Cannabidiol (CBD) is a widely used derivative of the hemp plant, incorporated into various products from oils to edibles. As its popularity has grown, questions have arisen regarding its safety profile and acute effects, particularly when consumed in larger amounts. Many people wonder if it is possible to experience the severe adverse reaction associated with cannabis overconsumption, colloquially termed “greening out,” when taking CBD.
What Does “Greening Out” Mean?
“Greening out” is a colloquial term describing the acute, distressing physical and psychological symptoms that occur following the overconsumption of cannabis containing high levels of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This is essentially a temporary THC toxicity event. Physical symptoms include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and a distinctive paleness.
Psychologically, an individual often suffers from intense anxiety, panic attacks, and paranoia, sometimes accompanied by confusion or disorientation. This acute distress is a direct result of the body’s endocannabinoid system being overwhelmed by excessive amounts of THC.
How CBD Differs from Intoxicating Cannabinoids
The significant difference between CBD and intoxicating cannabinoids like THC lies in their distinct mechanisms of action within the body’s endocannabinoid system. THC acts as a partial agonist at the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor, which is densely concentrated in the central nervous system. The strong activation of these CB1 receptors is what causes the psychoactive effects and the subsequent negative symptoms associated with greening out when too much is consumed.
In contrast, CBD has a very low binding affinity for the CB1 receptor and does not directly activate it. Instead of acting as an agonist, CBD often functions as a negative allosteric modulator of the CB1 receptor. This means it may bind to a different site on the receptor and actually change the receptor’s shape, which can reduce the receptor’s ability to be activated by THC or the body’s own cannabinoids.
This different interaction explains why CBD is considered non-intoxicating and incapable of producing the severe psychoactive distress that defines a “green out.” CBD’s primary effects arise largely independent of CB1 receptor agonism, targeting other receptors and pathways in the body. Because it does not trigger the necessary psychoactive pathway, it is scientifically impossible for CBD alone to induce the state of acute THC toxicity.
Known Side Effects of Excessive CBD Intake
While CBD cannot cause a “green out,” consuming excessive amounts can still lead to undesirable side effects distinct from psychoactive distress. The most common adverse effects reported at higher doses include somnolence and general fatigue. This sedative effect can be pronounced when CBD is taken alongside other medications that also cause drowsiness.
Gastrointestinal issues are another frequent complaint associated with high CBD intake, specifically diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. Other reported side effects include changes in appetite or weight, as well as dry mouth. These symptoms tend to be mild and temporary, resolving once the dose is reduced or the compound is cleared from the system.
A more serious consideration for high-dose CBD users is the potential for drug-drug interactions. CBD can inhibit certain liver enzymes, particularly the cytochrome P450 enzymes, which are responsible for metabolizing a wide range of common medications. This inhibition can increase the concentration of other drugs in the bloodstream, potentially leading to increased side effects or toxicity. For example, CBD should be used cautiously with blood thinners and some anti-seizure medications, as it can elevate their levels.