Greening Out: The Increased Dangers Of Cannabis Use
September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a new saying alluding to a state of feeling sick or enduring adverse effects after ingesting too much cannabis, especially when the THC content is high. As cannabis strains have become stronger, this phenomenon has become more common. Greening out typically features symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, anxiety, and sometimes even panic attacks.
Below, we’ll investigate what greening out feels like, how to prevent it, and the hazards of cannabis use. Understanding the health risks and knowing how to take cannabis sensibly is crucial.
What Are The Known Dangers Of Cannabis Use?
Even though cannabis use can provide health benefits under medical supervision, its potential to manifest into a substance use disorder is noteable. Some hazards linked to cannabis include:
- Impaired cognitive function and memory: Regular cannabis use can make it harder to concentrate, learn, and retain information.
- Elevated threat of psychiatric illness: Cannabis use, particularly in high doses, has been connected to anxiety, depression, and bouts of psychosis in vulnerable users.
- Dependency and addiction: Although it’s deemed not as addictive as other substances, cannabis may still result in dependency, where someone feels unable to live without consuming it.
- Respiratory difficulties: Cannabis use through smoking can cause lung irritation and more respiratory afflictions, similar to the results of smoking tobacco.
Being aware of these hazards is critical, especially for individuals predisposed to addiction or mental illness.
What Is Greening Out?
Greening out, also known as "whiteying," refers to the physical impact of ingesting too much cannabis in a brief time. Whiteying is how the cannabis-using subculture perceives, and at times mocks, the visible greening consequences. Users might feel distressed, extremely sleepy, and unable to appreciate the high they wanted.
In low doses, cannabis can relax users and heighten senses. Slightly higher doses could give rise to new perspectives and the well-known "munchies." However, sizeable doses elevate the danger of greening out, prompting various unpleasant symptoms.
What Does Greening Out Look Like?
Greening out generally manifests with an assortment of these symptoms:
- Stomach issues, nausea, and vomiting: An overindulgence of THC might cause stomach trouble. While this sensation often goes away, in some situations, it can be a precursor for vomiting, specifically if the individual has taken a large quantity of cannabis.
- Shaking, sweating, and distinct paleness: Muscle shakes and twitches, particularly in the legs, are commonplace after consuming excessive THC. Sweating and a lack of color in the face are also typical symptoms.
When Is Greening Out Most Likely To Happen?
Greening out can arise with any marijuana user, regardless of experience. Even so, new users are more prone to experience it. Here is when greening out is likely:
- Beginners: People new to cannabis are still finding out how it impacts their bodies. This might result in taking too much, specifically when individuals are determined to get the full effects.
- Empty stomach: Taking cannabis without eating beforehand can raise the odds as there isn’t anything to help absorb the substance.
- Potent strains: Experienced smokers looking for stronger highs might experiment with dabs or high-powered edibles, which may lead to greening out.
- Edibles: Edibles are noted for causing greening out. Unlike smoking, which produces a quick high, edibles are slower to kick in but last a good deal longer—frequently 6-8 hours. The potent, enduring effects can make the sensation overwhelming.
What Might You Do If Someone Is Greening Out
Even though it’s usually short-lived, greening out is not pleasant. If you've endured it, you may have wondered, "Could I potentially die from this?" Fortunately, while it feels horrible, it’s not a threat to your life. However, there are a few things you might do to help yourself or a friend feel better:
- Quit using: If you or someone you’re with is greening out, stop takingcannabis right away.
- Get outside: Going outside for some air may decrease feelings of dizziness and nausea.
- Relax and breathe: Breathe deeply and attempt to calm down. Panicking will only make things worse.
- Get comfortable: Find a comfortable place to lie down and let the effects go away. Resting can help your body overcome the sensation.
- Remain calm: Remember that the distressing feelings will subside in time. Don’t let panic take hold and speak with a friend for reassurance.
Find Help For Cannabis Use
Are you regularly greening out? Do you feel like you can’t stop taking cannabis despite the unfavorable effects? If you would like to stop this cycle, Evolve Recovery Center is here to help. Dial 888-369-7727 day or night, and we’ll find the support you require, whether that’s detox, inpatient rehab, or outpatient treatment.