It's happened to many an unsuspecting person - your friend offers you a tasty looking gummy, not telling you it contains a hefty dose of THC. You eat it without a second thought and soon you're launched into an intense, uncomfortable high. Your heart is racing, you’re getting paranoid, and you feel like you just want it to end now. In the moment, it may not feel like it, but don't panic - you'll come down eventually.
If you don't want to be like this guy, read the following tips to minimize the effects and ride it out.
1. Stay Calm and Take Deep Breaths
Remind Yourself It's Temporary
The effects of being too high are temporary. Remind yourself that you will come down and feel normal again.
No THC Overdoses Exist
No cases of THC overdose resulting in death have ever been reported. While being too high can feel scary, it is not life threatening.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have stated that while excessive THC consumption can lead to symptoms such as increased heart rate, severe nausea, and unintentional injury, “a fatal overdose is unlikely.”
Effects Will Dissipate Over Time
It may take a few hours, but the intense effects brought on by too much THC will wear off. Be patient and take comfort knowing it won't last forever.
Lie Down, Close Eyes, Breathe Deeply
Find a comfortable spot, lie down, close your eyes and focus on taking slow, deep breaths. Inhale for 5 seconds, hold for 2 seconds, exhale for 5 seconds. Deep breathing can help calm the mind and body.
2. Hydrate and Have a Healthy Snack
Drink Water for Cottonmouth
Cannabis often causes dry mouth or "cottonmouth." Drinking water helps combat this. Sip water slowly and steadily. The act of drinking also provides a point of focus.
Provides Distraction from Racing Thoughts
Taking your mind off the intensity of being too high is key. Drinking and eating force you to focus on something other than your thoughts.
Avoid Alcohol as it Increases Intoxication
Do not drink alcohol, as it can enhance the effects of THC and make you feel even more impaired. Stick to water and healthy snacks.
Eat Fruits, Nuts, Seeds, Cheese
Eat something nourishing like fresh fruits and veggies, nuts, seeds, cheese or peanut butter. The nutrients will aid recovery.
3. Go for a Short Walk Outdoors
Get Fresh Air and Light Exercise
If you are able, get some fresh air and light exercise by taking a short walk outside. This can help clear your head.
Don't Wander Too Far from Home
Don't go too far from home in case the walk doesn't help and you start feeling worse. Stay in a familiar area close by.
4. Take a Warm Bath or Shower
Soothes Body and Mind
A warm bath or shower can help relax both the mind and body. The warm water is soothing. Add epsom salts or lavender oil for extra relaxation.
Splash Cold Water to Lower Heart Rate
If you can't bathe or shower, splashing your face with cold water can lower heart rate and shock you out of racing thoughts.
5. Distract Yourself
Watch Shows, Listen to Music
Turn on your favorite upbeat show or funny movie. Put on some cheerful or relaxing music. Give your mind something enjoyable to focus on.
Draw, Color, Do Puzzles
Do a coloring book, word search or puzzle. Arts and crafts that require focus shift your mind away from the high.
Give Mind Something Enjoyable to Focus On
Any activity you find relaxing or fun can provide distraction until the high dissipates. Games, reading and listening to podcasts are options.
6. Take Some CBD
CBD Can Block THC's Effects
Research shows CBD can counteract some of THC's intoxicating effects. If you have CBD oil, take some. If using cannabis, stick to CBD-rich strains.
Take CBD Oil or Use CBD-Rich Cannabis
Using products higher in CBD and lower in THC can prevent you from getting too high in the first place. Balance is key.
7. Chew Black Peppercorn
Contains Beta-Caryophyllene to Block Receptors
Black pepper contains the terpene beta-caryophyllene which may lessen THC's effects by binding to cannabinoid receptors.
Chew Whole Peppercorns or Inhale Scent
Put a whole black peppercorn in your mouth and chew it slowly. Or try smelling freshly ground black pepper.
8. Squeeze Fresh Lemon Juice
Limonene May Reduce THC-Induced Anxiety
Research indicates the lemon terpene limonene can reduce anxiety, including that caused by too much THC.
Squeeze Lemons and Inhale Scent
Squeeze fresh lemons and breathe in the aroma. The lemon scent may provide calming effects.
9. Sleep If You Can
Find Calm, Quiet Spot to Lie Down
If possible, find a quiet, comfortable spot to lie down. Make sure the area is a safe space you feel relaxed in.
Focus on Deep Breathing
Close your eyes and continue taking slow, deep breaths. Deep breathing can help induce sleep.
Being Still Can Help If Unable to Sleep
Even if you can't fall asleep, lying still while focusing on your breath can provide relief.
10. Know Your Limits
Learn Your Personal THC Tolerance
Pay attention to the THC doses you respond best to. Consume slowly, especially if trying a new product.
Pace Yourself, Especially with Edibles
Edibles take longer to kick in, so wait at least 2 hours before taking more. Don't gorge on a whole bag of edibles!
Don't Try to Impress Others
Never over-consume just to impress others. True friends won't care how much you use.
Use Trusted, Quality Cannabis
Stick to trusted, high-quality THC companies, not unregulated street products.
11. Get Guidance from Experts
At Remedy CBD, we are here to help you if you have questions about THC dosage or are new to cannabis. If you're getting too intense of a high, by knowing your limits, using trusted products, and having go-to techniques, you can avoid or minimize the effects.
There are several ways to contact us:
- Visit our hemp dispensary located at 2712 Hendersonville Rd, Suite 200, Arden, NC 28704
- Call us at (828) 651-8223
- Chat online at RemedyHW.com
- Chat with our knowledgeable Hemp Pros on our website, RemedyHW.com
At Remedy CBD, you can learn more about cannabis products and using them safely, as well as shop our quality CBD, Delta 8, Delta 9, and cannabis flower. With our guidance and quality products, you'll be equipped to enjoy the benefits of cannabis comfortably.
