How to Get Rid of a High: 5 Science-Backed Ways to Come Back Down
We’ve all been there, maybe a gummy hit harder than expected, or a new flower strain crept up on you fast. Whether you’re a seasoned user or brand new to cannabis, knowing how to come down from a high can make all the difference between a fun experience and a panicked one.
Here are five science-backed ways to gently ease your high and feel more grounded
1. Use CBD to Balance THC’s Effects
CBD (cannabidiol) is like THC’s calmer cousin—and science shows it may help reduce the intensity of a high by modulating the way THC binds to receptors in your brain. In fact, many users report that a few drops of CBD can smooth out anxious or overwhelming feelings.
👉 Try our Greenhouse Girls 1000mg CBD Water Tincture – easy to use, THC-free, and perfect for recalibrating without adding more psychoactive effects.
Bonus tip: Our CBG tincture is also uplifting and pairs beautifully with CBD if you need a little mental clarity without intensity.
📖 Source: Project CBD – CBD vs. THC
2. Stay Hydrated and Have a Light Snack
Hydration helps your body process cannabinoids more efficiently, and a light, fatty snack like avocado or peanut butter can slow the absorption of THC.
Pro tip: Citrus fruits especially those with limonene may help reduce anxiety and promote a more chill headspace. That includes lemon water, orange slices, or even the peel!
📖 Source: Healthline – How to Sober Up from Weed
3. Take Deep Breaths or Go for a Walk
Cannabis affects your perception of time, which can make a high feel endless. Grounding your body helps your brain feel safe. Try:
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Slow, deep belly breathing
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A short walk or stretch
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Putting on calming music
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Focusing on your five senses
These small shifts can signal to your nervous system that everything is okay, which in turn helps regulate the high
4. Black Peppercorns (Yes, Really)
This one sounds strange but chewing on whole black peppercorns (or just deeply smelling them) can offer fast relief thanks to the terpene beta-caryophyllene, which may help counteract THC-induced anxiety.
📖 Source: Leafly – The Power of Peppercorn
5. Time (and a Cozy Space)
As much as we wish there were an instant “off” button, sometimes the best solution is patience. Most cannabis highs peak at 1–2 hours and taper off by 3–6 hours depending on the method (edibles last longer than flower or vapes).
If you’re feeling too high:
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Dim the lights
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Turn on a comfort show or familiar playlist
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Wrap up in a blanket
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Remind yourself: it will pass
🚫 Common Myths About Getting Less High
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Milk will sober you up: There’s no scientific evidence that milk reduces a THC high. Hydration helps, but milk won’t bind THC or reduce its effects.
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Cold showers “shock” you out of it: A cold shower may wake you up but doesn’t reduce THC. It can make you feel more alert, but use it with caution if you’re already anxious.
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Drinking alcohol cancels THC: Not true, mixing alcohol with cannabis can make effects worse, not better. Avoid combining substances when you’re trying to come down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can CBD really reduce a THC high?
Yes, studies suggest that CBD interacts with the same receptors as THC but in a gentler way helping to reduce anxiety, paranoia, and intensity without reversing the benefits.
Q: How long does a cannabis high last?
That depends on the form. Flower and vapes usually wear off in 1–3 hours. Edibles can last 4–8 hours or longer depending on your dose, tolerance, and metabolism.
Q: What if I feel like I’m “greening out”?
Greening out (nausea, dizziness, anxiety) happens when you’ve had too much THC. Hydrate, rest, breathe, and consider taking CBD. You’ll be okay it just takes time.
Q: Can you “un-high” faster with caffeine?
Caffeine might help you feel more alert but can increase heart rate and anxiety. Not always the best idea if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Q: Can you mix CBD with THC to prevent being too high?
Absolutely. In fact, many products are formulated with both to balance the experience. We always recommend starting low and slow, especially if you’re new.
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