7 Appetite-Boosting Strain Blends (or for munchies!)

Posted by Jack O'Leary on August 24, 2020

Appetite stimulation is an extremely necessary and important aspect of terpene products. Appetite loss can be caused by a plethora of different diseases, conditions, and ailments like pregnancy, metabolic problems, chronic liver disease, COPD, dementia, HIV, hepatitis, hypothyroidism, chemotherapy, antibiotics and beyond. Not eating can often lead to further discomfort or worsening of symptoms, so stimulating the appetite can be very ameliorating.

Terpenes have profound affect on the body and incredible utility. Different terpene combinations can be used to suppress hunger, boost hunger, and much more! Specific terpene profiles can be utilized to boost hunger and create the cliche munchies which are a product of cannabis use, (Although cannabis isn’t directly necessary!). If you don’t consume cannabis, try buying the following terpene strains, or even the specific terpenes found in each strain, and try diffusing them into the air, or making a candle or tea with them! All the appetite-boosting benefits with none of the THC!

Cannabis is a tool to be used intentionally to produce an appetite where one is lacking. For many, it’s a medicine that helps them maintain a healthy weight. Terpenes are the compounds behind the scenes of cannabis aiding in the creation of these physiological effects.

How Terpenes and Cannabinoids Impact the Brain-Gut Connection

Our endocannabinoid system is located all throughout the body, including the gut. In fact, along with our central nervous system, the gut is where we find the highest concentration of cannabinoid receptors. The endocannabinoid system controls a variety of gastrointestinal functions and in the large intestine is proposed to interact with gut microbiota and regulate epithelial barrier permeability.

Our digestive tract is a very temperamental system which has profound effects around the body. Stress can cause digestion problems, and a poor diet has been proven to inhibit cognition. Fasting creates a rise in endocannabinoids within our gut. As they increase, we feel more and more hungry until we satiate our bodies’ desire for energy (food). At that point, endocannabinoids return to their baseline levels. Although it doesn’t work like that for everyone. This system is disrupted in some people – perhaps in the expression of their ECS genes – and the ingestion of cannabinoids into the bloodstream delivers them directly to the gut. As a result, the hunger signal fires up. So... reconsider what you choose to eat next time the munchies kick in, your choice has a lasting effect on nearly all other mechanisms within your body.

There are two main cannabinoid receptors in the human body, CB1 and CB2, which are found in the brain, digestive system, and immune system. When a cannabinoid receptor is stimulated by an endocannabinoid, various psychological functions are activated within the body.

One effect the cannabinoids (THC, CBG) found in cannabis have on appetite is to slow down the process of gastrointestinal emptying and transit. As a result of this, ghrelin production is stimulated. Ghrelin is a hormone that increases appetite and food intake. After consuming food, the brain is sent signals via the hormone leptin from the small intestine. These signals reduce activity in the ECS and let the body know that the individual has had enough food to eat. But, as mentioned above, the numerous cannabinoids found in cannabis affect appetite (THC, CBG increasing it and CBD, THCV decreasing it).

BEST TERPENE PROFILES FOR APPETITE STIMULATION

Terpenes to look for in cannabis strains and specific terpene profiles are myrcene, b-caryophyllene, and limonene. These terpenes can be bought directly and infused into specific products to stimulate your appetite, or even dripped into an air diffuser and diffused into an office or bedroom. Limonene has a puckery lemon-y flavor which makes it great for tea, however if you or someone you care about are struggling to even drink tea, diffusing it may be the best move. There are a plethora of reasons to want to stimulate your appetite, whether it is due to chronic illness, desire to gain weight or put on muscle, or simply feel like having a good meal with your loved ones.. try the following strains and terpene profiles to get your stomach grumbling!

1. Lavender Kush

Lavender Kush is a limonene and beta-caryophyllene dense profile perfect for stimulating the appetite. This strain is perfect for those with chronic illness as it deeply relaxing, used to treat gastric issues such as nausea in addition to depression and anxiety.

