Do Edibles Make Your Eyes Red?

Red eyes are a given when you smoke cannabis.

If you’ve ever smoked weed, you know it makes your eyes red.

But what about when you consume cannabis edibles? Does consuming edibles make your eyes red like smoking marijuana?

Ever gotten completely stoned on edibles and taken a look in the mirror? If you have, then you’ve definitely noticed red eyes staring back at you.

Curious to know why consuming cannabis makes eyes red happen and what you can do about it?

Keep reading to learn more if edibles make your eyes red, why it might happen and some practical tips to manage (and even prevent) the red eyes that are a common (somewhat strange) side effect of cannabis use.

Key Takeaways

• Edibles and other types of cannabis products can make your eyes red only if the cannabis products contain THC.
• CBD edibles and other products won’t cause eye redness or get you high like cannabis products that contain THC.
• While edible cannabis products and smoking weed can both make your eyes red, there are distinct differences in how red eyes get and how long the maximum effect of redness lasts.
• There are preventative measures you can take to reduce eye redness when consuming edible cannabis products or smoking marijuana.

Understanding Edibles

The popularity of cannabis edibles has exploded.

As a discreet and convenient way to get high, there’s no shortage of different types of edibles in the legal weed scene.

From gummies galore to sweet treats like infused brownies, dark chocolate squares, energy bars, mints, macaroons, barbeque sauce and more, there’s no shortage of ways to consume edibles.

While smoking cannabis provides an almost instant effect, edibles take longer to kick in. They’re also a lot stronger because of the way the body processes THC.

What are Edibles?

Edibles refer to a wide range of cannabis-infused food or drink products that contain cannabis compounds like THC and CBD.

THC edibles produce an intoxicating effect, while CBD only edibles won’t get you high in the slightest.

Edibles are so appealing because they’re completely inconspicuous and come in a perfectly measured dose.

That said, they take longer to kick in and are more potent than smoking marijuana, which can be a drawback to some consumers.

How Edibles Are Processed In the Body

When you consume an edible, the THC is metabolized by the liver, which converts it into a more potent metabolite called 11-hydroxy-THC.

This metabolite is 2-3 times more potent than regular THC and is responsible for the more intense, longer-lasting effects of edibles compared to smoking.

The unique characteristics of 11-hydroxy-THC are what sets edibles apart from other methods of cannabis consumption and can lead to a completely different experience.

THC vs CBD Edibles

The primary difference between THC and CBD only edibles lies in their effects on the eyes.

When you consume cannabis that contains THC, whether through edibles or smoking, can cause red eyes because of the impact of THC on blood pressure.

This increased blood flow caused by THC makes ocular capillaries dilate, ultimately making eyes red.

On the other hand, CBD edibles do not cause ocular capillaries to dilate, making them a more eye-friendly option for those who don’t want their cannabis consumption to be a dead giveaway.

Edibles and Eye Redness

Now that we’ve established that THC is the primary culprit behind red eyes after consuming edibles, let’s delve deeper into this fascinating phenomenon.

The redness in the eyes is caused by THC’s ability to dilate ocular capillaries, leading to an increase in blood flow and a subsequent decrease in intraocular pressure.

The result of this makes eyes red.

Various factors can influence the occurrence of red eyes from edibles, including the dose, individual health status and the type of edible consumed.

How THC Causes Red Eyes

The mechanism behind THC-induced red eyes is quite intriguing.

When you consume THC, blood pressure drops, which leads to the dilation of blood vessels throughout your body, including those in your eyes.

This lower blood pressure results in an increased blood flow to the eyes, which in turn causes the many tiny blood vessels within your eyes to expand, leading to the bloodshot eyes commonly associated with weed.

CBD Edibles and Eye Redness

In contrast to THC edibles, CBD edibles do not make eyes red.

You can consume CBD only edibles all day without worrying about bloodshot eyes.

The lack of red eyes after consuming CBD edibles makes them an appealing option for those who wish to avoid the telltale “stoner eyes” often associated with THC consumption.

Keep in mind that CBD/THC gummies and other CBD edibles that are combining weed compounds may cause eye redness.

Factors Influencing Red Eyes from Edibles

The dose of THC, individual tolerance, and method of consumption all play a role in determining the likelihood and intensity of red eyes after consuming edibles.

Someone with a low tolerance to THC may experience more pronounced red eyes than a seasoned user. If you rarely consume cannabis, for example, it will make your eyes red more than if you smoke weed everyday.

Furthermore, the type of edible consumed can also influence the degree of redness experienced. Edibles with a high concentration of THC are more likely to cause red eyes than those with lower concentrations.

For example, THCP gummies are notoriously strong and might make your eyes more red than other options.

Edibles Compared To Smoking: Effects on Eyes

While both edibles and smoking can cause red eyes, there are distinct differences in how they affect our eyes.

Edibles have a delayed onset and a higher potency compared to smoking, which can lead to more pronounced red eyes in some cases.

Additionally, the duration of red eyes caused by edibles can range from 4-12 hours, depending on how much THC was consumed, your tolerance and other factors.

Differences in Onset and Potency

The main difference between edibles and smoking in terms of onset and potency lies in how the body processes THC. With edibles, THC is metabolized by the liver, which produces the more potent metabolite 11-hydroxy-THC.

This results in a more intense and longer-lasting experience, while smoking cannabis allows for a more immediate effect that doesn’t last as long.

11-Hydroxy-THC and Eye Redness

The role of 11-hydroxy-THC in causing red eyes is still not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to its increased potency and psychoactive effects.

