From the relaxing vibes of a THC-infused gummy to the calming effects of a CBD chocolate, cannabis edibles can offer a fun and enjoyable experience for most people.

Unfortunately though, sometimes things don't always go to plan.

What happens when that once-pleasant high takes an unexpected turn? You may start feeling more irritable, anxious, or even a little bit on edge.

Hey, don't worry — we've been there too.

One of the most important things to understand about cannabis — especially THC — is that it can have a lot of different effects on your body and mind, and sometimes the effects aren't exactly what you expected. So, why do some people experience mood swings, irritability, or even anxiety after consuming edibles? Is it the cannabis itself? Is it your body chemistry? Or is it something else entirely?

The Basics: Understanding THC and the Effect it Has on Your Brain

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of mood swings, irritability, and THC, let's first take a step back and understand how THC works in the brain.

When you consume cannabis — whether by smoking, vaping, or eating an edible — THC is absorbed into your bloodstream and eventually makes its way to your brain. THC binds to special cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which are part of the body's endocannabinoid system, or the ECS for short. The ECS helps regulate various bodily functions, including mood, appetite, pain, and memory. By interacting with these receptors, THC produces its signature effects — euphoria, relaxation, and sometimes altered perceptions of reality.

That said, THC doesn't just stimulate feelings of pleasure. It also influences other neurotransmitters in the brain, like your dopamine and serotonin. These are often referred to as "feel-good" chemicals, but their balance is delicate, and the introduction of THC can throw things out of whack, especially in larger doses.

For some people, this can result in a sense of heightened mood — like euphoria or bliss. But for others, THC can create a feeling of unease, irritability, or even anxiety, especially if you're already in a not-so-great place mentally. So, if you're wondering if it's your edibles that are making you irritable, the answer might lie in how THC is interacting with your brain and your body's unique chemistry.

Why Do Edibles Hit Differently Than Other Forms of THC?

You might be saying to yourself, "I've smoked cannabis before and felt fine, so why are edibles making me feel weird?" That's a great question, and it has everything to do with how cannabis is processed in your body.

When you consume cannabis in the form of an edible, your body processes it differently than it would if you were smoking or vaping. When you eat an edible, the THC has to pass through your digestive system and liver before it enters your bloodstream. Once it's in your liver, THC is converted into a more potent compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This metabolite is significantly stronger than regular THC and can lead to more intense effects — sometimes, more intense than you might have experienced when smoking or vaping.

Because 11-hydroxy-THC is this powerful, it can amplify certain feelings and emotions, especially when consumed in high doses. For some people, this stronger metabolite can contribute to mood swings, anxiety, and irritability. The effects also tend to last longer with edibles, meaning that if things start to go south, you could be feeling off for a few hours.

The delay in onset time for edibles can also play a role sometimes. With edibles, it often takes anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours before the effects of an edible fully kick in. During this waiting period, you might feel a sense of impatience or frustration, which could lead to irritability. Then, when the effects finally hit, the more intense high could catch you off guard and send you into a spiral. If you're experiencing this, we're really sorry to hear that's what you're going through, but remember — it'll pass. It always does.

The Role of Dosage: Too Much THC?

One of the most common reasons people experience irritability from cannabis edibles is simply because they've taken too much THC. The potency of edibles can be tricky to gauge, especially when compared to smoking or vaping, where the effects are felt more immediately. With edibles, it can be pretty easy to overdo it, thinking that the effects aren't coming on fast enough and then eating more, only to be hit with a much stronger high than you bargained for. This is particularly common with edibles that come in small, individually wrapped doses, like gummies or chocolates where popping another one doesn't seem like too big of a deal.

So, how much THC is too much? It varies depending on your tolerance, experience, and body chemistry. For most people, a low dose of 5 to 10 milligrams of THC is a good starting point. If you're new to edibles or cannabis in general, it's best to start with the lowest possible dose and wait at least two hours before considering taking more. This gives your body enough time to process the THC and ensures that you don't over-consume. It might seem like an overly simple solution, but taking less is one of the best ways to clear up those negative feelings pretty quickly.

Your Body Chemistry: THC and Your Unique Brain

The way THC affects your mood is also influenced by your unique body chemistry. Some individuals are more sensitive to THC than others, meaning that even a small dose can lead to feelings of anxiety or irritability. Others might have a higher tolerance and can consume larger doses without experiencing any mood swings or negative emotions.

Your genetic makeup, lifestyle, and even your mental state at the time of consumption can all influence how THC impacts your mood. If you're feeling stressed, anxious, or irritable already, consuming THC might amplify those feelings. On the other hand, if you're in a calm and relaxed state, THC might enhance those positive emotions, leading to an uplifting experience. Some people feel like the effects of THC can counteract their anxiety too, so it's really just about finding what works for you.

