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Greening Out: The Growing Dangers Of Cannabis Use

September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a slang phrase alluding to a state of feeling ill or experiencing adverse effects after overindulging on cannabis, particularly when the THC level is high. As cannabis has gotten more potent, this occurrence has become increasingly prevalent. Greening out usually includes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, sweating, and even panic.
We’ll explore what greening out is, how to avoid it, and the perils of cannabis use. Understanding the risks and knowing how to use cannabis in a sensible manner is crucial.

What Are The Possible Hazards Of Marijuana Use?

Even though marijuana can provide health benefits under medical direction, the chances of it prompting a substance use disorder are considerable. Some dangers linked to cannabis include:
  • Impaired memory and cognitive capabilities: Frequent marijuana use may make it challenging to learn, retain information, and concentrate.
  • Increased risk of psychiatric illness: Cannabis use, particularly in larger doses, has been linked to anxiety, depression, and bouts of psychosis in vulnerable individuals.
  • Dependency and substance use disorder: Even though it’s thought to be not as habit-forming as other drugs, cannabis might still cause dependency, where users feel unable to go about life without it.
  • Respiratory issues: Smoking marijuana may cause lung irritation and more respiratory problems, comparable to the impact of smoking tobacco.
Awareness of these dangers is critical, especially for those predisposed to substance use or mental illness.

What Is Greening Out?

Greening out, also known as "whiteying," alludes to the physical impact of taking too much THC in a brief time. Whiteying is how the cannabis-using subculture looks at, and occasionally mocks, the noticeable greening effects. Users might feel distressed, extremely sleepy, and unable to savor the high they sought.
In low doses, cannabis may induce relaxation and amplify senses. Slightly higher doses might lead to new viewpoints and the well-known "munchies." However, large amounts elevate the threat of greening out, causing a variety of unpleasant symptoms.

What Does Greening Out Look Like?

Greening out generally manifests with an assortment of these symptoms:
  • Stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting: Too much THC can upset the stomach. While this feeling often subsides, in some cases, it can be a precursor for vomiting, specifically if the user has taken a significant quantity of cannabis.
  • Distinct paleness, sweating, and shaking: Muscle shakes and twitches, particularly in the legs, are normal after taking a great deal of THC. A loss of color in the face and sweating are also typical symptoms.

When Is Greening Out Most Likely To Happen?

Greening out can manifest with anyone who takes marijuana, no matter their experience. However, new users are much more at risk. Here are scenarios when greening out is more likely to occur:
  • Novice users: People new to cannabis are still figuring out how it impacts their bodies. This may result in taking too much, especially when users are eager to feel the full effect of the drug.
  • Empty stomach: Smoking without eating earlier can elevate the odds as there isn’t anything to help absorb the substance.
  • Potent varieties: Experienced smokers seeking new highs might experiment with dabs or high-potency edibles, which may result in greening out.
  • Edibles: Edibles are frequently linked to greening out. Unlike smoking, which generates a quick high, edibles are slower to kick in but last a good deal longer—frequently as long as 8 hours. The intense, enduring effects may make the sensation overpowering.

What To Do If Someone Is Greening Out

Even though it’s temporary, greening out isn’t pleasant. If you've endured it, you may have wondered, "Is there a chance I could die from this?" Fortunately, while it feels terrible, it’s not lethal. Even so, there are a few things you might do to help yourself or another person feel better:
  • Stop using: If you or another person is greening out, halt the use ofcannabis right away.
  • Get fresh air: Taking a break out-of-doors for fresh air might lower feelings of dizziness and nausea.
  • Remember to breathe: Breathe deeply and try to stay calm. Going into a panic will only make things worse.
  • Take a rest: Find a comfy spot to kick back and let the effects pass. Resting will aid the recovery process.
  • Remain calm: Don’t forget that the distressing feelings will end. Avoid letting panic take over and talk to a friend for reassurance.

Get Help For Cannabis Use Near Orlando

Do you sometimes green out? Do you feel like you can’t stop taking cannabis in spite of the unfavorable consequences? If you wish to end this downward spiral, Evolve Recovery Center Orlando is ready to help. Call 407-305-3458 at any hour, and we’ll provide the care you need, no matter if that’s detox, inpatient rehab, or outpatient treatment.