Possibly you are familiar with the “stoner” stereotype – a very commonly portrayed thing in movies and TV shows. You can usually see a long-haired slacker burnout with bloodshot eyes like a fallen victim to a concentrated pepper spray. However, despite the banality, red, watery, inflamed eyes are one of the most common side effects of cannabis use. But that side effect doesn’t come from CBD. It is commonly associated with cannabis marijuana high from THC.
So, can CBD make your eyes red? Is CBD responsible for the red-eye? The short answer is no; it doesn’t. But is the answer quite as simple? Keep reading this article to get all your answers on whether CBD causes red eyes, THC and red eyes, or cannabis and red eyes. Also, know the difference between CBD and THC, how CBD works on the body, how to get rid of red eyes, and more.
Why CBD Is Not Responsible For Red Eyes
THC is the sole culprit for red eyes. THC is the only molecule responsible for red eyes. It dilates blood vessels lowering blood pressure. The tiny blood vessels rest behind the eyes. When the vessels dilate (widen), the blood flow to the eyes increases substantially.
This increased blood flow helps lower built-up pressure. And this is why high-THC cannabis is often used for glaucoma. This THC consumption and high-THC edibles and oils can similarly produce bloodshot eyes as smoking can. The increased blood flow to the eyes results in the red, watery, puffy, irritated eye look that’s so stereotypical of marijuana users.
But CBD does not produce the same effects as THC does. So if you have the question ‘does CBD cause red eyes,’ the answer is fair ‘no.’ CBD is a natural cannabinoid but does not act like THC. So, CBD is not responsible for red eyes because it does not cause that rush of blood to the eyes.
The Difference Between CBD And THC
- THC
THC is the molecule naturally present in cannabis plants, causing psychoactive effects that some people highly appreciate, yet it is illegal and strictly prohibited. THC content predominates over CBD without human intervention.
- CBD
CBD is also a natural chemical compound of cannabis plants, causing non-psychoactive effects, and it is legal according to the Farm Bill 2018. Now, the CBD products marketed do not contain THC. They are completely devoid of psychoactive and euphoric effects. CBD has many health benefits, and it allows you to relax, relieve physical pain and sleep well without any danger or harm to your health and without altering your physical and mental state.
How Does CBD Work On The Body?
We know that CBD is associated with the endocannabinoid system from scientific research. The ECS is abundantly prevalent in the peripheral and central nervous systems consisting of a network of receptors and endocannabinoids- the endogenous cannabinoids made in the human body. The natural cannabinoids that are found in cannabis plants are phytocannabinoids. So, both CBD and THC are phytocannabinoids indeed.
Although THC directly binds to endocannabinoid receptors, CBD acts more indirectly as it doesn’t bind directly with any receptor. Rather, it influences various receptor-independent pathways and ion channels to generate a range of beneficial effects, and thus, CBD controls the body in a non-aggressive but beneficial way.
Why Do THC Users Have Red Eyes?
As already explained, THC users get red eyes mainly because of the dilation of blood vessels, especially the rush of blood flow to the eyes. You should know that the higher the level of THC, the greater the effect and more reddish the eyes. The eyes of THC users can also become red and more irritating from tobacco smoke.
CBD And Red Eyes: Beware Of Scams!
If you have consumed CBD and got red eyes, you should think about the origin of your product. If your CBD was sourced from a friend or an uncertified or unknown seller, you might have been scammed and consumed THC unbeknownst to your knowledge. If you have undergone a cerebral high, a great euphoria and an almost unmanageable urge to sleep, it is sure that you have taken cannabis with THC.
Keep in mind that many CBD products available on the internet or in the uncertified and unreputable physical shops lack sufficient quality controls. If you want to get a CBD product free of THC with a guarantee, you should go through a reputable, certified seller.
How To Get Rid Of Red Eyes?
Do you have red eyes from cannabis use? Don’t worry because it’s not too difficult to get rid of. For both the avoidance and pacification of marijuana-induced bloodshot eyes, you can follow the method of proper hydration and use quality eye drops. Or, you can change strains from a high-THC strain to a high-CBD/low-THC one.
To get rid of the inflammation and red eyes, here are some tips:
- You may use eye drops: A few drops may quickly and effectively relieve the inflammation, reducing the red, irritated appearance.
- You can consume vasoconstrictors: Some foods like chocolate, coffee, and salt may help counteract the dilation of blood vessels in your eyes by narrowing them.
- Be patient: Red eyes never stay red for long. Sometimes a little rest may make the redness go away. In the meantime, you should avoid exposure to screens and sunlight for a few hours because this may make a worse condition.
Are Red Eyes Bad For My Health?
Red eyes are sometimes painful, but they’re not dangerous to your health. There’s nothing to be alarmed about as long as it doesn’t prevent you from going about your daily business. If this problem persists, you should see a doctor and find out what is causing the problem.
So CBD Doesn’t Cause Red Eyes… But is it Legal?
After passing the U.S. Farm Bill in 2018, many people assumed CBD to be fully legal in the United States. The reason is that the Farm Bill legalized hemp, a distinct cultivar of cannabis that contains high levels of CBD and minimal THC.
But the exact legal implications of CBD use under that Farm Bill are a little more complicated than the assumption. The real condition is that hemp-derived CBD products are widely available in most parts of the United States, including the states that do not have medical cannabis programs.
Due to their non-intoxicating effects, consumers use CBD products to achieve their potential therapeutic benefit rather than recreational substances. Many think CBD is an alternative option for stress, anxiety, pain, and trouble sleeping. The FDA-approved drug Epidiolex, the only CBD-based prescription- medication, is used to treat epilepsy.
Final Thoughts
Suppose you want to use cannabis without the irritating eye look. In that case, the responsible consumption of quality CBD products may allow you to experience beneficial effects without suffering from puffy, watery, red eyes. To conclude, you should always be alert about the origin of the products to avoid unpleasant surprises.
