The experience of sudden coldness, goosebumps, and involuntary shivering after consuming cannabis is a widely reported side effect known colloquially as “weed chills.” This phenomenon is a recognized physiological response, primarily linked to the psychoactive compound in the plant, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Understanding the biological reasons behind this reaction can help demystify the experience and provide clarity on how the body interacts with cannabinoids.
Defining Cannabis-Induced Chills
Cannabis-induced chills are distinct from simply feeling a draft, often presenting as a sudden, intense internal cold sensation. Users frequently describe an abrupt onset of goosebumps across the skin, sometimes accompanied by teeth chattering and muscle tremors. These involuntary shivers are the body’s attempt to generate heat, creating a feeling similar to being severely underdressed in a cold climate. The sensation is sometimes referred to as “weed shakes,” which emphasizes the involuntary trembling that can affect the hands, legs, and core. While alarming, this reaction is typically a temporary, non-threatening side effect of overstimulation, indicating a disruption to the body’s internal temperature controls.
The Mechanism of Thermoregulation Disruption
The core reason for cannabis-induced chills lies in THC’s interaction with the body’s master regulatory system, the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS helps maintain homeostasis, including stable body temperature. THC works by binding to CB1 receptors found throughout the central nervous system. A high concentration of these receptors is located in the hypothalamus, the region of the brain that functions as the body’s thermostat. When THC activates these receptors, it temporarily lowers the body’s core temperature set point, a reaction termed “THC-induced hypothermia.”
This is not true hypothermia, but rather a perceived shift in the set point. The body’s thermoregulatory mechanism interprets this lowered set point as a sign that the core temperature is too low, even if the actual drop is slight. To compensate, the body initiates thermogenesis, the process of generating heat, which manifests externally as shivering and muscle contraction. These involuntary movements are the body’s attempt to raise its temperature back to the new, THC-influenced set point, resulting in the chills and shakes. The effect is highly dose-dependent, meaning higher THC consumption leads to a more pronounced disruption of the hypothalamus’s regulatory function.
Dosage, Strain, and Environmental Factors
The intensity and likelihood of experiencing chills are highly influenced by several variables. The primary factor is the dosage of THC, as high concentrations are significantly more likely to trigger the thermoregulatory response. Individuals with a lower tolerance or those who consume potent concentrates report the chills more frequently than those who use smaller amounts. The specific chemical makeup of the product, including other cannabinoids and terpenes, can also play a role in influencing the overall sensation. Individual metabolic rate and frequency of use are important, as new or infrequent consumers are often more sensitive to the hypothermic effect.
External conditions can exacerbate the internal sensation, turning a mild chill into significant discomfort. If a person is already in a cool environment or has a lower body temperature prior to consumption, the THC-induced change can be amplified. Compounding factors like low blood sugar or an elevated heart rate caused by anxiety can also contribute to the feeling of physical shakiness.
Immediate Relief and Prevention Strategies
Fortunately, cannabis-induced chills are temporary and generally manageable with simple, practical steps focused on re-establishing warmth and calm. The most immediate and effective relief is to change the external environment by adding layers of clothing, wrapping up in a blanket, or moving to a warmer room. Sipping a warm, non-alcoholic beverage, like herbal tea, can also help to raise the core temperature gently. Since low blood sugar can contribute to physical trembling, consuming a small snack or sugary drink may help stabilize the body. Focusing on slow, deep breathing can help mitigate any associated anxiety or panic, which can intensify the physical symptoms.
Prevention
The best strategy for prevention is to control intake by starting with a low dose, especially when trying a new product. Consumers should pay close attention to the THC percentage of a product and select less potent strains to avoid overstimulation of the thermoregulatory system.