Greening Out: The Modern Risks Of Cannabis Use
September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a slang term referencing a state of feeling nauseous or enduring unfavorable effects after ingesting too much cannabis, especially when the THC content is high. As cannabis strains have gotten more potent, this phenomenon has become noticeably more prevalent. Greening out often involves symptoms such as anxiety, nausea, vomiting, sweating, dizziness, and even panic.
Keep reading to explore what greening out can feel like, how to prevent it, and the perils of cannabis use. Understanding the potential risks and knowing how to consume cannabis sensibly is essential.
What Are The Known Risks Of Cannabis Use?
While cannabis use can offer benefits under medical guidance, its potential to prompt a substance use disorder is significant. Some hazards connected to marijuana include:
- Impaired cognitive capabilities and memory: Regular marijuana use may make it challenging to focus, learn, and retain information.
- Increased risk of psychiatric illness: Cannabis use, especially in higher doses, has been connected to anxiety, depression, and even psychosis in at-risk individuals.
- Dependency and addiction: Even though it’s thought to be not as addictive as other substances, cannabis can still cause dependency, where users feel unable to function without using.
- Respiratory problems: Cannabis use through inhalation might cause lung irritation and other respiratory ailments, similar to the effects of smoking tobacco.
Being cognizant of these risks is vital, particularly for individuals predisposed to dependency or mental health conditions.
What Is Greening Out?
Greening out, also known as "whiteying," is a reference to the physical effects of ingesting too much THC in a brief time. Whiteying is how the marijuana-using subculture looks at, and occasionally mocks, the noticeable greening consequences. Users might feel uncomfortable, very sleepy, and unable to enjoy the high they wanted.
In low doses, cannabis may induce relaxation and sharpen the senses. Medium doses may bring new perspectives and the well-known "munchies." But, larger quantities elevate the danger of greening out, prompting various distressing symptoms.
What Does Greening Out Look Like?
Greening out typically presents with a combination of the following symptoms:
- Stomach issues, nausea, and vomiting: An overindulgence of THC might upset the stomach. While this often passes, in some instances, it might prompt vomiting, specifically if the individual has ingested a significant amount of cannabis.
- Shaking, sweating, and distinct paleness: Muscle shakes and quivers, especially in the legs, are normal after taking excessive THC. Sweating and an absence of color in the face are also frequent symptoms.
When Is Greening Out Most Likely To Occur?
Greening out can happen to any cannabis user, no matter their experience. But, eager beginners are much more at risk. Here is when greening out is most common:
- New users: Individuals new to cannabis are still figuring out how it influences their bodies. This may lead to taking too much, particularly when users want to get the full effect of the drug.
- Empty stomach: Ingesting on an empty stomach can raise the odds as there is no food to help absorb the substance.
- High-potency varieties: Experienced smokers looking for more intense highs might experiment with dabs or high-potency edibles, which can lead to greening out.
- Edibles: Edibles are noted for causing greening out. Different from smoking, which produces a swift high, edibles take longer to kick in but last quite a bit longer—sometimes as long as 8 hours. The strong, long-lasting effects can make the experience overwhelming.
What Might You Do If An Individual Is Greening Out
Although it’s usually short-lived, greening out isn’t pleasant. If you've experienced it, you might have thought, "Could I possibly die from this?" Thankfully, while it feels horrendous, it’s not a threat to your life. Even so, there are some things you can do to help yourself or someone else feel better:
- Quit using: If you or someone else is greening out, quit takingcannabis at once.
- Get fresh air: Stepping outside for some air can decrease feelings of nausea and dizziness.
- Relax and breathe: Take deep breaths and attempt to calm down. Panicking will only make the situation worse.
- Take a rest: Find a cozy spot to recline and let the effects pass. Resting can help your body overcome the sensation.
- Keep calm: Remember that the unpleasant feelings will end. Don’t let panic take hold and speak with a friend for help.
Get Guidance For Cannabis Use Near Philadelphia
Are you frequently greening out? Do you feel like you can’t quit ingesting cannabis despite the unpleasant effects? If you want to end this downward spiral, The Counseling Center at Cherry Hill is here to help. Dial 856-600-0951 night or day, and we’ll get you the support you need, whether that’s inpatient rehab, outpatient treatment, or detox.