Helium is an interesting gas that is often associated with fun and laughter due to its ability to make our voices sound high-pitched. But when it comes to getting high or experiencing any kind of mind-altering effects, helium falls short.
One of the main reasons why helium doesn’t get you high is its chemical properties. Helium is an inert gas, which means it is extremely stable and unreactive. It doesn’t easily bond with other elements or molecules, including those in our bodies. In fact, helium is so stable that it is often used in balloons to prevent them from bursting.
When we talk about getting high, we usually refer to substances that can alter our mental state or consciousness. These substances typically interact with our brain chemistry, affecting neurotransmitters and receptors. However, helium doesn’t have any such effect on our brain or nervous system.
Inhaling helium might give you a temporary change in your voice, but that’s purely a physical effect. The difference in density between helium and air causes sound waves to travel faster through your vocal cords, resulting in the high-pitched voice. But once the helium is out of your system, your voice returns to normal, and there are no lingering effects on your mental state.
It’s also important to note that inhaling helium can be potentially dangerous if done in excessive amounts or inappropriately. When you inhale helium directly from a pressurized source, it can displace oxygen in your lungs and lead to oxygen deprivation. This can cause dizziness, loss of consciousness, and even asphyxiation in severe cases. It’s always best to avoid inhaling helium directly from a pressurized container.
Helium doesn’t get you high because it is chemically stable and doesn’t interact with our brain or nervous system. While it may provide a momentary change in voice, inhaling helium can be dangerous if not done safely. So, it’s always best to enjoy helium in a controlled and responsible manner, such as using it for balloons or other fun activities.