomfortable, there are ways to minimize this side effect. By choosing the right strains and adopting specific consumption methods, you can enjoy your cannabis experience without the annoyance of cotton mouth. In this article, we will explore the best marijuana strains and consumption techniques that can help you avoid cotton mouth.

[ez-toc]Cannabis, a popular recreational and medicinal plant, has been linked to various physiological effects. One common, yet discomforting side effect is ‘cotton mouth’. Cotton Mouth is characterized by dry mouth due to the inhibition of saliva production. The following examines what it is, how to combat it, and the best cannabis strains known to minimize cotton mouth. The preventive measures to alleviate this condition are usually simple and straightforward.

Understanding Cotton (Dry) Mouth

Cotton mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a frequent complaint among cannabis users. This sensation of a dry mouth is primarily caused by the presence of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis that binds to receptors in the salivary glands, inhibiting their normal functioning and leading to reduced saliva production (Prestifilippo et al., 2006)[1].

While mild cotton mouth might just be an annoyance, severe cotton mouth could lead to oral health complications such as tooth decay and gum disease due to lack of adequate saliva (Mayo Clinic, 2021)[4].

 

CBD-Rich Strains to the Cotton Mouth Rescue

Given that THC contributes significantly to cotton mouth, cannabis strains high in CBD and lower in THC are a preferable choice to lessen this side effect. Here are 6 strains that you might want to look into if, and only if, other solutions to cotton mouth don’t work for you.

  1. Cannatonic: This hybrid strain carries a low THC content, often under 6%, with CBD content that can reach as high as 17%. The high CBD to THC ratio makes this strain a viable choice to mitigate cotton mouth (Leafly, 2021)[2].
  2. Charlotte’s Web: Named after a young girl who experienced seizure relief from this strain, Charlotte’s Web features a staggering 20:1 CBD to THC ratio, making it a popular choice among users who want to avoid cotton mouth (Leafly, 2021)[2].
  3. Sour Tsunami: Created specifically for its high CBD content, this strain typically offers a 1:1 to 2:1 CBD to THC ratio, potentially reducing the likelihood of cotton mouth (Leafly, 2021)[2].
  4. Harlequin: This sativa-dominant strain is well-renowned for its high CBD to THC ratio, typically 5:2. The higher CBD content is likely to cause less cotton mouth than other strains (Leafly, 2021)[2].
  5. ACDC: Another CBD-rich strain, ACDC typically carries a CBD to THC ratio of 20:1, which means cotton mouth is significantly less common with this strain (Leafly, 2021)[2].
  6. Ringo’s Gift: Named after cannabis activist Lawrence Ringo, this strain’s CBD to THC ratio can reach up to 24:1, making it a great choice for those seeking minimal cotton mouth (Leafly, 2021)[2].

Effective Preventive Measures

Mitigating Cotton Mouth During Cannabis Consumption: Effective Strains and Preventive MeasuresIn addition to opting for high-CBD strains, individuals can take several preventive measures to alleviate cotton mouth:

Consume Hydrating Foods: Foods rich in water content, like cucumber, watermelon, and oranges, can help promote salivation and counter dry mouth. Additionally, including foods with a high electrolyte content in your diet, such as bananas and coconut water, can enhance hydration (Cleveland Clinic, 2020)[5].

Avoid Mouth Breathing: Breathing through the mouth can exacerbate dryness. Practicing nasal breathing could help maintain the mouth’s moisture levels (Mayo Clinic, 2021)[4].

Oral Hygiene Practices: Regular brushing and flossing, along with the use of alcohol-free mouthwash, can assist in maintaining a moist oral environment (Mayo Clinic, 2021)[4].

Consider a Mouth Moisturizer: Over-the-counter oral moisturizers or saliva substitutes can help keep the mouth hydrated (Mayo Clinic, 2021)[4]. I like to use Biotene, a spray for people suffering from dry mouth. Works like a charm!

Cannabis Consumption Methods: Different consumption methods can lead to varying degrees of cotton mouth. For instance, vaping or edibles might cause less dry mouth compared to smoking (University of Pennsylvania, 2020)[3].

I understand that many old-schoolers love to roll that joint and light up, but if you decide to go this way and suffer terrible cotton mouth, perhaps a nice edible would be a better way to go.

A Conclusion

In conclusion, cotton mouth, while a common side effect of cannabis use, can be effectively managed. Opting for cannabis strains high in CBD and lower in THC such as Harlequin, ACDC, Ringo’s Gift, Cannatonic, Charlotte’s Web, and Sour Tsunami could help reduce the occurrence of cotton mouth. Furthermore, implementing preventive measures such as staying well-hydrated, consuming hydrating foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and adjusting cannabis consumption methods could significantly contribute to alleviating this discomforting side effect.

  • John Manzione

References:

  1. Prestifilippo, J. P., et al. (2006). Inhibition of salivary secretion by activation of cannabinoid receptors. Experimental Biology and Medicine, 231(8), 1421-1429.
  2. (2021). CBD vs. THC: What’s the difference? Leafly. https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/whats-the-deal-with-these-high-cbd-strains.
  3. University of Pennsylvania. (2020). Cannabis and dry mouth. https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2020/february/dry-mouth.
  4. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Dry mouth: Causes, symptoms, and treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/symptoms-causes/syc-20356048.
  5. Cleveland Clinic. (2020). The Best (and Worst) Foods for Hydration. .