As the landscape of substance use continues to evolve, so does our understanding of how different substances interact. While much attention has been given to the combination of cannabis and alcohol, there’s a growing interest in exploring the synergy between cannabis and psychedelics. This topic is particularly relevant as psychedelics gain popularity in the United States. At Hey, Joni., we aim to keep you informed on the latest trends and insights to help guide safe and informed choices. Let’s delve into a study published this month conducted by researchers at Colorado State University that sheds light on how cannabis and psychedelics interact.
The Study
A recent study surveyed 128 attendees at concerts and music festivals about their use of cannabis alongside other substances. Out of these, 63 participants shared their experiences of using cannabis with psychedelics simultaneously. Their detailed responses provide valuable insights into the effects and experiences of combining these substances.
Substances Included in the Study
The study explored the use of cannabis with a variety of psychedelic substances. Participants reported using the following psychedelics in combination with cannabis:
- Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms): 50.8% of participants
- LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide): 41.3% of participants
- MDMA (Ecstasy): 27% of participants
- Ketamine: 17.5% of participants
- DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine): 4.8% of participants
- Mescaline: 3.2% of participants
Participants also reported using different forms of cannabis during their psychedelic experiences:
- Flower (Bud): 79.4% of participants
- Concentrates (e.g., shatter, wax): 50.8% of participants
- Edibles: 22.2% of participants
Notably, 33.3% of participants endorsed using more than one psychedelic substance during their most recent co-use experience, and 39.7% reported using more than one form of cannabis.
Key Findings on Mixing Cannabis and Psychedelics
1. Tension Reduction and Balancing Effects
One of the most commonly reported benefits of combining cannabis with psychedelics was the reduction of tension and balancing of drug effects. Many participants found that cannabis helped alleviate anxiety and stay grounded during their psychedelic journey. For instance, during intense moments or a “bad trip,” cannabis served as a calming agent, helping users navigate the experience more comfortably.
2. Enhancement to Psychological Processes
Participants also noted enhancements to their psychological processes. Cannabis contributed to increased cognitive control, deeper introspection, and elevated positive emotions. This meant that users could think more clearly and experience a greater sense of joy and happiness during their psychedelic experience.
3. Intensified Psychedelic Effects
For some, cannabis intensified the effects of psychedelics, particularly visual and bodily sensations. Colors appeared more vivid, lights seemed brighter, and overall sensory experiences were heightened. This intensification added a unique dimension to their psychedelic journeys.
4. Enhanced Come-Down Experience
Cannabis was found to enhance the “come-down” period of the psychedelic experience. Participants reported that it prolonged the positive effects, making the transition back to normalcy smoother and more enjoyable. Cannabis also aided in recovery, helping users relax and fall asleep after the psychedelic effects wore off.
5. Overall Ambiguous Enhancement
A number of participants mentioned that cannabis generally made their psychedelic experience better, though they didn’t specify how. This overall sense of enhancement speaks to the subjective nature of substance interactions.
Adverse Reactions to Mixing Cannabis and Psychedelics
While many reported positive experiences, a small percentage (11.1%) of participants experienced adverse reactions. These included increased anxiety, decreased sociability, confusion, and disassociation. It’s important to recognize that individual reactions can vary significantly.
Conclusion
The interaction between cannabis and psychedelics is complex and multifaceted. While cannabis can enhance and balance the psychedelic experience for many, it can also lead to adverse reactions for some. This study highlights the importance of understanding these interactions to make informed choices.
These findings underscore the need for caution and mindfulness when combining substances. If you’re considering using cannabis and psychedelics together, start with small amounts of each and be aware of how your body and mind respond. Always prioritize your well-being and seek out safe, supportive environments for your experiences.
As the legal and social landscape around psychedelics continues to shift, staying informed and making conscious choices will help ensure positive and meaningful experiences. At Hey, Joni., we are committed to bringing you the latest insights and research to support your journey.
[See the full study: Piercey, C.J., Hetelekides, E. & Karoly, H.C. Simultaneous cannabis and psychedelic use among festival and concert attendees in Colorado: characterizing enhancement and adverse reactions using mixed methods. J Cannabis Res 6, 29 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-024-00235-x]
Stay safe, stay informed, and keep exploring!
Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below. Your feedback helps us all learn and grow together! 🌿🌼
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your substance use.