Cannabis On Thanksgiving: 10 Science-Backed Benefits For A Happier Holiday
Thanksgiving, a time for gratitude and familial gatherings, often brings its own set of stresses and strains. Back in 2015, cannabis was harder to access due to more restrictive laws. That year, Benzinga editor Maureen Meehan wrote an article for High Times magazine spotlighting how cannabis could take the edge off holiday chaos.
Nearly a decade later, with cannabis now mainstream in much of the U.S., we’re revisiting and expanding her list to explore how this versatile plant can scientifically improve your Thanksgiving experience.
Here are 10 science-backed reasons why cannabis might just be the ultimate holiday companion:
1. Stimulates Appetite And Enhances Taste
Cannabis is known to trigger the munchies. A 2014 study found that THC, the primary psychoactive component, enhances the sense of smell and taste, leading to increased appetite—perfect for enjoying the Thanksgiving feast.
2. Improves Social Bonding
The “love hormone” oxytocin is associated with social bonding. A study from the University of California Irvine discovered that cannabinoids interact with the same brain areas as oxytocin, potentially improving interpersonal connections …