How to Reduce High Effects After Eating Cannabis Edibles

If you’ve ever taken a brownie that felt a bit too strong, you know the panic that can follow. The good news is you don’t have to ride it out helplessly. Simple steps—like staying hydrated, moving your body, and using the right foods—can bring the high down to a manageable level.

Stay Calm and Hydrate

The first thing to do is stop thinking about the "bad" part of the trip. Anxiety feeds anxiety, so take a few deep breaths and remind yourself it will pass. Then, grab a glass of water. Plain water helps flush THC metabolites out of your system faster than any fancy drink.

If you can tolerate it, add a pinch of salt to the water. Salt helps your body retain water longer, which means more fluid stays in your system to carry THC away. Sip slowly; don’t gulp because that can cause stomach upset.

Eat Smart to Balance THC

Food can actually lower THC levels in your bloodstream. Black pepper, for instance, contains beta‑caryophyllene, a compound that counters the psychoactive effects of THC. Chew on a few peppercorns or grind fresh pepper over a snack.

Another quick fix is a sugary snack—think honey, fruit, or a spoonful of jam. Sugar raises blood glucose, which can offset the “slow‑down” feeling of an edibles high. Just keep portions reasonable; you don’t want a sugar crash right after.

Fatty foods also help because they compete with THC for absorption. A small handful of nuts, a slice of cheese, or a spoonful of yogurt can give your body something else to focus on.

Move, Breathe, and Distract

Gentle movement, like a short walk or light stretching, promotes circulation. Better blood flow means your body processes THC more efficiently. If you feel dizzy, sit down, put your feet on the floor, and do a few ankle circles.

Breathing exercises are a hidden gem. Try the 4‑7‑8 method: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8. This calms the nervous system and reduces the racing thoughts that often accompany a strong high.

Distract yourself with a low‑stimulus activity—reading a simple article, watching a calm TV show, or listening to gentle music. The goal is to shift focus away from the high and onto something neutral.

When to Seek Help

Most high‑reduction tactics work within an hour or two. If you experience severe panic, chest pain, or vomiting that won’t stop, call a medical professional. These signs are rare but worth taking seriously.

In most cases, the combination of hydration, smart snacking, light movement, and breathing will bring the high down to a comfortable level. Remember, the effects of edibles fade with time, and the steps above just speed up that process.

Next time you bake or buy an edible, start with a low dose, wait 90 minutes, and adjust. Knowing how to lower a high safely gives you confidence to enjoy cannabis without the fear of getting stuck in an uncomfortable spot.