You Got Way Too High & Want to Use CBD to Come Back Down, But How Exactly Do You Do That?

Carpfish Creative
Nov 17
3 min read

How to Use CBD to Come Down from Being Too High

If you've consumed too much THC and want to reduce the intensity of your high, CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the most effective methods. CBD works by modulating the effects of THC through the endocannabinoid system, helping to reduce anxiety, paranoia, and other uncomfortable psychoactive effects without completely eliminating the therapeutic benefits.

How CBD Works to Counter THC

CBD interacts with THC in several key ways to reduce overwhelming effects:

Receptor Modulation: CBD influences how THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, which are responsible for the intoxicating effects. By modulating this receptor signaling, CBD can balance and take the edge off the intensity of the high.
Anxiety Reduction: CBD directly acts on the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which mediates anxiety. This allows it to counteract the nervousness, panic, and rapid heart rate that can come from too much THC.
Timing Matters: Research suggests that CBD and THC should ideally be consumed simultaneously for maximum synergistic benefit. Taking CBD after you're already too high may be less effective, but it can still help reduce discomfort.

Different Ways to Use CBD

Six different ways to use CBD to counteract THC overconsumption, showing method, usage instructions, onset time, and benefits

Fastest Acting Methods (2-5 minutes):

CBD Vape: Inhalation provides the quickest relief when you need immediate help
Hemp Flower: Smoking or vaping CBD-dominant cannabis strains with minimal THC offers full-spectrum benefits through the entourage effect

Fast Acting Methods (15-30 minutes):

CBD Oil/Tincture: Placing drops under your tongue allows for sublingual absorption, providing relatively quick relief with precise dosing
CBD Sublingual Spray: Similar to tinctures but in a convenient spray format

Slower Methods (30-90 minutes):

CBD Gummies/Edibles: While they take longer to work, they're easy to dose and discreet
CBD Capsules: Provide consistent, precise dosing but require digestion time

Important Considerations

Dosage: While there's no universal CBD dose for counteracting THC, studies have used anywhere from 10-450mg. Start with a moderate dose and adjust as needed. Lower doses (10-30mg) may not significantly alter THC effects, while moderate doses (300mg) have shown the most promise for anxiety reduction.

Product Quality: Choose CBD products with zero THC content when trying to reduce your high. Full-spectrum CBD with trace THC could potentially add to your intoxication rather than reduce it.

Bell-Shaped Response: Research indicates CBD has a "bell-shaped" dose response curve - low and moderate doses are most effective, while very high doses may not work as well.

Additional Tips to Enhance CBD's Effects

While using CBD, you can amplify its calming effects by:

Staying hydrated with water or herbal tea
Practicing deep breathing exercises to activate your parasympathetic nervous system
Finding a comfortable, quiet space to relax while the effects subside
Using calming aromatherapy like lavender or chamomile
Distracting yourself with light, enjoyable activities

The Science Behind It

Recent research shows mixed results about CBD's ability to counteract THC. While some studies confirm CBD can reduce THC-induced anxiety and paranoia when taken together, other research found that very high doses of CBD (450mg) actually enhanced THC effects rather than reducing them. This highlights the importance of proper dosing - moderate amounts appear to work best for most people.

The most consistent finding is that CBD-dominant cannabis products (with minimal THC) provide significant anxiety relief without the psychoactive effects. This makes them an excellent choice for those prone to THC-induced paranoia.

Remember, the effects of being too high are temporary and will pass. CBD simply helps make the experience more comfortable while you wait it out.