Cannabis offers many benefits for both physical and mental health conditions, but overconsumption can lead to uncomfortable side effects. Here’s what you can do if you get too high and how to manage those effects.
Common Side Effects of Cannabis
Cannabis affects each person differently due to the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which regulates essential functions like sleep, mood, appetite, and memory. Some common side effects of cannabis include:
- Grogginess
- Dry mouth (cottonmouth)
- Increased appetite (“the munchies”)
- Relaxation
- Drowsiness or dizziness
These effects are usually mild and manageable, but it’s essential to recognize when you’ve consumed too much.
Symptoms of Overconsumption
Overconsuming cannabis can lead to more intense and uncomfortable symptoms such as:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Paranoia or anxiety
- Rapid heart rate
- Blood pressure fluctuations
- Impaired mental clarity
If you or someone else experiences these symptoms, don’t worry—there are ways to ease the discomfort.
Stay Calm and Breathe
First and foremost, remain calm. No one has ever died from a cannabis overdose, so focus on your breathing and remind yourself that the symptoms will pass.
Hydrate with Water or Juice
Drinking cool water or juice can relieve dry mouth and help with dehydration, which is common after consuming too much cannabis. Avoid caffeinated drinks, as they can increase anxiety. Light snacking on fruits may also help.
Use Citrus to Calm Anxiety
Limonene, a terpene found in citrus fruits, has anxiety-reducing properties. Try smelling or eating citrus fruits like lemons or oranges. Even lemon-lime soda or sparkling water can provide some relief.
Try Black Peppercorn for Relief
Chewing or sniffing black peppercorns is another simple remedy for cannabis-related anxiety. Black pepper contains compounds that can ease the discomfort associated with THC overconsumption.
Rest or Take a Walk
Depending on how you’re feeling, either rest or take a short walk. If you feel lightheaded or dizzy, lying down and taking slow, deep breaths may help. If anxiety or jitters are more of an issue, a walk in the fresh air can help clear your mind and calm your body.
Counteract THC with CBD
CBD can balance out some of the effects of THC. If you have CBD-only products like tinctures, gummies, or smokable hemp flower, using them may help reduce the intensity of overconsumption symptoms.
Distract Yourself
Sometimes the best solution is to give it time. Find a distraction—watch a funny show, talk to friends, journal, create some art, or do simple household chores. Shifting your focus will make it easier to wait out the discomfort.
Knowing the potential side effects of cannabis and how to handle overconsumption is essential for responsible use. If you ever consume too much, the steps above will help you regain control and feel better. Remember, these symptoms are temporary, and with the right techniques, you can get through them safely and comfortably.