That said, people with a history of anxiety or mood disorders may also be more prone to negative side effects when consuming THC. Studies have shown that high doses of THC can induce feelings of paranoia and anxiety, which can be especially pronounced in individuals who are already predisposed to such emotions. So, if you have a history of anxiety or mood disorders, you may want to be especially cautious when trying edibles and start with lower doses to see how your body responds.

The Strain Matters: Indica vs. Sativa vs. Hybrid

Another factor that can contribute to irritability or mood swings is the strain of cannabis used in the edible. Cannabis strains are typically divided into three categories — indica, sativa, and hybrid. Each strain has its own unique effects on your mood, how it affects your energy levels, and the overall experience you have.

• Indica strains are typically known for their relaxing, sedative effects. They tend to promote calmness and relaxation, which can be perfect for winding down at night or taking the edge off of a particularly difficult day. That said, some people may find that indica strains make them feel sluggish or lethargic, which could lead to some irritability or even confusion if you're hoping for a more energizing experience.
• Sativa strains, on the other hand, are often associated with more uplifting, energetic effects. Sativas are commonly chosen for daytime use, as they can enhance creativity and focus and make social interactions a little more interesting. For some people, though, the energizing effects of sativa strains can come across as overstimulating, leading to restlessness, anxiety, or irritability. These are the ones you really don't want to go overboard on.
• Hybrid strains are a mix of both indica and sativa genetics, and the effects can vary depending on the specific balance of each strain. Most of the time, a hybrid will give you a more balanced experience, but it's still important to know the specific strain you're consuming and how it might affect your mood.

If you're finding that edibles are making you irritable, the strain you're consuming may definitely be a factor. More specifically, if you're taking edibles made from a sativa-heavy strain, it might be worth trying one made from an indica or hybrid strain instead. The goal is to find a balance that works for your body and mind.

Okay, so all of that is in theory. Let's change gears now and talk about what this looks like in practice.

What Can You Do to Avoid Irritability?

If you're noticing that cannabis edibles are making you irritable, don't worry — there are steps you can take to minimize those negative effects and enjoy a more positive experience.

Take Things Slow

As we mentioned earlier, starting with a small dose is crucial when trying edibles. It's easy to get carried away, especially if the effects aren't felt immediately, but patience is key. Start with 5 to 10 milligrams of THC, and wait at least two hours before consuming more. This will help you gauge how your body is reacting to the edible.

Choose the Right Strain

Remember that the strain used in your edible plays a significant role in how you'll feel. If you're finding that sativa strains make you irritable or anxious, try switching to an indica or hybrid strain for a more calming experience. And no, this isn't some "trust me, bro" anecdotal notion. There's real science backing this up.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Sometimes your irritability might be linked to dehydration or low blood sugar, especially if you're taking edibles on an empty stomach. Make sure you're well-hydrated before consuming cannabis, and consider having a light meal or snack to keep your blood sugar levels stable. That'll help you isolate what's going on.

Consider the Setting

Your environment can play a big role in how you feel during a cannabis high. Make sure you're in a comfortable, relaxed setting where you can fully enjoy the experience. Avoid consuming edibles in stressful or uncomfortable situations, as this can exacerbate negative feelings. We know you might think taking an edible at that big party next weekend sounds like fun, but really consider how comfortable you're actually going to be there.

Be Mindful of Your Mind

If you're already feeling anxious or stressed before consuming edibles, those feelings can be amplified. If you know you're in what you'd consider to be a vulnerable state, it may be best to save the edibles for another day or at least opt for a lower dose. It's tough, but sticking things out might be the right move rather than escapism. We're not your therapist here, but we do know what we're talking about when it comes to cannabis.

Wrapping Up: Understanding THC and its Impacts on Mood

While cannabis users often enjoy a pleasurable and relaxing experience, they aren't always the perfect fit for everyone. THC can sometimes take you on a wilder ride than you were expecting, which can lead to feelings of irritability, anxiety, or even paranoia — especially if you took more than you were ready for. Understanding how THC works in your body, starting with small doses and choosing the right strain, though, can go a long way in ensuring a more enjoyable experience.

If you're finding that edibles are still making you feel weird and irritable, don't be discouraged. With a little experimentation, you can probably find a balance and dosage that works well for the effects you're going for. And if all else fails, there's always CBD — the non-psychoactive cousin of THC that can help mitigate some of the unwanted effects of cannabis and provide a calming, soothing experience.