Greening out is the common term for acute cannabis intoxication, occurring when an individual consumes more tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) than their body can comfortably process. This temporary overconsumption results in a range of highly unpleasant physical and psychological effects. While not typically life-threatening, the experience can be profoundly distressing and frightening. Understanding this state is the first step toward managing it safely and effectively.
Recognizing the Signs of Greening Out
Acute intoxication involves recognizing a distinct cluster of physical and psychological symptoms signaling the body’s adverse reaction to excessive THC. Physically, the experience often begins with intense gastrointestinal distress, including pronounced nausea that can lead to uncontrollable vomiting. A rapid heart rate, known as tachycardia, is also common as the THC stimulates the cardiovascular system, often accompanied by lightheadedness or dizziness.
Other somatic signs include profuse sweating, sometimes described as cold sweats, and a distinct pallor. The individual may also experience motor function difficulties, such as muscle tremors, shaking, or a feeling of weakness and loss of mobility. These physical manifestations are a direct result of the endocannabinoid system being overwhelmed by the high concentration of the cannabinoid.
The psychological symptoms are often the most distressing part of the experience, characterized by intense anxiety, overwhelming paranoia, and the onset of a full-blown panic attack. The individual may feel confused, disoriented, or experience dissociation, a sensation of being detached from reality. This severe mental state can sometimes escalate to a sense of impending doom or temporary psychotic-like symptoms, such as mild hallucinations.
Factors That Trigger Greening Out
Acute cannabis intoxication is primarily triggered by consuming too much THC, which overstimulates the brain’s CB1 receptors. The high potency of modern cannabis products, especially concentrates containing significantly higher THC levels than traditional flower, is a frequent causal factor. A low tolerance, whether due to inexperience or a long period of abstinence, also increases the risk of this adverse reaction.
The method of consumption plays a role in triggering this state, particularly with edibles. Unlike inhaled cannabis, which produces near-immediate effects, edibles have a delayed onset, often taking an hour or more to fully activate. This lag can lead users to mistakenly consume a second dose before the first has peaked, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting effect than intended. Combining cannabis with other substances, especially alcohol, is another significant trigger, as this combination amplifies sedative and disorienting effects.
Immediate Steps for Self-Management
The most important step is to remain calm and remind yourself that the feeling is temporary and will pass as your body processes the excess THC. Immediately move to a safe, quiet, and comfortable environment, such as a bedroom or a sofa, minimizing external stimuli that might worsen anxiety or paranoia. If you are experiencing dizziness or lightheadedness, lying down can prevent a fall or injury.
Focusing on hydration manages physical discomfort, so sipping water or juice slowly is recommended. Avoiding caffeinated or alcoholic beverages is important, as these can exacerbate dehydration and panic. Eating a light snack, particularly one with sugar, can help stabilize blood sugar levels, which may drop due to THC, potentially alleviating lightheadedness.
To counter psychological discomfort, engage in a distraction technique, such as listening to calm music or watching a familiar, low-effort television show. Deep, slow breathing exercises, focusing on a measured inhale and exhale, can help regulate a rapid heart rate and interrupt the panic cycle. Anecdotally, smelling or chewing on black peppercorns may help, as they contain the terpene beta-caryophyllene, which interacts with the endocannabinoid system to produce a calming effect.
Knowing When to Call for Help
While greening out is usually a self-limiting condition, certain severe symptoms indicate a need for professional medical intervention. Call for emergency help if the individual experiences:
- Persistent and uncontrollable vomiting, which can lead to severe dehydration.
- Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a racing, irregular heartbeat that does not slow down with rest.
- Prolonged loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness.
- Anxiety or paranoia that escalates into persistent psychosis, hallucinations, or suicidal thoughts.
People with pre-existing heart conditions or those experiencing their first adverse reaction should seek medical advice even for less severe symptoms, as a precaution.