Greening Out: The Increased Dangers Of Cannabis Use
September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a new term referencing a state of feeling sick or enduring adverse effects after taking too much cannabis, especially when the THC level is high. As cannabis varieties have grown more powerful, this occurrence has become increasingly common. Greening out typically involves symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, sweating, and occasionally even panic attacks.
Below, we’ll examine what greening out feels like, how to prevent it, and the perils of marijuana use. Being aware of the risks and knowing how to consume cannabis sensibly is essential.
What Are The Known Hazards Of Marijuana Use?
While marijuana can offer benefits under medical guidance, its potential to turn into a substance use disorder is significant. Some hazards associated with marijuana include:
- Impacted cognitive capabilities and memory: Regular marijuana use might make it difficult to concentrate, learn, and retain information.
- Increased risk of psychiatric illness: Cannabis use, especially in larger doses, has been linked to anxiety, depression, and even psychosis in certain users.
- Dependency and substance use disorder: Although it’s thought to be not as addictive as other drugs, cannabis might still result in a dependency, where someone feels unable to go about life without using.
- Respiratory issues: Cannabis use through inhalation may cause lung irritation and more respiratory ailments, comparable to the impact of smoking tobacco.
Being aware of these hazards is crucial, specifically for those more prone to addiction or mental health conditions.
What Does Greening Out Mean?
Greening out, also called "whiteying," alludes to the physical side effects of ingesting too much cannabis in a brief time. Whiteying is how the cannabis-using subculture looks at, and sometimes mocks, the visible greening ramifications. Users could feel uneasy, very sleepy, and unable to enjoy the high they wanted.
In lower doses, cannabis can relax users and heighten senses. Medium doses could give rise to new mindsets and the notorious "munchies." However, large amounts increase the threat of greening out, leading to a variety of unwanted symptoms.
What Does Greening Out Look Like?
Greening out generally presents with an assortment of the following symptoms:
- Upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting: Excess THC can make you feel ill. While this feeling often subsides, in some cases, it might be a precursor for vomiting, specifically if the individual has taken a substantial amount of cannabis.
- Shaking, sweating, and distinct paleness: Muscle shakes and quivers, particularly in the legs, are normal after taking a great deal of THC. Sweating and a loss of color in the face are also common symptoms.
When Is Greening Out Most Likely To Happen?
Greening out can arise with any marijuana user, regardless of experience. However, eager beginners are much more at risk. Here is when greening out is most common:
- New users: People new to cannabis are still figuring out how it influences their bodies. This might lead to taking too much, specifically when people are determined to get the full effects.
- Empty stomach: Taking cannabis without eating beforehand can elevate the odds as there is no food to help absorb the drug.
- More powerful strains: Long-time smokers looking for new highs might turn to dabs or high-powered edibles, which can cause greening out.
- Edibles: Edibles are notorious for causing greening out. Unlike smoking, which produces a swift high, edibles start slower but last much longer—frequently 6-8 hours. The strong, enduring effects can make the sensation unbearable.
What To Do If Someone Is Greening Out
Although it’s usually short-lived, greening out is unpleasant. If you've experienced it, you may have thought, "Could I possibly die from this?" The good news is that, while it feels horrible, it’s not lethal. But, there are steps to help yourself or another person feel better:
- Stop smoking: If you or someone else is greening out, quit takingcannabis at once.
- Get outside: Going outdoors for a bit of air can reduce feelings of dizziness and nausea.
- Remember to breathe: Breathe deeply and make an effort to stay calm. Going into a panic will only make the situation worse.
- Get comfortable: Find a comfortable area to kick back and permit the effects to subside. Resting can help your body recover.
- Keep calm: Don’t forget that the uncomfortable sensations will end. Don’t let panic take over and talk to a friend for help.
Find Guidance For Cannabis Use Near Boston
Are you frequently greening out? Do you feel like you are unable to stop using marijuana despite the unpleasant consequences? If you want to halt this pattern of use, Evolve Recovery Center Millbury is standing by to help. Call 508-475-5676 day or night, and we’ll provide the support you need, whether that’s inpatient rehab, outpatient treatment, or detox.