Are you feeling a bit too high on weed and need to sober up? Don't worry; it happens to the best of us. With today's weed being three times as potent as it was 25 years ago, the journey from a happy high to "oops" can happen faster than you might think.
Time is the only natural remedy, but there are ways to ease the process.
Whether you're a first-timer or a regular user, keep reading for solid tips and tricks on what to do if you find yourself thinking, "Whoa, I'm too high."
How High Is Too High?
Usually, weed induces relaxation, euphoria, and amplified senses, but if you take too much, you might start to feel not so good. Smoking cannabis can keep you high for 2 to 5 hours. Cannabis edibles are different: they take longer to kick, about 2 hours, and the high can last from 6 to 10 hours.
If you're high for longer than that, or you feel super intense, you're probably too high. Before we jump into ways to unhigh, let's talk about how it feels to be too high.
Physical Signs:
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Slurred or Delayed Speech: Talking can feel super slow as if you're trying to chat through molasses.
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Dizziness and Increased Heart Rate: You might feel dizzy, and your heart might race fast, making you feel like you are on a rollercoaster even though you're just chilling on the couch.
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Dry, Red Eyes and the Dreaded Cotton Mouth (Dry Mouth): This is your body begging for hydration.
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Nausea and Vomiting: When your stomach is not on board with your high adventures.
Psychological Signs:
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Anxiety, Panic attacks, and Paranoia: You might start feeling anxious or paranoid, like suddenly thinking everyone, including your cat, is out to get you.
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Impaired Judgment and Coordination: It is hard to do simple things like texting because your judgment and coordination are off.
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Hallucinations and Delusions (in extreme cases): Things could get really weird; you feel like you are hearing colors, seeing sounds, or maybe can't feel your face.
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Mood Swings and Difficulty Concentrating: Your mood might flip-flop from laughing one minute to deep thoughts the next.
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Distorted Perceptions of Time and Distance: Five minutes feels like an hour, and the fridge seems miles away.
So, if you're noticing these body and mind signs, it's a heads-up that you might have had too much weed. The first thing is not to worry; these feelings are temporary and won't last forever.
However, suppose you're experiencing side effects such as chest pain, trouble breathing, or extreme anxiety. In that case, it's no longer just about waiting it out. Safety first – don't hesitate to call a healthcare provider for help.
Ways To Get Unhigh Fast
Let's get straight to the point! If you're looking to sober up from weed faster, time is your best friend. But worry not; you can try a few tricks to make things easier and speed up the process. Here are some handy tips to clear your head quicker.
Eating A Lot Of Food
If you are trying to unhigh, turning to the kitchen might be your best bet. Food acts as a buffer to the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and, let's be honest, also helps deal with munchies.
Carbs, in particular, can help absorb the THC and make you feel more grounded. Foods like bread, pasta, or a big bowl of your favorite cereal can help soothe and relax your body while filling you up.
Interestingly, some foods are even better at fighting the high. For instance, pine nuts have been reported to help with anxiousness during a bad high. These little nuts contain caryophyllene and pinene, which can help to improve your mental clarity and short-term memory.
Similarly, the humble peppercorn is not just for seasoning. Chewing or sprinkling black peppercorns over your meal can relieve anxiety or paranoia. This is likely due to black pepper terpene content, which is believed to interact beneficially with cannabinoids.
Remember to aim for low-fat foods if you're trying to speed up getting unhigh. Low-fat foods help soak THC in your system faster, making them your go-to choice in this situation.
Staying Hydrated
One of the most straightforward yet effective strategies is to drink plenty of water. Grab yourself a glass of water—actually, make that two glasses of water. It helps flush THC out of your system more quickly, speeding up the sobering process. And let's be honest, it also tackles that pesky dry mouth situation that feels like you've been wandering the desert.
But why stop at water? Add a bit of zest to this hydration ritual with some lemon. Squeezing lemon or adding some peels into hot water isn't just for taste; it's a game-changer. Have you ever heard, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade"? It's time to take that literally.
Lemonade or just munching on citrus rinds can help counteract the psychoactive effects of THC. Lemons contain limonene, a terpene found in high concentration at rinds (peels) that's known for its anxiety-reducing properties. The more lemons there are, the better they might make you feel.
So, drink as much lemon juice as you can tolerate, enjoy the refreshing taste, and know you're on your way to feeling more like yourself again.
Distract Yourself
Ever heard the saying, "A watched pot never boils"? Well, in the context of getting unhigh, a watched mind doesn't sober up any faster. Engaging in an activity that demands your attention can shift your focus away from the uncomfortable feelings of an intense high.
Here are some effective ways to distract yourself:
1. Call a Friend
Sometimes, you only need a good chat to bring you back down to earth. Pick up the phone and dial someone you trust. Let them know you're feeling too high and could use some grounding. They might share a story or a joke or listen and help you focus on something other than your high.
Bonus Tip: Choose a buddy who's a good listener and knows how to keep things light.
2. Watch a Movie or Series
Dive into a film or binge-watch a TV show. Laughing at a comedy or getting lost in a mystery can be the perfect antidote to overthinking your high.
