Cannabis is an indulgence that has piqued the curiosity of millions of people worldwide, with the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating that there are 147 million global consumers. Statista researchers pin the number closer to 200 million! As legalization continues to paint the world map green, more people are introducing cannabis as a staple ingredient in their daily routines. This means that there are a lot of people out there looking high.
A cannabis “high” describes the mind-altering journey after indulging in psychotropic compounds, aka “cannabinoids.” One such example is THC, which can be detected in the system for some time after consumption. While it’s not necessary to slip into a state of bliss to reap the plant’s benefits, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) does offer therapeutic enjoyment.
Although many people seek the feeling of getting high when choosing a cannabis strain, looking high is not always ideal. Don’t worry; we’ve compiled a list of hacks on how to hide being high to maintain a fresh face ahead of a family gathering or social outing.
What Does Being High Look Like?
Once THC passes the blood-brain barrier and binds to CB1 receptors, the high kicks in. The rate at which this happens depends on the method of consumption. The high can emerge seconds after dabbing concentrates, minutes after inhaling smoke from a joint, or hours after indulging in a cannabis-infused edible.
A typical cannabis consumer might exhibit the following signs:
Physical Signs
- Red Eyes: Bloodshot eyes are a common indicator of cannabis use due to the expansion of blood vessels.
- Dry Mouth: Also known as "cotton mouth," this occurs because THC affects saliva production, causing dryness.
- Sluggish Movements: THC can slow down motor skills, resulting in slower, more deliberate movements.
Behavioral Indicators
- Increased Appetite: Known as "the munchies," consuming more food than usual is a typical sign.
- Fits Of Giggles: Uncontrollable laughter can occur, even at things that aren't particularly funny.
- Forgetfulness: Short-term memory can be affected, leading to forgetfulness or trouble concentrating.
- Anxiety Or Tension: In some cases, THC can cause feelings of anxiety or paranoia.
Recognizing these signs can help you understand what to manage when you need to hide your high.
Consider Taking Preventative Measures
Want to avoid getting found out by people you’d rather not share your smoking habit with? Here are some preventative measures to help you look less stoned:
- Drink Water: Guzzling plenty of water hydrates you, gives you a burst of energy, boosts overall health, and helps form saliva to keep those cotton-mouth situations at bay.
- Chew Gum Or Mints: These can help stimulate saliva production and mask any cannabis odor.
- Ventilate The Area: Smoke in a well-ventilated area to reduce lingering odors.
- Use Air Fresheners: Have smell-eliminating supplies ready beforehand, such as air fresheners, incense, or odor-neutralizing sprays.
- Change Clothes: Prepare a change of clothes to remove any smoke smell trapped in the fabric.
- Eat Certain Foods: Anecdotal evidence suggests that pinene in pine nuts, limonene in lemon peel, and caryophyllene in black peppercorns may help reduce the effects of a cannabis high.
- Use CBD: A dose of CBD may counteract the psychoactive effects of THC, helping you look and feel less high.
Being prepared with these measures can help you manage your appearance and behavior more effectively when you need to hide your high.
6 Ways to Hide Your High
According to Healthline, a cannabis high can linger for up to 10 hours, depending on various factors like the amount ingested, method of consumption, THC percentage, terpene composition, body weight, metabolism, and tolerance. Here are six effective tips to help you keep up appearances and hide your high:
1. Eat Food
- Why It Helps: Eating can help ease a cannabis high by speeding up metabolism and absorption of THC.
- What to Eat: Opt for foods that do not amplify the high, avoiding mangoes, nuts, and broccoli which can enhance THC effects.
2. Take a Cold Shower
- Why It Helps: Cold showers increase alertness, boost energy levels, and improve mental clarity.
- How To Do It: A quick cold shower can refresh you instantly, helping you feel more alert and less high.
3. Wear Sunglasses
- Why It Helps: Sunglasses can hide red, bloodshot eyes and provide UV protection.
- When to Use: Slip on a pair of sunglasses if you need a quick and effortless way to hide your high.
4. Use Eye Drops
- Why It Helps: Lubricating eye drops can replace natural moisture and reduce redness caused by smoking.
- What To Use: Choose redness-relieving drops with antihistamines or imidazoline derivatives to constrict blood vessels in the eyes.
5. Sleep
- Why It Helps: Sleep can help the effects of THC wear off faster.
- How To Do It: A good nap can clear your mind and reduce the signs of being high. Cannabis can improve sleep quality, making it easier to doze off.
6. Change Your Clothes
- Why It Helps: Changing clothes can remove the smell of cannabis trapped in fabric fibers.
- How To Do It: Opt for a quick outfit change, or wash your clothes with baking soda to eliminate smoke odors. For leather items, rub with alcohol and let dry.
Final Takeaways
Now that you know how to look less high, you can enjoy your cannabis experiences without worrying about being too obvious. It’s essential to consume cannabis wisely, especially if you’re a new user. Here are a few final tips:
- Avoid Mixing with Alcohol: Combining cannabis with alcohol can intensify the high, making it harder to manage.
- Be Cautious with Medications: Some medications can amplify the effects of cannabis. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you’re taking other substances.
- Use Responsibly: Moderation is key. Start with small amounts and gradually increase as you understand your tolerance.
Enjoy your cannabis responsibly, and use these tips to maintain your composure and confidence in any situation.
FAQs
How long does a cannabis high last?
A cannabis high can last anywhere from 1 to 10 hours, depending on factors such as the amount consumed, method of consumption, THC content, body weight, metabolism, and tolerance.
What causes red eyes when high?
Red eyes are caused by THC, which lowers blood pressure and dilates blood vessels, including those in the eyes, leading to redness.
Can drinking water reduce a cannabis high?
While drinking water won’t directly reduce a high, it helps alleviate dry mouth and may help you feel more refreshed and alert.
Do CBD products help reduce a cannabis high?
Yes, CBD can counteract the psychoactive effects of THC, helping to mitigate anxiety and reduce the intensity of the high.
What foods should I avoid when high?
Avoid foods like mangoes, nuts, and broccoli, as they contain compounds that can enhance the effects of THC.
Is it safe to mix cannabis with alcohol?
Mixing cannabis with alcohol can intensify the effects of both substances, making it harder to control the high and increasing the risk of negative side effects.
What are the best eye drops for red eyes from cannabis?
Redness-relieving drops with antihistamines or imidazoline derivatives are effective for reducing redness by constricting blood vessels in the eyes.
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