How to reduce the effects of marijuana

If you’ve ever thought about how to reduce the effects of marijuana, chances are you misjudged the timing or dosage, turning a potentially enjoyable and relaxing experience into an intense high you’d rather avoid. Here’s how THC affects your body and what to do if the effects feel overwhelming.

How THC affects the body

When someone smokes marijuana, they experience what’s commonly referred to as a high. This happens when tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of the plant, interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, particularly with the CB1 receptors in the brain. This affects areas related to perception, cognition, mood, appetite, and motor coordination. It also influences the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine.

This high varies depending on how the THC is consumed. If smoked or vaporized (e.g., with a vape or bong), THC enters the bloodstream through the lungs almost instantly, reaching the brain within minutes. When consumed in edibles, THC first passes through the digestive system and liver before entering the bloodstream, causing the high to take at least 30 minutes to kick in.

Effects of marijuana

The effects of cannabis vary depending on the dose, the strain, and the user’s sensitivity. These are some of the most common effects:

• Red eyes: Blood vessels dilate, causing the whites of the eyes to turn noticeably red.
• Dry mouth: A feeling of intense thirst and dryness in the mouth is common.
• Increased appetite: Known as the “munchies,” this causes strong cravings for foods rich in carbs, fats, and sugars.
• Intense muscle relaxation, often felt as lethargy.
• Increased heart rate: High doses can cause tachycardia.
• Euphoria and a sense of well-being: Due to a significant release of dopamine.
• Heightened sensory perception: Colors, sounds, and flavors may become more vivid.
• Time distortion: Time may appear to slow down.
• Increased introspective thinking and creativity.
• Spontaneous laughter or mood swings.
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering things short-term.
• Anxiety or paranoia: This can occur if too high a dose is consumed or if the environment feels uncomfortable or unsafe.

Can you reduce the effects of marijuana?

Sometimes, the effects may feel too intense or unpleasant, or someone might overdo their dose. Is it possible to reduce the effects of a joint? The short answer is no. Once THC is in the bloodstream, it’s impossible to fully eliminate its effects because the endocannabinoid system has already triggered a complex response.

How to ease the high

Once THC is in your system, there’s no turning back. However, there are some tricks to make the experience less overwhelming.

Breathe to control anxiety

The first step is to stay calm to avoid making the situation worse. Practice slow, deep breaths to oxygenate your body and mind, helping to control anxiety. Rest in a comfortable, safe environment, listen to music, and let time pass. The effects will gradually subside without any harm.

Stay hydrated

It’s also recommended to drink water or electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated and alleviate the persistent dry mouth sensation.

Consume foods rich in limonene

Limonene is a terpene found in certain cannabis strains and citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. Some research suggests it may help counteract THC’s effects. Therefore, eating an orange or drinking lemonade might help ease the high.

Try foods with pinene and myrcene

Other terpenes, such as pinene and myrcene, are found in both cannabis and certain foods like rosemary (which can be brewed into tea) and mango. These terpenes may also help regulate THC symptoms and mitigate its effects.

Have some tea or coffee

Caffeine and theine are stimulants that may help reduce the lethargy often associated with cannabis use. Sometimes, a simple cup of coffee can do the trick, though it’s important not to overdo it as too much caffeine may increase anxiety.

Use CBD

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid derived from hemp. It has anxiolytic and relaxing effects and may counteract THC’s influence. CBD is available in various forms, including oils, capsules, teas, and flowers. Ensure the product has a sufficient concentration of cannabidiol to be effective.

Get some exercise

Although the idea might not sound appealing during a cannabis-induced haze, physical activity can be helpful. Exercise can clear your mind, boost circulation, and release endorphins. It also speeds up your metabolism, helping the high wear off more quickly.

Take a nap

Sometimes, a good nap can solve everything. Sleep helps restore both body and mind, allowing you to escape the high until you wake up feeling better.

How to prevent a bad high

If you’ve ever wondered how to reduce a joint’s effects, it’s probably because you weren’t enjoying the experience. When the effects hit too hard and suddenly, it can ruin the trip. Prevention is the best solution. Here are some measures to avoid a bad high.

Know your limits

Everyone’s sensitivity and tolerance to THC is different, so cannabis users must learn their own limits. Knowing when to stop can make all the difference between an enjoyable experience and an unpleasant one.

Choose less potent marijuana strains

Since THC is responsible for the high, the good news is that each cannabis strain has a different THC concentration. Therefore, novice users or those with lower tolerance can opt for strains with lower THC levels.

Start with small doses

If you’re not a regular cannabis user, it’s best to start with small doses to see how your body and mind react. If everything goes well, you can cautiously increase the dose.

Avoid mixing with other substances

Mixing marijuana with other substances can amplify its effects. If you’re smoking a joint, it’s best to avoid other drugs or alcohol, as this can lead to a sudden and unpleasant high.

Create a comfortable environment

To fully enjoy the moment and avoid a bad high, it’s essential to choose a safe and comfortable environment. Make sure you’re in a place where you can completely relax without fear or worry, surrounded by people you trust.