Kathryn G.
Dr. Sulak’s Answer
I also often enjoy lemon water in the morning for it’s numerous health benefits. I don’t think this will adversely affect your cannabis use.
Lemon and other citrus fruit have historically been used as an antidote to cannabis intoxication. The effect is likely due to a terpene called limonene, one of the most common terpenes found in nature. It’s the major constituent of several citrus oils (orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit). Limonene is also found in some cannabis strains that has a lemon-like aroma, but not all of them. A distinct terpene called terpinolene can also convey a citrus aroma without the same effects as limonene.
Limonene is considered a safe flavoring agent for food and a safe medicine. It is rapidly absorbed and has numerous medicinal properties, including relief of heartburn, depression, and anxiety, and has been shown to have anticancer properties. It is likely that the anti-anxiety effects of limonene are responsible for helping calm the uncomfortable aspects of cannabis intoxication.
Citrus juice contains very little limonene – it is mostly found in the oil of the citrus rind. This is why I recommend lemon zest, the grated outer rind of the lemon, for those wanting a cannabis antidote.
All the best,
Dr. Sulak