That last time you visited your friend and they said, “You’re high, aren’t you?” was because you had red eyes. That question comes naturally to anyone who knows about smoking cannabis and its typical symptom: those glossy red eyes. It is an instant giveaway that you have smoked some. So, you decide to switch to edibles because they don't give red eyes. Or...do they?
We will start by answering this question without complexities. Yes, edibles can make your eyes red if they contain THC in it edibles like Delta 9 gummies or Delta 10 gummies. The hot smoke never caused those red eyes; it was the THC. It doesn’t matter whether you smoke or eat cannabis, the compound will dilate the capillaries, increasing blood flow to the eyes.
Do Edible Gummies Expire?How Long Do Red Eyes Last For?
Red eyes from THC can last anywhere between 1-2 to 3-4 hours after cannabis consumption. However, some people may not get red eyes every time they take cannabis, depending on their body chemistry and different strains. Either way, you need not worry about red eyes from cannabis use.
What Causes Red Eyes?
Let’s discuss why THC causes red eyes. THC is a vasodilator. It dilates the blood vessels in the eyes, turning them red. But it’s not that simple. THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors in the body. This network is in the brain, immune cells, digestive tracts, eyes, glands, tissues, and organs. The receptors are called cannabinoid receptors and are present on the surface of the cells. They receive signals from chemicals your body produces and circulate them in the bloodstream until they find a receptor.
While the body creates several chemical messengers that can interact with these receptors, THC, an exterior chemical, can also interact with them, inducing effects others can’t.
Cannabinoid receptors are of two types: the CB1 and CB2 receptors. THC predominantly binds to the CB1 receptor.
Red eyes occur because THC binds to a receptor in the blood vessels of the eyes, expanding them. When they bind, more blood flows into the eyes. This extra blood flow reddens the white parts, and you know the rest.
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How to Get Rid of Red Eyes from Cannabis?
While red eyes from cannabis consumption shouldn't be concerning, we understand you don’t want the attention they may bring you. So, here are a few ways that may help.
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Over-the-Counter Eye Drops
OTC eye drops can treat allergies and are among the most used techniques to reduce red eyes. These drops contain a molecule called tetryzoline, a vasoconstrictor that constricts the dilated blood vessels. This process reduces blood flow and, thus, reduces the appearance of red eyes.
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Caffeine
You can try caffeine to reduce red eyes because it has a similar effect as eye drops: vasoconstriction. It reduces blood flow in the eyes and lessens redness. Coffee, tea, cola, or energy drinks can help.
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Cold Compress
Want something more natural? Try cold compress. It can constrict the peripheral body parts and reduce blood flow there. You can use a cold compress or splash cold water on the face to reduce red eyes.
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Use a Low-THC Strain
A lesser THC concentration can help prevent red eyes. Since eye vasodilation is directly associated with THC concentration, less THC may not redden the eyes the same way as a high-concentration strain. For instance, you may try Delta 8 edibles instead of Delta 9 products.
Do CBD Gummy Bears Show Up On A Drug Test?What Do Edibles Do To You?
Do Edibles Make Your Eyes Red?Upon ingestion, CBD breaks down before entering the bloodstream. It is the same way you absorb key vitamins using nutritional supplements. The only difference is that it directly interacts with the ECS.
The effects of edibles depend on the cannabinoids they contain. For example, THC-infused edibles will get you high because THC is psychoactive, whereas CBD won’t because it is non-intoxicating.
Edibles are the easiest way to ingest THC, simplifying the process and making it accessible to anyone, but it comes with a problem; inexperienced users may consume too much. It can be avoided with responsible consumption.