Due to its potency, 11-hydroxy-THC may lead to more pronounced eye dryness and irritation, which can ultimately result in red eyes.

It is worth noting, however, that weed compounds affect everyone differently and you may not not experience red eyes depending on how your body processes THC intake.

Health Considerations for Choosing Between Edibles and Smoking

When deciding between edibles and smoking (despite the fact that it will make your eyes red), it’s important to consider individual factors like tolerance, desired effects and potential side effects.

For some, edibles may provide a more potent and longer-lasting experience, while others may prefer the immediate effects of smoking cannabis.

It is crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with both, especially the overconsumption of edibles, which can lead to an uncomfortable experience. You may also take into consideration the potential respiratory issues associated with smoking.

Managing and Treating Red Eyes from Edibles

So while edibles make for bloodshot eyes, there are ways to manage just how irritated eyes become after you consume edibles.

Here we’ll take a look at some practical tips on how to prevent and treat red eyes caused by edibles, helping you enjoy your cannabis-infused treats without being a dead giveaway with red, irritated eyes.

Preventive Measures

One of the best ways to prevent eye redness from edibles is to use eye drops before consuming THC-rich products.

Eye drops can help to constrict the blood vessels in your eyes, reducing the appearance of bloodshot eyes that are caused by increased blood flow.

Aside from eye drops, another preventive measure is to be mindful of the amount of THC you are consuming.

Yes, edibles make your eyes turn red, but if you start with a low dose and gradually increase your dose it might help reduce eye redness.

Home Remedies for Red Eyes

If you’re already experiencing red eyes from edibles, there are several home remedies you can try to alleviate the redness caused by cannabis infused foods.

Cool Face Cloth

There’s nothing like a cool face cloth to help with irritated eyes, which can help reduce inflammation and redness.

Splashing cool water on the face may also help, especially if you don’t have access to a cool face cloth.

Eye Drops

Eye drops are a stoner’s go-to for reducing eye redness.

Artificial tears can provide lubrication and relief from dryness and the irritation caused by dry eyes.

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

While red eyes from edibles are typically harmless and temporary, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if the redness persists or worsens.

Whether you have high blood pressure or lower blood pressure and you experience other symptoms such as pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light, definitely think about an eye exam.

A healthcare professional can help determine the cause of the red eyes and recommend appropriate treatment options.

The Potential Benefits of Cannabis for Eye Health

Speaking of red eyes, it’s worth mentioning that cannabinoids have been shown to have potential benefits for eye health, especially for the treatment of glaucoma.

Research suggests that THC may be beneficial in reducing blood pressure and its effects on blood vessels and capillaries.

Following you’ll find some of the potential benefits of cannabis for eye health, including its effects on intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients.

Cannabis and Intraocular Pressure

Marijuana has been found to reduce intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients, providing temporary relief from the increased pressure that can cause damage to the optic nerve.

However, smoking marijuana for glaucoma therapy is questionable, as the benefits are short-lived and the long-term health effects of smoking are a concern.

Further research is needed to explore alternative methods of cannabis consumption for glaucoma treatment.

Ongoing Research on Cannabis and Vision

Ongoing research on cannabis and vision aims to better understand its potential benefits for eye health, including the treatment of glaucoma and other eye conditions.

Some studies have even suggested that marijuana may improve night vision, though more research is needed to confirm these findings.

As the understanding of the complex relationship between cannabis and eye health continues to evolve, new possibilities for the treatment and prevention of various eye conditions may emerge.

Wrapping Up

Edibles make your eyes red if they contain THC. There’s no way around it.

Bloodshot eyes, however, are generally harmless. It’s simply a side effect caused by the dilation of ocular capillaries and increased blood flow due to THC.

By understanding the differences between THC and CBD edibles, as well as the factors that influence red eyes, you can make better decisions about your cannabis consumption.

Especially if you don’t want bloodshot eyes to be a dead giveaway that you’re completely stoned.

With preventive measures and home remedies, you can enjoy your cannabis-infused treats without worry and embrace the fascinating world of edibles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for edibles to make your eyes red?

THC edibles make your eyes red typically after THC binds to cannabinoid receptors once processed by the digestive system. It can take as long as 30 minutes for edibles to make your eyes red, but could also take up to an hour or longer. Once THC is processed to 11-hydroxy THC it will definitely make your eyes red so that it is noticeable.

How do you make your eyes not red after eating edibles?

Eating edibles can make your eyes red, but there are steps you can take to reduce the appearance. Using eye drops will shrink the blood vessels around your eyes, making the redness less visible. Additionally, drinking plenty of fluids helps flush the THC from your body and will help lessen the redness in your eyes over time.

Do Delta 8 gummies make your eyes red?

It is possible that eating Delta 8 gummies may make your eyes red, though it generally passes in a few hours. Therefore, if you do experience red eyes after consuming Delta 8 gummies, don’t worry as it usually goes away on its own.

Will CBD only edibles make your eyes red?

Because CBD affects blood vessels differently than THC, consuming gummies and other edibles that only contain CBD won’t make your eyes red. If you’re interested in combining cannabinoids and want some THC with CBD, opt for higher CBD/lower THC concentrations to keep your eyes from becoming too red.

Does splashing cool water on the face really help with eye redness?

Splashing cool water on your face or gently may help reduce some of the eye redness associated with cannabis use. A cool face cloth over the eyes may also help to decrease the appearance of bloodshot eyes.