Buzz
Although the nation's adoption of legal cannabis has been slow and somewhat puzzling, the recreational use of marijuana has existed for thousands of years. While it once grew freely in places like New York City’s parking lots, today it comes with a hefty price—especially with the added taxes from legal sales. As a result, it’s wise to look for ways to boost the effects of each bud you consume.
For some, using weed has meant breaking the law for years; for others, it’s their first time enjoying legal, personalized experiences. One such experience involves getting ‘zonked’—a cherished tradition for many. For some, this could mean watching a ‘Star Trek: Deep Space Nine’ marathon paired with Trader Joe’s Dark Russet Chips, while for others, it’s about socializing or enjoying outdoor activities. All of these are valid ways to experience the effects of cannabis. However, some of you might need a little extra help to feel truly elevated, and we’re here to offer some helpful tips and tricks to achieve that sensation.
Why pairing mango with weed creates an incredibly potent combination
Though not a recipe or a guide to dining, understanding certain foods can be beneficial when you’re looking to maximize a high—and this is thanks to phytochemicals. Cannabis itself contains hundreds of these compounds, all of which participate in the entourage effect; the collective action of these chemicals and cannabinoids such as THC is responsible for the intoxication we experience as a 'high.' Many of these chemicals are also found in a wide variety of foods, plants, and products.
Aromatic compounds, such as terpenes, are what give cannabis its rich and diverse aroma. Myrcene, found in mangoes, is one such compound, known for its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties. By pairing the right strain of mango with cannabis, you can access this beneficial effect—but it’s important to note that results can vary significantly depending on the strain. This is not just stoner talk—the scientific basis behind it is sound—but predicting the experience can be challenging without lab testing on both the fruit and the weed.
Myrcene is present not just in mangoes, but also in bay leaves, lemongrass, and cardamom. This strong-smelling phytochemical isn’t the only psychoactive terpene in the mix—limonene, with its citrusy scent, is often considered invigorating, while linalool, with its floral notes, is the calming essence of lavender. These terpenes have become central to many cannabis products that claim to enhance your experience, including dosist pens and Kin Slips.
Then there are the more anecdotal suggestions, which in my case, revolve around banana bread. Though there’s not yet enough data to confirm it, anyone who’s tried my infused banana bread has ended up much more stoned than expected—not because I loaded it with THC, but perhaps due to the spices I use. I add clove, cinnamon, and cardamom, but other similarly spiced foods don’t have the same effect. For now, I suspect the overripe bananas I use in the recipe could be the reason behind the unexpected high.
Guide your high with aromatherapy
While getting super stoned can be fun, let's be honest—there are times when enhancing your high might actually mean dialing it back a bit. Although there’s no proven method to sober up from cannabis over-intoxication, it’s not life-threatening, but it can be pretty uncomfortable for those who didn’t expect the intensity. Some say sniffing peppercorns or drinking lemonade helps, but personally, I prefer to use basic aromatherapy to chill during a mellow session. Scents like lavender, rich in linalool, can help center your mind, while a dab of diluted mint can relieve discomfort. These approaches work both before and after consumption.
Take a tolerance break
One effective way to feel more stoned is to take fewer hits. If you’re a casual cannabis user, you’ve probably noticed that after a break, you get much more of a buzz when you light up again. Conversely, frequent or medical users might need a higher dose to get the desired effect. Taking a “T break” (short for tolerance break) allows your body’s CB receptors to reset, giving you a fresh start and potentially a stronger high once you return to use.
Mix ‘n’ match
I wouldn’t necessarily call this a ‘method’, but it’s a common way to amplify your high—combining cannabis with other psychoactive substances. One of the easiest combos is cannabis and caffeine—many people enjoy the calm focus they get from mixing weed with coffee, tea, soda, or even energy drinks like Red Bull. Some may find this pairing a bit too anxiety-inducing, but for most, it’s a safe mix. If you already enjoy one of the two reliably, don’t hesitate to experiment with the combination.
Some combinations are more complex. Alcohol and cannabis are a popular mix for many, but there are certain risks that aren’t often talked about. THC can amplify the negative effects of alcohol—and if you're already consuming a lot of alcohol, that's not a great idea. The combination can also lead to an excess of THC in the bloodstream, intensifying the high. While the pairing may feel good, it’s important to avoid overdoing it.
Another mix that remains controversial, but is regularly used—especially in places where it’s decriminalized—is pairing cannabis with psychedelics. Substances like psilocybin, DMT, and others are often used both for self-therapy and for recreation. This area is still under-researched, but some users report that cannabis helps to balance out the more intense side effects of psychedelics. A word of advice: it’s best to keep these substances separate until you have experience, as combining them can be overwhelming for many.
Even if you’ve been smoking since the ‘70s, trying out one of these mind-bending hacks could change the way you experience cannabis. After all, integrating cannabis into your daily routine, alongside your meals, drinks, and activities, is one of the most enjoyable ways to use it.
