July 1, 2022

Help, I'm Too High! What To Do When You Took Too Much

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Key Takeaways

Overconsumption of THC can cause temporary, uncomfortable effects, but these can be alleviated or avoided through various at-home remedies and strategies.
Effective methods to reduce THC's effects include staying hydrated, eating carbohydrate-rich snacks (but avoiding fatty foods), getting fresh air, and using terpene-rich oils such as black pepper and lemon to ease anxiety.
Additional coping techniques include cuddling pets for comfort, watching familiar nostalgic TV shows to distract the mind, and remembering that THC effects are temporary and will fade over time, with rest being a viable last resort if needed.

Sometimes, we overestimate the amount of THC we need. Maybe you took too many bites of an edible or too many puffs of a vape. The experience that results from this common mistake is temporary, but uncomfortable nonetheless.

Fortunately, there are several ways you can help alleviate or, better yet, avoid the unpleasant effects of overconsumption altogether. Below, we cover seven popular strategies and at-home remedies to try to help break your “high” and come back down to earth when you've overindulged.

1. Sip Before, and After, You Rip: Hydrate

Closeup women face and hand holding glass of water

Hydrating is essential before, during, and after every session, especially if you’re trying to help combat the effects of THC. Whether you prefer juice or water, having a cold beverage will not only ease dry mouth but also support your liver and kidneys in their natural detox process.

However, avoid adding caffeine or alcohol. A study found that alcohol can increase the amount of THC that enters your bloodstream, thus boosting its effects.

2. Grab A Snack

Whether you're down bad with the munchies or just need some comfort food, grabbing a snack might provide some relief. You want to opt for foods higher in carbohydrates, as according to various anecdotal reports, they can help ease THC effects. But bread, sugar, and other carbs tend to have a feel-good effect, so this may just be purely coincidental.

However, if softening the effects of THC is what you're trying to do, don't go reaching for fatty foods. Cannabinoids like THC are fat-soluble, meaning they bind to and dissolve in fats. So adding more lipids when you're already "high" will only prolong and intensify those effects.

3. Go for a Walk

Healthy distractions are crucial when you're feeling overwhelmed, and there's nothing better way to keep your mind off THC's effects than changing the scenery and getting some fresh air. Call a friend, take a stroll around the block, and take in the world (and fresh air) around you. Scientific studies have actually shown this simple activity offers a "mood boost" via increased circulation and the release of endorphins. So, after 10 minutes or so, head inside and see how you feel.

4. Take A Shower

woman showering as she feels the water hit her hands

While showering may feel like the last thing you want to do, it has been known to help enthusiasts to gain some relief. Turn on the shower to your preferred temperature, put on some music, and stand underneath the water until you start to relax.

5. Try Some At-Home Terpene Remedies

You're probably aware that the aromatic compounds known as terpenes lend to many of the pleasant effects and synergies that we experience after consuming cannabis. But did you know that these same compounds are found in a variety of other plants and that some can actually have THC-taming properties?

According to anecdotal reports, chewing on or simply sniffing peppercorns can help ease THC effects. As weird as this may sound, the apparent efficacy of this ancient practice can be explained by scientific research, which states that black pepper is particularly rich in the terpenes beta-caryophyllene, pinene, and myrcene. Yes, these same terpenes are found in cannabis, too!

But along with its anti-inflammatory and analgesic potential, beta-Caryophyllene is "a high-potency selective CB2 agonist." If CB2 sounds familiar, that's because it's one of the receptors in your body's endocannabinoid system- importantly, the one not associated with psychoactive effects.

Instead, the activation of CB2 is associated with therapeutic benefits. Black pepper, therefore, is believed to intensify the relaxing effect of THC more, and has even been shown to reduce anxiety in animal studies.

Another terpene-rich food that has been used for centuries as an easy remedy is lemon. Scientifically speaking, lemon rind is abundant in limonene, which has been shown to mitigate anxious feelings associated with taking too much THC.

Keep in mind the potential synergies of terpenes and their efficacy as antidotes to too-much-THC are not guaranteed. Although many cannabis enthusiasts have found success with these remedies, more studies are needed to make any statements confidently.

6. Cuddle Your Pet

Our pets are always here for us. So, when your experience isn’t enjoyable, grab your dog or cat, and cuddle them. They will gladly receive the extra attention, and according to a growing body of research supporting the therapeutic, mood-enhancing potential of pet interaction, you may feel some relief in a few minutes.

7. Watch Nostalgic Television

Do you have a show that you could watch on repeat without getting bored? If so, press play and get comfy. The familiar scenes and characters will keep you focused and steer your mind away from the effects. After a couple of episodes, switch to films, and spend the rest of the day curled up on the couch.

No, we don't have any studies saying this works exceptionally well against THC effects. Just take our word for it.

Hang in There- It Will Pass!

Cannabis can be unpredictable, and different strains and consumption methods may create a more acute experience than you're accustomed to.

When this happens, just know that THC's effects are only temporary and will dissipate over time.

So hang tight, and try the techniques above to mellow the effects out. And if none of them seem to work, there’s nothing wrong with throwing in the towel and taking a well-deserving slumber until it passes.

FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.