The temporary state known as “greening out” is a common term for acute physical and psychological distress that follows excessive cannabis consumption. It is essentially a reaction to an acute overload of the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on the body’s systems. While the experience can feel extremely intense and frightening, it is generally considered temporary and is not life-threatening when cannabis is consumed alone.
Understanding the “Greening Out” Experience
The unpleasant symptoms of greening out occur because the high volume of THC overwhelms the body’s endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB1 receptors in the brain. Physical symptoms often include a rapid heart rate, feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness, and pronounced nausea, which can lead to vomiting. The psychological symptoms are often the most alarming, characterized by intense anxiety, extreme paranoia, and a sense of confusion or disorientation.
Some individuals may experience a full-blown panic attack, which involves a racing heart, shortness of breath, and an overwhelming sense of dread. These feelings are amplified in those with low tolerance or when cannabis is mixed with other substances like alcohol.
Key Factors Influencing Duration
The amount of time a greening out episode lasts is highly variable, but the primary factor is the method of cannabis consumption. When cannabis is inhaled, such as through smoking or vaping, the THC enters the bloodstream quickly, leading to a rapid onset of effects within minutes. The peak effects of inhaled cannabis are typically felt within 30 to 60 minutes, and the acute distress of greening out usually begins to decline within two to four hours.
The timeline is significantly longer when cannabis is ingested via edibles, as the THC must first pass through the digestive system and be metabolized by the liver into a more potent compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This process results in a delayed onset, often taking between 30 minutes to two hours to feel the initial effects. Consequently, the intense effects of greening out from edibles can peak around three to four hours after consumption and may linger for six to twelve hours or even longer.
Individual factors also play a large role in how quickly the experience subsides, including the user’s tolerance, body weight, and metabolism. While most symptoms will pass within a few hours, residual discomfort can last up to 24 hours in some cases.
Strategies for Immediate Relief
If someone is experiencing the distress of greening out, the first action should be to stop consuming any more cannabis immediately. Finding a calm, quiet, and safe environment away from excessive stimulation can help manage feelings of anxiety and paranoia. Deep, slow breathing exercises are a practical tool that can help regulate the heart rate and reduce the severity of a panic reaction.
Hydration is important, so sipping on water or another non-alcoholic beverage can help combat dizziness and dry mouth. Eating a light snack, particularly one with sugar, can help stabilize blood sugar levels, which may alleviate some feelings of nausea and faintness. Ultimately, the most effective strategy is to accept that the uncomfortable feelings are temporary and to rest or sleep until the effects naturally subside. Seeking professional medical help becomes necessary only if the individual experiences extreme chest pain, signs of severe injury from falling, or is unable to manage an overwhelming panic attack.