Lavender Kush can be infused into a wonderfully smelling and relaxing candle to be placed on the bedside of someone with a chronic illness to soothe their body and mind as well as boost their hunger.

2. Girl Scout Cookies

Aptly named, this terpene profile will have you craving samoas and thin mints upon consumption. Packed with a vast array of terpenes like myrcene, alpha-pinene, limonene, beta-pinene, and caryophyllene, this strain increases energy, boosts mood, and most importantly stimulates hunger. This boosting physical effect makes it another excellent strain for those with chronic illness or are consistently sluggish or bed-ridden.

3. Lemon Kush

Lemon Kush is a very b-caryohpyllene dense strain with an uplifting effect. A great strain for a late night summer walk or for getting some work done, while also boosting appetite. The delicious flavor alone will hit your taste buds like a lemon meringue pie and get your mouth salivating and ready for some delicious food! A great terpene profile all around.

4. Amnesia Haze

Amnesia Haze is another strain dense in beta-caryophyllene making it very useful for those aiming to eat more. It is also another excellent strain for anyone suffering from a chronic illness, as users often report feeling happy, uplifted, and ready to eat upon consumption. The feeling you get after consumption is one you won't forget, despite its name.

5. Jack Herer

Jack Herer contains large amounts of the terpenes beta-caryophyllene and terpinolene which are the components which boost appetite in its users. This sativa-dominant strain often leaves its users feeling uplifted, energetic, happy, euphoric, and most importantly... hungry. It is a great strain to consume before thanksgiving dinner or any similarly large meal. A great terpene profile for those who are trying to put on weight or muscle, but never have the appetite to do so.

6. Candyland

Simply from the name of the strain, you know this terpene profile is one that will have you tasting and enjoying food at a level you haven't in a very long time. I suggest eating something sweet (maybe pineapple or watermelon for those trying to choose healthy options) as this strain will have you ransacking your kitchen and cupboard in search of goodies. Packed with limonene and linalool, this terpene profile is one that is excellent for moderate pain, muscle tension, and sour moods, as it has a profound uplifting and relieving effect.

A great review for the terpene profile left on Leafly encapsulates the strain perfectiy:

"This strain is a definite must have for the patient who has a hard time waking up with energy and a positive outgoing outlook. Headache relief is a big plus on this one and hits right where needed for relief. Back and lumbar pain are no where to be found. Feel great!!"

7. Blueberry Widow

Another delicious sounding strain and the final of the list is Blueberry Widow. This strain is heavy in humulene, caryophyllene, and terpinolene making it a great strain to consume on the couch with a good meal and a good movie.

This flower has a strong sweet aroma that can include a sour citrus or pine. Slightly indica dominant, blueberry widow provides a more mental and cerebral effect. The blissful relaxation that this strain provides may lead to drowsiness and can help you get more relaxed sleep.

Terpenes are the mini-components which provide the specific effects of each strain. There are hundreds of prominent terpenes which is why there are tens of thousands of strains! Try to discover the terpene profile which can help you or someone you care about the most, since there are so many it may be a challenge at first, but continue researching and you will find it! Remember that cannabis is not necessary to attain the benefits these terpenes provide!

Since everyone reacts to strains in their own way, it’s best to try as many different terpene profiles as possible and see what strain works best for you (there's thousands of different terpene combos!). The strains above represent the perfect array of strains to try for anyone who is looking to improve their eating habits.

Next: 3 Terpenes To Support Memory and Increase Focus!

What terpene profiles boost your appetite?

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Tags: all-natural, appetite boosting strains, appetite boosting terpenes, Beverage, cooking, flowers, food, herbal, Honey, Lemon, Lime, limonene, munchies, oil, strains for munchies, strains to boost hunger, terpenes chronic illness, terpenes for hunger, weed chronic illness, weed for hunger

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