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Greening Out: The Modern Hazards Of Cannabis Use

September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a new saying referencing a state of feeling ill or experiencing unfavorable effects after ingesting too much cannabis, particularly when the THC level is high. As cannabis strains have grown more potent, this occurrence has become more common. Greening out usually includes symptoms like nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, sweating, and even panic attacks.
Keep reading to examine what greening out feels like, how to avoid it, and the dangers of cannabis use. Being aware of the risks and knowing how to consume cannabis responsibly is crucial.

What Are The Potential Risks Of Marijuana Use?

While marijuana can offer benefits under medical direction, its potential to turn into a substance use disorder is considerable. Some dangers linked to cannabis include:
  • Impeded cognitive capabilities and memory: Ongoing cannabis use can make it difficult to concentrate, learn, and retain information.
  • Heightened danger of psychiatric disorders: Cannabis use, particularly in high doses, has been tied to anxiety, depression, and episodes of psychosis in certain people.
  • Dependency and substance use disorder: Even though it’s thought to be less addictive than other substances, cannabis might still cause addiction, where someone feels unable to go about life without consuming it.
  • Respiratory issues: Cannabis use through smoking might cause irritation of the lungs and additional respiratory problems, similar to the effects of smoking tobacco.
Being cognizant of these risks is critical, particularly for people more vulnerable to addiction or mental illness.

What Is Greening Out?

Greening out, also known as "whiteying," alludes to the physical side effects of taking too much marijuana in a short time. Whiteying is the way the cannabis-using subculture perceives, and occasionally mocks, the discernable greening effects. Users might feel uncomfortable, very sleepy, and unable to appreciate the high they wanted.
In small doses, cannabis is able to relax users and amplify senses. Medium doses may bring new mindsets and the infamous "munchies." But, large doses pose the threat of greening out, prompting a range of distressing symptoms.

How Does Greening Out Appear?

Greening out typically arises with a combination of the following symptoms:
  • Upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting: An overindulgence of THC can cause stomach trouble. While this sensation often passes, in some cases, it might lead to vomiting, particularly if someone has consumed a large quantity of cannabis.
  • Distinct paleness, sweating, and shaking: Muscle shakes and twitches, particularly in the legs, are commonplace after consuming too much THC. Sweating and an absence of color in the face are also common symptoms.

When Is Greening Out Most Likely To Happen?

Greening out can manifest with any marijuana user, regardless of experience. However, eager beginners are more likely to experience it. Here is when greening out is most common:
  • Beginners: Individuals new to cannabis are still learning how it affects their bodies. This might lead to excess consumption, specifically when people are determined to feel the full effects.
  • Empty stomach: Smoking on an empty stomach can raise the likelihood as there is no food to help absorb the THC.
  • More powerful products: Experienced smokers looking for new highs might experiment with dabs or high-potency edibles, which may result in greening out.
  • Edibles: Edibles are noted for causing greening out. Unlike smoking, which delivers a swift high, edibles take longer to kick in but last quite a bit longer—sometimes 6-8 hours. The potent, enduring effects can make the sensation overpowering.

What To Do If Someone Is Greening Out

Despite the fact it’s fleeting, greening out is unpleasant. If you've experienced it, you might have thought, "Could I possibly die from this?" The good news is that, while it feels horrendous, it’s not lethal. Even so, there are steps to help yourself or another person feel better:
  • Stop consuming: If you or someone else is greening out, stop takingcannabis right away.
  • Get fresh air: Stepping out-of-doors for some air might lower feelings of nausea and dizziness.
  • Relax and breathe: Breathe in slowly and attempt to stay calm. Losing control will only worsen the situation.
  • Lie down: Find a comfy spot to kick back and permit the effects to pass. Resting can help your body overcome the sensation.
  • Stay calm: Know that the uncomfortable feelings will subside in time. Avoid letting panic take hold and talk to a friend for support.

Find Guidance For Cannabis Use Near Robbinsville

Are you frequently greening out? Do you feel like you aren’t able to stop ingesting cannabis regardless of the negative consequences? If you would like to stop this cycle, The Counseling Center At Robbinsville is here to help. Dial 609-806-5083 day or night, and we’ll get you the support you require, no matter if that’s outpatient treatment, inpatient rehab, or detox.