Cannabis Too Strong? 11 Ways to Come Back Down

Certain calming techniques and home remedies, like chewing black peppercorns, might help you lessen an intense high.

Overdid it on edibles? Tried a strain that was far stronger than you anticipated? Maybe the effects took a while to appear, and you have things to handle.

No need to panic. There are steps you can take to reduce the buzz and help it fade more quickly.

Below are some commonly recommended approaches for coming down. If one method doesn’t seem effective, feel free to try another. These are not exact sciences, and responses differ from person to person.

Make an effort to relax

Easier said than done after overconsumption, sure. Still, a bit of rest and relaxation can soften the intensity of the high. And really — you’re not dying.

Find a calm spot to sit or recline and focus on relaxing. Breathing techniques or soothing music can assist in calming you.

If you opt for music, pick something you know well so you can sing along. That can help anchor you in the present moment.

With time, the high will mellow into relaxation or sleepiness. Let it happen and allow yourself to nap; even a brief snooze can be restorative.

Consider taking CBD

It may seem odd, but according to Leafly, people use CBD to offset the anxious effects of excess THC.

Like THC, CBD is a cannabinoid found in cannabis, but unlike THC — which produces the high — CBD interacts with different brain receptors.

Scientists aren’t completely sure how it works, but several studies have demonstrated CBD’s usefulness for various types of anxiety.

Bonus: CBD can help some people fall asleep, which is useful if you’re feeling overwhelmed by a strong high.

Drink fluids

No, this isn’t a suggestion to down alcohol. Stick with water and other nonalcoholic beverages.

Hydrating before, during, and after using substances is always smart. It’s especially helpful with cannabis, which often causes dry mouth.

Drinking is also a simple action that gives you something to focus on.

Use black pepper

A small taste or sniff of black pepper can reduce paranoia and anxiety that sometimes accompany a heavy high.

Grab a jar of black pepper and smell it without inhaling deeply. You can also put two or three whole peppercorns in your mouth and chew them.

It may sound unlikely, but there’s some research  behind the idea. Caryophyllene, a compound in peppercorns, acts as a selective CB2 ligand.

It can amplify THC’s sedating properties, which might help calm you.

Reach for a lemon

Like pepper, lemons contain compounds such as limonene that can have a soothing effect.

Eating lemon or squeezing lemon into your water may counter some of THC’s psychoactive impacts and assist you in coming down.

For more effect, zest the lemon peel into your drink or steep the peel in hot water — the peel carries the highest limonene concentration.

Eat pine nuts

Some studies  suggest pine nuts may help offset THC’s effects. Pinene, present in pine nuts, is thought to promote calmness and mental clarity.

Interestingly, pinene is also a terpene in some cannabis varieties that gives a pine-like scent.

Avoid this option if you have a tree-nut allergy.

Redirect your attention

Shifting your focus away from the high can prevent you from fixating on it, which only amplifies the sensation.

The trick is to keep your distraction simple. Steer clear of anxiety-provoking video games or horror movies.

Not sure what to do? Try these ideas:

• Watch a show or YouTube clip that’s engaging enough to hold your attention.
• Try mindful coloring.
• Read (if you’re someone who can focus on reading while stoned).
• Do an easy puzzle like a crossword or jigsaw.
• Take on a simple organizing task, such as sorting loose change or arranging books by color.

Cuddle an animal

Spending time with pets delivers many documented health benefits, including lowering stress and anxiety.

Even a few minutes with an animal can slow your heart rate, reduce blood pressure, and boost feelings of calm and wellbeing.

No pet available? Queue up that dog or cat video you love.

Have something to eat

Not eating before using substances is rarely a good idea. Eating can help you feel more grounded.

Some people prefer fatty or carbohydrate-rich foods, though evidence is lacking. Your best option is whatever’s handy, simple, and satisfying.

Go for a walk

Take a brief walk, even five to ten minutes can help.

Light movement can:

• distract you so you stop dwelling on the high
• lower blood pressure
• ease stress and anxiety
• lift your mood
• burn off some nervous energy if you’re jittery

Talk to a friend

A friend won’t reduce your blood THC, but being with someone you trust can calm you down. Having a sober companion also helps prevent impulsive actions while under the influence.

Call a trusted, sober friend and ask them to stay with you until you’re feeling better.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if I’m too high?

If you’re asking whether you’re “too high,” there’s a good chance you are experiencing stronger effects than you expected. Common signs include:

• anxiety or paranoia
• disorientation or confusion
• rapid heartbeat

If you’re thinking “Am I dying?” you’re certainly beyond your comfort zone.

How long does being too high last?

The high typically peaks within the first 30 to 90 minutes and then gradually subsides. You should notice a meaningful improvement within 1 to 2 hours.

What happens when your body is high?

THC attaches to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. These receptors influence mood, memory, appetite, pain, and coordination. The effects can include:

• euphoria
• short-term memory issues
• increased appetite
• intense focus or distraction
• slowed reaction times

The bottom line

Cannabis can affect you unpredictably, especially if you’re inexperienced or trying a new strain. If you find yourself higher than intended, try to stay calm — the sensation will pass.