What does “greening out” mean?
“Greening out” is slang for the unpleasant experience of consuming too much cannabis. It’s an adverse reaction, essentially a cannabis overdose or toxic reaction, often caused by high levels of THC.
People who are greening out may experience nausea, dizziness, anxiety, and paranoia. Other symptoms can include panic attacks, confusion, hallucinations, disorientation, and even visual disturbances.
While greening out is not life-threatening, it can be extremely distressing.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of what does green out mean, including its causes, symptoms, management, and, most importantly, how to prevent it from happening in the first place.
The science behind greening out: THC, CBD, and the endocannabinoid system
So, what’s going on in your body and brain when you “green out?” Here’s a look at the science.
The role of THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It’s what makes you feel high. THC works by overstimulating the CB1 receptors in your brain, and if you take in too much THC, you might green out.
Different cannabis strains have different amounts of THC, so that’s something to keep in mind. If you’re concerned about greening out, you might want to go for products with lower levels of psychoactive compounds.
The potential role of CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is another compound in cannabis. Unlike THC, it’s not psychoactive. Some research suggests CBD might even offer some protection against the anxiety that can come with greening out.
At this point, it doesn’t look like CBD directly contributes to greening out.
The endocannabinoid system
Your body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that helps regulate all sorts of things. THC interacts with the ECS, especially those CB1 receptors, to create those psychoactive effects.
What factors influence “greening out?”
Several factors can influence whether someone “greens out.” Here are a few of the most common:
Dosage and potency
Dosage is everything. Start low and go slow, especially if you’re new to cannabis. New cannabis users tend to be more susceptible to greening out because they haven’t yet built up a tolerance.
High-potency products also carry a higher risk of greening out. Know your personal tolerance levels and proceed with caution.
Method of consumption
The method of consumption matters, too. Edibles, for example, can lead to more pronounced greening out effects because of their delayed onset and longer duration. When THC is consumed in edibles, the effects can last for 10 hours or more.
Edibles can be tricky because it’s difficult to know the exact concentration of THC, and it’s easy to overconsume. Again, go slow.
Individual tolerance and metabolism
Everyone’s different, so individual tolerance levels vary widely. It’s important to recognize your own personal tolerance levels.
Metabolism also plays a role in how your body processes THC, which affects the intensity and duration of the effects.
Mixing with other substances
Combining cannabis with alcohol or other drugs is generally not a good idea. Mixing cannabis with alcohol, in particular, can worsen symptoms and increase the likelihood of a negative experience. It’s best to avoid consuming alcohol before or during cannabis consumption.
RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS: PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS
When someone’s “greening out,” they’re experiencing a range of unpleasant symptoms, both physical and psychological.
Physical Symptoms
Some of the most common physical symptoms of greening out include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Sweating or chills
- Disorientation
Note that some of these symptoms, such as a racing heart and sweating, can also be signs of anxiety or a panic attack.
Psychological Symptoms
Greening out can also bring on a host of psychological symptoms, such as:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Paranoia and fear
- Confusion and disorientation
- Hallucinations
- Visual impairments
It’s important to recognize these symptoms as early as possible so that you or someone else can take action to ease the experience.
What to do if you’re greening out
If you’re starting to feel the effects of overconsumption, here’s what to do:
- Find a Safe, Quiet Place. Reduce the amount of stimulation around you. Dim the lights and turn down the music. Being in a safe, calm environment can lower your anxiety.
- Try Relaxation Techniques. Focus on your breath. Breathe in deeply, hold it for a moment, and then release it slowly. Grounding techniques can also help. Focus on what you can see, hear, smell, taste, and touch in the present moment.
- Hydrate and Replenish. Sip water slowly. A small snack or some fruit juice can also help boost your blood sugar.
- Get Support. Find someone you trust who can reassure you. Having a calm, supportive person nearby can make a big difference.
- Avoid Further Consumption. Don’t take any more cannabis. Even if you usually enjoy it, adding more to the mix right now will probably only make things worse.
Long-term prevention and responsible consumption
To avoid “greening out” or other unwanted side effects of cannabis use, it’s essential to develop safe habits and consume mindfully.
Understanding tolerance and dosage
Everyone reacts differently to cannabis, so it’s essential to know your limits. Pay attention to how different products and dosages affect you. Educate yourself about the THC content and strength of any cannabis product you’re considering. If you’re trying edibles, remember the mantra: start low and go slow.
Choosing safe products and consumption methods
Buy cannabis from reputable sources that test their products for purity and potency. You might consider alternative consumption methods, such as vaporizing or edibles, instead of traditional smoking. To give your body a chance to recover, allow significant time between uses.
Healthy lifestyle and stress management
Prioritize your overall well-being by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress effectively. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a balanced diet. Don’t consume cannabis on an empty stomach, and be sure to monitor your consumption habits.
Education and awareness
Learn as much as you can about the effects of cannabis and how to consume it responsibly. Have open and honest conversations about cannabis use and its potential risks with friends, family, and healthcare professionals.
When to seek medical help
Greening out isn’t usually life-threatening, but the symptoms can be dangerous. If you or someone you’re with experiences severe or persistent symptoms, especially loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, or intense chest pain, seek immediate medical attention.
While there’s no specific cure for greening out, hospitals can provide supportive care, such as hydration and monitoring, to ensure the patient’s safety.
The CDC reports that emergency rooms see thousands of patients every year for cannabis-related issues, so don’t hesitate to seek help if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you fix greening out?
While there’s no magic cure, focusing on simple remedies can help. Find a calm, quiet space, drink plenty of water, and try to relax. Some find that deep breathing exercises or distractions like watching a familiar show can ease anxiety. Remember, it’s temporary, and it will pass.
What does it mean when you green out?
“Greening out” is slang for experiencing unpleasant side effects from consuming too much cannabis. It’s not a medical term, but it describes feeling anxious, nauseous, dizzy, or generally unwell after using marijuana. It’s essentially your body’s way of saying, “Whoa, that was a bit much!”
What happens when you get green out?
When you “green out,” you might experience a range of symptoms. These can include feeling extremely anxious or paranoid, experiencing nausea and potentially vomiting, sweating, dizziness, increased heart rate, confusion, or even temporary hallucinations in rare cases. The intensity varies from person to person.
How long does greening out last?
The duration of a “green out” experience varies depending on factors like the amount of cannabis consumed, the individual’s tolerance, and their metabolism. Typically, the worst symptoms subside within a few hours, but lingering effects like fatigue or mild anxiety might last a bit longer. Staying hydrated and resting can help speed up recovery.
Key Takeaways
To recap, “greening out” is a really unpleasant experience, but it’s usually not dangerous. It often happens when someone consumes too much THC, especially if they have a low tolerance or use a method that delivers a high dose quickly.
The best way to avoid greening out is to use cannabis responsibly. That means knowing your limits, consuming in moderation, and educating yourself about the products you’re using.
Always prioritize your well-being. If you’re struggling with cannabis use, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for help.
With informed choices and responsible consumption, you can enjoy cannabis safely and minimize the risk of unwanted side effects. Enjoy responsibly!