Choose something light and enjoyable. There might be better times for intense dramas or horror movies. Think "Finding Nemo" or "Friends" rather than "Inception."
If movies aren't your thing, dive into a playlist of your favorite tunes or lose yourself in a captivating book.
3. Meditate and Practice Deep Breathing Exercises
Close your eyes, find a comfortable spot, and try focusing on your breath. Follow the 4-7-8 technique—take deep breaths for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8. It's a natural tranquilizer for the nervous system.
4. Go on a Walk
A gentle stroll can help clear your mind and regulate your blood pressure if you feel up to it. Physical activity releases endorphins, your body's feel-good chemicals, acting as a natural counterbalance to THC's effects. Plus, a bit of fresh air never hurt anyone. Stick to familiar, safe areas, and if you're feeling too out of it, maybe step out into your backyard or balcony.
5. Spend Time with Furry Friends
Spending time with pets can offer comfort and relieve stress and anxiety. Whether it's cuddling, playing, or just sitting with them, pets make everything feel alright.
6. Take a Bath or a Cold Shower
There's something incredibly soothing about water. Whether you're soaking in a tub or standing under a shower, let the water work its magic. It's a sensory experience that can help you relax and refresh.
Take A Nap
Lastly, if all else fails and you're searching for a way to sober up from a bad cannabis high, your bed might have the answer you're looking for. Ensure the room is comfortable – not too hot or cold.
Dim the lights or draw the curtains to signal your body that it's time to wind down. Focusing on your breathing can also help manage any lingering symptoms, making it easier to drift off.
While you're snoozing, your body isn't just resting – it's also working hard to process the THC more efficiently. A good nap, or even better, a good night's sleep, helps your body metabolize marijuana more effectively, reducing the intoxicating effects of weed and helping you sober up.
Getting UnHigh Takes Time
While the tips mentioned above can help you manage your high, the truth is that sobering up from weed takes time. How long the high lasts depends on a couple of things: tolerance, metabolism, and method of consumption. You might feel normal faster than others if you have a fast metabolism. But if your body is slow at breaking down substances, it might take longer to feel sober again.
Also, not all cannabis is created equal. Sativa strains, for instance, have more intoxicating effects than their indica counterparts. Stronger cannabis strains with more THC take more time to get out of your system.
Generally, if you went for smoking or vaping weed, you might feel high for 2-5 hours. But if you took gummies, particularly on an empty stomach, the effects of cannabis could last 6-8 hours or more.
It's key to stay calm, drink lemon water, and use the tips we discussed during this time. Remember, the negative effects will go away, and you'll feel like yourself again soon.
Tips To Prevent You From Getting Too High
Prevention, as they say, is better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent getting too high:
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Eat before you smoke: Always grab something to eat before you have cannabis. Why? When you have food in your belly, it helps slow down the absorption of THC in your body. This way, you won't feel too high too fast.
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Start with a low dose: If you're new to weed or trying a new strain, it's wise to begin with a small dose of your chosen cannabis product and gradually increase it as you assess your body's reaction. Remember: puff, puff, then pause. Chill for about 15 minutes before considering more.
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Wait it out: Speaking of patience, give it time. Especially with edibles, they take their sweet time to kick in, sometimes up to two hours. If you don't feel it right away, don't rush for more; they'll get there, trust me.
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Avoid alcohol and nicotine: Both can enhance the effects of THC, making your high more intense. It's like adding fuel to a fire; it only makes things burn hotter and faster.
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Research: Before diving in, look up the strain you'll enjoy. Know the strain's effects, potency, and whether it suits your tolerance level. Still not sure? Adding some CBD to the mix can help keep things chill by limiting THC interaction with cannabinoid receptors in the brain.
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Stay hydrated: Keep hydrated before, during, and after your session. Water helps your body process THC and keeps you from feeling too dry.
Conclusion: Getting UnHigh
Getting unhigh from weed is all about patience, the self-care tips outlined in this article, and knowing your limits. So, remember to start low and slow, avoid high doses, stay hydrated, and give your body the time it needs to process the THC.
If you ever find yourself in a situation where you're too high, don't panic. Put on your favorite movie, munch on some pine nuts, and trust that the high will eventually fade away. Every sailor knows that calm waters await on the horizon, no matter how rough the sea.
FAQ:
How To Help Someone Greening Out?
If someone is experiencing a "green out" (feeling sick after too cannabis consumption), try to keep them calm and hydrated. Please encourage them to eat something and rest. If their symptoms worsen or they become unresponsive, seek medical help immediately.
How Long Does It Take To Get Unhigh?
The time it takes to unhigh can vary based on your metabolism, the method of consumption, and the potency of the weed. Generally, the effects of a high from smoking weed wear off in 2-5 hours, while the effects from edibles can last 6-8 hours or longer.
How Long Does THC Stay In The Body?
THC can stay in your body for days or weeks, depending on your metabolism and how often you consume weed.
What Are Some Effective Methods To Quickly Sober Up From Marijuana?
Eating food, staying hydrated, finding a distraction, and sleeping are all effective ways to help you sober up from marijuana. However, remember, sobering up takes time, so be patient with yourself and give your body the time it needs to metabolize the THC.