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Greening Out: The Growing Hazards Of Cannabis Use

September 27, 2024
"Greening out" is a new phrase referencing a state of feeling ill or suffering adverse effects after overindulging on cannabis, especially when the THC concentration is high. As cannabis has gotten more potent, this phenomenon has become increasingly common. Greening out usually includes symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, anxiety, and sometimes even panic.
We’ll examine what greening out feels like, how to circumvent it, and the hazards of marijuana use. Understanding the potential threats and knowing how to use cannabis in a sensible manner is essential.

What Are The Known Dangers Of Marijuana Use?

Even though cannabis use can offer benefits under medical direction, the odds of it leading to a substance use disorder are considerable. Some dangers associated with marijuana include:
  • Impacted memory and cognitive function: Frequent marijuana use may make it difficult to focus, learn, and retain information.
  • Elevated risk of psychiatric illness: Cannabis use, particularly in higher doses, has been tied to anxiety, depression, and even psychosis in at-risk people.
  • Dependency and substance use disorder: Although thought to be less addictive than other substances, cannabis can still lead to a dependency, where a person feels unable to go about life without consuming it.
  • Respiratory problems: Smoking marijuana can cause irritation of the lungs and more respiratory problems, comparable to the results of smoking tobacco.
Being cognizant of these risks is crucial, especially for people more prone to dependency or mental health disorders.

What Does Greening Out Mean?

Greening out, also termed "whiteying," alludes to the physical effects of consuming too much THC in a limited time. Whiteying is how the marijuana-using subculture looks at, and sometimes mocks, the noticeable greening ramifications. Users may feel uneasy, overly tired, and unable to savor the high they wanted.
In low doses, cannabis is able to relax the body and sharpen the senses. Slightly higher doses could bring new viewpoints and the notorious "munchies." But, large doses increase the threat of greening out, leading to a variety of unwanted symptoms.

How Does Greening Out Appear?

Greening out usually arises with a combination of the following symptoms:
  • Stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting: Too much THC might upset the stomach. While this often goes away, in some cases, it may lead to vomiting, particularly if someone has taken a substantial quantity of cannabis.
  • Distinct paleness, shaking, and sweating: Muscle shakes and quivers, particularly in the legs, are common after taking too much THC. A loss of color in the face and sweating are also common symptoms.

When Is Greening Out Most Likely To Happen?

Greening out can happen to any person who consumes marijuana, no matter their experience. Even so, curious beginners are more likely to experience it. Here are scenarios when greening out is more likely to occur:
  • New users: People new to cannabis are still learning how it affects their bodies. This might lead to overconsumption, specifically when individuals are determined to experience the full effects.
  • Empty stomach: Smoking without eating earlier can raise the likelihood as there isn’t any food to help absorb the THC.
  • High-potency varieties: Veteran smokers looking for stronger highs may try dabs or high-potency edibles, which can lead to greening out.
  • Edibles: Edibles are commonly linked to greening out. Different from smoking, which delivers a rapid high, edibles take longer to kick in but last quite a bit longer—frequently 6-8 hours. The strong, enduring effects can make the experience unbearable.

What To Do If A Person Is Greening Out

Although it’s fleeting, greening out isn’t pleasant. If you've been through it, you might have thought, "Is there a possibility I might die from this?" Fortunately, while it feels horrendous, it’s not lethal. However, there are some things you can do to help yourself or a friend feel better:
  • Stop smoking: If you or someone else is greening out, stop the use ofcannabis right away.
  • Get some air: Going out-of-doors for a bit of air can lower feelings of nausea and dizziness.
  • Relax and breathe: Breathe deeply and make an effort to stay calm. Losing control will only worsen the situation.
  • Take a rest: Find a cozy spot to recline and allow the effects to go away. Resting will help the recovery process.
  • Keep calm: Don’t forget that the distressing sensations will eventually subside. Don’t let panic take hold and speak with a friend for support.

Get Support For Cannabis Use

Do you often green out? Do you feel like you aren’t able to quit ingesting marijuana despite the negative ramifications? If you want to stop this cycle, Sunrise Detox Center is here to help. Dial 888-443-3869 night or day, and we’ll get you the guidance you require, no matter if that’s detox, inpatient rehab, or outpatient treatment.