Almost every cannabis user has a story of when they overdid it—you probably have one, too. When you started your sesh, you likely had a specific goal in mind. You might have wanted to relax, work on a creative project, or experience the euphoria THC often provides.
But, sometimes, things happen. Perhaps you ate another edible too soon after your first one. Maybe you tried to show off to a group of friends and took too big a hit. Or, you might have been a newbie trying to fit in with everyone else. Suddenly—you realize, you’re too high.
Being too high is far from an enjoyable place to be. Instead of feeling relaxed and euphoric, you’re paranoid, overly anxious, and may even think you’re going to die. The good news here is that too much THC won’t kill you. The sensation will eventually wear off.
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WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET TOO HIGH
In the meantime, here’s what to do if you get too high.
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1. STAY CALM
While it might seem impossible at the moment, especially when you’re facing a racing heartbeat and extreme anxiety, one of the most important things you can do is remind yourself to stay calm. Lie down and take several slow, deep breaths.
There have been no reported cases of anyone dying from too much THC. Most of the effects of too much cannabis wear off within a few minutes to hours.
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2. HYDRATE AND HAVE A SNACK
We can’t stress this enough—hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Drinking water will help to combat cottonmouth. The act will also give you something to focus on, and provide a distraction from racing thoughts. Be careful if you’re drinking juice or a caffeinated beverage—they’re not as effective as water. Avoid alcohol as well, as it increases blood alcohol concentrations.
A healthy snack helps some users regain their grounding. Try some fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, or cheese. Like drinking, the act of eating provides a mental distraction.
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3. GO FOR A WALK
If you can’t calm down indoors—and you’re not feeling dizzy or ill—try going for a walk. The fresh air and physical activity can do a world of good. Be sure not to go too far, though. The last thing you want is to be in unfamiliar surroundings when you’re feeling paranoid.
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4. TAKE A BATH
If you’re too high in your own home or you’re staying with friends who don’t mind, take a bath or shower. Submerging yourself in warm water can help to soothe your mind and body. Should you be unable to take a bath or shower, splashing cold water on your face provides a quick fix for decreasing your heart rate and calming your thoughts.
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5. DISTRACT YOURSELF
Simple distractions can provide significant relief. Turn on your favorite show or listen to some music. Grab some colored pencils and a coloring book or sketch pad.
Giving yourself something enjoyable to focus on other than the unpleasant side effects of being too high can help you ground yourself. While these activities won’t bring your high down any faster, they will make your wait more comfortable.
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6. TAKE SOME CBD
Research has shown that CBD may help to ease the high caused by THC. Taking CBD at the same time as THC can help to lessen anxiety and paranoia. CBD does this by blocking CB1 receptors, keeping THC molecules from binding. If you don’t take them together, try a few drops of CBD oil or other high CBD product. You may also be able to avoid an unpleasant high by selecting balanced or higher CBD strains.
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7. CHEW ON A PEPPERCORN
Black pepper contains a terpene known as beta-caryophyllene. Research has shown that this terpene may help to alleviate the intoxicating effects of THC. Like CBD, it can block CB1 receptors, keeping THC molecules from binding. Pop a whole black peppercorn into your mouth and chew on it. Alternatively, you can grind whole peppercorns and inhale their scent.
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8. SQUEEZE A LEMON
Instead of black pepper, another option to try is squeezing a lemon. Lemons contain a terpene called limonene, which studies have also shown can lessen anxiety. They may even help with the extreme anxiousness induced by too much THC. If you have fresh lemons, squeeze one to release the terpenes from the rind and inhale.
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9. SLEEP IF YOU CAN
Try to sleep if you can. Find a calm, quiet place to lay down. Dim the lights and cover up with a cozy blanket. Close your eyes and take deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. If you can’t fall asleep—it’s not always the easiest thing to do when you’re dealing with the aftermath of THC overload—continue to lie still and focus on your breathing for a while.
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10. KNOW YOUR LIMITS
This one won’t help you once you realize you’ve overindulged on THC, but it can be helpful for future sessions. Know your THC limits, and don’t go over them.
Remember to pace yourself with edibles as they take longer to kick in. If you’re not used to smoking a whole lot, avoid partaking in too many puffs in a short period. Don’t try to show off or impress anyone. After all, you’re partaking for yourself, not for anyone else.
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ENJOY YOUR SESSIONS WITH QUALITY CANNABIS
Getting too high can be rather unsettling. Knowing how to avoid the experience in the first place is essential for reducing your risk of it happening.
Should you be in a situation where you accidentally overindulge, however, knowing what to do at the moment can help you to manage the symptoms as they dissipate. Always remember, being too high is only temporary, and the effects will wear off. You will be okay.
Knowing your limits is critical, as is partaking with quality cannabis products. If you’re looking for recreational weed in Detroit, Quality Roots offers a broad selection of incredible cannabis flowers. Visit our website today to browse our selection and place your order for pickup at our Battle Creek dispensary.
