By Jeff Eckenrode

Altering your state of mind from time to time is awesome! And whether you like to smoke a joint while taking a long walk, or share a few pints after work with an old friend, taking time to unwind and relax is an often overlooked but much needed part of everyday adult life.

But we know it can be easy to go overboard. Too often, an innocent attempt to meet up with friends for a “wee li’l drink” can morph into a Bacchanalian booze fest--leaving you tired, nauseous, and disoriented the morning after.

So how can you avoid getting a hangover? The simplest answer seems obvious: Drink less! But sometimes that isn’t an option. If you’ve ever taken one too many shots or sips only to find yourself sick to your stomach with a headache that just won't quit, then you’ll know exactly what I mean. Sound familiar?

Fortunately, there is a solution!

Cannabidiol (commonly known as CBD) can help alleviate many of the symptoms of a hangover. (For more information on CBD, how it works and how to use it, click here.)

Lucky for you, your favorite Hashtag budtenders have done their homework (intentionally or not) and are eager to shed some light on the topic.

Here’s everything you need to know to beat a hangover and to find the CBD product that’s right for you:

How It Works

There are endocannabinoid receptors located all over your body that allow you to absorb THC and CBD. These receptors are connected in a network that scientists call the endocannabinoid system.

Currently, scientists sort these receptors into two groups: CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors, which are located primarily in your brain, are remarkably good at absorbing THC. The result? You get high.

In contrast, CB2 receptors, which are located throughout your body (including your skin, small intestine, and extremities), are particularly proficient at absorbing CBD. And research suggests that CB2 receptors may play an important role in the body’s ability to mitigate discomfort.

Studies have shown that THC is particularly good at activating CB1 receptors and can also activate CB2 receptors (to an extent). CBD, on the other hand, can deactivate CB1 receptors and activate CB2 receptors.

What does that mean for you? It means that THC can get you high, and CBD can help you counteract the negative effects of getting too high (all while activating CB2 receptors throughout your body, alleviating discomfort).

Cool story. But my head is killing me. Can you help me out?

No sweat, we’ve got you covered. Everybody is different, and each person has a CBD to THC ratio that’s just right for them. Here are just a few of our favorites to help you start feeling like your old self again:

Wake up feeling rough? Try Fairwinds' EmergenCBD

This citrus flavored powder is especially formulated to deliver all the benefits of CBD without the worry of intoxicating effects. This light and refreshing mix is chock full of valuable nutrients, electrolytes, and antioxidants along with indoor grown, pesticide-free CBD. The effects last for hours and will have you feeling better in no time! Pour one EmergenCBD powder into 12 to 20 ounces of water, and you’ll have a high-CBD, nearly-zero THC, low-sugar sports drink in an instant so you can get back in the game!

Need fast-acting relief? Try Green Revolution's CBD 5-1 Tincture

This tincture is a unique 5:1 ratio of CBD to THC and is a great buy for folks who need relief in a hurry. This water-based tincture can be mixed with your favorite beverage or applied sublingually for fast-acting effects.

Need a clear head? Try Sweetwater Farms' Sour Tsunami #3

Available in flower as well as joints, Sour Tsunami #3 by Sweetwater Farms is a one-of-a-kind strain with an impressive CBD to THC ratio that ranges between 10:1 to 15:1. Sour Tsunami’s herbal aroma and bright flavor will leave you focused, alert, and ready to tackle any challenge!

Need to get some shut-eye? Try Spot's CBD Dark Chocolate

This high CBD dark chocolate is a budtender favorite and sports a unique 10:3 CBD to THC ratio! It is is the perfect balance for cannabis newbies looking to turn down the volume on their discomfort, and its long lasting effects will help you get some rest.

Looking for high-performance? Try Pearl Extracts' Lilly CBD

Lilly CBD by Pearl Extracts is a top-of-the-line option for Saturday mornings, Sunday mornings, and, let’s be honest, any day of the week. With a 2:1 ratio of CBD to THC, Lilly CBD has the right stuff to help you feel like your old self in no time!

And that’s just to get you started!

Stop by our Fremont and Redmond locations next time you’re feeling rough after a long night out. You’ll be glad you did.